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Tropica Island Resort is small, friendly, and relaxed. Unplug here: there are no phones nor TV’s. Wifi exists near reception, restaurant, bar, and pool areas only. Arriving by ferry, the small island resort on Malolo Island sets the tone for a relaxing holiday in paradise.

This boutique island property is adults only, and geared to couples, friends, singles and honeymooners alike. With just 25 bures and suites, Tropica is truly one of those places that you’ll find hard to leave. Its location is perfect for snorkelers, surfers, and those wanting to escape.

Fijian culture is alive and well here; we felt part of the Tropica family as soon as we arrived with South Sea Cruises from busy Port Denarau.

Tropica Island Resort offers diving, fishing, snorkeling and helicopter tours. Kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and snorkelling equipment are free for guest use.

We had a stunning day on our Monuriki Island Tour, complete with a picnic arranged by Ziggy at the activity center. He provided details of the islands we zipped by on our boat, including Mana Island Resort, famed for Survivor. We’re told that every six months, the resort closes down for a new filming season.

In fact, the Mamanuca Islands is the most-used island group for filming in the show’s nearly 40-year history.

Approaching Monuriki Island, we spot the famous “Help Me” sign spelled out using coconuts, the SOS signal that actor Tom Hanks created during the 2000 film, Cast Away, for which he won an Oscar for his portrayal of Chuck Noland.

For snorkelers, Monuriki is paradise. After ample time to enjoy the crystal azure waters, boxes of food are set out onto the picnic table for all to enjoy (special dietary needs are easily taken care of).

We decide to book an evening snorkel as well, near a sheltered private island (owned by Google), for a one-hour dip to explore the reefs after dark.

[Lovo feast underway]

Cultural activities include traditional Fijian cooking, basket weaving, a visit to Solevu village, and watching staff prepare a Lovo feast in the ground.

The true pleasure here is a dip in your own private plunge pool with a sea view. Plan to enjoy gorgeous sunsets, delicious Fijian and international cuisine, and a day spa.

Rooms

From the moment we arrive at our beachfront pool bure, we are ready to relax. We’ve got a view, a comfortable bed, plunge pool, and private outdoor shower.

[Our private outdoor shower area]

Tropica Spa uses Pure Fiji products during their treatments, including traditional massages, Fijian Bobo massages, sun rescue wraps, exfoliating facials, foot reflexology, mani and pedis, plus couples’ spa packages.

[The massage bure]

We enjoyed a signature Tropica Massage in the Wai Bure (wai = water), using Swedish techniques with a lighter touch meant to promote relaxation.

Our masseuses Queenie and Wati ensured comfort and massage pressure during our one hour of bliss inside the bure (in-room massages can also be booked for an additional FJD $100).

I particularly enjoyed Queenie’s long kneading strokes, applying deeper pressure where it was needed, using Pure Fiji coconut oil.

[In-bure massage by spa therapist Sherry = bliss!]

For a special treat, an open-air massage overlooking Wadiqi and surrounding islands can be arranged. Sunset packages include food, wine, and a massage while taking in the golden rays of the setting sun.

[Freshly-harvested sea grapes from just out front of the resort]

Dining

Lakalaka Restaurant and Bar, the resort’s main dining venue, serves three meals daily à la carte style, and offers both Fijian and international dishes. Dinner menus change nightly, and the food is beautifully presented and of excellent quality.

[Junior serving up the Lovo feast!]

[Made-to-order omelette at breakfast]

On Wednesdays, a Fijian Lovo feast is prepared and served to provide a true Fijian culinary experience at one long communal table.

Views from the smaller Lakomai Bar are sublime, especially at sunset.

There are several options for private dining on the pier, poolside or oceanfront. The staff can even arrange a private picnic.

And if you’re keen on tying the knot in Fiji, Tropica Island Resort’s staff can accommodate with several wedding packages to match budgets and requirements. They’ve an on-staff wedding coordinator ready to make your special day one to remember.

As we stroll the beautiful gardens and beachfront, we discover so many great spots for photo shoots and weddings.

Tropica Island Resort is reachable by a short flight from Nadi International Airport, a high-speed catamaran with South Sea Cruises (departure from Port Denarau), private speedboat, or 10-minute helicopter ride, and is located on Malolo Island in the Mamanuca Islands, Fiji.

Viri, Vina, Tito, Ziggy, Junior and the rest of the team went out of their way to make us feel at home with kindness during our stay in their little sanctuary by the sea. Reluctantly, we boarded our transfer a few days later with hugs all around.

We were graciously hosted by Tropica Island Resort for the purpose of this feature. Opinions, as always, remain our own. Non-watermarked images courtesy of Tropica Island Resort.