Fiji has long been one of the most welcoming holiday destinations in the Pacific, however visitors with mobility issues or who require the use of a wheelchair may wonder whether visiting the island paradise would be a challenge. The friendly and inclusive people of Fiji welcome all visitors and have been working hard to implement accessible infrastructure and more wheelchair-friendly accommodation options and facilities to ensure that everyone who comes to Fiji can have a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. We've put together a list of some of the most accessible hotels, resorts and room types to help make Fiji holidays with a wheelchair easier for people with disabilities and mobility restrictions.
Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji: Perhaps the most accessible wheelchair friendly accommodation in Fiji, Shangri-La Yanuca Island is set in a stunning tropical oasis on its very own 109 acre island. Connected to the mainland of Viti Levu by a causeway, you can experience the feeling of being on a tropical island with easy access by road. All rooms at this resort are wheelchair accessible and feature walk-in showers with ramps provided in each wing for easy access to the ground floor. However what sets the Shangri-La apart is that the resort has a wheelchair for specific use in the sand and water, for guests who wish to swim in the lagoon.
The Warwick Fiji: Set on the pristine beaches and crystal waters of Fiji's gorgeous Coral Coast, accessible by a scenic 90 minute drive from Nadi's International Airport, The Warwick features two accessible Garden View rooms on the ground floor, conveniently positioned near the elevator. Each room is equipped with a walk in shower that includes support railings and the added convenience of a shower chair, to make your stay as comfortable as possible as your home away from home while in Fiji.
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa: Also located on the Coral Coast, the InterContinental offers luxury accommodation set amid 36 acres of exotic gardens just 40 minutes from the International Airport - perfect for those who struggle with long drives, particularly after being sat for hours on the flight. Situated on the picturesque stretch of Natadola Bay, the resort enjoys panoramic views of the Bay and takes its inspiration from the outer lying island villages for a traditional Fijian experience. There are two wheelchair accessible ground floor rooms located in the Pool block with walk in showers, support railings and shower chairs on request. The rooms have been designed with accessibility in mind, with all facilities within arm's reach. All areas of the resort are wheelchair accessible with sloped pathways for ease of movement.
Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort: Situated approximately one hour by car from the International Airport, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort offers 5 star accommodation on the picturesque Coral Coast. Set among forty acres of exotic gardens on a beautiful beachfront location, the resort takes its inspiration from a traditional Fijian village. The lead in room type is the Resort View Room which is located on the ground floor of the Korotogo and Malevu accommodation wings. Offering garden views, these wheelchair accessible rooms offer double and king bedding configurations with walk in showers with support railings.
Castaway Island Fiji: One of the most popular holiday resorts in Fiji, Castaway is located in the Mamanuca Group of Islands and is accessible by launch transfer from Denarau Marina or heli or seaplane transfer. Whilst some of these options may take some manoeuvring, the reward will be worth it when you arrive on this stunning tropical island filled with natural beauty. The transfer staff will do everything possible to ensure guests with accessibility challenges are comfortable and catered for and their positive can-do attitude kicking into gear to assist wherever possible. Castaway resort offers many bures which are wheelchair accessible and include walk in showers and the beautiful grounds around the resort are well-paved, making it easy to get around.
Although physical access for wheelchairs and other mobility aids are still emerging in Fiji, the welcoming Pacific island nation offers a number of options for accommodation and facilities which provide access for the disabled, elderly or infirm. What some accessible infrastructure may be lacking, the staff and locals more than make up for with their welcoming and inclusive nature and their muscle power, always at the ready to assist.