Explore Denarau
Off the main island of Viti Levu, Denarau Island Resort complex and Port Denarau Marina is a tourist hotspot where dive resorts and dive centers are ready to take divers away from the mainland to pristine, idyllic locations famed for Fiji’s world-class diving. This tiny island paradise is only five minutes from Nadi town, and serves as a main passage to a multitude of Fiji’s west coast tropical islands and untouched dive sites. Divers of all skill levels can enjoy a range of dive courses thanks to an incredibly diverse number of training sites accessible from this diving gateway.
Though shore diving isn’t super popular, Port Denarau itself is a busy hub, where boat diving is common practice and cruise ships take holidaymakers to plenty of popular underwater areas. Many of Fiji’s favourite sites and islands are accessed from here, such as the Yasawa Islands and the Mamanuca Islands, where unspoilt reefs, caves and walls await, and Beqa Lagoon, where shark diving is a major attraction. There’s also the tiny Tivua Island to visit from Denarau, where MV Raiyawa draws shipwreck fanatics.
Top Denarau Dive Sites
1. Namotu Wall
Namotu Wall is renowned for its vibrant marine life, including abundant sharks, turtles, and schooling fish. This site is suitable for divers of all levels, offering both scuba and freediving opportunities. The main attraction is the diverse marine species and the stunning underwater landscape.
2. Castaway Passage
Castaway Passage is perfect for those seeking adventure, with sightings of sharks, marlin, and manta rays. It is more suited for advanced divers due to the currents. Scuba diving is the main activity here, with the vast open passage offering a thrilling experience.
3. Carpet Cove
Carpet Cove features a Japanese fishing boat wreck adorned with swaying anemones. Ideal for scuba diving, this site is accessible to advanced divers. The wreck and surrounding marine life make it a fascinating underwater adventure.
4. Fantasy
Fantasy offers a colorful diving experience with sunlit corals, anemones, and sea fans. Suitable for easy-level divers, this site supports both scuba and freediving. Its vibrant coral formations provide a picturesque setting.
5. Shark Reef Marine Reserve
This protected area in Beqa Lagoon allows divers to encounter eight shark species, including silvertips and tiger sharks. The reserve is for experienced scuba divers due to the presence of large predators. It is a must-visit for passionate shark enthusiasts.
