As a travel and lifestyle blogger at @owncolorstravel ,I’m kicking off my solo trip series to Fiji’s breathtaking beach resorts. After landing at Nadi International Airport, my long-awaited Fiji adventure finally begins.
For my first day, I headed straight to one of Fiji’s popular offshore spots—Malamala Beach Club—and I’ll be sharing my experience in detail. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji or simply curious about island getaways, I hope this gives you some helpful insight.
Malamala Beach Club
Malamala Beach Club is a small island resort located about 30 minutes by ferry from Port Denarau, making it an easy and popular day-trip destination. Many travelers who visit Fiji also head out to one or more of the country’s 330+ islands, either for overnight stays or day excursions.
What makes Malamala truly special is that it’s known as the world’s first island dedicated entirely to a beach club experience. With relaxing music playing throughout the island, you’ll find spots to eat and drink, an infinity pool, private cabanas, and plenty of water activities—everything you need to enjoy the island at your own pace.
It’s not just a beach club, it’s an island beach club, and that alone already makes it feel extra special.
Why I Chose Malamala Beach Club on My First Day
My flight from Japan arrived in Fiji around 4 a.m., and hotel check-in times are typically 2–3 p.m. unless early check-in is available. That means I had quite a few hours to fill before I could settle into my room.
This is why I decided to visit Malamala Beach Club on my first day. I also booked a hotel that was close to Port Denarau—where the ferry departs—so that after spending the whole day on the island, I could get back quickly and rest. After a long international flight, efficiency matters!
I chose to stay at the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa★★★★★, and honestly, it was the perfect choice. I’ll be sharing more about the hotel soon because it truly exceeded my expectations.
When I arrived, the hotel staff let me know my room would be ready around 11 a.m., but this kind of early availability really depends on the day. That’s why I recommend planning in advance for how you’ll spend your time before check-in.
Another important point is whether you can use the hotel facilities—pools, restaurants, etc.—before check-in. Being able to relax onsite makes a huge difference, so it’s worth asking the hotel ahead of time.
Most hotels will store your luggage and offer a place to change, so you can head straight out for sightseeing or activities without wasting time.
Getting to Malamala Beach Club
After landing in Fiji, I headed first to the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa to drop off my luggage. From there, I waited for the shuttle bus that picks guests up around 8:30 a.m. for the ferry to Malamala Beach Club. The shuttle takes you directly to Port Denarau, the marina where the boat departs.
After landing in Fiji, I headed first to the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa to drop off my luggage. From there, I waited for the shuttle bus that picks guests up around 8:30 a.m. for the ferry to Malamala Beach Club. The shuttle takes you directly to Port Denarau, the marina where the boat departs.
Port Denarau is connected to a shopping complex, making it super convenient. You’ll find restaurants, cafés, and even a supermarket. While you can order drinks on the island, it’s smart to stop by the supermarket beforehand and pick up some bottled water.
For example, a 500ml Fiji Water costs FJD 5 (about ¥340) at Malamala Beach Club, but the same bottle is FJD 2.74 (about ¥188) at the supermarket in Port Denarau.
(Rate used: FJD 1 = ¥68 as of December 2025)
Plus, Fiji Water bottles are cute, so just having one puts you in a good mood.
Of course, the supermarket also sells more affordable water options if you’re not picky.
When boarding the boat, you’ll need a QR code, so make sure to complete your online check-in through the link sent by the cruise company. After that, head to the check-in counter at Port Denarau to pick up your wristband. And then—it’s time to board!
The boat was full that day, so I shared a table with other passengers, but international travelers tend to be really friendly. People I’d never met were greeting each other and casually chatting right away—such a fun vibe.
There’s also a restroom on board.
With music playing the whole way, the 30-minute ride passed quickly, and before I knew it, we arrived at Malamala Beach Club. They happened to be playing mostly 80s pop, which I thought was pretty amusing!
Arriving at Malamala Beach
It was sunny when we departed, but by the time we reached the island, the sky had turned cloudy—oh well! Weather is just one of those things you can only hope for.
The island is divided into different sections: an infinity pool area, a dining area, and private cabanas for those who want a quieter or more exclusive experience. Staff will guide you through everything when you arrive.
There aren’t any lockers, so you’ll need to keep an eye on your belongings, but overall it felt relaxed and manageable.
Enjoying a Private Cabana with Your Own Butler
Malamala Beach Club offers several upgrade options for guests who want a more exclusive experience. You can choose from poolside daybeds, beachside cabanas, grand cabanas, grand deluxe cabanas, and deck daybeds. I reserved a beachside cabana in advance.
The beachside cabanas are located opposite the infinity pool area, giving you a quiet and private space with a full ocean view right in front of you. These cabanas come with butler service, and the rental fee is FJD 125.
Fresh bath towels were already set up, along with food and drink menus.
And yes—of course, I ordered a glass of Pinot Noir. FJD 16.
It seemed like I was the only person who rented a cabana solo; everyone else looked like families or couples (lol). But I booked it intentionally, knowing I’d probably be exhausted after the flight. I figured if the infinity pool area felt too lively, I could relax quietly in my own space. If I’d had more energy, chatting with other travelers might have been fun too.
My butler was a friendly woman who immediately brightened my day. When I told her, “I came straight here right after my flight,” she checked on me throughout the day and chatted with me here and there. As a tired solo traveler, her kindness truly saved me!
My plan was to nap all day in the cabana, but the weather had other plans—rain showers, plus getting bitten by mosquitoes—so relaxing wasn’t as easy as I’d hoped. And I wanted to take photos and videos anyway (lol).
For lunch, I ordered the fish and chips. It was crispy and fluffy, and the tartar sauce made it even better. Seriously delicious. FJD 38.
Little tropical birds I’d never seen before came up to me as if saying hello. …Or maybe they just wanted my food?
If it had been sunny, the water probably would’ve been crystal-clear, but even under cloudy skies, the view of the cabanas from the ocean was beautiful. The water clarity reminded me a lot of Okinawa—comfortable and familiar.
Eventually, the sky got darker, and by the afternoon it turned into heavy, non-stop rain.
Mosquito Protection Is a Must
As expected, I got bitten by mosquitoes quite a bit—even though I came fully prepared with several kinds of insect-repellent products from Japan.
Thankfully, because I over-prepared, I think I actually avoided getting bitten as badly as usual compared to other resort trips. Here are some items I found especially useful:
• Insect-repellent wet wipes
These are so convenient when traveling. You can pull them out of your bag instantly, they don’t leave a sticky feeling, and you can apply them evenly all over your body. Since they’re not a spray, you don’t breathe in any chemicals—major plus.
On trips when I don’t use these kinds of products, I usually get bitten way more.
• Ultrasonic mosquito and bug repeller
This device helps keep mosquitoes, mites, and midges away without touching your skin directly—great for people with sensitive skin. I clipped it onto my body bag whenever I walked around.
It’s USB rechargeable, and a full charge lasts up to 6 days. Because it uses ultrasonic waves, it’s almost silent.
I take mosquito prevention seriously, especially since places like Fiji and other tropical destinations in Asia can have risks like dengue fever. Researching local conditions in advance helps you prepare properly before your trip.
Strolling Around the Island
Once the rain stopped, I took some time to walk around and explore the island. Tropical flowers and lush greenery were everywhere, making the walk refreshing and relaxing—such a nice break from everyday life.
I found hammocks and even giant chess sets, perfect for taking a break from the water or just unwinding between activities.
Here’s the infinity pool, blending seamlessly with the ocean.
And this is one of the large private cabanas, great for big groups or friends traveling together.
Right before the ferry arrived, the sky suddenly cleared and turned bright blue after the rain. The beach looked absolutely stunning. I was so glad I at least got to see a bit of sunshine before leaving.
Soon after, the ferry arrived to take us back.
Malamala Beach in Fiji is the perfect little island getaway, with ferries departing around 9:30 AM and returning in the late afternoon. The island is filled with laid-back music, casual food and drink spots, an infinity pool that feels like part of the ocean, and private cabanas where you can truly relax. It really does feel special—more than just a beach club, it’s an “island beach club.”
You can enjoy snorkeling, SUP, and other marine activities, or simply let yourself sink into the island’s slow rhythm. All day long, you’re surrounded by friendly Fijian hospitality and that signature Fiji-style openness and freedom.
If you’re planning a trip to Fiji, I definitely recommend adding Malamala Beach Club to your “must-visit” list.
Next time, I’ll share all the highlights from my stay at the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa—there’s a lot to love, so stay tuned!
