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Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Stretching for some 90km, this chain of volcanic islands has a well-earned reputation for its beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and rugged landscape. North of the Mamanucas, and about 40km north-west of Viti Levu, the islands are home to the famous Blue Lagoon cave and beach, immortalised in the movie Blue Lagoon. The Yasawas are dry and sunny, and their many beaches, cliffs, bays and reefs have remained unspoiled. There are roughly 20 islands in the group, including Waya Island, with its steep hills and lovely lagoons; the tiny low-lying Tavewa Island (3km long); Turtle Island (Nanuya Levu), where parts of Blue Lagoon were filmed; Nanuya Lailai, home to the famous Blue Lagoon Beach; and Sawa-i-Lau Island, with its huge domed limestone cave. Naviti Island is one the largest (33sq km) and known for its snorkelling with manta rays, while Yasawa is the northern-most island of the group.

The crystal clear waters and spectacular reefs offer great diving, with drop-offs, caves and brilliant corals to explore. The islands are also excellent for trekking – especially Waya and Wayasewa (Little Waya). Other options for adventure include kayaking safaris, snorkelling, sailing, cruises, village visits and a lovo (food steamed in an underground oven).

These remote islands are sparsely populated and have little in the way of services or shops, although shell markets are held at the villages during cruise ship arrivals. Backpacker and budget guesthouses are the main style of accommodation, but there are exclusive resorts at Turtle and Yasawa Islands. The Yasawas are accessed daily from Port Denarau and Lautoka by fast catamaran, or seaplane from Nadi.