Matava

Matava is a 100 per cent off-grid dive resort on Kadavu Island, reachable only by boat within the lagoons of the Great Astrolabe Reef. Ten thatched Fijian bures sit in clusters on the hillside. All have their own sun deck facing the lagoon and barrier reef. There's no mains electricity, air conditioning or fridges, just solar lighting and solar-heated water, and the resort's own artesian spring supplies both the pool and the kitchen. An on-site organic farm and orchard grows much of the food here, and Matava also splits its honey 50/50 with a partner beekeeping operation in the local community.

The on-site PADI dive centre runs trips out to Manta Reef, Naiqoro and Korolevu passages and Eagle Rock, with manta sightings likely year-round and a good chance of reef sharks in the passages. Kayak across to a nearby island for a swim on one of its three white sand beaches, or take a guided hike through the rainforest to a waterfall and village. Meals are eaten together at long tables in the bure levu, one of Fiji's largest traditional structures. A lovo feast and kava ceremony with the local community is a particular highlight.