For dads, a Fiji family holiday doesn’t get much better than warm days, turquoise water and plenty of time to enjoy island life together.
Plantation Island Resort is an ideal place for Dad to enjoy the things he loves, like fishing, golf, or surfing, while still making memories with the family.
It’s that easy mix of activity and family time that makes Plantation an ideal base for a Fiji holiday.
Why Fiji Is the Easy Yes for a Family Holiday with Dad
Tropical weather, an easygoing pace and plenty of time outdoors are a big part of the appeal of a Fiji holiday.
Getting here is simple, with an easy transfer from Nadi to Malolo Lailai Island. From there, the holiday can be as active or relaxed as your family wants it to be.
A warm climate that makes outdoor days easy
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Fiji, Plantation makes it easy to fill the day, with most activities taking place outside.
You might start the morning kayaking on the lagoon, cool off in a pool, then finish with sunset drinks and alfresco dinner together.
With four pools, watersports, cultural activities, and sports facilities, there’s always something to do without needing to plan out every hour.
That means Dad can fit in the activities he loves, while still having plenty of time with the family.
Island time: relaxed pace, short transfers, no over-planning
The island feels closer than you might think, with an easy journey from Nadi to Plantation Island Resort.
The Malolo Cat travels from Port Denarau Marina to Malolo Lailai Island three times each day. The ferry trip takes around 50 minutes.
Scheduled coach transfers between Nadi Airport or selected Nadi hotels are included when arranged with your booking.
From the moment you arrive, everything settles into a slower rhythm.
Dad Doesn’t Have to Choose Between His Interests and the Family
A good family holiday gives everyone something to look forward to. At Plantation, there’s plenty of world-class activities to choose from, with everything you need for active days, slower moments and quality time together.
Everything within walking distance of your bure
Plantation Island Resort stretches across 23 acres, with accommodation, pools, dining, watersports and activities all close at hand.
Once you’re settled in, you can spend your days moving easily between activities. There’s no need to organise a car or plan each day around long transfers.
Activities the kids can join, and a few just for him
Plenty of experiences at Plantation are made for sharing, so Dad doesn’t have to choose between his interests and spending time with the kids.
Kayaking, snorkelling, tennis and time in the pool can all become part of the family day, with easy options for different ages and energy levels.
There are also activities Dad might choose to enjoy on his own, including surfing, fishing and golf.
Dad’s Ultimate Fiji Bucket List at Plantation Island Resort
What does a great day look like for Dad? Whether he has one favourite hobby, or is open to a new adventure, here are a few ideas to add to the list.
Surf a world-famous Fijian reef break
For keen surfers, a Fiji surfing trip can be one of the highlights of the holiday. Plantation runs daily longboat transfers to some of Fiji’s best-known reef breaks.
There are seven different breaks to explore, with options for both intermediate and advanced surfers, including Wilkes, Namotu Left and Cloudbreak.
Transfers take around 15 to 30 minutes, with trips timed around high tide and offering about three hours in the water.
Paddle across the lagoon
Kayaks are complimentary at Plantation, with the sheltered lagoon offering an easy place to paddle.
Dad can head out solo or bring the family along, taking in the calm turquoise water at an easy island pace. For something extra special, join the complimentary guided sunrise kayaking tour in a glass-bottom kayak and watch the island wake up around you.
Play a relaxed round of golf
For dads who love golf, Plantation Island Resort has its own nine-hole course set among tropical gardens.
It’s an easy way to enjoy a round in a unique setting, with palms, warm island air and plenty of picturesque scenery along the way. Club hire is available onsite too, so there’s no need to bring your own gear.
And because the course is right at the resort, Dad can fit in a relaxed round without losing a whole day away from the family.
Drop a line and go fishing
There’s something about being out on the water with a fishing line that feels like island relaxation at its best.
Dad can head beyond the reef on a fishing charter, with three-hour, half-day and full-day options available. Or make it a family adventure with a guided handline fishing trip through the calm inner reef, well suited to beginners and kids.
All trips depart from the Arrivals Jetty and operate subject to weather conditions.
Teach the kids to kayak
Kayaking is a fun way to get the whole family out on the water. Plantation’s sheltered lagoon makes it approachable for all ages, with complimentary kayaks available for guests.
It’s a simple way to explore together, without needing to plan a whole day around it.
Snorkel together
Snorkelling in warm turquoise waters is a classic island memory that families cherish for years to come.
Plantation Island’s lagoon offers a range of easy snorkelling experiences, including an underwater museum around 20 metres offshore, with complimentary equipment available for guests. For families keen to explore further, paid trips head out to nearby reefs and a sand bank.
Cool off in one of four pools
For many families, the pool is the centrepiece of their tropical holiday. Plantation Island Resort has four swimming pools, giving families several places to relax between activities.
The kids can splash and play while Dad settles into a sun lounger nearby, with a refreshing drink from the Ocean Bar kiosk.
Watch the sunset with a cold beer in hand
After a day of surfing, kayaking or keeping up with the kids, twilight is the perfect moment to slow things down.
There are plenty of spots around Plantation to settle in with a cold drink, whether that’s somewhere quiet by the water or at Brigham Bar, with your feet in the sand, nightly entertainment and live music from Wednesday to Sunday.
Taste the Real Fiji: Kava, Kokoda and Island Culture
Plantation gives families the chance to learn about Fijian traditions first-hand, with experiences that invite you to take part, ask questions and understand a little more about local culture.
Sitting down for a traditional kava ceremony
Kava has an important place in Fijian social and community traditions. The drink is made from the root of the kava plant and traditionally shared together.
Plantation Island Resort holds complimentary kava ceremonies several times each week, giving guests the chance to learn about the custom and the significance of sharing kava in Fiji.
Learning to make kokoda, Fiji’s raw fish salad
Dad can add a new recipe to his repertoire too.
Complimentary Traditional Cooking Lessons are held at the Fijian Village several times each week, where guests can learn how to prepare kokoda or other Fijian dishes.
It’s relaxed, hands-on and another enjoyable way to learn more about Fiji during your stay.
There’s Something for Every Kind of Dad
One of the best things about Plantation Island Resort is how well it caters for different kinds of guests, with activities that every type of Dad can enjoy.
For the adventure dad
Start early and make the most of the outdoors.
Surf a reef break. Book a fishing trip. Head out snorkelling or get onto the lagoon in a kayak.
There’s plenty of room for a little friendly competition too, with golf, tennis and beach volleyball around the resort.
For the wind-down dad
He can keep the plans loose.
Enjoy a slow breakfast. Paddle around the lagoon, or play nine holes. Then spend the afternoon in a hammock with a good book.
A Fiji holiday doesn’t need to be packed with activities to feel satisfying.
For the “I just want the kids happy” dad
Sometimes the best way for Dad to unwind is knowing the kids are busy having fun.
Plantation makes that easy with playgrounds, pools, kid-friendly watersports and Coconut Kids Club, plus plenty of activities the whole family can enjoy together.
Happy kids, easy days and more time to enjoy the holiday.
What’s Complimentary and What Should You Book?
One reason Plantation Island Resort works so well for a Fiji family holiday is how much there is to do without adding to the budget, with plenty of extra experiences available when you want to do something special.
Complimentary activities to try
There are plenty of complimentary activities to enjoy during your stay, including:
- Kayaking, including the guided sunrise kayaking tour
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Snorkelling equipment
- Hobie cat sailing
- Tennis
- Basketball
- Handball
- Pickle ball
- Live music
- Traditional Cooking Lessons
- Selected cultural activities, including kava ceremonies and torch lighting
Activity schedules can change, so check what’s happening during your stay.
Experiences worth reserving before you arrive
If there’s an experience Dad particularly wants to tick off, a little forward planning can help.
Surf transfers can be pre-booked, with daily departure times set around the tides and conditions. Fishing is also worth organising early, with the resort recommending booking at least two days ahead, particularly during busier periods.
Other experiences such as guided snorkelling trips, scuba diving, golf and massages can be arranged during your stay. If any are high on your family’s list, check availability and booking details before you travel.
Practical Tips for Dad’s Fiji Trip
A little planning before you leave means less organising once island time begins. Keep these basics in mind.
When to book for the best availability
Booking further in advance can give you the best choice of dates, rooms and deals.
Fiji’s dry season runs from May to October and is a popular time to visit. November to April can bring fewer crowds and a quieter island atmosphere.
What to pack for reef, sun and sand
While some essentials are available to purchase, Plantation Island Resort is away from the Fiji mainland, so shopping options are limited. It’s worth arriving prepared for the activities you have planned.
Useful things to bring include:
- Swimwear
- A rash shirt
- A sun hat
- Coral-safe sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle
- Light, comfortable clothing
- Dad’s surf gear if he plans to bring his own
Plan your transfer from Nadi
The Malolo Cat departs Port Denarau Marina for Plantation Island Resort three times each day.
Plantation recommends allowing at least two to three hours between landing at Nadi Airport and your ferry departure. This allows time for immigration, baggage collection, the journey to Denarau and ferry check-in.
Making the most of your first day
Once you arrive, settle into the slower island pace. Unpack, take a stroll around the resort and get your bearings.
Check the current activity schedule and visit the Booking Office if you want to organise any trips or experiences.
Then head for the lagoon or pool and let the holiday begin!
Give Dad the Holiday He’ll Talk About for Years
Plantation Island Resort gives Dad the best of both worlds: quality family time and space for the things he loves, from fishing and surfing to golf and kayaking.
With plenty of dining options and family-friendly activities close at hand, much of the planning is already taken care of. His main job is simply to slow down and enjoy the island.
Explore accommodation at Plantation Island Resort and start planning your family getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities are included in a stay at Plantation Island Resort?
A range of activities and facilities are available at no additional cost. These include kayaking, selected watersports equipment, tennis, basketball and several cultural activities.
Some experiences, including golf, surf transfers, fishing trips and guided snorkelling excursions, cost extra.
Is Plantation Island Resort good for families with young children?
Yes. Plantation Island Resort is designed around family holidays. There are four pools, playgrounds, and Coconut Kids Club.
There are also plenty of activities families can enjoy together.
Can beginners learn to surf at Plantation Island Resort?
Plantation advises that reef-break surfing should only be attempted by experienced surfers. The resort’s standard Fiji surfing transfers are not beginner surf lessons.
If someone in your family is a beginner, contact the resort before travelling to ask about suitable current options.
Do you need to book activities in advance?
It depends on the activity. Fishing trips, snorkelling trips and other paid excursions can be arranged through the Booking Office.
Surf transfers can be pre-booked, with timing confirmed according to tides and conditions.
How do you get to Plantation Island Resort from Nadi Airport?
Most guests travel from Nadi Airport to Port Denarau Marina, then take the Malolo Cat to Malolo Lailai Island.
The ferry runs three times daily and takes about 50 minutes. Scheduled coach transfers from Nadi Airport are complimentary when specified at booking.
What should you pack for a family holiday in Fiji?
Pack for warm days and plenty of time around the water. Bring swimwear, light clothing, hats, sun protection and a reusable water bottle. Coral-safe sunscreen is recommended when heading out snorkelling.
Is there a golf course at Plantation Island Resort?
Yes. Plantation Island Resort has a nine-hole golf course. It operates during daylight hours, and club hire is available.
Playing nine holes takes around one hour and 20 minutes.
What is a kava ceremony and can the whole family take part?
A kava ceremony is a traditional Fijian custom where kava root is ground and prepared into a drink to be shared. Plantation Island Resort holds complimentary ceremonies several times each week.
Kava is suitable for adults only. Families with children can check with the Plantation team about attending as observers.
