Evan Johnson
I stayed at Blue Lagoon Beach Resort for four nights during my first solo trip to Fiji and to celebrate my 30th birthday, and it was truly exceptional.
The setting is stunning. My Beachfront Villa felt like something out of a movie—spacious and beautiful, with doors opening toward the ocean, a daybed, hammock, beach chairs and gorgeous outdoor bathroom. Some of my favorite moments were simply sitting on my daybed looking at the water.
The food is PHENOMENAL. Do not leave without trying the kokoda! The main restaurant serves beautiful multi-course dinners, Fiji Night was delicious, and I returned to Donu repeatedly because it was that good. Donu’s menus rotate, so I had several different experiences and every one was amazing. Huge thanks to Head Chef Sake, Chef Ade (Russell), Joe, Sala and the entire Donu team for exceptional food and hospitality.
There is also so much to experience. I visited Nacula Village and the school, snorkeled, attended the Fijian tea party, learned basket weaving, attended the coconut demonstration, hiked for sunset and visited the Sawa-i-Lau Caves. The caves were a highlight and absolutely worth doing. I loved that so many activities allowed me to learn about Fiji and Nacula rather than simply stay inside a beautiful resort.
But the people made Blue Lagoon truly special.
Nicholas took incredible care of me. He helped completely rearrange my final-day transfers so I could return to Octopus before heading to the mainland, and he also helped coordinate getting my wallet back after I accidentally left it at Octopus. His patience, kindness and resourcefulness were incredible.
Thank you to Mel, Ili, Mari, Sio, Sala, Pena, Luisa and the restaurant and housekeeping teams for making me feel so welcome. Some of my favorite memories are simply conversations with staff about their families, goals and lives in Fiji.
Thank you also to wonderful Siteri in the office; Ana and Christine at the dive shop; Tem for our village tour; Bibo for the Sawa-i-Lau Caves, basket weaving and coconut demonstration; and Viniana for the lovely Fijian tea party with lemon-leaf tea and lolo buns.
Blue Lagoon also made my 30th birthday incredibly special. The band sang Happy Birthday, and I was surprised with cake, champagne, a handwritten card and a spa gift. A special thank-you to Kylie, one of the co-owners, for helping make the celebration so thoughtful. I was traveling alone, but everyone made sure I felt celebrated. It is a birthday I’ll never forget.
Thank you as well to the musicians and performers, boat crews, chefs, housekeeping, gardeners, office staff and everyone whose name I missed. The service was polished and attentive without ever feeling impersonal. Staff remembered me, stopped to talk and made it remarkably easy to feel at home.
I also appreciated Blue Lagoon’s connection with nearby Nacula Village and the opportunity to visit, learn about island life and purchase handmade items directly from local women.
If you’re considering the Yasawas, I highly recommend Blue Lagoon—especially for the beautiful accommodations, outstanding food, cultural experiences, activities and genuinely caring service.
My biggest advice: give yourself enough time and don’t schedule every minute. Some of the best moments happen when you simply sit by the ocean, walk the beach, talk with people and let the day unfold.
Vinaka vakalevu to the entire Blue Lagoon family for making my 30th birthday and first solo trip so special. I would happily return. ❤️