Information
Landmark: Yanuca IslandCity: Coral Coast
Country: Fiji
Continent: Australia
Yanuca Island, Coral Coast, Fiji, Australia
Yanuca Island is a 109-acre private island situated on the Coral Coast of Viti Levu, Fiji. It is physically connected to the mainland via a short causeway and is entirely occupied by the Shangri-La Yanuca Island resort.
Visual Characteristics
The island is fringed by white coralline sand beaches and a turquoise lagoon on its landward side, while the seaward side features rugged volcanic rock and a high-energy reef system. The interior is characterized by manicured tropical gardens, mature coconut groves, and rain trees. The architecture is a blend of traditional Fijian bure styles and modern multi-story concrete wings.
Location & Access Logistics
Yanuca is located 12km west of Sigatoka Town and approximately 55km south of Nadi International Airport.
Access: Restricted to resort guests and authorized personnel. Entry is controlled via a security gatehouse on the mainland side of the 100-meter causeway.
Transit: Private cars and taxis can drive directly onto the island. Public buses on the Queens Road drop passengers at the Cuvu junction, 2km from the island entrance.
Navigation: The island is roughly circular, with a perimeter road and walking paths connecting the various wings and facilities.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The island is a volcanic outcrop surrounded by a fringing reef. Historically, it was a traditional fishing and gathering site for the people of Cuvu Village. Since the late 1960s, it has been developed as a single-resort destination. The surrounding waters are a designated Marine Protected Area (MPA), where fishing is prohibited to allow for the regeneration of coral and fish populations.
Key Highlights & Activities
Lagoon Activities: The sheltered landward beach is used for swimming, snorkeling, and an inflatable water park.
Reef Observation: The seaward "Reef Wing" provides views of the open Pacific Ocean and the breaking surf on the outer reef.
Marine Education: The island houses a specialized center for coral planting and environmental education programs.
Golf: A 9-hole executive golf course designed by Peter Thomson occupies a significant portion of the island's interior.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Accommodations: Over 440 guest rooms, suites, and private bures.
Facilities: Three swimming pools, a full-service spa (Chi), a fitness center, and a dedicated children's club.
Dining: Multiple restaurants and bars, including the Golden Cowrie Coastal Italian and Black Marlin Tropical Bar.
Utilities: Connected to the mainland power grid and water supply, with on-site backup generators. 4G/5G cellular coverage is robust.
Nearby Landmarks
Cuvu Village: 2.5km North
Sigatoka Sand Dunes: 8km East
Sigatoka Town: 12km East
Natadola Beach: 18km West
Gecko’s Resort: 3km East