Six of the best: Resorts in Fiji

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LIKULIKU LAGOON RESORT

Boasting Fiji's only over-water bungalows, this adults-only resort sparkles after a multi-million-dollar makeover. Sitting in a protected bay, Likuliku literally means "calm waters", and the 45-bure resort offers 10 over-water bures, with direct water access for swimming and snorkelling. On the leeward side of Malolo Island, the over-water bungalows offer superlative ocean views, and glass-floor panels reveal nature's aquarium below. The remaining 35 roomy bures are beachfront (half offering private plunge pools), with spacious decks, daybeds, contemporary interiors, outdoor showers and courtyards. Executive chef Ihaka Peri heads up Likuliku's kitchen, while a dreamy spa, water sports, diving and excursions are on offer. All-inclusive room rates from $1056 a night. See likulikulagoon.com.

VOMO ISLAND RESORT

Vomo is one of the closest of the Mamanuca Islands to the mainland - meaning you can chopper in like a rock star within moments of landing at Nadi. All 28 villas and two three- and four-bedroom private residences are mere steps from the white sand beach. There's a gym, hiking, jogging tracks, luxurious Senikai Spa, Vomo Kids Village, new PADI dive centre and world-class cuisine. Australia's own royalty, Elle Macpherson, chose to forgo her usual European and Caribbean haunts for a blissful fortnight on the idyllic 91-hectare atoll. Head to Vomo's famous Rock Bar, which overlooks the resort's private island, Vomo LaiLai, for unbeatable sunset vistas. All-inclusive rates from $1100 a night.

See vomofiji.com.

ROYAL DAVUI

The five-star, adults-only Royal Davui Island near Beqa (pronounced Ben-ga) Island features just 16 villas perched atop a rocky hillside with Greek Island-esque views. The 30-minute boat ride from Pacific Harbour is gut-churning, but once there it's all calm seas, fine dining and luxurious digs. Rooms come complete with spa baths, retractable roofs for star gazing, two decks with plunge pool and four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets. Meals can be taken in-villa or under the resort's 400-year-old banyan tree, overlooking the aquamarine sea. Activities include waterfall hikes, village visits, Pure Fiji spa treatments and some of Fiji's best snorkelling. All-inclusive rates from $1187 a night.

See royaldavui.com.

SHERATON TOKORIKI

Sheraton has opened a second Fiji resort in the south-western corner of Tokoriki Island — the only internationally branded hotel in the perennially popular Mamanuca Islands. The former Amanuca Island Resort has undergone an $18.5 million renovation and now features 101 guestrooms and suites, including 30 swish Tokoriki Retreats with private plunge pools. Apart from its idyllic beachfront location, the resort offers a swimming pool, tennis courts, two boutiques and a 50-seat theatre. Sri Lankan chef and restaurateur Peter Kuruvita brings his signature brand, Flying Fish, to Tokoriki. A Tokoriki Retreat Spa and Sheraton Fitness and Kids Club are under construction. Opening specials are available from $220 a night plus taxes.

See sheratontokorikiisland.com.

NANUKU

Grass-skirted warriors greet guests arriving into Vitu Levi's newest tropical paradise. Located on a stretch of secluded coastline at Fiji's Pacific Harbour, Nanuku features six sprawling Balinese-style villas, personal butlers and bespoke experiences - ranging from epicurean dining, food and medicine walks through to picnics on your own private island. The vast Beach Residences (which sleep up to 17) are just steps from the sand, while the Vunika Penthouse sits dramatically on a volcanic outcrop overlooking Beqa Lagoon. On offer is executive chef Walter Whippy's Pacific fusion cuisine, spa treatments, yoga, an on-site personal trainer and more. All-inclusive rates are available from $756 a night.

See nanukufiji.com.

JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU FIJI ISLANDS RESORT

This boutique five-star resort combines full-time nannies, world-class diving and serious eco cred. Located on a former coconut plantation, the 25 recently renovated bures and villa sit on a beautiful beach on Vanua Levu. There's a beachy bar, daybeds, hammocks and beachfront spa huts where Fijian masseurs administer treatments. At night, alfresco lantern-lit dining is offered around the infinity pool looking across the ocean. An on-site marine biologist, teenagers' program and the award-winning Bula Club - where each child under five gets their own Fijian nanny, while buddies are assigned to over-fives - lifts the experience to a whole other level. All-inclusive rates for a family of four from $802.

See fijiresort.com.

The writer was a guest of Fiji Airways and Tourism Fiji.