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Summary of reviewsBarefoot Manta Island Resort is a remarkable retreat set on a beautiful Fijian island, offering an idyllic escape filled with stunning landscapes and serene beachfront settings. The resort is celebrated for its unparalleled location, surrounded by three pristine beaches and an extraordinary coral reef, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The natural beauty and tranquility of the island, matched with thoughtfully preserved environments, provide an exceptional backdrop for relaxation and adventure.
The welcoming atmosphere is significantly enhanced by the resort's staff, whose friendliness and genuine care create memorable experiences for guests. From the restaurant to the dive shop, staff members are consistently praised for their warmth, attentiveness, and dedication, often forming personal connections with guests. The dive center is particularly noted for its knowledgeable team, enhancing the underwater adventures that the resort offers.
Accommodations at Barefoot Manta Island Resort blend comfort with rustic charm. The beachfront villas and intricately decorated bungalows and bures offer stunning ocean views and direct beach access, making them favorites among guests. The glamping tents provide a unique balance between natural allure and modern comfort, fostering an intimate connection with the island's environment. Although some guests noted practical concerns, such as the absence of safes, the overall feedback on accommodations is one of high satisfaction.
The resort's dining experience, encompassing buffet-style breakfasts and à la carte dinners, generally receives praise for its variety and quality. While some guests desire more traditional local flavors and adjustments to the dining schedule, the communal dining experiences and themed nights offer a cultural flair appreciated by many. Despite some inconsistencies, the amiable staff contributes to a pleasant dining environment.
Cleanliness throughout the resort is well-regarded, with facilities and beaches meticulously maintained. Although there are occasional calls for more frequent cleaning of shared areas, such as dormitories and communal lounge areas, the staff's commitment to maintaining a clean and comfortable environment is evident. The resort offers a range of accommodations, with dormitory-style options facilitating a social atmosphere for travelers.
Families are welcomed into the resort's friendly environment, with the staff's exceptional interaction with children standing out. The natural beauty of the island, coupled with exciting snorkeling adventures like swimming with manta rays, makes for a memorable family holiday. Some improvements, particularly related to children's meal options, could further enhance the family experience.
While WiFi access is limited and reliability varies, many guests embrace the digital detox element, focusing on the stunning surroundings and vibrant activities available. Overall, Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers a magical and authentic escape, with unique community connections and exceptional service that leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Show more
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Room Types
Beachfront Levu (Large) BureThis bungalow has a private entrance, seating area and patio.
A mandatory resort package, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, WiFi access, snorkeling equipment and kayaks, to be paid upon check in at the resort. No alternative dining options are available.
Beachfront Adi (Queen) BureThis bungalow features a seating area, patio and view.
A mandatory resort package, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, WiFi access, snorkeling equipment and kayaks, to be paid upon check in at the resort. No alternative dining options are available.
Vai (Manta Ray) DormThis bed in dormitory has a garden view and private entrance.
Vai (Manta Ray) Dorm Girls Only This bed in dormitory features a private entrance.
Beachfront Yanuyanu (Island) BureThe bungalow features 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The bungalow has a private entrance, outdoor furniture and sea views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
9.0
Excellent
Location
Barefoot Manta Island Resort is nestled on a stunning island that exudes natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal Fijian escape. Surrounded by three pristine beaches—Sunrise, Sunset, and Manta—the location offers breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets, set against the backdrop of lush palm forests and clear, azure waters. Its unparalleled setting near the manta channel provides guests with direct access to an extraordinary coral reef teeming with vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
The resort seamlessly combines rustic charm with awe-inspiring landscapes, where spacious accommodations offer private frontages right on the beachfront. The island environment is thoughtfully preserved, ensuring an idyllic and serene experience. Guests frequently remark that the location is simply unbeatable, with exceptional snorkeling opportunities and a rich marine ecosystem protected within a designated marine zone.
The close-knit and attentive staff contribute significantly to the resort's welcoming atmosphere, creating memorable experiences through their friendliness and hospitality. Activities abound, allowing for exploration of the local reefs and engagement with nature's wonders. Whether enjoying the beaches or encountering the majestic manta rays, Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers a dreamlike setting where relaxation and adventure go hand in hand, making it a magical retreat amidst the Yasawa island group.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers a mix of satisfying qualities and areas in need of enhancement. Many guests found the breakfast to be a highlight of their stay, praising its generous servings and variety. The buffet-style breakfast service allows for numerous choices, and the quality of food consistently receives positive feedback. The availability of freshly prepared eggs and a good selection of fruits further enhances the meal's appeal.
Despite the generally positive feedback, some guests observed a limited selection of breakfast options. There's a desire for more savory dishes and a broader choice of egg preparations. The timing of the breakfast service has also been noted, with some elements being served only gradually. Moreover, while some found the buffet to be of good value, others felt the food package could be excessive for those with a smaller appetite.
Overall, the breakfast at Barefoot Manta Island Resort is a well-regarded element of the guest experience, appreciated for both its variety and quality, though improvements in selection and consistency could enhance the overall experience. The amiable and helpful staff contribute significantly to a pleasant dining environment, adding to the positive atmosphere of the island retreat.
Dinner
Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers a dining experience that evokes a mixed culinary journey with room for improvement. Guests generally appreciated the good food selection, highlighting the appealing mix of buffet-style breakfast and lunch paired with à la carte dinner options. However, some experienced long waiting times for meals and inconsistencies in food quality, with particular concerns about certain dishes being overcooked or bland.
Variety and heartiness were notable in many meals, with several guests praising the delicious meals and ample portion sizes, especially during special communal dining experiences and BBQ buffets. A few guests enjoyed the themed nights and traditional Fijian lovo feast, adding cultural flair to their visit. Despite the positives, the lack of authentic local flavors left some desiring a more traditional touch.
Vegetarians, vegans, and those who required gluten-free meals found the options somewhat limited but manageable. Meanwhile, the timing of dinner—scheduled at 7 pm—was less favorable for guests with young children or those who found the meals running late. The mandatory meal plan and its cost drew criticism for not always delivering an experience commensurate with its price. Overall, while dining had its highlights, it seems Barefoot Manta Island Resort has areas to refine to elevate its culinary offerings to match its stunning beachside location and vibrant activities.
Rooms
Nestled on the picturesque Barefoot Manta Island, the resort boasts a variety of accommodations that blend comfort with natural beauty. The bungalows and bures, intricately decorated and offering stunning ocean views, promise a tranquil escape for guests. The beachfront villas provide direct access to pristine beaches, making them a favorite for couples seeking romance and seclusion. Outdoor showers under the stars and amidst palm trees add a unique charm to many of the accommodations.
The glamping tents strike a balance between rustic appeal and modern comfort, featuring well-ventilated spaces that remain cool even on warm nights. While some guests found the tents rudimentary, most agree they are spacious and offer an intimate connection with the island's environment. Dormitory-style accommodations provide clean and comfy beds, facilitating a social atmosphere for those who enjoy meeting new people.
Staff at Barefoot Manta Island Resort are frequently praised for their friendliness and exceptional service, enhancing the overall guest experience. Strategic placement of each accommodation ensures privacy while allowing easy access to the island's natural beauty, including a top-notch house reef ideal for snorkeling. Although some guests noted practical concerns like the absence of safes or locks, the overall feedback reflects a high level of satisfaction with the resort's facilities and serene surroundings.
Beds
Nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes, Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers a range of lodging experiences that have sparked a mix of feelings among guests, primarily regarding the beds. Those seeking a serene escape with a view won’t be disappointed, as some guests enjoyed waking up to outstanding views of the water from their beds. The dorm setups were praised for being a great way to meet others, with comfortable and clean beds that ensured a good night's sleep under the natural sea breeze.
The private accommodations were appreciated for both their style and comfort, with particularly enthusiastic mentions of luxurious and large comfy beds in the Bures and clean facilities. Beachfront settings added an extra layer of tranquility to the sleeping experience, making the stay quite enjoyable.
Despite these positive notes, feedback about the dorm room beds was mixed. Some found the beds less comfortable, noting issues like sagging mattresses and challenging access to upper bunk beds. A few guests pointed out the absence of privacy curtains and mentioned that the length of the beds was slightly shorter than expected. While some guests might appreciate the resort’s unique tent-style dorm accommodations, others might not favor the lack of privacy or the condition of certain shared facilities, such as worn-out mattresses. Overall, the resort offers a generally comfortable stay with room for improvements in specific areas.
Cleanliness
Travelers staying at Barefoot Manta Island Resort are likely to notice the generally clean condition of the resort's facilities and accommodations. The resort, which encompasses the entire island, is meticulously maintained and features clean beaches that add to its charm. Dormitories are spacious, comfortable, and often praised for their cleanliness, albeit basic in setup with bunk beds in large tents. Shared facilities, while often clean with stunning views, occasionally require more frequent cleaning and maintenance, particularly the showers and toilets which, at times, can be a concern for guests. Despite these occasional setbacks, the staff is known for their attentiveness and friendliness, consistently working hard to ensure a clean environment and addressing issues with insects. The resort has beautiful and well-maintained grounds along with tidy surroundings, providing a delightful setting for relaxation and water activities. Although some aspects, like communal lounge areas and dorm amenities, could benefit from small improvements, the resort has great potential and offers a unique island experience.
Staff
At Barefoot Manta Island Resort, the staff are truly the soul of the place, consistently leaving a lasting impression on visitors with their exceptional service and dedication. From the restaurant team to housekeeping and the dive shop crew, each member of staff brings a warm-hearted and welcoming attitude that makes guests feel at home from the moment they arrive. Their friendliness is echoed by numerous guests, highlighting how the staff members go out of their way to ensure that every visit is comfortable and memorable. The dive center, in particular, stands out with its knowledgeable and enthusiastic team who are passionate about the unique sights the island's waters offer.
Guests frequently remark on the amazing atmosphere created by the staff, which is filled with kindness and genuine care, as they treat you like family. It's evident that many visitors feel the staff genuinely enhance their experience, making delightful personal connections by remembering names and preferences. Their attentiveness and willingness to help with any request create an environment where guests are both cared for and delighted.
Though the stunning location and pristine beaches of Barefoot Manta Island provide a beautiful backdrop, it’s the heartfelt hospitality and joy radiated by the staff that truly makes this resort special. Many highlight the camaraderie and helpful nature of the local staff, who readily offer assistance and make every effort to engage with guests on a personal level. This makes parting at the end of the stay difficult, evoking a sincere wish to return for many visitors.
Wi-Fi
Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers guests a charming escape in the heart of paradise, but those looking for seamless internet connectivity may find the WiFi service wanting. Guests consistently mention that WiFi access is limited to the main dining and reception areas, making it unavailable in rooms or beachfront locations. While some visitors found the complimentary WiFi in the lobby and dining area to be functional most of the time, others described the connection as temperamental, patchy, and slow. This could pose a challenge for those who need to work remotely, as the service is not reliable or quick. Improvements and broader coverage in WiFi service could enhance the overall experience for guests accustomed to more pervasive connectivity. Nonetheless, many guests accept these limitations and embrace the tranquility and beauty of the resort, focusing on the positive aspects of their stay.
Family
Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers an inviting and friendly atmosphere, particularly for families with children. The positive impact of the staff plays a significant role in creating a welcoming environment, as they are frequently described as friendly, helpful, and akin to family. Staff members like Mr. Tom are praised for their exceptional interaction with kids, making them feel comfortable and entertained. The resort’s family-oriented ambiance is complemented by communal meals where guests often socialize, fostering a sense of community among families and children.
Accommodation options such as beachfront glamping tents and spacious sunset bure are well-regarded, with reviews suggesting they cater well to families of varying sizes and ages. While there can be occasional wait times during crowded meal periods, the staff's willingness to accommodate specific needs, such as early evening meals for kids, is appreciated. The presence of diverse travelers, ranging from single adventurers to families with teenagers, contributes to a dynamic yet family-friendly atmosphere.
The natural beauty of the island and its snorkeling adventures, particularly the opportunity to swim with manta rays, are standout attractions that are perfect for families. Children seemingly enjoy roaming the island and engaging in activities, with the staff offering comforting gestures like hugs and tickles, enhancing their experience. Yet, there are mixed reviews on the resort's suitability for families with very young kids for extended stays, with suggestions for improvement in food options for vegetarian children and the inclusion of a dedicated kids menu.
Overall, Barefoot Manta Island Resort seems to provide a magical experience for families, where the small community vibe and stunning surroundings create memorable holidays for all ages.
Business
Barefoot Manta Island Resort offers a unique and authentic experience compared to many other resorts, being run by the local village rather than overseas investors. This provides visitors with a genuine connection to the local community. While there are additional mandatory charges, such as meal packages, the overall accommodations can be quite affordable, especially with dormitory-style options. The resort's operations make transactions convenient, accepting card payments so guests do not need to carry cash. Though the check-in process might seem standardized, the island's serene setting and the chance to contribute to the local community make it a memorable destination. However, business travelers might find fewer amenities tailored specifically for their needs.
No, Barefoot Manta Island Resort doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Barefoot Manta Island Resort.
No, Barefoot Manta Island Resort doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Barefoot Manta Island Resort.
No, Barefoot Manta Island Resort doesn't have a gym.