The secret overwater bungalows hours from Australia

Like a lot of the world’s wonders, overwater bungalows seem like a lifetime away from Australia.

The Maldives mini-mansions lodged over shallow waters are a favourite among Instagram’s elite. A seemingly unattainable holiday for us Aussies. But tucked away in a Fijian archipelago, is the less-known and all-the-more stunning Likuliku Lagoon Resort featuring overwater bungalows to give your social media the boost it deserves.

You can leave the east coast of Australia mid-morning and enjoy a cocktail with a view of the adults-only Likuliku Bay for just after lunch.

Strung over the turquoise coral reef off Malolo Island are 10 traditional bures (huts) with light-up glass-bottom panel flooring for watching the fish in the evenings.

Balconies with direct access to the water allow guests to snorkel at their doorstep.

Whether it’s a step-from-your-bed-and-onto-your-stand-up-paddle-board kind of day or a soak-in-the-deep-egg-bath-with-a-view-of-the-horizon kind of afternoon, the bungalows embody ultimate luxury.

But we’re not sure what’s the better view – sitting in your overwater bungalow and copping an eyeful of the nearby islands or relaxing on the daybed back on the island and looking out over the water. Luckily you can have both.

There are 18 Deluxe Waterfront Bures, with private plunge pool, outdoor shower and split-level design and the interior is a nod to the beauty and history of the islands. Think pandanus palm thatched roofing and South Pacific vibes feeding through the textures and patterns of the furniture.

The 11-year-old Likuliku Lagoon Resort is popular but the layout makes it feel like you’re the only people on the island. The staff-to-guest ratio seems to be around the 8:1 mark, so service is divine, in part because the Fijian people are ever-cheerful, kind and welcoming.

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Stepping off the Pacific Island Air heli transfer (just a 10-minute flight from the main International airport of Nadi), resort manager Tulia greeted us with a contagious giggle from her golf buggy. The resident labrador Coco rode shotgun with her sunnies on. As we bopped through the lush tropical garden, Tulia projected mumma vibes and we were transformed from guests into family within minutes.

If folks come to Likuliku Lagoon for the beauty, it’s the food they’ll return for. Executive Chef Shane Watson personally chooses fresh produce every day. He has arrangements with local fisherman and farmers resulting in today’s catch fresh on your plate for dinner. Being all-inclusive, Likuliku Lagoon Resort offers a breakfast, lunch and dinner service with daily-changing à la carte menu. Dinner is four courses and mains can look like duck from vitogo, braised green lentils, pistachio, cranberry with roasted kipfler potato, garlic and thyme. Fancy.

To work off the treats from the restaurant, snorkel the natural lagoon where many tropical fish will swim right up to your goggles. You can also take a fishing excursion (outside the marine green zones) or pay respect to the indigenous land owners at the nearby Solevu, where you can meet village elders and the Paramount Chief of the Mamanuca Islands.

I hiked the nearby Honeymoon Island hill at sunrise. Tulia came with me and packed an unforgettable picnic complete with fresh pastries and coffees. I was humbled by stories from Tulia about the history of the Fijian people and culture all the while in awe of the pink and purple fairy floss sky. Definitely a bucket list moment.

Likuliku is so much more than overwater bungalows and a popular hashtag on Instagram, it’s one of the world’s best destinations.

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