Beqa Island is 10km south of the main island of Fiji and is also known as “Mbengga”. There are 4 resorts and 9 local villages on Beqa so you have lots to see and do, but the highlight of any visit to Beqa is the traditional Firewalking, which involves walking over burning embers. You’ll find Beqa to be quite a bit more rustic, with far less infrastructure than on the main island.
Beqa Island Location
Yes, you will need a boat to get to Beqa! Here’s the Google Maps location:
Overview of Beqa Island
Your journey to Beqa (pronounced ‘Benga’) Island introduces you to one of Fiji’s most serene and culturally rich destinations. This small island, nestled off the southern coast of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, lies just 10 kilometres away from the bustling Pacific Harbour. The island is renowned for its natural beauty and the surrounding Beqa Lagoon — a haven for diving enthusiasts.
As you explore Beqa Island, you’ll quickly appreciate the tradition and authenticity that permeate through the local villages. Engage with the local village life and experience Fijian hospitality that remains untainted by mainstream tourism. The island’s history is vibrant with cultural practices like fire walking, which originated from the Sawau tribe of Beqa Island.
While the island itself doesn’t boast extensive infrastructure, its unspoiled charm is apparent in the natural beauty of its landscapes and waters. The Beqa Lagoon is notably one of the world’s largest reefs and offers an unparalleled underwater experience with rich marine diversity.
Remember, your visit to Beqa isn’t just a trip — it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a way of life that upholds tradition above the trappings of modernity. Whether you find peace in the natural splendour of the lush rainforests or seek adventure in the vast lagoon that envelopes this jewel of the Pacific, Beqa Island’s allure is undeniable.
Getting to Beqa Island
When planning your trip to Beqa Island, it’s essential to know that your journey begins on Viti Levu, Fiji’s main island. Your primary entry points will likely be Nadi, the location of the international airport, or Suva, Fiji’s capital city.
By Road to Pacific Harbour: The Pacific Harbour, the launch point for Beqa Island, is accessible via Queens Road. The drive presents a scenic route:
From Nadi: Approximately 2.5 hours
From Suva: Roughly 1 hour
Bus Services: Buses are a common mode of transport and operate regularly along Queens Road. They offer an affordable way to reach the Pacific Harbour from both Nadi and Suva.
Boat Transfers from Pacific Harbour: Once you’re at Pacific Harbour, you’ll need to take a boat transfer to reach Beqa Island which is only accessible by water. These transfers are:
Typically arranged by your chosen accommodation on Beqa Island
Around 45 minutes in duration
Local Boat Option from Navua: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, local boats operate from the nearby Navua River. This alternative might not be as swift or comfortable as resort-arranged transfers but can add to your adventure. However, ensure to check the reliability and safety measures provided.
It’s advisable to confirm boat transfer details ahead of time with your accommodation to ensure a smooth transition from Viti Levu to the serene shores of Beqa Island.
Accommodation Options
When visiting Beqa Island in Fiji, you’ve got a range of accommodation options, whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly stays, or romantic adult-only escapes.
Luxury Resorts
Beqa Lagoon Resort offers you a touch of luxury with its deluxe, air-conditioned Fijian style villas, each with private plunge pools and exotic koi ponds. Feel pampered amidst lush tropical gardens with beautiful ocean views and engage in activities like scuba diving in one of the world’s largest reefs. Find more details on amenities and book your stay at Beqa Lagoon Resort.
Another option for upscale indulgence is Lalati Resort, a boutique retreat where you can immerse yourself in a sophisticated island experience, with luxury bures and villas set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
Budget-Friendly Stays
If you’re travelling on a budget, Beqa Island has options for you as well, such as Lawaki Beach House. This accommodation provides a comfortable and authentic Fijian experience without stretching your purse strings too far. You can stay in simple but charming bures or rooms that offer basic amenities and direct beach access.
Adult-Only and Honeymoon Accommodations
For an intimate getaway, consider adult-only options that cater specifically to couples and honeymooners. These accommodations are designed to offer you quiet, undisturbed time together in a romantic setting. The bures in these resorts are often situated to ensure privacy and can come with special amenities for couples, enhancing your honeymoon or romantic escape.
Remember to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you plan your visit during peak seasons, to secure your perfect stay on this island paradise.
Cultural Experiences
When you visit Beqa Island, you’re stepping into a vibrant tapestry of Fijian culture. The island is a treasure trove of traditions, from the enthralling fire-walking ceremonies to the rhythmic beats of Meke performances.
Fire-Walking: Originating from the Sawau tribe of Beqa, fire-walking has become a cornerstone of the island’s cultural heritage. The ritual, known as “vilavilairevo,” sees Fijians bravely traverse hot stones barefoot. Witness this at an arts village or during a resort-hosted event.
Arts Village: Delve into an immersive experience at the Pacific Harbour Arts Village, where you can participate in a variety of Fijian crafts, dances, and storytelling sessions, providing you with a hands-on approach to understanding local customs.
Rugby: It’s no surprise that rugby is a passion here. You may chance upon a game in one of the villages, such as Raviravi or Rukua – join in the cheers or even participate if you’re up for it!
Sunday Church Service: A unique way to experience the warmth of Fijian hospitality is by attending a local church service. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the community’s spirituality and enjoy their soulful choir.
Meke Performance:
Men’s Dance: Bold, powerful movements depicting ancient warfare stories.
Women’s Dance: Graceful gestures harmonising with the men’s narrative.
Join in, clap along, and lose yourself in the rhythm of Beqa Island’s soul-stirring Meke – an unforgettable highlight of your cultural journey.
Adventure and Activities
Beqa Island, known as the adventure capital of Fiji, offers a vast array of activities to satisfy your thirst for adventure. From the azure depths to the lush landscapes, each experience is curated to showcase the island’s natural beauty and unique culture.
Water-Based Excursions
Diving: The Beqa Lagoon is a world-renowned dive spot where you can explore one of the world’s largest barrier reefs. Witness the vivid coral gardens and be amazed by the abundance of marine life that resides there. For a truly exhilarating experience, take the opportunity to dive with sharks in the shark-infested waters under careful supervision.
Kayaking & Snorkeling: Glide atop the lagoon’s serene surface in a kayak or plunge below with snorkeling gear to discover intricate marine ecosystems.
White Water Rafting & River Tubing: Experience the excitement of white water rafting or river tubing down the clear, rushing waters of the Navua River. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you navigate through the rapids surrounded by Fiji’s stunning rainforest.
Jet Boating: Take a high-speed jet boat ride along the Navua River where the thrill of speed combines with spectacular natural scenery.
Land Explorations
Off-Road Tours & Ziplining: Engage in an off-road tour through rugged terrain in a four-wheel drive or harness up for a ziplining adventure that will have you soaring over canopies and gorges, witnessing Fiji’s landscape from new heights.
Recreational Facilities
Golf Course: If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, visit the Pearl Golf & Country Club; this well-maintained golf course lets you enjoy a leisurely game amidst tropical surrounds.
Recreational Centres: For a diverse range of activities, head to the Uprising Sports Centre where you can participate in volleyball and other recreational sports.
In Beqa Island, your adventurous spirit can run wild amid the stunning natural beauty that Fiji is famed for. Whether under the sea or over the land, you’re bound to find excitement at every turn.
Marine Attractions and Conservation
Beqa Island, Fiji, offers you an extraordinary chance to explore one of the world’s premier marine destinations. With its magnificent Beqa Lagoon and the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, you have the opportunity to dive into an underwater adventure rich with marine life and focused on conservation.
Beqa Lagoon Diving
In the Beqa Lagoon, you’ll find more than 100 dive sites, featuring an array of soft corals and diverse marine life. Recognised for its barrier reef, the lagoon provides both novice and experienced divers with a safe yet thrilling environment. The lagoon’s warm waters are spotlighted for colourful reef fish and an abundance of corals.
Visibility: Often exceeding 30 metres
Marine Life: Includes reef sharks, turtles, and tropical fish
Dive Sites to Visit: ‘The Cathedral’ and ‘Ceasar’s Rocks’
Shark Reef Marine Reserve Activities
The Shark Reef Marine Reserve brings you the ‘Ultimate Shark Encounter‘, offering controlled shark dives that contribute to shark research and local Fijian villages. These shark dives are conducted with the highest safety standards.
Shark Species: Bull sharks, tiger sharks, and more
Conservation: A portion of fees goes to shark research and conservation
Experiences: Supervised dives for up-close encounters with sharks
Ocean Exploration Without Diving
If you’re not keen on diving, consider snorkelling as an alternative to immerse yourself in Fiji’s marine beauty. The coral gardens in the shallow waters around Beqa are teeming with life and provide a chance to see the conservation efforts in action.
Activities: Guided snorkelling tours
Marine Observation: Spot vibrant coral reefs, and various fish species
Conservation Focus: Learn about local efforts to protect and preserve the marine environment
Each activity available to you on Beqa Island not only broadens your horizons but also supports conservation initiatives to safeguard these natural wonders for future generations.
Dining and Cuisine
When visiting Beqa Island, Fiji, you’re in for a culinary experience deeply rooted in tradition and culture. The Fijian cuisine here offers a unique taste that blends local ingredients with cooking methods passed down through generations.
Local Specialties: Expect dishes centred around fresh seafood and tropical fruits. A must-try is kokoda, raw fish marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk. This dish encapsulates Fiji time – prepared patiently and enjoyed leisurely.
Restaurants and Eateries: While on Beqa Island, dining options vary from casual cafes to more formal dining establishments. You can have a feast with American flair at Baka Blues Cafe that offers steaks, ribs, and fish and chips with a South Pacific twist, embraced in a New Orleans-inspired ambiance. For a truly local dining experience, many resorts also feature traditional lovo feasts, where food is cooked in an earth oven.
Typical Dining Hours:
Breakfast: 7:00 am – 9:00 am
Lunch: 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Dinner: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Note that ‘Fiji time’ extends to meal times, which may start or finish outside these general hours.
Cultural Etiquette: It’s important to approach dining with respect for local customs. If invited to a village or local’s home for a meal, it’s polite to bring a small gift, like kava root, as a gesture of thanks.
Enjoying your meals on Beqa Island not only satisfies hunger but also immerses you in the local culture that’s rich with respect for the natural abundance of the land and sea.
Tips for Travellers
When planning your trip to Beqa Island, Fiji, it’s essential to consider the local climate, cultural norms, and health precautions to make the most of your visit. These tips will guide you to a fulfilling experience blending relaxation with respectful cultural engagement.
Best Times to Visit
Climate: Beqa Island, like the rest of Fiji, has a tropical climate. To make the most of sunny days by the beach and for optimal diving conditions, plan your visit during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period boasts lower rainfall and humidity, making it ideal for your outdoor adventures.
High Season (May to October): Expect clear skies and cooler temperatures. Bear in mind that prices might be higher due to increased demand.
Low Season (November to April): This is Fiji’s wet season, where you will encounter warmer temperatures and more frequent rain showers. Travelling during this time usually offers lower rates and fewer crowds.
Local Customs and Etiquette
‘Fiji Time’: While in Beqa, you’ll experience the laid-back nature of ‘Fiji Time’. This cultural concept means that life is more relaxed, and things may not always happen in a hurry. Embrace this as part of your relaxation process and use the extra time to soak in the island’s beauty.
Greetings and Dress: Always greet locals with a friendly “Bula” and dress modestly, especially when visiting villages. It’s a sign of respect to cover your shoulders and knees.
Tipping: Tipping isn’t a standard practice in Fiji, so never feel obligated. If you do want to show your appreciation for exceptional service, feel free to do so discreetly.
Health and Safety
Medical Precautions: Before you depart, make sure to check with your doctor about any recommended vaccinations. While Beqa Island is a relatively safe destination, it’s always wise to be proactive with your health.
Travel Insurance: Secure comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical costs. It’s better to be safe and have peace of mind during your travels.
Water Safety: It’s generally safe to swim and snorkel around the island, but always be cautious of strong currents, and only swim in designated areas known to be free from risks.
By considering the best times to visit, respecting local customs and etiquette, and being vigilant about health and safety, you’re setting yourself up for an enjoyable and enriching trip to Beqa Island. Remember, reviews from other travellers can also offer valuable insights, especially when it comes to free or cheap activities that they enjoyed.
Additional Points of Interest
When exploring Beqa Island, you have the opportunity to experience not only the island’s natural charm but also vibrant cultural events and nearby attractions that contribute to the richness of your visit.
Nearby Attractions
Yanuca Island: Just a stone’s throw from Beqa, Yanuca Island offers pristine beaches and excellent snorkelling opportunities in crystal-clear waters. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this secluded gem.
Navua River: Glide along the serene Navua River, flanked by lush rainforest, and discover waterfalls and traditional villages on its banks. It’s an ideal way to experience Fiji’s green interior.
Pacific Harbour: Known as the adventure capital, Pacific Harbour town provides an array of land and water activities. Whether you decide to venture through a rainforest tour or dive at Frigate’s Passage, you’re guaranteed to behold stunning vistas.
Lalati: The village of Lalati is poignant for its legend and local storytelling, immersing you in Fijian folklore surrounded by captivating landscapes.
Special Events
Raviravi & Rukua Firewalking: Witness the ancient tradition of Firewalking, originally from the Beqa Island, where the people of Raviravi and Rukua demonstrate this awe-inspiring ritual.
Pacific Harbour Cultural Events: Participate in cultural festivities that showcase vibrant dances, music, and art, giving you a taste of the island’s rich heritage and contemporary local life.
Planning and Booking Your Trip
When you set your sights on a holiday to Beqa Island in Fiji, a variety of accommodation options await your selection. Whether you prefer the luxury of exclusive resorts or the savings of more budget-friendly lodgings, Beqa Island caters to your needs.
When booking your stay, consider the activities you wish to indulge in. Tourism on Beqa Island is rich with possibilities:
Scuba Diving: Home to the famous Beqa Lagoon, experience some of the world’s best diving.
Cultural Experiences: Engage in Fijian culture with fire-walking demonstrations and local village tours.
Water Sports: Collectively, the resorts offer options to jet ski around Beqa or partake in leisurely paddleboarding sessions.
It’s prudent to book your activities alongside your accommodation to ensure availability. Research each resort’s packages to combine your accommodation and entertainment for potential savings. Be mindful of the season, as it can affect both the cost and experience due to weather changes.
When planning your trip to Beqa Island, secure your bookings well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This will ensure you have the best selection of rooms and activities for a seamless Fijian adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re planning a trip to Beqa Island, you’ll likely have some questions about accommodations, travel, activities, and the unique aspects of this Fijian paradise.
What accommodations are available on Beqa Island?
On Beqa Island, travellers like yourself can enjoy stays at various resorts known for their comfort and Fijian hospitality. Beqa Lagoon Resort is a prime option, offering a serene escape with traditional thatched roof bures.
How can one travel to the Beqa Lagoon Resort?
To reach Beqa Lagoon Resort, you will travel via a boat transfer from Pacific Harbour on Viti Levu, the main island. The scenic boat ride offers breathtaking views and a chance to see the surrounding clear blue waters.
What are the notable diving experiences in Beqa Lagoon?
Beqa Lagoon boasts one of the world’s largest barrier reefs with an extraordinary array of marine life. Diving here, you can encounter the famous shark dive, exploring coral gardens, and possibly swimming alongside up to seven species of sharks in their natural habitat.
Which activities are considered must-dos in Pacific Harbour and Beqa?
While in the Pacific Harbour and Beqa area, you should indulge in luxury activities like playing golf at world-class facilities, enjoying water sports, and experiencing the cultural phenomenon of fire walking, traditionally performed by the Sawau tribe on Beqa Island.
What are Beqa Island’s unique features?
Beqa Island is not only renowned for its diving and cultural richness but is also famous for being ‘The Fire Walking Island’. This small island provides a glimpse into the ancient practice of fire walking, maintained here for over five centuries.
Can you list the villages situated on Beqa Island?
There are several villages on Beqa Island where you can observe authentic Fijian culture and lifestyle. Notable villages include Dakuibeqa, Soliyaga, Naceva, and Raviravi, among others, each offering a unique perspective of the island’s community and traditions.
