9 Matei Rd., Matei, 679-888-0328. 3 bures. Unsuitable for children. Breakfast included.
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beach entrance at Coconut Grove Beachfront Cottages
on Taveuni Island in Fiji |
Located at the north end of the “Garden Island” of Taveuni, just five minutes from Matei Airport, this blissful spot is reached via a 90-minute small-plane ride north from Nadi International Airport. Guests find themselves surrounded by mango trees and coconut palms and feel as if they’ve arrived almost at the end of the earth. Owner Ronna Goldstein, who hails originally from Connecticut, says, “It was important to us that we retain the solitude and simplicity of the island way of life, which is one reason why we have no disco and no cable TV.”
On-site activities are few but included in the rate--kayaking in one of the resort’s three kayaks, snorkeling (plus special trips out to the reef), mountain biking, and lounging in one of four hammocks. Diving is arranged with a nearby operator. The spacious white sandy beach is a special treat, allowing swimming in the warm water or just flopping on a chaise lounge under a flamboyant tree for a snooze. A complimentary half-hour massage is included for one of a couple on arrival day. For guests who stay five nights or longer, a cooking class with the staff is included, as well as a village visit and candlelight dinner on the beach.
The restaurant has a large open-air deck overlooking the ocean, and serves three meals each day; breakfast is complimentary. On Village Night nearby villagers show up to perform meke (a traditional story/dance) on the beach followed by a lovo meal (food cooked in an earth oven over volcanic rocks).
image c2011 Carole Terwilliger Meyers
