The weather is warm and humid, the sky and the water are brilliant blues as we set out to spend the day on Beachcomber Island. Our transportation through the Mamanuca Island chain just off Nadi, Fiji is the Vasawa Flyer II, a "Big Yellow Taxi" of the aquatic kind.
We are amazed at the numerous small islands we see along the way, some just barely popping their heads out of the ocean. It is an idyllic scene and just what one would imagine a south pacific island paradise would look like.
On some of the islands there are a few trees and buildings and on others there is just sand. On a sand bar similar to this one below we saw some people being dropped off - presumably for a day of Robinson Carusoe.
After about 45 minutes on the ferry, we transfer to small tenders then finally land at our beach. Beachcomber Island, which is a popular resort for young people, has such facilities as a restaurant, The Sand Bar with live music, aquatic rentals, a boutique and dorm type accommodation. According to some of the people staying on the island, the party really starts after the day use tourists leave.
We spent our time snorkling, and observing the fish feeding just off shore and just relaxing with a few refreshments. I had a really good time and spent most of my time in the warm water snorkeling from the beach. I saw way more tropical fish species and beautiful coral here than I did on the Great Barrier Reef. My snorkeling companion and one of the guys, who went snorkeling out of a boat a bit off shore said that they saw a small reef shark. I'm glad I didn't!
The fish below were photographed from inside a glass bottom boat.
These striped guys were near the surface hoping to get some of the goodies that the boat driver was feeding them.
Parasailing seemed to be a popular activity, but none of our group participated opting to spend the time in the water, or in the shade. A leisurely walk around Beachcomber island took a mere 15 minutes. It was similar to size as Bounty Island shown in the photograph below.
As we watch the parasailing some of our group has gathered on the beach waiting for the overdue ride back to the hotel. I guess they schedule was on "island time"
Finally our day is over and we head back out to the "Big Yellow Taxi" for our return trip through the islands to the harbour at Port Denarau. A great day, I would like to return to Fiji to spend more time snorkeling and spending time in the water!
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