In order to provide the best resort hospitality, strong storytelling has always been a key element. Guests are invited to take part in unique experiences that they would not be able enjoy anywhere else. This may seem obvious, but in reality the creation and maintenance of programming that supports this sense of place takes a lot of work as well as a passion for continual property evolution.
We now turn our attention to Fiji, an archipelago country located in the South Pacific. OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort The island of Viti Levu is taking incredible steps to deliver on its promise of a place-based experience. This includes localized activities that appeal to modern demands for flexible spaces, and a full-fledged commitment to environmental protection.
We met the General Manager on our journey Darren Shaw Who can explain all of this better than us as passers-by? We discussed several important global trends before diving into the interview.
Multigenerational travel: Having children-oriented facilities and amenities – as commonly ascribed to a ‘Kids Club’ – is becoming a central element to attract young families. But the word ‘multigenerational’ also implies grandparents or extended family gatherings or other small social groups that all want private spaces to experience some moments – like a private chef dinner – only to themselves. Hotels are responding to the new Plantation Pool Bures by offering multi-bedroom villas, bungalows, and cottages. These include private landscaped pools and butler services.
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Biophilic design: With the concept of ‘nature therapy’ – also known as forest bathing or shinrin-yoku in Japanese – becoming table stakes, guests want to be immersed in sights, sounds and smells of the tropics, a forest, the desert or practically anywhere else unencumbered by the angular, claustrophobic manifestations of modern civilization. The Resort View Courtyards are a new feature at OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort. They have been designed as a peaceful sanctuary that includes indigenous plants and glass-covered extensions. There is also a lounge area to relax in while listening to birdsong.
Cultural Immersion As the very name ‘Outrigger’ suggests, guests to these properties are metaphorically canoed off to a distant land where the hurried urban life takes a backseat to learning about the Melanesian and Polynesian peoples that first traversed the mighty Pacific. The concept of a sense of place is reinforced by authentic local activities, which allow families to form memories and share experiences together.
As a preamble to our interview, we’ll tell you how the property worked to implement these three trends.
Fiji has a strong sense place. How do you immerse guests into the local story from arrival to departure to fulfill OUTRIGGER’s ‘Come Be Here’ promise?
From the moment guests arrive at OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort, they’re immersed in heartfelt Fijian hospitality that reflects our ‘Come Be Here’ promise. A traditional bula welcoming, warm smiles, harmonious singing and chilled iced Tea are offered to guests.
Guests will experience a cultural journey that is authentic and rich with experiences such as kava ceremonies. Meke performances, storytelling, and fire walking are all part of the stay. Our Talai Butlers also lead immersive workshops on weaving, kokoda cooking and language.
Designed tours of local villages, pottery centres and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, which are located outside the resort, provide a connection with Fiji and its people. OZONE, our coral planting program, invites guests and locals to work together to conserve the reef. Daily rituals like our torches lighting ceremony also highlight Fiji’s rich traditions.
As guests depart, we send them off with the emotional ‘Isa Lei’ farewell song and warm personal goodbyes, often creating lifelong bonds.
Pool villas have become popular because they combine privacy with all the amenities you could want, while still being close to other facilities. How did the team develop the Plantation Pool Bures under your guidance?
Plantation Pool Bures is inspired by traditional Fijian bures. These villas combine modern luxury and indigenous charm with handcrafted local art. They feature natural materials, lush tropical gardens, and native art. Each bure comes with its own private swimming pool and spacious outdoor area. It is a tranquil retreat, just a few steps from the resort amenities and beach.
We elevated the guest experience further with Talai Butler service, which includes everything from welcome cocktails and daily canapés to personalized unpacking service and cultural touchpoints. Enjoy floating breakfasts, private balcony dining or the Fijian spirit with floating breakfasts and private balcony dining.
Discuss how you are addressing the growing trend of multi-generational or family travel.
These Courtyards at Resort View are designed with the family in mind. These units are on the ground floor and offer interconnecting bedrooms, perfect for multigenerational travel. There’s plenty of room for play and relaxation with the generous interior space of 47 square meters and a private courtyard and lawn measuring 19 square metres. Configurable bedding options – like king beds with sofa beds or two double beds – comfortably accommodate families with children. Their convenient location near the restaurants, kids’ club, and pool means that everything is easily accessible, so both kids and parents can enjoy a stress free vacation.
We often overlook how important it is to engage children in order to influence booking decisions as well as foster lifelong loyalty. Tell us about the floating playground.
Our three-looped water slide and floating playground are popular, but the OUTRIGGER Adventure Park also offers paintball and archery, as well as a driving range and a golf course. Our kids’ club offers creative and educational programs for younger children, while teens can enjoy their own special programs.
Virtual Mindflight VR offers an immersive digital experience for downtime and rainy days. We also introduce younger guests to Fijian culture through craftmaking, coral planting, storytelling and cooking classes with our chefs – helping them connect with the island in fun and lasting ways.
Island resorts are not only a great place for couples to enjoy a peaceful seclusion but they are also excellent at creating a sense of community among their guests. Can you describe a program that facilitates these connections?
We love to foster connections, especially with solo travelers who are now a growing segment. On Thursdays we host a VIP Cocktail Party where guests enjoy tropical cocktails and live entertainment. Cultural excursions – like village visits and our coral planting program – create shared experiences that are both meaningful and memorable.
Fiji’s climate action is becoming renowned around the world, and it all revolves around Loloma Hour. This hour includes a diverse range of cultural and environmental preservation activities. What are the sustainability programs at your resort?
At OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort, sustainability is more than a responsibility. It’s our way of life. Through the OZONE initiative guests can actively take part in coral planting, marine education and helping restore the reef.
Our weekly ‘Loloma Hour’ is a blend of environmental and cultural stewardship, including tree planting, beach cleanups and storytelling. We’ve replaced single-use amenity bottles by refillable alternatives and installed a water bottling factory in-house. We support local projects and prioritize local sourcing. Our mangrove restoration project in partnership with UNA Fiji is a standout. In two years, over 10,000 mangroves were planted to help protect coastal ecosystems.
What is the resort’s wellness philosophy?
Bebe Spa Sanctuary features signature treatments that are rooted in Fijian healing traditions. The popular Romantic Discovery Package, for couples, includes a Pure Fiji Bath, massages, and indulgent touches such as champagne and fruit, served with panoramic ocean views. Also available are outdoor yoga sessions, torch-lighting ceremonies and cultural activities like basket weaving and kokoda. Bure Ni Loloma offers a beautiful setting for couples to renew their vows. Wellness here is about restoring balance – physically, emotionally and culturally.
How will you coordinate sales, marketing and operations with Castaway Island and other international brands?
Castaway Island’s alignment with the global OUTRIGGER is seamless. We have a centralized sales and marketing strategy that ensures consistent messaging for the brand while customizing local campaigns. Together, we take part in global roadshows as well digital promotions and tradeshows. In terms of operations, we share best practices, train our staff and promote sustainability across all properties. We also offer multi-resort packages that encourage travelers to explore both OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island – delivering a well-rounded experience that embodies the spirit of the OUTRIGGER brand.
Are there any final words before saying goodbye?
Guided by ‘The OUTRIGGER Way’, our philosophy of caring for our hosts, guests and the places we call home, every detail is crafted to foster a deep sense of connection. Our heartfelt greetings, culturally rich activities and environmental stewardship all contribute to a sense of place. This spirit of genuine hospitality ensures that our guests not only leave relaxed but also enriched, carrying with them warmth, culture, and aloha from Fiji for long after their trip ends.
