image © Intercontinental Fiji Resort Resort Fiji
This family review provides an overview of Intercontinental Fiji Resort Resort as well as a summary of all recent reviews from people who have stayed there. Sources include Booking.com, Trip Advisor, Expedia, Agoda, Hotels.com and Google reviews.
The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa consistently garners high praise from recent guests, establishing itself as a premier destination for families seeking a luxurious yet authentic Fijian escape. Reviews from platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Kayak frequently award the resort exceptional ratings, often reaching 9.0 or even 10 out of 10, with many describing it as "one of the best" and "exceptional". This acclaim is further solidified by its recognition as the "Fijian Hotel of the Year at the 2024 HM Awards".
Upon arrival, guests are immediately immersed in the renowned Fijian hospitality, often greeted with a warm "Bula," traditional beating drums, a shell necklace, and refreshing welcome drinks like rum punch, accompanied by cool towels. This initial welcome is more than just a pleasantry; it serves as a deliberate strategy to alleviate the inherent stresses of travel, particularly for families arriving after long journeys with children. The seamless check-in process, where guests are comfortably seated and provided with information on resort activities, further contributes to this immediate sense of ease and care. Such a positive and authentic first impression helps to establish a strong emotional connection with guests, setting a relaxed and enjoyable tone for the entire holiday. The open-air lobby, with its breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, instantly signals a luxurious and tranquil escape.
The resort is celebrated for its ability to strike a "perfect balance" between luxury and family-friendliness, catering effectively to both adults and children. This dual appeal is a significant advantage, as many luxury resorts often struggle to integrate families without compromising the experience for adult-only guests, or vice-versa. The InterContinental Fiji achieves this through thoughtful design, including dedicated adult-only zones and family-friendly areas, combined with a sprawling layout and a diverse array of activities. For families, this means parents can indulge in sophisticated dining, spa treatments, or quiet poolside relaxation, confident that their children are well-cared for and entertained in their own dedicated spaces. This approach elevates the family holiday experience beyond that of a typical "kids' resort," allowing parents to enjoy a sophisticated yet fun getaway without compromise. The resort is specifically highlighted as "perfect for families looking for a stress-free holiday with entertainment and activities readily available".
Spanning a "massive property" and described as "expansive" and "grand in proportion and space," the InterContinental Fiji offers a sense of openness and luxury. While this extensive layout provides ample space for various amenities and helps in segregating different zones, it also means longer distances between facilities. To address this, staff members readily provide golf cart transfers for guests and their luggage to and from their accommodations. These golf cart rides are often a highlight for children, transforming a practical necessity into a fun part of the holiday. The frequent use of golf carts is a common occurrence, especially for rooms located further from the main building. This efficient internal transportation system is crucial for families, particularly those with young children or strollers, as it minimizes walking fatigue and logistical challenges. Furthermore, the resort prioritizes accessibility, with all doorways and common areas designed for wheelchair access, and two specially adapted wheelchair-friendly rooms available with ramps.
The InterContinental Fiji offers a diverse range of accommodation options, thoughtfully designed to meet the varied needs and budgets of families.
The resort provides various room types, including garden, poolside, lagoon, and beachfront rooms, many of which are considered "ideal for families". For families seeking a more economical choice, Garden View rooms are the "most budget-friendly option," typically accommodating up to four guests with a choice of one king bed or two double beds. These rooms are described as spacious and comfortable, even those closer to the main building, which offers convenient access to dining and other facilities.
For larger families or those desiring enhanced space and luxury, the resort offers 2-bedroom suites. Some of these suites feature private plunge pools and exclusive Club Lounge access. These premium accommodations are notably spacious, measuring 156 square meters (1679 square feet), and come with flexible bed configurations, such as one king bed or a combination of two single beds and one king bed. They also include practical amenities like separate shower and bathtub facilities. Additionally, some family packages include a complimentary rollaway bed for rooms with one king bed, further enhancing sleeping arrangements for children. This availability of diverse room types, from entry-level garden views to opulent multi-bedroom suites, allows the resort to appeal to a broad spectrum of family travelers, ensuring that different budgets and preferences for space and luxury can be accommodated.
Guest reviews consistently highlight the spaciousness and comfort of the rooms. Bathrooms often receive particular praise for their luxurious design, featuring generous double vanities, separate showers, and bathtubs, along with premium Pure Fiji toiletries. A standout feature that particularly delights younger guests is the outdoor bathtub located on the balcony. This unique amenity was frequently mentioned by reviewers as "one of their favorite parts about the entire holiday," transforming a routine activity into a playful and memorable experience. While some outdoor bathtubs might be visible to passersby, many balconies offer a good degree of privacy, with curtains available if desired. Beyond these, rooms are well-equipped with standard amenities such as in-room safe boxes, ironing facilities, mini-bars, and complimentary Fiji water.
Despite the overall positive feedback regarding room comfort and design, some recent reviews have indicated that certain aspects of the rooms "could do with an update" or that "a few things are ready for refurbishment". Specific examples cited include the sinks in bathrooms and outside seating squabs. The resort has acknowledged this feedback in its responses to guests, indicating an awareness of these areas for improvement. While these are minor points, their recurrence suggests that continuous investment in the aesthetic upkeep and wear-and-tear of the rooms is important to maintain the resort's premium image and meet the high expectations associated with a luxury property. For families, functional and aesthetically pleasing rooms contribute significantly to their comfort and overall perception of value.
The InterContinental Fiji boasts an impressive array of three distinct outdoor swimming pools, each designed to offer a unique ambiance and cater to different guest preferences.
At the core of the resort's family-friendly offerings is the dedicated "Family Pool." This inviting oasis is strategically located in the heart of the property, just steps away from the lively Toba Bar & Grill, making it incredibly convenient for families. Reviews confirm that this pool is "excellent for infants and up to bigger kids," featuring varied depths that allow even the "littlest of kids to splash around safely". A critical feature for families, especially in a tropical climate, is the "excellent shade protection in some areas". This thoughtful design, incorporating diverse depths and ample shade, demonstrates a practical understanding of the needs of families with children of varying ages, enhancing both safety and comfort during extended periods of play. The ability for siblings of different ages to enjoy the same pool area simplifies parental supervision, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
For parents or adult family members seeking moments of tranquility and relaxation, the resort offers an exclusive "Adults Only Pool". This serene haven is reserved for guests aged 16 and above, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Natadola Bay and an ideal setting for couples or solo travelers to unwind without the lively sounds of children. The clear segregation of pools into family, adults-only, and club categories allows the resort to effectively cater to different guest segments simultaneously, enhancing satisfaction for all. This means parents can enjoy sophisticated dining, spa treatments, or quiet pool time, knowing that dedicated spaces exist for their relaxation.
Additionally, guests staying in Club InterContinental accommodations enjoy access to their own exclusive "Club Pool". Perched on the hilltop, this infinity pool offers sweeping views of Natadola Bay, providing an unmatched sense of seclusion and luxury for Club guests. This tiered pool access ensures that guests can choose the level of exclusivity and ambiance that best suits their holiday preferences.
While the resort provides "plenty of loungers" around the pools, one recurring comment from reviews noted that "seat saving still appears to be a thing". This common resort challenge can be a minor frustration for families, who often require specific seating (e.g., shaded spots, close to shallow ends) and adequate space for their belongings. If prime spots are reserved but remain unoccupied for extended periods, it can lead to a less relaxing and more competitive poolside experience. While the resort's overall pool facilities are highly praised, families should be prepared for this potential issue during peak times.
The InterContinental Fiji is well-equipped to keep its younger guests entertained and engaged, offering dedicated programs for various age groups.
The resort's signature kids' club, Planet Trekkers, is consistently highlighted in reviews as "exceptional" and "interactive and engaging". It is thoughtfully designed to cater to two distinct age groups: children aged four to seven years old, and those aged eight to twelve years old. The program offers a diverse range of activities that ensure children "won't be bored". These include unique and culturally immersive experiences such as crab racing, fishing, cupcake making, dressing up for the nightly fire show, and a lively kids' disco in the evening. These activities go beyond typical childcare, offering genuine engagement and a unique Fijian experience that makes the children's holiday as memorable as their parents'.
Planet Trekkers sessions are available for a fee of FJ$30 per child. Each session includes a convenient snack pack, typically comprising a muffin, chocolate brownie or pastry, fresh fruit, and a bottle of water. This thoughtful inclusion adds convenience for parents and ensures children are well-nourished during their activities.
For the youngest guests, children under four years of age are welcome to attend Planet Trekkers, provided they are accompanied by a resort nanny. It is important to note that the nanny service does not include a meal for the child. To ensure a smooth transition and comfort for all children, the resort kindly requests that parents and guardians refrain from entering the activity area during session times, unless specifically invited by a Planet Trekkers team member. This policy, common in professional kids' clubs, helps children settle in, minimizes disruptions, and allows staff to manage the group effectively. Furthermore, for the utmost safety and well-being of all children, nannies are not permitted to take children swimming in the pools or ocean without the presence of their parents or guardians. These structured policies and provisions reassure parents that their children are in a safe, engaging, and professionally managed environment, allowing them to confidently enjoy their own leisure time.
Recognizing that older children have different needs and interests, the resort also offers "Teen Trekkers". This program provides daily outdoor activities led by the Recreations Team, designed to keep teenagers active and immersed in the beautiful surroundings of Natadola Bay. Activities such as Pitch & Putt and volleyball sessions are available, catering to their desire for independence, social interaction, and engaging physical pursuits. The provision of dedicated activities for teens prevents boredom and ensures that all age groups within a family unit have fulfilling experiences, contributing to a more enjoyable holiday for everyone.
The InterContinental Fiji offers a diverse culinary landscape, with options ranging from lavish buffets to casual poolside bites and elegant fine dining, catering to the varied tastes and preferences of families.
Sanasana serves as the resort's main all-day dining venue and is a consistent highlight for families. The daily buffet breakfast receives overwhelming praise, described as "lavish," a "huge spread," and "without doubt the best buffet breakfast everyday". This comprehensive spread includes a wide selection of international and local dishes, featuring fresh juice stations, pancake and egg stations, a variety of pastries, a salad bar, soup, cereal, and hot savory dishes like rice, noodles, and curries. Crucially, the buffet offers "plenty of options for everyone, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices," ensuring that even fussy eaters or those with dietary restrictions find appealing options. The breakfast experience is further elevated by the attentive staff, who are noted for remembering guests' names and anticipating preferences, even offering hot chocolate or babycinos for children, which adds a personalized touch and reduces morning stress for parents.
In the evenings, Sanasana transforms into a themed buffet dinner venue, with themes changing daily, ranging from Fijian night to Italian. Guests have enjoyed the variety and quality of these themed dinners, with some expressing delight at unexpected offerings like Pav Bhaji.
Conveniently situated near the main family pool, Toba Bar & Grill offers a relaxed atmosphere for both lunch and dinner. Its menu features casual, family-friendly options such as wood-fired pizzas, grilled seafood, salads, and burgers. A significant draw for families is its "great kids' menu," which includes simple and healthy choices like carrot sticks with hummus and fish and chips. This strategic location and dedicated children's menu make it an ideal, low-stress dining option, allowing for seamless transitions from pool time to mealtime. Reviewers have particularly enjoyed the "fantastic food and cocktails" and the unbeatable views of the pool and ocean, making it a favorite spot for casual meals and sunset dinners. Live music is often played here, adding to the relaxed ambiance.
Navo is the resort's more upscale, fine-dining restaurant, offering a sophisticated culinary experience. It features both a degustation menu and a standard a la carte menu. While breakfast at Navo is reserved for adults only, the restaurant welcomes children during its early dinner service, typically from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. After this designated family hour, Navo transitions to an adult-only restaurant, preserving a tranquil ambiance for later diners. The dress code for Navo is smart casual, with collared shirts and closed-toed shoes preferred. This flexible approach allows families to enjoy a more refined dining experience together before children's bedtimes, while also ensuring that adult guests can later enjoy a truly sophisticated and quiet meal.
For quick and delightful treats, Deep South Premium New Zealand Ice Cream is a popular spot located near the pools. Families often utilize this as a fun alternative to a full lunch on hot days.
Kama Lounge provides a relaxed setting for drinks and snacks, often featuring live music and a daily happy hour from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Guests have enjoyed sipping drinks from Kama Lounge while relaxing in beach cabanas, adding to the laid-back holiday atmosphere.
The exclusive Club InterContinental Lounge also offers breakfast and morning tea for all ages, with cocktails and canapes available in the evenings. However, it is important to note that children are not permitted in the lounge during sunset cocktails and canapes, which takes place from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Children aged 0-12 are allowed in the family area only, while those aged 12-18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the main Club InterContinental Lounge.
While the food quality at the InterContinental Fiji is consistently described as "exceptional" and "very good", reviews frequently highlight that meals are generally "expensive". For instance, average meal costs are around FJD 45, and beers are approximately FJD 12. The resort's somewhat isolated location means that guests are largely "locked in" to the on-site dining options, as there are no convenient external restaurants nearby. This necessitates careful budgeting for dining expenses.
Some family packages, such as the 5-night stay, include a FJD600 resort credit that can be used for dining, spa treatments, and recreational pleasures. However, it is important to note that this credit cannot be used for purchases at the boutique or general store, and any unused credit is non-redeemable.
A significant change for families is the discontinuation of the previous "Priority Privilege" dining benefits, which included "kids eat free" and 50% off for two adults. These have been replaced by a new "Dining Rewards" program, and families should investigate the current benefits of this new program to understand how it might impact their dining budget. To help manage costs, an early bird discount is available for dinner at Sanasana, offering a FJD 20 per person saving if seated between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM.
Additional costs to consider include extra beds, which are FJD 150 per child (0-4 years) or per person (5+ years) per night, while cribs for children aged 0-4 are complimentary. These additional fees are not automatically included in the total cost and must be paid separately during the stay. Furthermore, a 2.5% charge applies to payments made with a credit card. The combination of higher per-meal costs, limited external dining, and changes to loyalty benefits means families should budget realistically and proactively for their dining expenses.
The InterContinental Fiji's location on Natadola Bay is a cornerstone of its appeal, offering a quintessential Fijian beach experience.
The resort is ideally situated on the "stunning shores of Natadola Bay," which is frequently cited as the "primary drawcard" of the InterContinental. Natadola Bay holds a prestigious reputation, having been voted by CNN as "one of the whitest beaches in the world". This truly idyllic setting provides a picturesque backdrop for a Fiji holiday, perfectly oriented for breathtaking sunsets.
A crucial distinction that sets Natadola Bay apart from some other popular resort areas in Fiji, such as Denarau, is its pristine, swimmable beach. Unlike Denarau, which is characterized by black sand and often muddy, unswimmable water, Natadola Bay offers clear, inviting waters. The sea at Natadola is described by guests as "divine to swim in," with a fuller tide generally preferred for optimal enjoyment. This superior quality of the beach is a significant differentiator, ensuring families can fully immerse themselves in the classic Fiji beach experience, complete with safe swimming for children and ample opportunities for outdoor play.
The resort encourages active engagement with its beautiful marine environment by offering a range of non-motorized water sports. Some family packages include one hour of complimentary non-motorized watersports daily. This generous inclusion covers essentials such as snorkeling gear, kayaks (best utilized two hours before and after high tide), and boogie boards. It is important to note that stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are not included in this complimentary offering. The provision of these complimentary activities adds considerable value to family packages, providing built-in entertainment and a cost-effective way for families to explore the bay and engage in fun, active pursuits without incurring additional charges. Beyond these, other water activities like diving are also accessible through the resort.
While the beach is overwhelmingly praised for its beauty, one review expressed disappointment that the resort "does not clean up the rubbish on Natadola Beach". Although this appears to be an isolated comment amidst a sea of positive feedback, it suggests an occasional lapse in beach maintenance. For a beach celebrated as "one of the whitest in the world," any visible debris, even if minor, can detract from the otherwise idyllic experience, particularly for families who spend a significant amount of time playing on the sand. This point, while not widespread, highlights the importance of consistent attention to detail in maintaining the pristine environment that is a core part of the resort's appeal.
The human element of hospitality at the InterContinental Fiji consistently emerges as one of its most powerful assets, profoundly shaping the guest experience.
The resort's staff are universally lauded as "superb," "friendly and helpful," and "extremely friendly and helpful". Many reviewers emphasize that it was truly "the people who made our stay feel like home". This level of service is a foundational aspect of the resort's success and a significant driver of guest loyalty.
The personalized touches provided by the staff are frequently highlighted. Examples include staff members remembering guests' names, such as Sera at breakfast, and anticipating their preferences, which creates a deep sense of care and belonging. Specific individuals are often commended, including Ligi and Niel for their warm check-in experiences and room tours, and Mererai, Alumita, Kini, and Raymond for their phenomenal food and beverage service and heartfelt farewells. This exceptional island hospitality is a recurring theme in reviews and directly contributes to the resort's recognition as "Fijian Hotel of the Year".
For families, the quality of service can significantly impact the overall holiday experience. Friendly, patient, and proactive staff reduce parental stress, make children feel genuinely welcome, and handle unexpected situations with grace. When staff remember names and preferences, it transforms a standard hotel stay into a truly personal and memorable experience, fostering trust and comfort that allows parents to relax more fully. This level of engagement also helps guests feel more "connected to the destination". The deeply ingrained "Bula spirit" and personalized service are powerful factors that encourage repeat visits and generate positive word-of-mouth, often outweighing any minor physical imperfections of the property.
While the overall service is overwhelmingly excellent, there have been isolated comments about "slow service" in some areas. However, these instances are largely overshadowed by the pervasive praise for the staff's friendliness and attentiveness. In a large, busy resort, occasional instances of slower service can occur due to peak times or unforeseen circumstances. The sheer volume of positive feedback on the staff's dedication strongly suggests that these are isolated incidents rather than a systemic issue. The resort's commitment to outstanding service is clearly high, making any minor delays stand out precisely because they are exceptions to the generally exceptional "Bula spirit." Families can, therefore, generally expect outstanding service, though they might encounter minor delays during busy periods, which is common in the hospitality industry and does not detract from the overall positive experience.
When planning a family holiday to the InterContinental Fiji, understanding the practical aspects of value, costs, and logistics is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
The resort generally receives good ratings for "Value for money," typically scoring around 8.2 to 8.3. However, it is important to recognize that it is positioned as a premium property. To enhance value, the resort offers comprehensive family packages, such as a 5-night stay, which include significant benefits. These often cover daily buffet breakfast, a FJD600 resort credit, complimentary access to Planet Trekkers kids' club, a complimentary rollaway bed, one hour of non-motorized watersports daily, and return airport transfers. This bundled approach aims to deliver a "stress-free holiday" by covering many essential components upfront.
The FJD600 resort credit is versatile and can be used across dining, spa services, and recreational activities. However, it is crucial to note that this credit cannot be applied to purchases made at the boutique or general store, and any unused credit is non-redeemable.
A key financial consideration for families is the cost of dining. Reviews indicate that meals are expensive, with average meals costing around FJD 45 and beers around FJD 12. Given the resort's somewhat isolated location, guests are largely reliant on the on-site dining options, as there are "nowhere else nearby to eat at" conveniently. This means families should factor a substantial portion of their budget towards on-site dining.
Furthermore, the previous "Priority Privilege" dining benefits, which included generous perks like "kids eat free" and 50% off for two adults dining, have been discontinued. These have been replaced by a new "Dining Rewards" program, and families are advised to investigate the current benefits of this program to understand how it might impact their overall dining expenses. To help mitigate dining costs, an early bird discount is available for dinner at Sanasana, offering a FJD 20 saving per person if seated between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM.
Additional costs to consider include extra beds, which are charged at FJD 150 per child (0-4 years) or per person (5+ years) per night, although cribs for children aged 0-4 are complimentary upon request. These fees are not automatically included in the total cost and must be paid separately during the stay. A 2.5% charge also applies to payments made with a credit card. The combination of higher per-meal costs, limited external dining, and changes to loyalty benefits means families should budget realistically and proactively for their dining expenses.
In conclusion, the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa offers a truly comprehensive and enriching family holiday experience. Its commitment to blending luxury with genuine Fijian hospitality, coupled with its excellent facilities and dedicated children's programs, makes it a top-tier choice for families seeking an unforgettable escape to paradise.
The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is situated on Natadola Bay, on Viti Levu, Fiji's main island. It is located approximately 50 minutes to an hour south of Nadi International Airport (NAN).
For convenience, return airport shuttle transfers are included in some family packages. These private transfers are often provided in a premium 5-seater SUV like a Toyota LandCruiser Prado, comfortably seating up to four guests. Other transfer options are also available upon request. The airport transfer fee, if not included in a package, is FJD 63. The inclusion of pre-arranged airport transfers significantly enhances convenience and reduces stress for families, especially after long international flights. Navigating foreign airports, finding reliable transport, and managing luggage and tired children can be a major source of anxiety. Complimentary, comfortable transfers eliminate this logistical burden, allowing families to transition smoothly from plane to resort and setting a positive tone for their entire holiday. Families should prioritize packages that include transfers, as this detail can greatly improve the start and end of their vacation.
Despite a few minor points raised in reviews, such as rooms potentially needing updates, isolated comments about beach rubbish, or the common issue of "seat saving" at pools, the overwhelming sentiment from guests is one of exceptional satisfaction. These minor criticisms, when viewed against the backdrop of overwhelmingly positive reviews, highlight the resort's ability to deliver an exceptional core experience that largely outweighs small imperfections.
Reviewers consistently express a strong desire to "def come back" and report feeling "more relaxed leaving the place than when I arrived - the mark of a good holiday". This indicates that the resort's fundamental strengths - its exceptional staff, stunning natural setting on Natadola Bay, and well-designed core family facilities like the pools and kids' club - are so powerful that minor issues become negligible in the overall positive experience. Guests are willing to overlook small imperfections when the fundamental aspects of service, natural beauty, and engaging activities are outstanding. This strong core experience creates truly memorable and stress-reducing holidays for families.
The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa stands out as a highly recommended destination for families seeking a luxurious and enriching Fijian holiday. Its strengths lie in a harmonious blend of world-class amenities, authentic island hospitality, and thoughtful design catering specifically to diverse family needs.
The InterContinental Fiji is an ideal choice for:
To maximize the enjoyment and value of a family holiday at the InterContinental Fiji, visitors should consider the following:
In conclusion, the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa offers a truly comprehensive and enriching family holiday experience. Its commitment to blending luxury with genuine Fijian hospitality, coupled with its excellent facilities and dedicated children's programs, makes it a top-tier choice for families seeking an unforgettable escape to paradise.
Note: This is an independently created report based on publicly available review data and is not an official publication of the resort. All information is for planning purposes. You should check with the resort to confirm any details in this report before booking your holiday.
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