Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay review: You will want to stay at least a week

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Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay review: You will want to stay at least a week

By Craig Tansley
Marriott Momi Bay is the only resort on Fiji's main island to feature overwater villas.

Marriott Momi Bay is the only resort on Fiji's main island to feature overwater villas.

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Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay bridges the gap between Fijian family resorts and adults-only romantic retreats by combining them in the same resort. Guests choose between adults-only overwater bungalows, or family-friendly rooms. It's almost as close to Nadi International Airport as Denarau Island, yet Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay has remained under the radar of most Australian travellers. Just 25 minutes drive south of the airport, you'll go through green hills with cows for company until you reach the west coast.

THE LOOK

There are eight different types of rooms – each feature high vaulted ceilings, private outdoor decks and free-standing bathtubs.

There are eight different types of rooms – each feature high vaulted ceilings, private outdoor decks and free-standing bathtubs.

Set beside and on top of a lagoon sheltered by a strip of coastline where you can look out to the Mamanuca Islands, the resort occupies some of Fiji's most unique real estate. Most restaurants and bars look across the lagoon – and there's an activities area on a beach within the lagoon – yet its best feature doesn't involve the lagoon at all. Built atop a coastal cliff face looking west, Fish Bar has arguably the best sunset view in the South Pacific. Walk between the resort's bars and restaurants, or hitch a lift in a golf cart.

THE ROOM

There are eight different types of rooms – each feature high vaulted ceilings, private outdoor decks and free-standing bath-tubs. The adults-only overwater bungalows are the only ones of their kind on Fiji's main island – and feature direct access to the lagoon. At 60 square metres they're as big as some inner-city apartments, and I have my own balcony so I can sit and stare at the lagoon before I leap in. Furnishings are predominately timber and white done in a minimalist style to ensure everyone's attention is always on the lagoon outside. There's also a choice of ocean front or lagoon view bures of varying sizes for couples or families.

The swim-up bar.

The swim-up bar.

FOOD + DRINK

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You'll be spoilt for choice with five dining choices - so you can move between restaurants throughout your stay. The adults-only Fish Bar is the resort's fine dining option, featuring seafood caught the same day and grilled meats in an open-plan restaurant. Eat above the lagoon at Goji Kitchen and Bar with a breakfast buffet with live cooking station, or catch a Polynesian Fire Performance and the Village Choir singing beside the water at the Lagoon House and Bar. There are also barbecue-style meals at Voi Voi Bar, set within a Fijian Village open-air venue.

OUT + ABOUT

You're only 25 minutes from Denarau Island, home to one of the best offerings of restaurants and bars in Fiji. Nadi is also only 25 minutes away where there are also plenty of options. Taxis or shuttles can be organised by reception.

THE VERDICT

It's the sum of all parts that really make this place. There is a feeling of exclusivity you only otherwise get on an island when you enter via its long driveway – and the fact you can access the Mamanuca Islands from boats that dock at the resort's jetty is a bonus. It's the sort of resort you won't mind staying at for a week.

ESSENTIALS

Rooms from $460 a night. Savusavu Road, Momi Bay. See marriott.com

OUR RATING OUT OF FIVE

★★★★½

HIGHLIGHT

Get set for a watery sunset as you soak in the infinity pool.

LOWLIGHT

If you're a fan of early nights avoid the lagoon view bures beside the Lagoon Lounge where local musicians play most nights of the week.

Craig Tansley travelled courtesy of Tourism Fiji and My Fiji.

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