Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji – Hotel Review

Named for the famed French oceanographer and environmentalist who founded it, five-star eco-resort Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji offers 25 luxurious villas perched on the edge of the glassy waters and white sands of Savusavu Bay, as well as access to a world-renowned diving program. Read on for the full review.

Aquatic activity options are unsurprisingly abundant here; scuba diving and snorkelling to marvel at the kaleidoscopic colours of the nearby coral reef is a near necessity, while there is also deep-sea fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing on the resort’s private catamaran.

Where is Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji?

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort overlooks the still, clear waters of Savusavu Bay on the south coast of Vanua Levu, Fiji's second-largest island. The resort is a quick 15-minute drive from Savusavu Airport.

What’s near Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji?

Guests wanting to explore beyond the boundaries of the hotel are only a three-minute drive from the Flora Tropica Botanical Gardens, an eight-minute drive from small chocolate farm KokoMana Cocoa & Chocolate and a 15-minute drive from the Savusavu Farmers’ Market. It’s also just 25 minutes to Vuadomo Waterfall; walk about 10 minutes up a gentle jungle track to be rewarded with a refreshing swimming spot.

Room types

The resort is home to 25 luxurious bures (villas), designed to highlight the island’s stunning natural surrounds. Gardenview Bures are enveloped by lush tropical forest, while Oceanfront Bures are steps from the shore and offer water views. Couples in the mood to splurge can book a Honeymoon Point Reef Bure, which has a private hot tub, while families seeking more room might consider the Point Reef Bure, a split-level space with a large balcony. All bures are freestanding traditional Fijian thatched-roof huts with polished timber floors, king beds and ample outdoor space. A sprawling Presidential Villa with a plunge pool and jacuzzi is also available and makes for a blissful upgrade.

Restaurants and bars

Meals at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, where food is all-inclusive, are served at the hotel’s main dining area overlooking Savusavu Bay and there are different areas for couples and families. The focus of the menu is on traditional Fijian cuisine and locally sourced fruits, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers (much of it grown in the hotel’s own organic garden).

Think lots of fresh seafood and meat, coconut everything and popular Fijian, South Pacific and Asian-inspired dishes. For a special treat, reserve the pier for a private beach-side dinner under the stars. There’s also a traditional Fijian “Lovo” feast held weekly, where meat, fish and local produce are marinated in sauces and spices then wrapped in banana leaves before being cooked over hot coals.

Sustainability

Founded by a proud environmentalist, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort prioritises taking care of the local habitat. Buildings on the property were constructed with sustainably-sourced timber and designed to maximise natural airflow and light, keeping power usage as low as possible. A reef protection program, including a giant clam-breeding project, is overseen by an in-house marine biologist to ensure indigenous flora and fauna are protected in the water as well as on land. An on-site organic garden and focus on sourcing ingredients from the island where possible also helps lower the hotel’s carbon footprint.

Travel for work

There is free wi-fi at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort and areas to sit and work around the property (though the temptation to go snorkelling might thwart attempts to get anything done).

Spa and gym

Melt away stress with a soothing treatment at the spa. In a private beachside bure, indulge in the signature Bobo treatment, a traditional Fijian healing massage using long, firm, rhythmic techniques to stimulate circulation and release tension. Facials, scrubs and body wraps are also available. Maintain your workout routine by joining the complimentary yoga classes. Other complimentary early morning activities include guided hiking and kayaking.

What you need to know

Parents will appreciate thoughtful included services for families, including The Bula Club one-on-one nanny care for children aged five and under or a Fijian “buddy” for up to five children aged 6-12, until 9.00 pm daily. All daily laundry and non-alcoholic beverages are also included.

SEE ALSO: 17 of the Best Family-Friendly Resorts in Fiji