Fiji boasts some of the planet's most epic waves, including Cloudbreak, a legendary left-hander that's on every surfer's bucket list. But to keep pumping out perfectly pristine barrels, this island nation’s spectacular reefs need healthy oceans. That's why Fiji's leading surf resorts and tour operators are stepping up to protect marine habitats and ensure these world-class waves exist for future generations.
Through initiatives like STOKE certification - the first sustainability certification designed specifically for surf businesses - these forward-thinking companies are reducing single-use plastics, offsetting carbon emissions and keeping our oceans pristine. By embracing sustainability, they're helping to preserve Fiji's natural wonders for us all.
So the next time you’re thinking about venturing off on a Pacific Islands escape, consider staying at one of these eco-friendly surf resorts in Fiji.
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Maqai Beach Eco Surf Resort, Qamea
Located on Qamea Island (just a short hop north of Taveuni) is one of Fiji’s leading sustainable surf resorts. Maqai Beach Eco Surf Resort is surrounded by picture-perfect beaches, lush rainforests and world-class breaks, and offers genuine encounters with the Fijian people that you can’t find anywhere else.
The Fiji Excellence in Tourism Award for Sustainability recognises businesses leading the way in eco-friendly practices. As a multiple winner of this prestigious award, Maqai Beach Eco Surf Resort exemplifies sustainable tourism done right. Solar panels provide over 95% of the resort's electricity needs, reducing reliance on diesel generators. An innovative wastewater treatment system recycles water onsite while the organic garden supplies the kitchen with fresh produce.
The resort also gives back to the local marine environment through coral gardening programs that help restore damaged reefs. Maqai Beach sets the standard for sustainable surf retreats worldwide. Their commitment to implementing renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and protecting fragile ecosystems shows that luxury travel can also be environmentally responsible.
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Fiji
Matanivusi Beach Eco Resort, Viti Levu
Nestled amidst a tract of coastal forest along Viti Levu's Coral Coast, Matanivusi Beach Eco Resort is a surfer's paradise with a conscience. As the world's first surf resort to earn the prestigious STOKE eco-certification, Matanivusi seamlessly blends sustainability with incredible surf experiences.
It boasts just 12 thatched-roof bures perched on stilts above the forest floor and overlooking an idyllic lagoon. All of the bungalows are connected by rustic walkways that lead to the resort's restaurant and bar area, together with a sparkling swimming pool. From its secluded beach, you can paddle out to some of Fiji’s best breaks, including the famous “Frigates”.
Matanivusi operates entirely off-grid, collecting rainwater and treating wastewater on-site for reuse. All waste gets sorted for composting, recycling or repurposing. The resort's bountiful organic gardens supply the kitchen with fresh local produce, which will keep you refuelled in between surfs. Best of all, Matanivusi is completely plastic-free and encourages sustainability practices at every turn.
Tavarua Island Resort, Tavarua
More than just a world-famous surfing mecca that attracts legends of the sport, Tavarua Island Resort is a model of eco-friendly surf tourism and marine conservation. This tiny, heart-shaped island in the Mamanucas features a range of rustically designed villas and bures designed to suit all group sizes, as well as a swimming pool, a hot tub and an onsite spa.
Beyond their state-of-the-art sustainability practices like solar power and rainwater harvesting, Tavarua actively protects the surrounding marine environment. In partnership with the Ministry of Fisheries, they operate a giant clam hatchery that has already reared over 500 endangered juvenile clams, supporting efforts to repopulate Fiji's reefs. Their turtle rehabilitation ponds nurse sick and injured hawksbill turtles back to health while a government collaboration aims to establish a Marine Protection Area safeguarding the waters around Tavarua.
With initiatives that benefit both its guests and the ocean, this tiny island certainly has a big heart for marine conservation. Its environmental ethos shows that a resort can both provide a world-class travel experience and serve as a steward of its natural surroundings.
Sustainable surf resorts in Fiji
Namotu Island
For those seeking adventure, look no further than Namotu Island - a picturesque speck in the Mamanucas. This Fijian island paradise puts you right in the heart of all the surfing action, with easy access to seven world-class breaks that include the powerful left-hand barrel of “Cloudbreak”.
But it's not all sun and surf at Namotu Island. This eco-friendly Fijian resort is working diligently to protect the pristine paradise that envelops it. Recently recognised by STOKE for its innovative bio-cycle wastewater system and plastic reduction initiatives, Namotu is committed to preserving its slice of island bliss. Their shores serve as a regular nesting site for sea turtles, so they carefully log and rope off each nest to avoid disturbance.
Like its neighbours at Tavarua Island Resort, Namotu also nurtures giant clams that will one day be released into the surrounding marine park. At its restaurant, only sustainably sourced seafood is served to ensure the local marine ecosystem can thrive. By staying at one of Namotu Island’s 12 beachfront bures and villas, you’ll be supporting ocean conservation projects that have wide-reaching impacts.
Supporting sustainable surfing in Fiji
Aside from its outstanding eco-surf resorts, Fiji also offers incredible surf charter adventures. Based in Nadi, the Fiji Surf Co. knows this playground like nobody else and will whisk you away to uncrowded waves that suit all levels. Not only that but they championed the creation of Fiji's Surf Act, opening up the island's legendary waves to all.
On a regular basis, the Fiji Surf Co. spearheads community beach cleanups and native tree planting events to help preserve this island nation’s natural environment. Other conservation initiatives include the replanting of heat-resistant coral on damaged reefs and the installation of mooring buoys at renowned surf breaks to stop boat anchors from scarring the reef. The Fiji Surf Co. also played a role in developing the world's first reef-friendly sunscreen from charcoal and beeswax, Bati Protector.
As the Fiji Surf Co. illustrates, size doesn’t matter when it comes to protecting our oceans. With passion and grit, this modest surf company is making a big splash in ocean conservation. Their progressive approach to surf tourism and marine life preservation shows that anyone can be a catalyst for change.