Fiji is comprised of 333 different islands but if you are craving some downtime, a little five star luxury at the Sheraton Fiji Resort at Denarau on the main island of Vitu Levu offers a completely stress-free way to unwind. This resort area is less than 20 minutes drive from the airport which means you can be through customs and sipping on a cocktail less than an hour after touchdown.

Sheraton Fiji Resort forms part of Fiji’s only five star integrated resort complex which also includes the self-contained family-friendly Sheraton Denarau Villas, the romantic Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa and Denarau Golf and Racquet Club. It is the ideal spot to enjoy the type of holiday where the biggest decision is whether to go for another swim or head out for dinner.

All of the resorts are family-friendly but couples are not forgotten. There are plenty of spots to enjoy a romantic drink or dinner for two, either at the Sheraton or one of the other resorts. Those travelling with children will appreciate the excellent kid’s club at the Sheraton which services all three properties, giving couples time to reconnect. Romantic dining options include the cosy Ports O’ Call at the Sheraton which has a romantic candlelit ambience with linen-napped tables, a live pianist and sophisticated silver service.

At the Westin there is an adults-only swim up bar and The Kitchen @ Westin, a contemporary beachside restaurant where couples can wriggle their toes in the sand while dining on sophisticated modern cuisine. Dining at The Kitchen is a delightful way to experience a taste of Fiji’s culture first hand as many of the meals feature indigenous ingredients combined with fresh local produce from the resort’s own farm. Fiji once had a reputation for less than spectacular cuisine but this has since changed dramatically thanks to restaurants such as The Kitchen.

When it comes to accommodation, all of the rooms at the Sheraton have a balcony or an outdoor sitting area and are large by today’s standards. Ground floor rooms are ideal for those travelling with young children as the kids can play outside on the grass while you keep an eye on them. There is also a beautiful on-site chapel for those who want to tie the knot in Fiji. Breakfast as the Sheraton Fiji Resort is a highlight and could easily keep you going until dinner. Along with the usual eggs and bacon you will find traditional Fijian dishes, pizza and pancakes with ice cream. It can get busy here but if you dine before 8.30am you will have the place pretty much to yourself.

This only thing that was disappointing was the coffee which was virtually undrinkable. However, the espresso coffee available from the Pantry cafe in the lobby was excellent. If you enjoy a good cup of coffee, I’d suggest you skip the coffee at breakfast and buy one instead. Sheraton Fiji Resort is conveniently located near the port where the majority of day trips depart from but, really, there is little reason to leave.

5 tips for Sheraton Fiji Resort

1. Check out the facilities, drinking and dining options at other resorts. I loved staying at the Sheraton but preferred the infinity edge pool at the Westin as the Sheraton pool was quite shallow and therefore better suited to families.

2. Have a meal at the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club which has a great all-you-can-eat pizza deal. This venue doesn’t have water views but the food is cheaper than at the resorts and it has a real vibe thanks to the big sports screen. It’s a great place to watch the rugby.

3. The Starwood resort complex has its own free ‘Bula Bus’ which travels between their 4 different properties. It is a good thing to do when you first arrive so you can get a feel for each resort and check out the facilities.

4. There is free wi-fi in your room but you can also use the complimentary PCs at Link@Sheraton near the lobby. I had to get a bit of work done while I was at the resort and really appreciated this (free) guest facility.

5. The Westin has adults-only spa studios. If you are after a romantic getaway or planning a Fiji honeymoon, this accommodation option would be perfect.

Disclosure: The writer stayed as a guest of the Sheraton Fiji Resort.

If you would like some more information about visiting Fiji, check out our posts on how to choose a Fiji holiday that’s right for you, getting around Fiji, and flying with Fiji Airways in economy.