Turtle Island

This was our second time on Turtle Island, and somehow, it was even more emotional and unforgettable than our first. We first visited Turtle Island 14 years ago for our honeymoon. That trip left such a mark on our hearts that we always said we’d come back. Life happened. Time flew. But this year, we returned — for 14 days — one day for every year we’d been away. It felt like coming home. The second we stepped off the boat and heard the joyful singing, we were reminded why this place is so special. It’s not just about beauty (though the island is stunning beyond words). It’s about feeling truly known and cared for. It’s about being present, slowing down, and reconnecting with what really matters. We stayed in a beachfront bure just steps from the water, waking up to the sound of waves and ending each night with breathtaking sunsets. We had private beach days, where we were the only ones on a secluded beach with a picnic and the ocean all to ourselves. The activities? Incredible and varied — and yet never rushed. We went: Crab hunting 🦀 Clam digging Snorkeling in crystal clear water and saw blue starfish Sunrise and sunset horseback riding 🐎 Deep sea and line fishing 🎣 Archery 🏹 Took a sunset cruise Visited nearby villages Listened to a beautiful children’s choir 🎶 Had a candlelit dinner on the beach that felt like a dream It’s honestly hard to list everything — every day felt full, yet peaceful. We laughed, we cried, we reflected, and we felt so present in each other’s company. The heart of Turtle Island, though, is its people. The staff — and there are over 100 of them — make you feel like family. We’re not mentioning names because there are too many who touched our hearts, and we wouldn’t want to leave anyone out. Just know that the love and care here is something you carry with you long after you leave. This place reminded us that real luxury isn’t about things — it’s about connection, peace, and joy. We made a new promise this time: we’re not waiting 14 more years to return. If you’re considering Turtle Island… go. Just go. With an open heart. You’ll come back changed in all the best ways. Vinaka vakalevu to everyone who made our stay unforgettable. We’ll be back.

This review is long overdue. I had known and read up about Turtle Island for a long time, but never got around to making the trip there until last month, Nov'25. I'm not sure what else I can add that have not been said by other reviewers. Yes, the island is beautiful, the private beaches are incredible, the food/drinks are plenty and excellent, and the conversations with other guests at the communal dinners were fun. But there are 2 things that have left a huge, long-lasting impression on us: 1. The staff. The folks there - those we interacted with frequently with and those working in the background - are so warm, so welcoming, working hard but always have a smile on their faces. Everyone, including the ones from the shops, laundry, etc. knew and addressed us by names. They were so engaging and took a genuine interest in getting to know us. It was such a pleasure whenever we got a chance to talk to them. I don't want to name names for fear of leaving out some wonderful people. But it's worth noting that Mama Taru took great care of us. She was never intrusive but we knew she was always there for us, if that makes any sense. 2. The local village. I've read some negative review(s) from other guests about their visit to a local village. I have to say I don't agree with their viewpoint at all. The kids at the school looked so innocent, rough-housing with each other, playing with simple toys made out of paper, enjoying their lollipop as treats. They were singing for us enthusiastically and listening intently when the visitors spoke to them. When we went deeper into the village, we saw simple homes with doors/windows totally open to welcome friends. We saw kids peering out from inside the homes to say hello with a smile. Coming from a hi-tech world that is the Bay Area, where there's so much wealth (read: competition, stress), being at the village took me back to a time long ago when life was much simpler. Looking at the beautiful kids playing, laughing, being themselves, I wonder who gets to enjoy life more on a day-to-day basis, me or them? We've been back home now for almost a month and we still talk about our time on Turtle Island. We did book a return trip and really can't wait to come back. We miss the place and the people.

Bula! My wife and I recently returned from our trip to Turtle Island, where we celebrated our honeymoon, which was beyond magical and shattered all expectations. The beauty and family on Turtle Island make one feel as if they are thrust into a childhood dream made reality in a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, while simultaneously being wrapped in a warm, loving embrace that can only come from a loving family. There is magic that exists when surrounded by the ever-present smiling hearts, singing voices, and turquoise waters that make you forget the harshness of reality and release yourself into the moment to experience a world that is made more special when shared with the entire Turtle Island Family. The Turtle Island Family, comprising travelers and residents (a special shout-out to all our new family members from around the globe), shared their experiences with one another, making each moment special and unique. From meeting at the communal table to share stories of life and island exploits, or just enjoying the fabulous meals that were fresh, vibrant, and seasoned with the expertise that can only take place when a master chef/baker loves what they do and does what they love. The island family residents; chatting with Bill (Love the shirt exchange…I will be looking for a new shirt to exchange with you next time), Mere, whose singing brightens the day, Ruvi (whose stories, singing, and laughter are truly infectious), Dockman enjoying the Subnado's with me and ensuring we all understood the majesty of the Turtle Board, Philip the master of diving, and last but not least Mama Nina who was my Kava partner and always brought the Bula...with a smile...so smile Mama. There are too many family members to list, but every single person brings a smile to our faces. The list of amazing activities is too long to write, but a few special memories for us were made in dominating at clam hunting and hand line fishing (shout out to Susan), snorkeling in waters so clear and vibrant with tropical colored species that it was mind-blowing, and a myriad of other things that I don't want to spoil...let's just say there were tears of joy almost every day from how our family made our honeymoon absolutely unforgettable. Seriously, there must have been telepathy used to WOW us continuously. Turtle Island allows you to do and experience as much or as little as you want... it allows you to simply be. Finally, there are only 2 rules at Turtle Island (which we will keep going in perpetuity): 1. Kip Smiling!! 2. If you have a problem...please refer back to Rule #1. We will be back to see our turtle island family soon and look forward to keeping in touch with all of our family until we are reunited! Sota Tale!! Vinaka Vaka-Levu, John & Julie-Anne (J&J) Chief &Dancing Queen

My husband and I just returned from Turtle Island and it was the most incredible trip ever - the culture and beauty will never be forgotten but the genuine hearts and love of people was so inspiring. We met so many wonderful people at Turtle - all with amazing pasts, living abroad and sharing of their lives. Inspired and ready to return to see the Turtle Island Family again - keep singing bold and dancing beautifully! The grounds are breathtaking from the Joinery to the vegetable/fruit gardens to the beaches - oh and the sunset cruise, the kids from neighboring village singing for us, incredible food, and the nightly fun kava ceremonies - we can’t wait to be back! We have already booked our return for family time in December 2026. Can’t wait to see our Mama Nina, Meme, Bill and the entire Turtle family. Vinaka to you all - each and every person behind the scenes.

There truly is nothing like the Turtle Island experience. The food, private beaches and activities are top notch. But what makes Turtle Island so special is the people. It truly is once discovered, never forgotten! Like every trip to Turtle, I leave a piece of my heart with my Fijian friends.