Mamanuca Archipelago is scattered off Nadi Bay on Viti Levu’s west coast. There are about 20 islands, but be careful which one you choose – some are completely covered during high tide. The Mamanuca Islands are serious tourist attractions, offering many coral islets to explore and numerous beach resorts to suit every pocket, plus all the water-sports and diving activities for which Fiji is famous. Most resorts offer complementary kayaks, hobby cats and reef snorkeling trips. Photo by: abbietabbie

These are not the most beautiful islands you will ever see, but the beaches are fabulous with turquoise crystal waters. The resort islands are Malolo, Beachcomber, Mana, Malolo Lailai, Monu, Monuriki, Navini, Tavarua, Tavua, Tokoriki and Treasure Island. The inner Mamanucas consist of small, flat and coral isles. The middle islands are the largest and offer gentle hills with paths and summits with breathtaking views over the archipelago and the opportunity to find less-crowded beaches. The outer islands are more rocked, with isolated bays and volcanic rocks. They have traditional fishing villages. They are for people trying to get far from the madding crowd. Photo by: _Zinni_

You will pay a premium to holiday on the Mamanuca Islands, but at many resorts you will share your island with more than enough people. Besides, as soon as you’ve settled comfortably into your space on the beach lots of day-trippers may suddenly invade from the mainland – a budget treat for them and a pain for you. But this is traditional Fijian culture you are looking for. Photo by: ranicas

When to go: All round the year – the weather is sunny, the seas calm and breezes cooling. Population: 2,100 (2007). Photo by: ~marcus~