Expat Alli
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Destinations
    • Asia
    • Europe / UK
    • Middle East
    • North America
    • Pacific
  • Travel Tips
  • Resources
  • About
    • About Me
    • Where I’ve Been
    • Contact Me
Expat Alli
Expat Alli
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Destinations
    • Asia
    • Europe / UK
    • Middle East
    • North America
    • Pacific
  • Travel Tips
  • Resources
  • About
    • About Me
    • Where I’ve Been
    • Contact Me
Image of sunset over the water from Kuata Resort | Image © ExpatAlli.com
  • Fiji
  • South Pacific

Finding Paradise on Fiji’s Barefoot Kuata Island

  • 12 March 2019
  • 9 minute read

Barefoot Kuata is the place that really made me fall in love with Fiji. Not just because of the crystal clear waters and amazing views on every side of the island, or the enthusiasm of the staff as they welcomed us into their lives, but also because of the unpretentiousness of a resort that refuses to call itself a resort. It’s a place that works hard to support the local communities that have welcomed it into their land. A place that not only wants to help protect the beauty around it, but also show visitors just how beautiful this place really is. 

Only a couple hours from Denarau by boat, visitors to Barefoot Kuata Island can choose to enjoy its activities as day trippers or stay overnight for a luxury camping experience in a dorm or private tent. We chose to spend 2 nights here, and we're already dreaming about going back.
Seaplane view of Kuata Island | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Seaplane view of Kuata Island | Image © Expat Alli

HOW TO GET TO BAREFOOT KUATA

Barefoot Kuata Island is a 2-hour boat ride from Denarau. The boat, operated by South Sea Cruises, has only one departure each day at 8:30am - I recommend arriving an hour early and having breakfast and coffee at Lulu’s Cafe, which is right next to the boat terminal.
The boat has three decks, with both indoor and outdoor seating. We found the upper deck to be the least crowded, and enjoyed its 360-degree views as we traveled into Fiji's Yasawa group of Islands. Drinks and snacks were available to purchase at an extra cost. Though the boat ride is quite smooth, it’s best to take seasickness tablets prior to boarding if you’re prone to it.
Denarau Harbour | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Morning in Denarau Harbour | Image © Expat Alli
Top deck of the Yasawa Flyer | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Top deck of the Yasawa Flyer | Image © Expat Alli
Small boat taking passengers to a small island in Fiji | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Image © Expat Alli
The boat stopped briefly at a few different islands before we got to Kuata. When we arrived, we were met by smaller motorboats, which took us to the beach (make sure you look for the Warrior posing on a high rock on the way!). I recommend dressing to get wet & sandy, and remove flip-flops before getting out of the boat. I did neither of those things and wish I had.
If you don’t want to take the boat and have a larger budget, a seaplane ride takes about 25 minutes from Denarau Airport, via Turtle Airways or my favourite (I’m biased) Pacific Island Air. Seaplane departures run frequently throughout the day.
Kuata check-in area | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Kuata check-in area | Image © Expat Alli

CHECKING IN

Once we got off the boat, we were directed to a hut where we were given a welcome drink, short orientation and a bit of paperwork to fill out for our visit. No cash is accepted on the island, so all charges are billed together and settled at checkout. Room prices range from $33 FJD for a dorm bed to $400 FJD for a family room. A mandatory resort fee is also added for $105 FJD - this includes all meals (excluding lunch on the day you depart and alcohol) and equipment for non-motorized water sports like snorkeling and paddle boarding.
Fijian "Bula" decoration on hotel bedspread | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Enjoying the Fijian hospitality | Image © Expat Alli

THE ROOMS AT BAREFOOT KUATA

We stayed in the Beachfront Safari tent and the Seaview Queen room. The resort also offers dorm-style accommodation in a bure or tent, which is a great option for those with smaller budgets or anyone who wants a more social experience.

All private rooms are equipped with shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and soap (they smell SO good) and though they have power outlets, the wifi does not work in the rooms, so make sure you download stuff in advance if you like falling asleep to a show or podcast (as we do). Also be aware that the beautiful flowers that are decorating the bed are really fresh, so you may have to sweep off some ants before you get cozy.

Kuata's Oceanview Bure | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Kuata's Oceanview Bure | Image © Expat Alli
Kuata's Oceanview Bure | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Kuata's Oceanview Bure | Image © Expat Alli
Bunks at Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Bunks at Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © Expat Alli

Seaview Queen Bure

Our Seaview Queen Bure was located in a one-room bungalow with a partially-covered ensuite bathroom. Though we didn't actually get a sea view from our room, it was just a short walk to the beach. Furnishings were very basic, but the room included a Queen-sized bed, a bunk bed, a fan and power outlets.
We enjoyed the privacy and peacefulness of this room. We also loved the open air shower, but unfortunately its privacy was a bit lacking - there was a window that gave everyone walking past a good view in. We also wished there was a place to hang wet stuff under the awning of the porch, instead of draping it over the shower walls and hoping it didn't rain.
Overall, the room was cozy and we enjoyed our stay here, but our favourite was our next room:
Kuata's Beachfront Safari room | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Kuata's Beachfront Safari room | Image © Expat Alli
Kuata's Beachfront Safari room | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Kuata's Beachfront Safari room | Image © Expat Alli
Amenities at Barefoot Kuata Resort | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Amenities at Barefoot Kuata Resort | Image © Expat Alli

Beachfront Safari Tent

We loved the vibe of the Beachfront Safari Room, which seemed to be inspired by classic African safari camps. It had a writing desk, table and couch, as well as a lovely porch looking out toward the beach. It also featured an ensuite bathroom, though this one offered us a fully private open-air shower and larger toilet area.

The room offered more ventilation than the previous one, and it was lovely to listen to the waves on the beach and the tropical rain hitting the roof of the tent. It was also a shorter walk to both the beach and dining area. The only thing we would have liked was the addition of a lock on the door, or even a safe inside the room - though you can leave valuables in lockers at reception (bring a padlock), it can be a bit of a pain to have to keep doing this.

Image of reef shark in front of motorboat
Diving with sharks at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli

ACTIVITIES AT BAREFOOT KUATA

Barefoot Kuata offers several activities for those who enjoy spending time outdoors and in the water. This is not the kind of place that you can relax indoors. But with amazing scenery and amazing turquoise water, why would you want to?
Swimming pool at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Swimming pool at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli
Diving with sharks at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Diving with sharks at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli
Dive Shop at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Dive Shop at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli

Water Activities

Even if you're only on Kuata for the day, there's tons to do in the water. The resort offers free use of snorkeling gear, as well as kayak and paddleboard rentals. There are also daily trips to the protected Moyia Reef, a 20-minute boat ride from the island, where you can snorkel or dive with reef sharks.

Shark dives are offered for both certified and non-certified divers. Even if you're not into diving, the shark snorkel is well worth the extra cost. It's totally safe and even a great option for families and those who aren't confident swimmers - you can grab a lifejacket before heading out or one of the pool noodles they bring along.

The main beach of the island also has some great snorkeling - the reef is super close to the beach so you don't have to go far to see cool little fishes and beautiful coral. Just remember to respect the sea life by admiring it without touching it.

There are also 3 separate pools at the resort. Though none of them seemed large or deep enough for adults to swim, they seemed to be perfect for families with young kids. There were several lounge chairs beside each pool to relax with a drink from the nearby bar, and a couple hammocks with stunning views of the water and other islands.

Volleyball net at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Volleyball net at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli
Rainforest Trail at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Rainforest Trail at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli
Relaxing at Fiji's Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Relaxing at Fiji's Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © Expat Alli

Land Activities

Though the highlights of Barefoot Kuata are the amazing water activities that it offers, it's also possible to immerse yourself in the tropical beauty of the island by enjoying one of several walking trails, which the staff are happy to direct you to. You can take a short hike to the edge of a cliff, or a longer one up to the peak.

The resort also offers visits to a local village, guided walks through the forest and classes where you can learn to make local artisan goods like jewelry and baskets; these can be organized on request.

For those wanting to catch a good sunset view, make sure you head up to the deck just across from the bar.

Restaurant at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Restaurant at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli

DINING AT BAREFOOT KUATA

There's only one restaurant at Barefoot Kuata, and meals are served at specific times throughout the day. I recommend bringing some snacks in case you get hungry at other times - we packed some granola bars and crackers and were glad we had them.

The restaurant is a covered room with open walls and a floor of soft white sand, conveying the perfect tropical vibe. Meals are served buffet-style, made with mostly locally-sourced food and the background music is the resort's own talented staff playing guitar and ukulele. There is extra seating on the lawn in front of the restaurant and a separate covered bar is located just beside it.

There wasn't much variety in the food options for lunch and dinner, but the food was good. There are options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians, however I recommend that those with allergies or dietary restrictions double- and triple-check ingredients.

On one of the nights we were there, dinner was served near the beach as a multi-course meal with a couple different options to choose from. On this occasion, guests all sat at the same table, which made it a wonderful opportunity to make some new friends.

Diving with sharks at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Diving with sharks at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli

CONSERVATION

Barefoot Kuata is a member of the International Ecotourism Society (TIES) and does what it can to help the local communities and the environment around it. The Barefoot Collection, which also owns Barefoot Manta resort, employs a team of marine biologists, and they help educate people about marine conservation, as well as take on conservation projects that anyone can get involved with.

The resort also recruits most of its staff from villages around the neighbouring islands and encourages guests to purchase locally-made souvenirs to bring back home to help support the local artisans who make them. Optional village excursions help support those communities, as well as introduce guests to traditional Fijian culture.

Barefoot Kuata is also partnered with the fantastic organization Pack For A Purpose, which is an easy way for anyone to make a small difference. Just pack a few extra items like school or medical supplies, children's clothing or kitchenware and you'll be helping provide the local villages with things they need. Read more about how to make a difference on your trip to Fiji.

Beach at Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Beach at Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © Expat Alli

FINAL VERDICT

I absolutely recommend this place to those who want a fun multi-night stay, or just those who are looking for a quick escape from Nadi. It's not only one of the closest of the Yasawa Islands to Fiji's mainland, it's also one of the cheapest places to stay off the mainland, which makes it a great option for backpackers. Though it's not a luxury resort, Kuata is wonderfully authentic and welcoming, and there's so much to do.

Just keep in mind that rooms can get quite hot in the summer since there's no air-conditioning, and you'll want to bring sunscreen, mosquito repellant and snacks to have between meals. I also recommend bringing your own beach towel.

If you're looking for a fun romantic weekend away, try to book one of the lovely safari tents. I also highly recommend doing Barefoot Kuata's shark dive or snorkel - it's not that scary, I promise!



Booking.com

Cliffside view at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Cliffside view at Barefoot Kuata | Image © Expat Alli
Beach at Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © ExpatAlli.com
Beach at Barefoot Kuata Island | Image © Expat Alli
Image © ExpatAlli.com
Image © Expat Alli
Beach at Barefoot Kuata | Image © ExpatAlli.com

Was this post helpful to you? I'd love for you to head over to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and let me know!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

  • The Marriott Momi Bay: Affordable Luxury on Fiji's Main Island
  • What to Pack for Your Trip to Fiji
  • A Simple Guide to the Most Useful Fijian Words & Phrases

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR FIJI RESORT STAY

(Click the images to shop!)

Image of blue floral mini dress
Jumpsuit with tropical green palm leaf design
Image of a purple towel with bohemian mandala design
Maxi dress with tropical pineapple and palm tree design
Light blue men's tropical button-up shirt

Save this post to Pinterest!

I love using Pinterest to save the best travel inspiration and destination guides. If you use the platform, you can follow me and even sign up to join my Pinterest group board.

You can also use an image below to save this post to your own board!

FOLLOW @EXPATALLI

Pinterest image of a bure and beach, with text: "Finding paradise at Fiji's Barefoot Kuata Resort"

Pinterest image of beach, with text: "Finding paradise at Fiji's Barefoot Kuata Resort"

Tags
  • beaches
  • culture
  • day trips
  • fiji
  • hotels
  • islands
  • nadi
  • nature
  • resorts
  • south pacific
  • viti levu
Alli

Alli is a travel writer from Vancouver who is passionate about helping others find amazing places to explore around the world. During her time living abroad, she has swum with sharks in Africa, rescued puppies in the Pacific Islands, jumped off a mountain in Europe, explored historic ruins in the Middle East and crafted lattes 35,000 ft in the air.

8 comments
  1. Julie says:
    16 March 2019 at 14:27

    My husband owes me a tropical vacation, and this looks like a perfect, affordable option! Definitely saving it for trip planning.

    1. Alli says:
      29 March 2019 at 10:47

      Thanks, Julie! This is a great place for a tropical vacation, hope you guys get to go!

  2. upasana says:
    16 March 2019 at 15:32

    Hey! I absolutely loved how you detailed how everything. Anyone wishing to travel to Kuata Island in Fiji definitely needs this guide. And I must say such gorgeous pictures.

    1. Alli says:
      29 March 2019 at 10:47

      Thanks so much for the kind words 🙂

  3. Daniela says:
    16 March 2019 at 23:26

    Looks like paradise. A bit like Panama’s San Blas islands perhaps but going there is more expensive. Don’t think that I’ll ever make it to Fiji but on the other hand, you never know. Life is full of surprises.

    1. Alli says:
      29 March 2019 at 10:46

      I hope you do! I’ve never been to Panama but want to go now 🙂

  4. Lesia Joukova says:
    17 March 2019 at 07:50

    What a beautiful place! The views are absolutely insane. LOVE!

    1. Alli says:
      29 March 2019 at 10:45

      We thought so too! Hope you get to experience it sometime!

Comments are closed.

Expat Alli
  • Privacy Policy
  • Credits
  • Contact
All content © 2020 ExpatAlli

Input your search keywords and press Enter.