Korotogo is an often-overlooked gem on Viti Levu’s Coral Coast. A bypass road that takes you swiftly up the hill and past the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort means it is easy to miss this lovely pocket, with its diverse accommodation options and several good restaurants in strolling distance.
Stay
Kaila Na Ua: Its name translates as ‘Roar of the Waves’ and that’s the soundtrack to your days at this boutique resort, perched above the sandy Korotogo strip. Each unit is self-contained so you can prepare simple meals, and there is a barbeque on site for poolside dining. You can also make use of bikes, kayaks and SUP boards, and there is an entertainment room for movies and games nights.
Bedarra Beach Inn attracts a high percentage of return visitors and is well-known for its buzzing bar and restaurant, day spa and dedicated sunset lounges on the beachfront.
The Crow’s Nest: An old favourite, especially with family groups, The Crow’s Nest offers 28 simple villas equipped for self-catering, a pool high on the hill and relaxed vibe. There is also a restaurant on site.
Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort: The neighbourhood’s only large resort, the Outrigger is a sprawling property that spills down the hillside to the beach. It’s famous for its ‘talei’ (butler) service in certain rooms, and has recently refurbished its all-day restaurant and bures (check out the tapa-lined ceilings), and has installed a new children’s slide in its main pool. The resort also has an adult’s only area, Vahavu.
Eat
Visitors to the Crab Shack often arrive from the beach, having walked from their accommodation. A collection of containers and cabanas, beanbags and umbrella-sheltered tables, this casual and well-priced diner makes great seafood dishes and is a perfect place to dig your toes in the sand and have a sunset beer. Our tip: lobsters, fish tacos, crabs and Coronas.
Crab Shack’s sister property, the Beach Bar n’ Grill across the road has a cosier vibe, but the food is just as tasty. Check out the seafood platter and the rainbow of cocktail options.
Café Planet: if you are lucky, the team at Café Planet will be roasting their beans and you’ll be embraced by a toasty, chocolatey aroma as you arrive. There is seating inside the pocketsized café, or you can relax amid the banana and frangipani trees in their front garden. The coffee is excellent of course and their ginger chocolate fudge cake is a revelation.
Sinbad: They’ve been making pizzas forever – the thin-crust vegetarian option is a favourite. You can find this pizzeria at the Casablanca Hotel in the middle of Korotogo.
Do
Kula WILD Adventure Park: This park is an educational diversion. You can check out many birds in the various aviaries, learn about medicinal plants from the witty explanatory notes throughout the park, hold Ben the iguana, meet Sasha, the park’s iconic parrot and younger kids can try the waterslide, mini zipline and small water park. Marine scientist Maraia Naisau told us the turtles come to the park from Treasure Island soon after hatching, and are returned to the island after five years. Feeding the turtles involves holding small pieces of fish in the water and waiting for them to smell it. When they get close, you release the food and watch them feast.
Hot Glass Fiji: This Korotogo gem is the place to go for unique Fiji-made gifts such as handblown glass coconuts and tanoas. You can also take a glass-blowing class and make your own bowl or vase, or simply watch the professionals in action.
Beach: When the tide is up, you can swim, kayak and SUP right off the Sunset Strip. At low tide, you can take a stroll through the shallows (reef shoes recommended). Some resorts will build a beach bonfire for you, or you can simply take a long, contemplative walk down the strip.
Spa & Beauty Lounge: A compact yellow box of sunshine where you can get your nails, face and feet polished. The spa also has a good small range of local cosmetics and skilled staff, and is clean and peaceful. You will find the spa at the Korotogo Roundabout.
