We had 4 nights away from Auckland, and truth be told hour into our transfer we were starting to wonder how long it would take. But the team at Pacific Destination got us there as quick as they could. Going along the metal road we knew this was going to be remote but that was just what we wanted. Arriving at night didn't allow us to see the beauty until we woke in the morning. We were greated by a big Fijian Smile and instantly felt part of the family. Our Bure was great, the fan kept us cool at night and the bed was very comfy. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves breaking on the reef, and the gecko's chirping, we know we were close to the water. But when they say Seaside Bure they really do mean Seaside. Looking out the door in the morning to blue sky and an amazing reef only 30m from the front door, I know this was going to be a good break away.

Fresh fruit every morning for breakfast and a good selection of cooked options. By 10am we were bathing on the waters edge.

Lunch was to time and plenty of activities to keep you entertained through the day. Drinks available throughout the day, including the Corona buckets, great way to have a beer and keep it cold at the same time. Priced cheaper than at home, we worked our way through the extensive cocktail menu. All amazing and well worth trying.

Over the 4 nights we met some amazing people and enjoyed the best Fijian hospitality around. The guys working out in the Water Sports office showed me the best places to snorkle and even went with me, pointing out the clams and different fish species.

Nothing was ever to much hassle and the staff were always there to help.

The Kava night was a real highlight, 8 bowls defiantly meant a relaxing sleep that night. Highly recommend getting a massage, and finding yourself at the pool side bar watching the world go by. It was very easy to forget about work and everything going on the world. I highly recommend visiting Crusoes and finding this special piece of Paradise. I have stayed at 5 star properties were you get treated like anyone else, but here you really are treated like family, always first name basis and every day topped the one prior.

We saw a picture in a magazine of bure (cabin) #1 at Crusoe's when we were looking for a place to celebrate me 65th birthday and although we looked at lots of interesting and colorful places (Tahiti, Bali, Curacao, etc.) we kept coming back to that picture. Our decision was made!! We arrived on Oct.21 and at supper I received a rousing edition of "Happy Birthday" from the staff! The staff are mostly Fijians from the village of Namaqumaqua which is with walking distance. The grounds are a delight of green and flowers of tropical wonder, fruit trees and coconut included! Over the next twenty days we had all kinds of remarkable experiences including traditional kava ceremonies, dinner at the village and multiple visits to their local store were we could look for original crafts and artwork as well as visit with the locals. We also made numerous side trips with transport provided, at a nominal fee, by staff of the Retreat. Meals at the restaurant were prepared with loving care and the menus varied from one day to the next. Mongolian stir fry once a week as well as "lovo", a traditional Fijian meal cooked in a fire heated and rock lined pit, truly mouth watering!! We were taken to a place where Fijian crafts and clothing of all sorts were available as well as a visit to a village known for it's traditional ceramics. At the village we participated in the welcoming kava ceremony and as such became welcome to return! Our trip to Sigatoka was an experience, but, we did find it quite noisy bustling compared to the peaceful quiet of Crusoe's!! We were never at a loss for something to do or just to sit back and REALLY relax!! A word of warning however!! Fiji is a tropical country and as such mosquitos are ubiquitous!! So, bring (or buy) a strong repellant and even some antihistamine for the ones that manage to get through the defenses!! All in all, this was a 20 day adventure I would repeat again (and again) as Crusoe's Retreat allows you to experience something unique and special, and, Fiji itself offer so much to explore!

Travelled in May 2013. Took my 3 yr old, 12 yr old and 73 yr old Mum. Stayed in a seaside bure as didn't want stairs for my Mum and it suited us to a tee. Woke up to AMAZING uninterrupted views of blue sea, palms and completely what we had hoped for. HUGE expanse of green grass directly outside the bure for the little one to run to her hearts content. The occasional villager ambling past to harvest coconuts with a friendly BULA! We are not 5 star folk so the seaside bure was just perfect for us. All that we needed. I believe the "budget" accomodation was a better location and got lovely breezes. Talk about water front! The adjoining village was a huge draw card for me. We went to Sunday service (take a fan) and my little one was led by the children to sit with them. Language seemed no problem. To me this is what makes your holidays memorable. My 3 yr old swam and played with the village kids on the beach every afternoon and my 13 yr old made a friend as well. We went to the village a few times. There is a "store" there where we bought some souvenirs and soft drinks (heaps cheaper than the resort) and met some lovely people. They really are all friendly. They live a very simple life. We took some school supplies but maybe if you have room take some clothes, new or second hand, and shoes for the littlies.
BIG TIP. If you like your alcoholic beverages, take as much as you can. Our local bottle shop in Brisbane is cheaper than fiji duty free. Duty free shop at Brisbane airport is cheaper than fiji airport. The wine at the resort is very average and very very expensive but the cocktails at happy hour are delicious and about the same price you would pay at home. Once you are at the resort it is very isolated, so take what you need as a trip to the shops is an hour away. You might be able to pick up some snacky supplies half way in Sigatoka if you ask the driver, or take them in your luggage. We booked directly through the resort and the transfers were heaps cheaper. Didnt have to worry about deciding on the meal plan till we got there. The meal plan at Crusoe's is all you need and good value, but we didn't opt for it as we often skip lunch. It worked out about the same pricewise. Breakfast was yummy and we grabbed a piece of fruit and a muffin for the kids for morning tea as we all know they eat every hour! The little one's meals were free when we ate but she is a very healthy eater so the kids menu got tired very quickly. Would like to see some healthier options.
Due to the size of the resort, you get to know everyone. The after dinner activities were all free and fun. We took part in quite a few of the free activities as it gives you some insight into the culture. The Friday market of handicrafts from the resort is a nice opportunity to pick up some souvenirs. They are pricey but these people do not have much so be generous.
One week was enough for us. I believe the activities and menu are on a weekly rotation. My kids loved it. No kids club which we wouldn't have used. No TV which was great. They chased hermit crabs on the beach and played on the grass. Maybe take a few activities for them to do in the arvo chill times. All snorkel gear was free to use as were the kayaks.
Loved this place. It felt so personal. Was exactly like the brochures. There is no beach right out front but it starts on the edge of the resort and was just long enough for the sunset stroll. Fijians are a beautiful people. Fiji is a beautiful place. Crusoe's was perfect for us. Truly was a perfect holiday in paradise.