Cara Wagstaff experiences the warmth of Fijian hospitality with a side of culture at the secluded and stunning Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay.
“Welcome home, family,” the concierge greets us as we arrive in the open-air lobby. A cool glass of orange juice is placed in my hand as we drop our luggage, succumbing to the relaxing atmosphere of the five-star Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay.
Just under an hour’s drive from Nadi International Airport, yet still close enough to Denarau and the Coral Coast for day trips, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay’s private location at a secluded bay on the western coast of Viti Levu, Fiji’s main island, is peacefully sublime.
The resort provides three styles of accommodation: hotel-style rooms and suites, lagoon and oceanfront bures and a string of luxurious overwater bungalows, although these are only for guests aged 18 and over.
We opt for a duplex bure for a more traditional experience. Inside it’s loftily spacious with a curved ceiling, rich wood panelling accents and rattan lamp shades. The open-plan layout features a freestanding bathtub, a plush king bed, and a lounge suite, all perfectly positioned to take in the views of the cerulean blue lagoon. A cot has also been set up for our toddler, Poppy. But it is the deck of our bure that becomes our favourite place to relax. Watching swimmers bob in the lagoon and mullet fish leaping out of it, is quite the show for our entranced toddler.
Walking into breakfast at Goji Kitchen & Bar is always a cheery occasion, with staff welcoming us with beaming smiles and a hearty ‘Bula!’ They constantly fuss over Poppy, determined to raise a smile or giggle out of her. Once she’s loaded up on fresh pastries, pancakes, or whatever takes her fancy that morning, our routine quickly becomes about grabbing a couple of slices of bread and finding a quiet spot over the lagoon to feed the swarming schools of fish.
The resort boasts three swimming pools: the main family-friendly pool featuring a swim-up bar, while just over a bridge lies the kids’ shallow swimming pool. Here, water fountains, a sand pit, and a plethora of toys await. An adults-only pool is located on the other side of the resort; it’s perched on the ocean edge and perfect for soaking up stunning sunsets with a cocktail in hand while the kids are at Turtles Kids Club. Guests can also swim in the saltwater lagoon, accessible from a sandy beach or directly from lagoon-facing bures.
Navigating the palm tree-dotted resort is a breeze. While everything is within walking distance, families can also take advantage of a 24-hour buggy service and the Bula Bus, making it even easier to get around, whether it’s to one of the swimming pools, tennis courts, the kids’ club or the blissful Quan Spa for a moment of relaxation.
The resort also offers an action-packed daily program with activities ranging from trivia quizzes to tiara-making workshops using local plants, and even coconut- throwing competitions. In the evening, we relish the resort’s entertainment offerings, which includes choir performances, fire shows and cultural ceremonies. To give you an idea of the range of experiences on offer, you can see the April 2024 daily activities program.
The resort also offers an action-packed daily program with activities ranging from trivia quizzes to tiara-making workshops using local plants, and even coconut- throwing competitions. In the evening, we relish the resort’s entertainment offerings, which includes choir performances, fire shows and cultural ceremonies. To give you an idea of the range of experiences on offer, you can see the April 2024 daily activities program above.
Here are some of the fun and complimentary activities families can do at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay
Turtle Kids Club is open daily for kids aged between four and seven years old. Sessions run from 9am to midday, and 2pm to 5pm. Activities on offer include fish feeding, art competitions, friendship bracelet making, fun pool games and much more.
As our daughter was too young to attend, we were still able to go in and use the outdoor playground.
This luxury resort boasts multiple eateries to cater to diverse palates and children’s needs
I was able to steal a couple of hours away from the family and made a beeline to the onsite Quan Spa. I was able to book in the same day, but they do recommend booking ahead of time. I enjoyed a one-hour full body massage which lulled me into a meditative state, before I emerged and sipped warm tea in the relaxation lounge.
When visiting a new country, I relish the opportunity to experience the local food and culture. However, with a toddler in tow, getting out and about isn’t as easy as it used to be. Combining that with our remote location, one of the things I enjoyed the most about the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay was its cultural offerings and the opportunity to try local cuisine. A luxury resort with multiple pools, dining, and accommodation options that brings the Fijian culture to you? This one ticks all the boxes for Aussie families.
To start planning your Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay holiday, visit their website here.
This Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay review originally appeared in Holidays with Kids magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue here.
Images © Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay unless specified otherwise.
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