Set on the sun-kissed sands of Savusavu is one of South Pacific’s oldest and well-regarded 5-star private island eco-resorts – the Jean Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji. While powdered sugar white beaches and clear waters are undeniable draws, the resort has much more to offer – from warm service to curated experiences celebrating local culture. A former coconut plantation, this resort was meticulously restored into what it is now – a beacon and a steward of eco-tourism, biodiversity, barefoot luxury, unfettered adventure and good times!
After flying down to Fiji’s Nadi International Airport, travellers will hop onto a domestic flight to the island of Savusavu. After disembarking there, the resort is a short drive away, down the scenic roads and sights of Vanua Levu.
Sitting on 17 acres of swaying coconut palms and beaches are 25 spacious villas. Each bure (which is Fijian for villa) has been constructed using ethically-sourced and environment-friendly materials. Nods to Fijian architectural elements can be seen in thatched roofs, high-vaulted ceilings, handcrafted woodwork, wall-to-wall louvres, and locally-sourced timber for flooring. The villas have also been recently upgraded with eco-friendly air-conditioning solutions. For more pictures, details and amenities on the various categories of accommodations, check out our page on the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.
First-timers and returnees at the Jean-Michel Cousteau will invariably find themselves soaking in the bountiful heritage of this eco-resort. The peninsula in the pristine Savusavu bay is steeped in stories of epic migrations, indomitable will and enduring legacy of the Yavusa Nasavusavu people, who christened the place as their yavuttu (place of origin) in the South Pacific. Speaking of culture, visitors are bound to be enthralled by the iTaukei. Echoing the Fijian beliefs, the iTaukei culture is all about living in harmony with nature. Guests can witness the islanders’ traditions and stories beautifully recreated in vivid dances, melodious tunes and performances that brings the past to life. The resort’s friendly staff are always on hand, helping guests navigate local culture, helping them understand and respect these cherished traditions.
The Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort prides itself on being a family-oriented resort. There are activities and experiences for everyone to experience, no matter their age. While adults can have their own action-packed adventures, kids can hang out in the cute Bula Club, adventurous teenagers can set out on excursions of their own while the silver travellers would love exploring the beaches and landscaped greens. Guests can also ask the staff to organise a family picnic on the beach! Grandparents to grandkids, everyone can look forward to reconnecting with their loved ones at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji.
At this Fiji resort, parents can engage in relaxation and quality time without worrying about kids, thanks to the resort’s very own Bula Club. From hobby houses, trampolines, sturdy treehouses to slides and lessons, there’s plenty to engage your little ones for days on end. There’s also a little restaurant within the club’s premises, ensuring your kids stay fuelled for the myriad island adventures. The resort has a curated list of activities for teenagers too! Paired with a ‘buddy’ in groups of five, teenagers get to experience group waterfall safaris, hobie cat sailing, exhilarating nighttime snorkelling and insightful coral planting experiences. Add to above tidbits and anecdotes on local tales and legends that excite and inspire teenagers to learn about history and culture.
Blending holidays, learning, and the amazing natural beauty of the island, the resort staff have created curated experiences for youngsters. One such experience is the Soil School where kids graduate as ‘guardians of nature’. The young ones get their hands and knees dirty, absorbing all there is to know about soil types before learning about regenerative agriculture and sustainable practices. They also help plant mangroves saplings and learn about the role these plants play in making the region hospitable.
Fresh organic produce from the resort’s farm, choice spices and experienced hands transform everyday ingredients into gourmet delights. The main restaurant and bar is great for couples and adults, while the family restaurant is great for… you guessed it, family dinners. Kids’ orders are taken in advance and served either at the family restaurant or at the Bula Club. The staff ensures that kids have nutritious, wholesome meals, pairing daily offerings with fresh salads and fruits.
Elevate evening meals with romantic dinners. Dine at the pier end, on any of the resort’s beachfront bures, on the poolside decks or sail away to the resort’s private island for an unforgettable waterfront dining experience.
Diving is synonymous with Fiji and that is why the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort has its very own dive centre. The centre is inspired by the efforts and experiences of the conservationist Jean-Michel and his late father, Jacques Cousteau, who invented the SCUBA diving gear. The dive centre is well known for its emphasis on through education and hands-on experience and provides a one-day certification course. Of course, enthusiastic individuals can always opt for the three-day PADI certification and the master-level certificates. There’s also an on-site doctor vets everybody’s fitness level!
The nearby Namena Marine Reserve is a divers’ haven for soft corals in all its psychedelic hues. The region is known for its famous diving sites like ‘Dreamhouse’ and ‘Dreadlocks’, spellbinding even veteran divers. Guests will also be drawn to the ‘Tabu’ – the resort’s very own protected marine area, showcasing the very best of JMC’s exploration and conservation efforts. Guests will also want to explore the famous Naviavia Clan Island. With two sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear warm waters surrounding it, this historic island is great for a day of family fun.
At the resort, visitors can embark on regularly scheduled eco-aware escapades, led by one of the resident marine biologists. Each sojourn imparts little nuggets of knowledge, from guided snorkel trips and reef flat walks to glass-bottomed boat excursions to rainforest and waterfall hikes. As the sun goes down, visitors can also sit down for insightful presentations by the in-house naturalists at the bar. It’s a holiday, nobody said it had to be a ‘dry’ presentation! As an overlooked attraction, this island nation has some pretty clear skies, perfect for stargazing. And at the Jean-Michel Costeau Resort, Fiji, the light pollution is at minimum – making for some mind-blowing night skies.
Engage in restorative yoga sessions with gentle stretches and guided meditations on an open-air deck or on the beach. These sessions are curated and led by the resident yoga instructor. Next, the resort offers an excellent spa in a beachfront bure. Guests can sample rejuvenating facials infused with local botanicals, invigorating hot-stone therapies and soothing coconut oil massages that leave them absolutely blissful. Last, but not the least, is the Wai Vakaviti where visitors get to experience traditional Fijian healing by trained practitioners. Invigorating smells of herbal compresses will soothe your senses with rhythmic chants and traditional Fijian music in the background – truly an incomparable experience!
:The Jean-Michel Cousteau resort is a statement and an experience – showcasing that luxury, sustainability and good times need not be divorced. Want to sample this slice of eco-luxury? Check out our page for this resort or just call us on 1300 991 751. We also suggest bookmarking this page, we will soon be adding a detailed blog on what to do in Savusavu and trust us, every little nugget of info helps make the trip a little more memorable!
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