Mana Island Day Trip: Mamanuca Cruise & BBQ Lunch with Pickup

Summary

Mana Island escape with cruise lagoon swim barbecue lunch included

You’ll cruise through Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands to spend hours unwinding on Mana Island: swimming in clear lagoons, lounging under palms, and sharing a barbecue lunch with new friends. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off so all you have to do is show up ready for sun and saltwater — let yourself drift into island time.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so lazy so quickly on Mana Island. Maybe it was the way the catamaran just glided through the Mamanuca Islands — that slow, salty breeze and the water flickering blue-green under the hull. Our guide, Mere, pointed out a couple of tiny islands as we passed; she said one was used in a movie but I honestly forgot which one because I was too busy watching a kid on deck try (and fail) to catch raindrops on his tongue. It’s that kind of place — you just sort of drift into it.

When we landed at Mana Island, there was this hush for a second, like everyone was waiting for something to happen. Then sandals hit sand and people scattered — some straight for North Beach (I followed), others toward the pool or the bar. The sand here is softer than I thought it’d be, almost squeaky underfoot. I found a spot under a palm tree and just listened to the water lapping and someone laughing nearby in Fijian. There’s this faint smell of coconut sunscreen everywhere, mixed with grilled meat from somewhere behind me — turns out that’s our barbecue lunch being set up by a couple of staff who somehow remembered everyone’s name after only hearing it once.

I tried snorkeling for about ten minutes before realizing I’m more of a “float and stare at clouds” person. The lagoon is clear enough that you can see little fish darting around even if you don’t put your head under. Lunch was simple but good — grilled chicken, salads, rice — nothing fancy but after swimming (or floating), it hits right. Someone at my table ordered an umbrella drink and tried to teach me how to say “thank you” in Fijian; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin instead (I definitely butchered both). After that we just sat around swapping stories until it was time to wander back toward the boat.

The ride back felt quieter somehow. Maybe everyone was sun-drowsy or maybe it’s just that feeling when you know you’ve got salt in your hair and nowhere else to be for a while. If you’re thinking about a Mana Island day trip from Denarau or Nadi — yeah, do it. I still think about that view from under the palm tree sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mana Island day trip with lunch

• Board luxury catamaran
• Cruise through Mamanuca Islands
• Meander through lagoon to beach
• Enjoy Mana Island Resort amenities
• Relax on North or Sunset Beach
• Swim and snorkel in lagoon
• Optional water activities available
• Enjoy barbecue-style lunch

Top questions

How long do you stay on Mana Island during the day trip?

You get either 3 hours (half day) or 6 hours (full day) on Mana Island depending on your booking.

Is hotel pickup included for the Mana Island day trip?

Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are included from most Denarau, Nadi & Wailoaloa hotels.

What meals are included on the tour?

A barbecue buffet lunch is included during your time on Mana Island.

Are drinks included with lunch?

No, drinks such as umbrella cocktails are not included in the tour price.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; infants must sit on an adult’s lap or use a pram/stroller.

Is Mana Island wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this day trip is wheelchair accessible according to tour details.

What activities can you do on Mana Island?

You can swim, snorkel, relax by the pool or beach; extra activities like jetskiing or parasailing cost extra.

Do I need to confirm my reservation before arrival?

Yes, contact South Sea Cruises at least 24 hours before your activity date to confirm transport arrangements.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup and drop-off from most Denarau, Nadi & Wailoaloa hotels, round-trip cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran through Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands with an escort host onboard, plus either three or six hours relaxing at Mana Island Resort with access to its beaches and pools. A barbecue buffet lunch is served before heading back in the afternoon.