Fiji Resort Review : Malolo Island Resort
Next stop on our team visit to Fiji was Malolo Island Resort. If you missed last week’s review, click here to about adults-only Tropica Island Resort.
Malolo Island Resort
Malolo Island Resort is located in the beautiful Mamanuca Island Group, a comfortable 60 minute boat ride from the mainland. Malolo is the quintessential tropical island holiday destination – shady, palm tree lined beaches and crystal clear turquoise water with the dramatic backdrop of lush tropical jungle.
Upon our arrival we were greeted by staff singing the traditional Fijian welcome song, Bula Maleya. This always feels like a warm Fijian hug and, even after 20+ years travelling there, we still get goosebumps listening to this rousing welcome.
The Arrivals Bure – available for weddings and events
From the wharf we were led into the brand new reception and arrivals bure. Wow! This building is stunning – and huge. Built in traditional Fijian open air style it is reminiscent of a chiefly village bure. With a gentle sea breeze blowing through it was a lovely, cool place to relax while our rooms and luggage was sorted. The space is available for weddings and events and provides a great all-weather venue for any celebration – small and large – or is just a lovely place to sit and contemplate the day.
Adults only pool (foreground) and kid’s pool.
Across a lush, green lawn is the main guest area with lagoon style children’s pool, separate adults-only pool with spacious lounge areas, restaurant, and Kids Club. We were all very impressed with the facilities available for both adults and kids. This is very much a family friendly resort however, through sensible design, there are ample areas for parents to escape sans kids, or guests without children to relax.
The adults-only pool is set away from the kid’s area and features a swim up bar plus separate undercover lounge area with ample seating and large day beds. Also adjacent to the pool is an air conditioned adults-only entertainment room with sitting area, library, games, television and DVDs. This is perfect place for adults to relax in comfort, watch an important rugby game, or as a nice place to settle after check out before you head back to the mainland.
Adults only pool lounge area
Fantastic facilities for kids
The Kid’s Club, aptly named Tia’s Treehouse due to it’s quirky, rustic design, is brilliant. The unique and innovative program (called “Yanu Yanu” which is Fijian for “island”) has been created to give kids an immersive, fun and educational insight into island life. There is a strong focus on the environment, Fijian culture and the history of Malolo. Once a week the kids even visit the nearby Treasure Island Turtle Breeding Program. While we were there the kids learnt a traditional Fijian dance which they performed, in costume, that night at the Meke. Very cute and a proud moment for both kids and parents.
Kids Club performance at Meke.
The Treehouse and playground are fully fenced and located adjacent to the kid’s pool. The shallow end of the pool is like a sandy beach giving little ones a safe place to paddle. This area was very popular with parents who sat in the shallows watching their children play. All areas have ample shade.
And teenagers haven’t been forgotten… Malolo has a separate teen area called Khail’s Club. Here older kids can hang out in air-conditioned comfort, play games, watch TV and take full advantage of the free Wi-Fi.
Bright and spacious accommodation
All the accommodation is bright and spacious. The architecture throughout the resort is reminiscent of the American Colonial style (think Southern Homestead meets Hamptons) and the rooms are no different. We stayed in the Ocean View Bures which are only a few metres from the beach. The configuration of these rooms would suit adults with two kids. The two day beds are tucked away in the corner so Mum and Dad can read in bed without disturbing sleeping kids. A rollaway bed is available to accommodate a third child.
The Deluxe Ocean View Bures are a little more spacious and offer a separate main bedroom with closing door – giving parents more privacy.
The Island Bures have the same configuration as the Ocean View Bures and are nestled within the tropical gardens slightly further back from the beach. Some Island Bures with limited ocean views are located at the activities end of the beach. These are a great affordable option.
Ocean View Bure Exterior
There are 4 Family Bures which sleep up to 7 people. These have 2 bedrooms with King beds plus additional single beds in the living area. They would be perfect for big families or couples travelling together.
For guests seeking privacy or more peaceful location away from the main guest amenities, there are two Tadra Beach Bures. Located at the end of the beach, these are perfect for honeymooners or guest without children. We all agreed that these would be a great solution for grandparents who may be holidaying as part of a family group but may like some time away from the grand kids every now and then.
Fresh, locally sourced food
Malolo Island Resort prides itself on their cuisine. All food is locally grown or caught for seasonal freshness. The resort has three restaurants, all with impeccable decor and a range of seating options.
Treetops Restaurant
Treetops Restaurant is located above the pool and has a lovely, open verandah. It is adults-only and has a more formal feel featuring an a la carte menu of Pacific Rim cuisine.
The Terrace Restaurant is reminiscent of an old plantation-style homestead. It is set back from the beach among the tropical gardens overlooking the swimming pools. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We enjoyed the weekly Lovo here which consisted of a feast of traditionally cooked meats and vegetables, salads and kokoda.
And finally, the Beach Bar is located (as the name suggests) on the beach. This is a casual, barefoot dining option. Here they serve lighter meals like burgers, pizzas, salads, battered fish, etc. We spent the afternoon here, with a late lunch of freshly made pizza while watching the sun set with the Band Boys strumming behind us. It was the perfect end to a busy day.
For something special for you as a couple or just your family, the staff will happily arrange a private dinner.
Our summary of Malolo Island Resort
We all agreed that Malolo is the perfect place to experience a quintessential tropical island resort holiday. Whether you’re travelling with friends, as a large or small family group or as a couple, this resort caters perfectly to everyone’s personal requirements. There are ample places for adults to sneak away and enjoy time away from the kids. The Kids Club is fantastic and one of the most comprehensive we’ve seen. The fact that teens are considered is an added advantage.
And finally, while we didn’t have time to enjoy any treatments, the resort’s Leilani Spa is certainly worth a mention. The open-air treatment rooms are set amidst a tranquil rainforest setting and lush tropical gardens. Treatments range from contemporary to traditional Fijian and use Pure Fiji products. There is also a couples treatment room.
Helpful links
Questions about Malolo Island Resort?
As we said last week, these trips are an important part of our job and give us valuable insights into what Fiji has to offer the Australian traveller right now. As specialist Fiji Travel Agents (or Fiji Matai Specialist Travel Agents) these trips mean we can confidently meet our client’s expectations, building the perfect holiday by matching their needs to what we have experienced first hand. That’s how we differ from other travel agencies – we create experiences for our clients that are so much more than just a holiday.
So, if you have any questions about Malolo Island Resort and whether it would be suitable for your next holiday, contact our team for a first-hand insight into this beautiful resort.
Next week – our review of Likuliku Lagoon Resort & Nanuku Island Resort.
Photos from our personal photo album
Below is a selection of personal photos taken by the team at Fiji Island Holidays during our stay at Malolo Island Resort.
Malolo Island Resort Travel Specials & Package Deals
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Fiji Island Resort Holidays
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