Maui Bay on Fiji’s Coral Coast is a popular refuelling stop for both petrol (the TOTAL station is open 24/7) and stomachs on the Nadi-Suva highway. It is known for two landmarks, its spectacular long jetty—site of many amateur photo shoots—and a wall exploding with colourful frangipani and bougainvillea, that shields some of the area’s most sought-after accommodation options from the main road. Here’s a guide to the neighbourhood.
Off the wharf
You will spot loads of different fish snorkelling at high tide off Maui Bay wharf or beach. The Korolevu-i-wai area is a marine protected area, and restrictions on fishing and why those restrictions are so important for marine health in the area is well explained on a board adjacent to the wharf. The sign includes images of fish, some of them endangered, you may be lucky enough to see. Take your time here as vendors also sell bu (fresh coconut juice), pineapple, pie and some handicrafts. There is seating at the end of the wharf so you can picnic and enjoy the fresh breeze.
Craig’s Place Diner
Specialising in burgers and popular for its churros and soft-serve icecream, Craig’s Place Diner is worth a visit for the décor alone- it has a cool, retro vibe.
The Tipsy Italian
Maui Bay is home to one of Fiji’s best pizzerias, The Tipsy Italian. The restaurant does great thin-crust pizzas with simple but tasty toppings, refreshing kumquat juice, and is also licensed. It has an extensive pasta menu, cool Italy-meets-Fiji beach-vibed décor and a popular three-hour happy ‘hour’ on Saturday nights, when you can enjoy some local music with your meal.
Villas
Maui Bay also specializes in very lux villa accommodation, where you and your large group can hire the whole property. Standouts include Villa Mokusiga, Coral Palms, Shambala Fiji, and Villa Senikau, which offer multiple bedrooms, private pools, and the options to either self-cater or hire chefs and table service, masseurs, and childminding.
Blue West Villas
These villas are great for family groups and those wanting independence and space, as you can self-cater (groceries available at the supermarket right next door) or choose to eat at Craig’s Place Diner and The Tipsy Italian, just steps away. The property includes a big pool, large rooms and is well priced.
The Pink Spa
This busy spa just next door to the Blue West Villas, continues the yasa’s bougainville theme with a photogenic wall of flowers and a swing, where your shiny, pampered self can pose post-treatment. Qivi (pictured above) and her team offer a wide range of treatments, including hair braiding and styling, manicures, threading and waxing, henna designs, massages and wraps.
Maui Palms
Maui Palms offers rooms with private balconies looking to the sea, a very glamourous lounging area sunk into an infinity pool, and lots of activities, including a tennis court onsite, use of kayaks and snorkeling equipment and fishing charters. The resort was recognised as a Trip Advisor People’s Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Winner this year.
There are many other accommodation options at Maui Bay – check our directory at fijitraveller.com for more details. Maui Bay is also a short drive to many other locations including Sigatoka Sand Dunes, Sigatoka River Safari and town centre, Bula Coffee, Kula Eco Park and much more. And if you drive to the top of the hills at Maui Bay, you can see to the far horizon and dream about creating your next home on the many land blocks for sale!
