The Place: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
Located on the Coral Coast of Viti Levu, the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort is a 90-minute drive from Nadi, though this can be extended in heavy traffic. Opened in 2000, the resort features 255 rooms spread across a large main building and 47 traditional Fijian bures (thatched-roof villas) nestled within the grounds. Recently, seven new couple-oriented bures with private pools and 19 family-friendly rooms with courtyards were added. Upon arrival, guests are encouraged to download the Outrigger app for easy access to menus, activities, and maps.
The resort has seen a surge in popularity, especially among Australians, with a 17 per cent increase in visitors over the past year. This reflects the growing appeal of Fiji as a travel destination.
The Look
From the moment you arrive, the island vibe is unmistakable. Towering palm trees line the pathways, and thatched roofs cover walkways and restaurants. Waterways and ponds add to the natural beauty of the property. The eight-storey main building houses reception, shops, and many guest rooms.
The central pool is a hub of activity, designed with families in mind. There are shallow areas for young children, a three-storey waterslide, and an inflatable zone for older kids. While there’s also an adults-only pool, the presence of children is evident throughout the resort, particularly at breakfast. The lagoon is less frequented due to high winds, which make snorkelling challenging without a high tide. A dedicated kids’ club offers structured activities for young guests.
The Room
Staying with my partner and two young children, we were booked into a one-bedroom suite in the main building. The suite includes a living room with two couches, armchairs, a small kitchen area, and a large TV. The main couch converts to a double bed, while the second couch can be a single, accommodating up to five guests. The bedroom features a king-size bed, another large TV, and ample storage. Decor is modern with a touch of tropical elements, such as potted plants and wicker accents. The bathroom is spacious with a large shower but no bath. The balcony offers views of the resort and lagoon.
The suite includes complimentary evening drinks, a turn-down service, and one free laundry service if the stay is at least three nights.
Food + Drink
Multiple restaurants cater to different tastes, with Kana offering themed buffets each night. We preferred Baravi by the pool for South-East Asian dishes and Sundowner for steaks and wood-fired pizza. Service varied, with some staff being very attentive and others less so. However, the Fijian hospitality was evident, with staff making an effort to engage with younger guests.
Out + About
The resort offers numerous daily activities, including guided snorkelling and kayaking tours in the lagoon. An adventure park with a driving range, archery field, and paintball course is available, though not suitable for young children. Nearby, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park is a 15-minute drive away, featuring massive dunes and archaeological sites. Entry costs FJ10 and can be explored independently or via guided tours.
The Verdict
Despite the energetic atmosphere, the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort remains a popular choice for Australian holidaymakers. It may not be the ideal spot for those seeking complete relaxation, but it ensures that both children and adults are entertained.
Our rating out of five
★★★½
THE DETAILS
Rooms at the Outrigger Fiji Resort start at $383 a night. A one-bedroom suite starts at $576 a night. See outrigger.com
Highlight
The pool is expansive, ensuring that even during busy times, there’s always space to find a deck chair.
Lowlight
The “live chat” feature on the resort app is not reliable. One request took over an hour to respond, while another was ignored entirely. It’s better to use the in-room phone for assistance.
