What’s Special About This Resort
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, built by the successful French explorer and diver, is largely centered around experiencing the incredible underwater world of the Fiji Islands. Its position at the southern tip of Vanua Levu gives it quick access to more than 20 awesome dive sites less than 20 minutes away, as well as the world-renowned Namena Barrier Reef. Dive packages allow visitors seamless access to as many tanks and boat rides as they need, while certification packages make sure you’re equipped to go. But this is one dive resort that isn’t just all about diving – stunning swimming pools, water and land-based excursions, and Fijian culture are all part of the full experience here.
Plus, all stays at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort are all-inclusive. All meals are served à-la-carte and included in the room rate, as are all non-alcoholic beverages. Plus, guests get personal assistance at the Nadi International Airport, unlimited non-motorized water sports, a choice of off-site adventures, and evening entertainment.
Things we like:
-
Easy access to Namena Barrier Reef and dozens of other diverse dive sites
-
Dive packages save money and headaches during your stay
-
All-inclusive inclusions are very diverse and unique, including free tours and excursions and free laundry
-
Great pools and activities for non-divers and dry days
-
Free nanny service for children
Things we don't like:
-
Alcohol not included in all-inclusive amenities
-
Domestic flight to Savusavu, then ground transport, are required (as opposed to direct sea, land, or air transport to resort)
What to Do
Divers of all experience levels are in heaven at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, thanks to the crystal-clear and warm waters of Fiji, the breathtaking underwater scenery, and the care and knowledge of resort staff. Even snorkelers aren’t left out, as there is plenty to see from the surface at most of the sites.
There are more than 20 dive sites within a 20-minute radius of the resort, meaning less sailing and more exploring. A bit further than that is Namena Barrier Reef, a massive landscape of walls and pinnacles that puts this part of Fiji on the map. Dolphins and whales pass through this spot in migratory seasons, while more than one thousand species of fish can be spotted at any time of year.
It doesn’t have to be all about diving, though. A family pool and separate adults-only pool provide plenty of room for everyone to cool off and relax. Glass-bottom boat tours, local village visits, and rainforest hiking with waterfall swimming are all included in your room rate, as are water activities like paddle boarding and kayaking.
What to Eat & Drink
Your meals and drinks at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort’s restaurant are all included during your stay. While there is just one dining outlet, there are two dining rooms on either side of the infinity pool – one for adults only and one for families.
The chef creates the flavors of the day each morning using the freshest ingredients available from the resort’s own farm, as well as the seafood caught around the island. The dishes and techniques are Fijian but often incorporate some Asian flare. Guests rarely have anything but appreciation for the creations.
For special evenings, guests can request a private table set up at the end of the pier or in a beachside hut. Traditional Fijian lovo feasts are also hosted, along with performances by the Bula Boys guitar group.
Room Guide
All 25 of Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort’s rooms are Fijian bure bungalows. Not all have an ocean view, but none is ever more than a few steps away from one. Categories are separated by size and view.
Garden View Bures: Located on the garden side of the path through the bungalows, these bungalows are tucked away in foliage with plenty of indoor and outdoor space. With one king bed and a daybed, they can sleep up to a family of four with a rollaway. There is a chair hammock and outdoor seating to enjoy the fresh air.
Ocean View Bures: Standard ocean-view varieties can sleep up to four in the same arrangement as above, while the two-bedroom variety can accommodate up to six. The deck has sweeping views of the sea and direct access to the sand, as well as comfortable furnishings to enjoy them from.
Point Reef Bures: These oceanfront bures are particularly special. They have split-level interiors, with lower living areas and upper bedrooms, as well as upper and lower decks outside. They’re also placed in the best spot for sunsets, and the Honeymoon Point Reef Bure has a jacuzzi outside to enjoy them from.
Presidential Villa: This ultra-luxe villa has a private infinity pool, a walled garden, indoor and outdoor showers, and many more upgrades. Its living room can be transformed into a second bedroom if necessary, and booking this villa comes with perks like massages and evening hors d’oeuvres.
Special Experiences
Families or couples wanting something extra at the end of a special day might choose to reserve the dock for dinner rather than a table. A private dinner table can be set up at the end of the wooden platform, surrounding you with the sea and fresh air, and you’ll enjoy whatever exceptional creations the chef has come up with for the day.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is one of the only resorts in Fiji to have a resident marine biologist. Besides preserving the incredible sea life that guests come for, he is also available to lead excursions and educational sessions. Guests can attend a sea life presentation, go on a scientist-led snorkeling trip, or help him preserve reefs.
If you’re staying on a Saturday morning, take a trip to the local village of Savusavu to explore its farmers market. It’s a great peek into daily life in Fiji; the locals are very friendly, and you can find some really great foods and souvenirs to buy there.
All inclusions are available here.
Things we like:
-
Easy access to Namena Barrier Reef and dozens of other diverse dive sites
-
Dive packages save money and headaches during your stay
-
All-inclusive inclusions are very diverse and unique, including free tours and excursions and free laundry
-
Great pools and activities for non-divers and dry days
-
Free nanny service for children
Things we don't like:
-
Alcohol not included in all-inclusive amenities
-
Domestic flight to Savusavu, then ground transport, are required (as opposed to direct sea, land, or air transport to resort)
Comments