Sonaisali Island Resort

Sonaisali Island Resort was completed in 1992 and is owned and operated by Australian hoteliers Peter and Jan McGrath, and their swiss-trained son, Aaron. Gateway to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, the resort is a true escape offering friendly, value-for-money holidays including wedding and romance packages, as well as catering for conferences.

Spread over 42 hectares (105 acres), the resort's individual Fijian-style bures and 32 hotel suites - all beach front - featuring elegant, vaulted ceilings. The rooms are light and airy and modern architectural touches blend harmoniously with the tropical environment. All rooms have private balconies or extensive verandahs from which to enjoy balmy evening breezes and the panoramic views extending to the Mamanuca Islands.

The hotel suites are air-conditioned and also have ceiling fans. The bures have ceiling fans and air-conditioned second bedroom.

The rooms also feature well stocked mini-bars, tea and coffee making facilities, modern bathrooms with twin vanity units, hair dryers and separate toilet.

There is no shortage of things to do on Sonaisali which is located across a lagoon, only two minutes by boat from the mainland and 25 minutes from Nadi International Airport.

The resort's modern marina accommodates 12 yachts or motor launches and the fleet of specially designed, covered boats which operate river and village cruises.

The resort can also arrange deep sea fishing (the big ones start biting less than 500m away), snorkelling and scuba diving.

Other activities available at no extra cost include tennis, hobie cat sailing, windsurfing and paddlecats - a local version of the popular pedalo boats.

Local villages perform a weekly 'meke'. There are three separate eating areas and two bars, including the Poolside Pergola and the swim up or walk up Poolside Bar. One of Sonaisali's strengths is the fabulous, imaginatively presented food prepared by the resort's chef who is able to prepare delicious meals without going too 'exotic'.

Sonaisali has excellent child-minders who are more like 'companions', providing fun and stimulation for children of all ages. They are available days and evenings, perfect for parents who want to take the children for a holiday without having them with you all of the time!

Another special touch is the unique and memorable Fijian wedding ceremony complete with minister, choir, photographer, flowers, bouquet and wedding cake - just one of a variety of inexpensive romantic packages on offer.