Friends, craving a private-island moment without the jaw-drop bill? Tivua is a palm-fringed speck in Fiji with clear water, soft sand, and a relaxed, rustic vibe—think thatched shade, coral gardens, and cultural touches. Here’s exactly how to go, what’s included, and smart ways to upgrade (or save).

A small, privately managed island ringed by coral, Tivua delivers calm lagoons for paddling and snorkeling, easy facilities, and family-friendly activities. From October–April, it also acts as a turtle sanctuary.

Where Is It

Tivua sits in the Mamanuca group, about 90 minutes by boat from Port Denarau on Viti Levu’s west coast. Hotel pickups run from Denarau, Nadi, Coral Coast, Lautoka, Vuda, and Momi Bay.

Costs

Day tour pricing depends on pickup point:

• Denarau/Nadi: ~115 USD

• Coral Coast/Lautoka/Vuda/Momi Bay: ~131 USD

The fee covers transfers, the boat, lunch, non-motorized activities, and more (details below).

What’s Included

Your island pass is effectively all-inclusive onshore: buffet lunch, non-motorized water sports (kayaks, SUPs), snorkeling access, beach volleyball, a glass-bottom boat tour guided by a marine biologist, a welcome ceremony, and a guided herbal walk. Families can use the complimentary Captain’s Kids Club.

On the boat, tea and water are complimentary; other paid refreshments are available.

Timing

Boats typically depart 10:00 am from Denarau, arrive around 11:30 am, and return by ~5:00 pm—about 4 hours on the island. A half-day visit exists, but travel time eats the beach time; the full day is the better value.

Book Ahead

Tivua is popular and capacity is boat-dependent. Reserve a few days in advance—24-hour free cancellation is common—so the operator can allocate the appropriate vessel and pickups.

Extras

• Heli + Sail: Fly to Tivua by helicopter (10–15 minutes), then sail back by boat. ~340 USD pp (min 2, max 3).

• Day + Sunset Combo: Pair Tivua with a sunset dinner cruise another evening or the same day. ~187 USD pp.

• On-Island Add-ons: Private cabanas, PADI scuba, spa treatments, and coral planting (book after confirmation or on arrival for select services).

Food

Expect a fresh island buffet with salads, sides, and hot dishes, including vegetarian selections, made from local produce. Portions are generous and you can return for seconds.

Sunbeds

Plenty of complimentary loungers dot the shoreline under palms and thatched umbrellas. Private cabanas are optional; take a quick lap of the beach to claim your favorite patch of shade and view.

Snorkeling

Tivua’s fringing reef earns a solid 8/10: clear water, colorful fish, and the chance to spot reef sharks in the shallows. Snorkel equipment is available but limited—bring your own mask if you prefer no wait. The glass-bottom boat tour is perfect for non-swimmers.

Getting There

Staying outside pickup zones? Self-drive or taxi to Port Denarau by 9:30–9:45 am for check-in. If based on the Coral Coast, expect up to 2 hours coach time each way.

Tips

Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, and a light cover-up keep the day breezy. Soft-soled water shoes help over coral rubble. Pack a compact dry bag for phones and snacks. Card and FJD cash are accepted for extras.

Who It Suits

Choose Tivua if you want a laid-back island with good snorkeling and all-in convenience. Prefer a modern beach-club scene or a pool? Consider closer islands near Denarau. For reef time and value, Tivua shines.

Stay Nearby

• Nadi — Ramada Suites by Wyndham: Beachfront, close to the airport; king studios with sea views from ~200 USD.

• Port Denarau — Radisson Blu: Large resort, multiple pools (including adults-only) and spa; rooms from ~400 USD.

• Yasawa Islands — Barefoot Manta: Reef-centric escape; dorms from ~29 USD, private bures from ~200 USD (access via Yasawa Flyer, ~3 hours).

• Mamanuca — Beachcomber Island: Budget-friendly island stay with meals included; dorms from ~60 USD, private rooms from ~225 USD.

• Coral Coast — Maui Palms: Ocean-view villas, infinity pool, good house-reef snorkeling; rooms from ~250 USD.

Sample Day

9:30 am check-in → 10:00 am sail → island welcome and orientation → glass-bottom boat with the marine biologist → buffet lunch → paddleboard/kayak → snorkel session → late-afternoon beach laze → 3:30 pm departure → 5:00 pm Denarau.

Bottom Line

Tivua delivers the private-island fantasy without the eye-watering price: clear water, easy activities, cultural touches, and a calm, unhurried rhythm. Friends, what’s your perfect Tivua day—reef time, a spa hour, or a helicopter arrival? Drop your pick so fellow Lykkers can tailor their tropical escape!