Barefoot Manta Island Resort

Location: Drawaqa Naviti Island , Drawaqa Island, fj

Star Rating: 9 Stars

Property Type: Resorts

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Amenities & Facilities

• Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
• Non-smoking rooms
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Family rooms
• Luggage storage
• Safety deposit box
• Fax/photocopying
• Tour desk
• Packed lunches
• Currency exchange
• Darts
• Board games/puzzles
• Shuttle service (additional charge)
• Kid meals
• Public transport tickets
• Evening entertainment
• Entertainment staff
• Outdoor furniture
• Fruits
• Fire extinguishers
• Smoke alarms
• CCTV outside property
• 24-hour security
• Happy hour
• Bingo
• Supervised childcare/activities
• Television in common areas
• Free wired internet
• Snack bar/deli
• Scuba diving on site
• Snorkeling on site
• Private beach nearby
• Internet access
• Housekeeping on request
• Concerts/live shows
• Private picnics
• Wine release events
• Japanese garden
• Water sports equipment
• Beach club nearby (surcharge)
• Hosted evening meal (reserve)
• Beach toys
• Charcoal grill
• Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
• Vegetarian menu options available
• Paddle boating nearby
• Accessible shuttle
• No accessible shuttle

Rooms Available

• VAI (Manta Ray) Beach Dorm Girls Only

  1 Twin Bunk Bed

  258-sq-foot room with garden views

  
  

  Sleep - Bed sheets

  Bathroom - Shared bathroom and towels

  Practical - Access to in-room childcare

  Comfort - Daily housekeeping and ceiling fan

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 1 (1 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ceiling fan
  • In-room childcare (surcharge)
  • Bedsheets provided

• VAI (Manta Ray) Beach Dorm

  1 Twin Bunk Bed

  258-sq-foot room with garden views

  
  

  Sleep - Bed sheets

  Bathroom - Shared bathroom and towels

  Practical - Access to in-room childcare

  Comfort - Daily housekeeping and ceiling fan

  Need to Know - Shared accommodations

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 1 (1 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ceiling fan
  • In-room childcare (surcharge)
  • Shared accommodation
  • Bedsheets provided

• Vai (Manta Ray) Dorm

  This bed in dormitory has a garden view and private entrance.

  Max Occupancy: 1 (1 Adults)

  • Fan
  • Shared toilet
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Trash cans
  • Socket near the bed
  • Lockers
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

• Beachfront Levu (Large) Bure

  This 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.

  Max Occupancy: 5 (4 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Private entrance
  • Sofa
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Terrace
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Sofa bed
  • Trash cans
  • Cots
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Window

• Beachfront Adi (Queen) Bure

  This 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.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Trash cans
  • Cots
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Window

• Vai (Manta Ray) Dorm Girls Only

  This bed in dormitory features a private entrance.

  Max Occupancy: 1 (1 Adults)

  • Fan
  • Shared toilet
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Trash cans
  • Socket near the bed
  • Lockers
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

• Beachfront Yanuyanu (Island) Bure

  The 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.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (2 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Trash cans
  • Cots
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

Guest Reviews

• Milan (10/5): Come here during manta season in June, July. - New bure and 3 beaches. Information that from April mantas visible but manta season starts in June, July. Chanell snorkeling without mantas is for nothing but tou pay 109 FJD.
• Alina (7/5): Das sollte man wissen - Die Lage des Barefoot Manta Island Resort ist wirklich wunderschön. Die Insel bietet drei traumhafte Strände und die gesamte Umgebung wirkt wie ein echtes Unterwasserparadies. Schnorcheln und die Natur sind definitiv Highlights der Reise. Unser Mehrbettzimmer war insgesamt völlig in Ordnung. Die Gemeinschaftsbäder und Toiletten wurden regelmäßig gereinigt und waren sauber, was überhaupt kein Problem war. Besonders positiv fanden wir die vielen kostenlosen Aktivitäten wie Schnorcheln, Tauch-Schnupperkurse, Kochkurse, Kava-Zeremonien und weitere Programme. Dadurch wird einem neben dem Entspannen auch einiges geboten. Wichtig zu wissen ist: Ohne Tour sieht man keine Manta Rays (Mantarochen). Der Zugang zur „Manta-Passage“ ist nicht frei zugänglich, sondern man muss eine geführte Tour buchen, die etwa 109 FJD pro Person kostet. Nur mit dieser Tour hat man überhaupt die Chance, die Mantas zu sehen. Das Essen war für unseren Geschmack sehr einfach gehalten, besonders im Verhältnis zum Preis von ca. 159 FJD pro Person und Tag. Hier hätten wir deutlich mehr Qualität und Auswahl erwartet. Außerdem war die Organisation beim Essen oft chaotisch und es war teilweise schwierig, gemeinsam einen Tisch zu bekommen, da bestimmte Plätze scheinbar für Gäste aus privaten Unterkünften reserviert wurden. Die Duschen waren leider ebenfalls ein großer Minuspunkt. Der Wasserdruck war sehr schwach und die Temperatur ließ sich kaum regulieren. Entweder war das Wasser viel zu heiß oder eiskalt, und manchmal kam kaum Wasser heraus. Handtücher haben wir trotz Buchung zunächst nicht bekommen und erst am letzten Tag erhalten, als wir sie eigentlich nicht mehr gebraucht haben. Deshalb unbedingt eigene Handtücher mitbringen. Auch die Cocktails fanden wir überteuert. Die angebliche Happy Hour wirkte wenig sinnvoll, da die Preise kaum günstiger waren als die regulären Cocktailpreise. Außerdem hatten wir teilweise das Gefühl, dass Gäste aus Mehrbettzimmern anders behandelt werden als Gäste aus privaten Bungalows oder Doppelzimmern. Die Freundlichkeit wirkte oft eher aufgesetzt als wirklich herzlich, wodurch wir uns nicht komplett wohlgefühlt haben.
• Nina (7/5): - Amazing location, kind locals, lots of activities! In the evening there forms a line for the showers and they are not the best tbh. I understand that pressure is low due to the location but they were not the cleanest and there is almost no space to put your stuff (also with the hangers they did not think of smaller people haha could not reach it at all). For some reason I got the feeling that they’re making a difference between people staying in dorms and private rooms.
• Ella (7/5): Nice stay - Loved all the beach options, helps if it’s windy (which it was) and you can pick and choose which one to go too. Hiking options are good, took me only 20 minutes to reach the 3rd lookout. Snorkelling is gorgeous here. Just be aware that when the tide is out there is not heaps of options to swim. Restaurant is a tad chaotic. There is no system at all, it’s confusing and sometimes it takes a very long time for food to come. Meals are very average, and there aren’t heaps of options, but breakfast is good. Most staff were lovely but one in particular said some really strange stuff and it was off putting.
• JULIE (4/5): Terrible food. Great reef. - Location and beautiful reef The food was absolutely terrible and cost $159 per person each day. Meal after meal was inedible, with every meal tasting like a cup of sugar had been added. Food choices were very limited and you had to choose your next meal before eating your current meal i.e choose your lunch before eating breakfast. I have stayed at several places in the Yasawas, including places with much cheaper meal plans that served tasty simple dishes that were easily enjoyed. I also reported to the property that someone had obtained all of my booking details and kept threatening to cancel my stay unless I clicked on a link via WhatsApp. The property said that the reservations officer would speak to me. Despite reminders, no one followed up at all.
• Dina (7/5): -
• Minxiang (10/5): - The corals are beautiful, the location is great, and the staff are happy and warm. Special thanks to Jeni and Robin, who helped us arrange a transfer boat—very helpful.
• Sara (9/5): - The layed back environment was fantastic but most of all the staff were amazing. Kind , happy, always making sure we were OK and looked after. Tom was particularly good. Loved it all
• VHLZ11 (9/5): - Merci à toute l'équipe du resort, dynamique, au service des clients et toujours le sourire aux lèvres. Cette belle équipe forme en plus une chorale magnifique dont nous avons pu profiter. Situation est - ouest idéale pour le snorkeling. Repas copieux et de bonne qualité. Pas de wifi dans les chambres n'est pas acceptable au vu du prix payé. Même si les repas sont de bonne qualité, le montant de la pension complète imposée est bien trop cher.
• Aideen (8/5): Throughly enjoyable - We loved Epi!! He was so friendly, knowledgeable and provided great entertainment. The food was good. We appreciated the tea and coffee facilities left out all day. We would have loved an afternoon snack/pastry left out to have with a cup of tea.
• Gábor (10/5): - Csodalatos house reef, termeszet, hangulat.
• Lasse Hein (10/5): -
• Callie (10/5): We would recommend Barefoot to anyone who loves the ocean and wants authenticity. - What a peaceful, happy place. Barefoot is owned and run by the locals, who are so caring and generous. We loved that we felt we were living their way of life, rather than the same vibe of many other big commercial resorts. The highlight had to be the beautiful coral and thousands of fish species we swam with each day. The food package should be included in the initial cost, rather than as an add on. There’s no fridge or way to supply your own food, so it’s not really possible to stay at Barefoot without the food package.
• Rebecca (5/5): Unreal snorkelling but I wouldn’t return. - This was the only hostel/dorm stay I booked, because I heard the rooms are great - which they are. Comfortable beds and facilities, and the snorkelling was the best I’ve ever experienced - but the food service really ruined it for me :( The food service was a shambles and honestly took my score from what would have been about 7/10, to a 4/10. The restaurant is completely unorganised, and after staying at 4 other islands, I can say this one was by far the worst. One night I waited almost two hours for cold soup, and when I got my meal it was freezing so I didn’t eat that night - not great when their $159 meal plan is your only option. I would never return here!
• Mathilde (10/5): Incroyable - Un superbe séjour ! J’ai fêtés mes 30 ans dans ce resort et j’ai vraiment eu une attention spéciale le jour J, je m’en souviendrais. Le personnel est adorable, la nourriture excellente, les activités y sont nombreuses (gratuites et payantes). C’est calme, paisible et magnifique. Petit bémol pour les cocktails qui méritent d’être améliorer
• Nicolas Lucas (8/5): -
• Alexander (8/5): -
• Robert (9/5): Sehr schönes Resort mit Schönheitsfehlern bei der Betreuung - Das Resort liegt an einem paradiesischen Ort, mit drei Stränden, herrlichen Riffen zum Tauchen und einem Wanderweg zu schönen Aussichtspunkten. Das Tauchzentrum und die meeresbiologische Station sind sehr professionell und das Servicepersonal besonders freundlich, zuvorkommend und bemüht (zu letzterem später noch). Das Essen ist sehr vielfältig auswählbar und schmeckt sehr lecker. Insgesamt ein sehr schönes Resort, an dem man schon eine Weile verbringen kann. Das Personal ist wie gesagt sehr bemüht, schafft es aber nicht, das Essen einigermaßen koordiniert an die Gäste zu verteilen. Während später gekommene Gäste bereits beim Desert sind, wurden andere schon länger sitzende Gäste noch nicht mal zum Essen registriert. Hier ist viel mehr Koordination notwendig, oder man stellt generell auf Buffet um. Dass die Duschen und Toiletten für die Dorms nie ganz sauber sind, ist mit dem ständigen Reintragen von Sand noch erklärbar. Dass aber in fast keiner Dusche die Brausevorrichtung ganz und die Hygieneartikel komplett sind und teilweise während des Duschens das Wasser weg bleibt, ist einfach nur der schlampigen Pflege der Einrichtung zuzuschreiben. Das mag in einfachen Unterkünften entschuldbar sein, aber nicht mehr mit einer so überzogenen, obligatorischen Ressortgebühr.
• James (10/5): -
• Millie (6/5): - The marine biologists and dive team are great to have, they are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful Nice that they offer talks to learn more about the environment. Good sunset and sunrise views. Sunset bar is nice. Really great snorkelling. Sadly didn’t see mantas but great experience anyway. The food was pretty bad, especially for the price of the meal plan. Compared to other resorts both the selection and quality food here was awful. Rooms are very hot, a top sheet in the dorms isn’t provided just a blanket that didn’t seem clean. You have to ask for towels in the dorms, most of the time they don’t have any. Toilets are a bit gross and always smell. When I arrived the card machine was down and the whole times was there they had no change, so had to attempt multiple times to pay for anything. Staff don’t seem like they really want to be there. Only one beach has chairs/loungers which are all shaded and you’re not allowed to move into the sun.
• Peter (8/5): - 3 Strände, viele Aktivitäten angeboten, gutes Gefühl vermittelt mit Menüangebot In Zelten mit mehreren Menschen muss man sich gewöhnen
• Emily (10/5): Beautiful location and beautiful staff - The accommodation Limited activities
• Laetitia (10/5): Management and the staff are exceptional and made you feel like family - What an amazing setting and the underwater activities were great. The reef, fish life are all stunning!
• Laetitia (10/5): - Great location - amazing snorkelling and diving
• Tobias (1/5): - Nur die Insel selbst, die Gestaltung der Anlage und die vor den Stränden liegenden Hausriffe rechtfertigen einen Aufenthalt hier (aber wir bewerten hier ja nicht die Natur, sondern die Unterkunft inkl. ihrer Services). Der Service, das Essen und das Management lassen jedoch mehr als zu wünschen übrig. Wie in vielen anderen Resorts auf den Yasawas muss auch hier ein verpflichtender Meal-Plan bezahlt werden, der mit 159FJD pro Person und Tag viel zu überteuert ist und das Essen selbst jegliche Qualität vermissen lässt. Das vorausgewählte Essen entspricht nur teilweise dem was bestellt wurde (anstatt Fisch im Sesammantel mit Risotto gab es ein hartes Stück Fisch auf nacktem Reis mit etwas brauner Soße), Currys sind total verwässert und fad (es gab Rindfleischstückchen, die in einem leicht bräunlich gefärbtem Wasser schwammen, ohne Gewürze, Kokosmilch o.Ä.) und Fischgerichte notorisch totgebraten. Kaum vorstellbar, dass die Köche und Angestellten den servierten Fraß selbst essen würden. Der Service insbesondere beim Dinner ist sehr unprofessionell. Manche Gäste werden sofort bedient, andere sitzen 20 Minuten am Tisch bis sie das erste Mal beachtet werden. Manche Gäste bekommen Brot, andere wieder nicht. Während man an der Rezeption wartet, gehen Scharen an Angestellten an einem vorbei, ohne sich für einen zu interessieren, ein Danke an Head of Barman, welcher sich dann erbarmt hat und nachgefragt hat. Während unseres Aufenthaltes wollten wir unsere Wäsche vom Laundry Service waschen lassen. Morgens abgegeben wurde uns zugesichert wir können sie am nächsten Tag abholen. Nachdem wir am nächsten Tag mittags nach der Wäsche fragten, wurde uns versichert sie hängt zum Trocknen (der Trockner sei wohl kaputt) und ist abends fertig. Abends nochmal an der Rezeption gefragt und uns wurde gesagt, die Wäsche sei in 30 Minuten abholbereit. Weitere 30 Minuten später wurde uns gesagt, sie sei erst am nächsten Morgen fertig, obwohl wir mehrmals darauf hingewiesen hatten, dass wir am Tag darauf abreisen und noch packen müssten. Nach mehrmaligen Fragen haben wir daraufhin am Abend noch einen Teil der Wäsche erhalten, der noch feucht war und auch nicht frisch gewaschen roch.
• Matt (9/5): -
• mjonasb (9/5): - Great and friendly staff, fantastic snorkelling and reef experience, loved the easy access to water activity equipment. The mandatory meal packages makes sense, but they are way overpriced for what was provided. The kids ate everything that was served (adult sized portions) but were still hungry between meals. My 13 year old daughter had to pay full price for her meals (AUD$100/day) which is excessive for a kid, and a lot for an adult, as drinks were excluded. WiFi was not available in our room, only in the communal areas.
• QUEENY (2/5): Won’t be staying here anymore. - The only thing I somewhat appreciated was the coral reef. Snorkeling was enjoyable, but after spending the day in the water, there is very little else to look forward to when the overall staying experience itself is disappointing. It quickly becomes boring when relaxation at the resort is not comfortable. I honestly found my stay at Barefoot Manta quite disappointing, especially considering the price paid. One thing that really surprised me was the property’s policy stating they are not liable for any lost items, yet the room assigned had no locker or secure storage at all. Guests are expected to take full responsibility for their belongings, which feels unreasonable when no proper security facility is provided. We were told valuables could be kept with management, but that raises another concern — if items were returned damaged or spoiled, who would then be responsible? The policy feels unfair and poorly thought through. Service was another major letdown. Compared to many other resorts I have stayed at, several staff members did not come across as warm or welcoming. Interactions often felt mechanical, as if they were simply completing assigned tasks rather than genuinely caring about guests’ experience. Some dive centre crew even appeared impatient when we asked questions, which made us feel uncomfortable rather than encouraged. Food quality was average at best despite paying over FJD 300+ for a two-night stay. During breakfast, food was left uncovered with flies flying around, which raised serious hygiene concerns. Unfortunately, no staff seemed to address this situation. Room facilities were extremely basic — only one charging outlet was available, and no mosquito repellent was provided even though the accommodation is largely open-air. This made nights quite uncomfortable. In comparison to other resorts like Navutu, where thoughtful amenities are prepared for guests, the difference in comfort level was very noticeable. What makes it harder to accept is that at this price point, guests are essentially staying in a tent, which feels quite unreasonable. It gives the impression that comfort has been minimized while maximizing profit from tourists.
• Wez (10/5): Perfect getaway. - Great staff, awesome facilities and food, beautiful beaches and coral to explore! Definitely will be back soon. Nothing.
• Emma (1/5): UNSAFE for those with specific dietary needs. Needs new management ASAP. - The location - the beaches and reefs are incredible. Guided snorkel was wonderful. Night snorkel - AMAZING!!!! I loved the location, and would go back for a day visit only. The resort package - an additional compulsory charge of $159FJD/Adult/Day includes water activities and food. The resort will tell you they can cater to your dietary requirements but this is false and misleading. You send requirements well in advance, yet no preempting of meal planning to suit. You are asked to order from menu that has no suitable options, then you have ask for certain omissions & clarify your dietary requirements each and every time - for your meal to arrive containing food you cant eat. I understand a mistake here there, but this happened for 65% of ordered meals. Breakfast has no labels to indicate what is in what - Staff have no idea. I ask for vegan and they bring me gluten-free, which I try and explain gluten-free bread usually has egg in it. They always bring the child's meal out fifteen minutes after the adults. Dinner is 7-9. Too late for kids. Most of the food was unbelievably dry and tough. The drinking water IS NOT SAFE - they will tell you on arrival that it is safe - but when I said it caused diarrhea, the manager said that is normal and happens. Well if the water causes diarrhea - don't say its safe. I'd buy bottled water the whole stay if you had told me that at the start. Nothing is ever clean, the plates and cutlery are filthy. No hand wash basin available at the restaurant. On arrival - One bed had bottom sheet, top sheet, one kids bed had bottom sheet & blanket and then the other kids bed had bottom sheet - we were missing two top sheets and two blankets. Reception gave me two top sheets and said they had to go find blankets - which they delivered to the room half hour later. You think if you forgot to fully make the beds, you would have a staff member come and make the beds not make me do it. Mattresses un-comfy, and mine had a big dent in one side.
• Verinder (9/5): A lively property on a super location. - The best house reef we’ve ever snorkeled. Super staff, from Robin the Manager to the food service and grounds crews. The tent lodges need updating like the new bures facing Sunrise Beach.
• Victoria (9/5): -
• Apolline (8/5): Lovely resort, super friendly staff, excellent diving and snorkelling - The staff makes this very lace extra special, the activities are great especially the snorkelling. Also love how it is community lead resort Food has improved but could be a little bit better.
• Inge (7/5): -
• Lindsay (10/5): Amazing place! Highly recommend! - Loved the staff there! Always smiling and great with our kids. Beautiful reef, diving, snorkelling, and activities. Nothing
• Padilla (10/5): -
• Lindsay (10/5): -
• Heather (10/5): -
• Christina (10/5): - Alles top. Hab meine Zeit hier sehr genossen. Der Essensplan war sehr teuer, und man kann nicht weniger buchen.
• Linda (5/5): They need to figure out and observe food allergies. - 3 beaches, excellent snorkeling Nice outdoor shower No air conditioning Uncomfortable heavy wooden chairs Chaotic food service No understanding of gluten free food Robin, the manager, should take responsibility for the actions of his employees and not flee when confronted.
• MICHAEL (8/5): Fantastic will go back - The resort staff was fantastic. The dive center was phenomenal. Rooms were very. Clean and well kept Some of beach furniture was very worn. Food was good but wait times for table service was slow ( service of all members of our group (10). Improved over the stay
• Rebecca (8/5): Will be going back - The location was amazing and exactly as we expected. The staff all madea big effort to know us and were very responsive and helpful. The food was far better than we expected - lots of choices on the alecarte menu. Drinks were a bit expensive. Otherwise, everything was great.
• Greg (10/5): -
• Alison (10/5): Definitely coming back - The staff were so helpful ,Tom, Noon,Happy and all the diving staff and Peter. Loved that it was clean ,ethnic and not over the top flashy and as eco as possible. Staff amazing with children and respectful with older people. Lovely to see Robin around the place and know we could talk to him . Food was incredible and so generous. Maybe a herbal tea option Unfortunately the night dive was tough for us as the sea lice were nipping us lots. That's nature though and not your fault but just for the record.
• jessica (8/5): -
• Hamilton (10/5): - The manager Robin and all the staff made our stay unforgettable The food was hit and miss
• Hamish (6/5): Great location, stunning reef, sub optimal facilities for the price - Location and staff excellent Food was very pour for the price, food hygiene questionable.
• Corey (9/5): -
• Mia Sofie (8/5): -
• Michael (10/5): The perfect island retreat - It truly is an island paradise, From the moment we stepped out of the boat until the time we were sadly waving goodbye, the staff (and Mr Tom above all others) did everything possible to make sure we had the best possible experience.The Dive School and Marine Science Centre staff were all excellent - they seem to remember everyone's names after the first encounter - and really made our holiday. The snorkelling is amazing and dive instructor Harry was very patient with me during the introductory scuba diving session (such that I got to complete the dive). The food service is a little haphazard as others have noted - despite pre-ordering meals we would often wait an hour for food to arrive and my wife's and my meals would often arrive 20 minutes apart. Forunately I was pre-warned by previous reviews so I didn't let this get to me but I can see how some people would be botherer by it. (During our stay a new appointee arrived to improve the efficiency of the food service so this will hopefully improve). Bar prices were reasonable considering you literally have no other options. Apart from the food delivery, we loved everything about the island/resort.
• Pauline (10/5): - Clean and comfortable rooms free eat location and great range of free activities
• Krause (9/5): Tolle Unterkunft - Essen sehr lecker, aber eher teuer - Das Ambiente ist fantastisch und der Strand ist wirklich schön gelegen. Dies war der einzige Ort im gesamten Pazifik, an dem ich beim Schnorcheln bisher gesunde Korallen sehen konnte. Auch die Fischwelt war beeindruckend. Das Essen war sehr gut, einzig der Preis dafür etwas hoch. Der Dorm ist völlig ausreichend, allerdings recht warm. Habe aber nette Leute dort kennengelernt. Das Essen war recht teuer, da man keine Alternative auf der Insel hat und daher den Meal Plan kaufen muss. Zudem ist das WLAN eher mäßig. Wirklich gutes Internet hat man nirgendwo und in den Schlafräumen hat man quasi gar kein Netz.
• John (9/5): - If you like snorkeling and tropical islands, this place is paradise. They take exception care of their local reef.
• Astrid (10/5): -
• Daniel (8/5): - Fantastic location with excellent snorkeling from the beaches on all sides. Diving is great as well. The reefs are amazing. The whole facility is very picturesque and everything is swept from leafs to perfection each morning. Staff is very welcoming and friendly! The resort is simple, no air conditioning anywhere and the food is basic. The pros outweigh the cons but be aware and set exceptions accordingly.
• Clementine (8/5): Authentic and beautiful, with gorgeous snorkelling around and short hikes with stunning views. Food not great - Hidden in vegetation, possibility to do short hikes, snorkeling amazing Food is not great
• Elaine (8/5): If you want a true Fijian experience and to learn about the conservation, this is a wonderful worthwhile opportunity. - The staff at Barefoot Manta are so nice. I truly felt part of the family. We enjoyed Fiji night celebration drinking cava. Sarah was so helpful taking me out snorkeling and helping me overcome being nervous. The food is great.
• Michael (10/5): Würde wieder hingehen - Top Lage , 3 Strände zur Auswahl , too Essen . Tollee Hike zum viewpoint Bin leider ziemlich verstochwn worden , da die Unterkunft sehr natürlich ist , viel sand und Palmen , daher kein Abzug
• Malin (10/5): Otroligt! - Helt fantastisk paradisö, så prisvärd, fantastisk snorkling, personal, stränder, aktiviteter, mat! Allt var toppen! Vi alla var supernöjda! Om man får önska, så hade vattentrycket i duscharna kunnat vara bättre, och om möjligheten finns hade det varit gott om någon yoghurt hade funnits på frukosten :)
• Sarafina (9/5): - I had the most incredible stay at this resort in Fiji! Everything was just perfect, from the delicious food to the amazing range of activities. The island itself is breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters, nice beaches with amazing views, and a breathtaking barrier reef that you'll never forget. I loved every moment, whether I was snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the beach. But what truly made the experience special were the people. Every staff member was so warm, welcoming, calling you by name (which is always taken for granted) and genuinely kind, they made me feel at home from the very first day. Their smiles and hospitality captured the true spirit of Fiji. I can’t recommend this place enough. If you’re looking for paradise combined with authentic Fijian warmth, this is it. I’ll definitely be coming back! Vinaka :)
• Federica (8/5): - Il posto è magnifico e lo staff e molto cordiale Mancanza di qualche attività serale
• Daniel (10/5): Will visit again. - The staff were very accommodating and knowledgeable.
• Radhika (8/5): -
• Justine (2/5): Mauvaise expérience, déception totale - Les plages donnent sur le coucher du soleil et sur le lever du soleil. La connexion wifi est excellente. Le staff est agréable. On se demande à quoi sert le personnel, la communication est médiocre. 139$ pour un meal plan obligatoire : presque aucune option sans gluten au petit déjeuner (tartines et œufs) ça fait un peu cher, le repas du soir tellement épicé que c’est impossible à manger. Pour le prix on s’attend quand même à ce que la qualité des repas soit bonne et variée. De plus, je me suis sentie malade le lendemain. On vient me demander si j’ai payé ma boisson alors que c’est eux qui me doivent le change. D’autres resorts proposent des meals plans moins chers et beaucoup plus variés et adaptés aux allergies alimentaires. Les douches sont sales, on baigne dans de l’eau stagnante, le jet d’eau est quasi inexistant. Le dortoir n’est certes pas cher mais vraiment inconfortable. Soit disant on vous aide avec vos bagages pour le Check-out, donc en fais si je ne vais pas vérifier et l’apporter moi-même à la réception il reste là. Pour le prix, il y a d’autres resort aux alentours qui proposent des activités similaires, donc considérer bien votre choix avant de booker le Barefoot Manta.
• Hannah (10/5): Beautiful location, food, staff and room. 10/10 Experience. - The breakfast buffet was delicious and had so much variety. The staff were all lovely and went out of their way to help and make us feel comfortable, special shout out to Mr Tom who was amazing.
• Lilly (7/5): -
• Harleymay (8/5): Great resort stay! - This is a great resort, stayed in the girls only bunk beds- there were drawers under the bottom bunks and charging ports in the tent. Also the toilets/showers were only a short walk behind the tent. There was 3 beaches and the food here was amazing! Lovely cooked meals and there is always water available in the main area. The staff are so friendly and there’s lots of activities to do- the free trials of scuba and snorkelling are excellent. I did pay for the night dive and Bio Marine tour which was good as they was a deal on. Staff are super engaging during the activities and you can tell they are invested and care a lot about what they’re doing. Some of the activities were a bit pricey but you don’t have to do them.
• Laura (8/5): Incredible value for money - The location was incredible!! Incredible snorkelling right off the island! Amazing value for money!! Bit of miscommunication between the staff; we weren’t provided towels for the first 2 days on the island, were brought incorrect drink orders and food orders, bit difficult for someone with dietary issues
• Eiden (10/5): - I really enjoyed snorkeling in the sea, but of course also the friendly staff at the resort. I haven't been able to find any defects.
• Fabiola (8/5): - Easy access to house reef, tasty food. Clean rooms. Nice staff!
• Adnan (6/5): Come to snorkel and dive with beautiful corals, don't expect the comforts of a commercial resort. - Amazing snorkeling off either of the 3 beaches. The most accessible for snorkeling was sunrise beach, the other two are only available at high tide. Amazing dive staff and marine biologists, you get to learn a lot via their daily talks about the reef etc. They have done an beautiful job growing and maintaining the corals right off the beach. If you are a keen diver/snorkeler, then this is the place to be. 8/10 for the water activities. None of the rooms have air con and I didn't see that until we were on the way there. While the room is sea breeze + fan cooled, it can still get a but muggy. If you are someone that gets very hot, this is a major point to consider. Food was average/below average. It was simply a means to an end. Very basic and lacked any real flavor. We were here for new years and while staff tried to create a good environment, it looked like they were trying to make games and quiz questions up on the go. If it wasn't for the water activities which is primarily what we went to this resort for, the rating would be a lot lower.
• Vicki (4/5): - Great location, easily one of the best coral reefs I've seen. Fijian staff were warm and welcoming. Fijian buffet dinners were amazing. Marine talks and the manta channel snorkel were great. Beautiful views from the lookout hike. Bure couldn't be secured, no lock or safe but there were some old lockers at the kitchen area. Room service was patchy, we were treated as though it was an imposition to request dry towels. No hot water in the bure shower or communal showers. General meals were pub / hostel quality, the sample menu shown on their website didn't reflect our experience. Limited dive offerings, no dive packages. Resort could improve intro guidance on access to reefs, there was no map in the bure only at the main channels. Saw other guests away from the channels walking straight out across the corals at low tide.
• Leonie (9/5): -
• Christina (8/5): - Beautiful staff and I loved the way the culture is integrated into the resort. Rustic feel and spread out over 3 lovely snorkelling/swimming beaches which suited me great. Nice selection of drinks, all meals where spot on.
• Pablo (10/5): - Excellent vibes and very nice place
• Susanne (9/5): -
• Jefferson (10/5): A wonderful place - This is a magic place to visit. The location is extraordinary, the staff are wonderful, and the food is delicious. Everything was great. But please understand this is not luxury accommodation - but it is very comfortable.
• Julien (10/5): -
• Dayna (10/5): Beautiful staff and snorkelling right off the beach - perfect for a mix of relaxing and water activities. - Beautiful tropical grounds - very well kept by all the staff. My bure felt like it was on a private beach and I loved laying in the hammock each day. The beaches were perfect - able t walk straight into the ocean for a reef snorkel. Staff were incredible - especially Tom (host), Saki (dive master) and Ase who helped book ferries for me on my day of departure after my helicopter transfer cancelled last minute. She even followed up later in the afternoon to confirm iI’d made it to my next hotel safely. Will definitely be back during Manta season!! Not an issue for me - but in hotter weather it could get quite warm in the rooms without aircon. Fans and the ocean breeze were perfect for me!
• Maéva (7/5): - Langsame Bedienung ! Sonst völlig in Ordnung !
• Samundra (10/5): Highly recommend - This was an amazing stay! Staff went above and beyond with everything ☺️ and my private Bure - was beautiful, Spaicous and with a private front beach and outdoor shower which I loved. It was also very social! Which is great if you’re a solo traveller, I could of easily extended my stay
• Anne (10/5): -
• Katharina (8/5): - Personal war immer freundlich, zuvorkommend. Gutes Angebot an Schnorchel und Tauch Aktivitäten. Essen war sehr lecker. Die Sanitäranlagen waren ab und zu sehr dreckig. Vielleicht sollten diese regelmäßiger kontrolliert werden. Am Anfang gab es leider ein hin und her mit den Zimmern. Hier habe ich mir bessere Kommunikation gewünscht.
• Mikaela (9/5): Loved the authenticity and back to basics living - Staff were very friendly and helpful. I was a bit worried reading past reviews about the food given I am a pescatarian but there was always seafood and vegetarian options and the meals were very well organised and coordinated by staff. Snorkelling was amazing and best I have ever seen, particularly between Manta and Sunrise beach. Lots of activities on offer and loved to hear about the conservation stuff Sand definitely enters the room very easily. There was a broom we used to minimise this but it’s inevitable. There are no ways to lock your room or safe for your valuables inside the room. We weren’t too concerned but some might be.
• Juan Marcos (10/5): HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. YOU WON'T REGRET IT - Highly recommended. We truly loved it and we already want to come back. Everyone is so nice and polite, the people are the best, and the beaches are incredible. Our bedroom was just 10 steps from the beach! Totally dreamy. We did night snorkelling, diving, and snorkelling with mantas; everything was amazing. The experience of swimming with mantas is unbelievable and respectful to them at the same time. There are also several free activities during the day that are really enjoyable. The food is good and well-sized. We’ll be back for sure. Absolutely nothing!
• Jennifer (9/5): - Outstanding location, with the best snorkeling I have ever done, lovely staff, great facilities, pretty good meals. So happy with our choice.
• Katy (9/5): Beautiful island, incredible reefs and wonderful staff! - Absolutely wonderful stay here. Our room was stunning and we loved the outdoor shower! Really enjoyed the marine conservation talks - particularly the shark talk led by Harry. Mr Tom was marvellous and made us feel like family. The reef on sunrise beach was absolutely incredible. We saw so much there including reef sharks! Nothing really! I would say that compared to some of the other islands we stayed in, the food was not AS good, but still very nice!!!!
• Mara (10/5): -
• Thomas (7/5): - Staff were all very polite, friendly, and helpful. Food tastes ok, nothing amazing. Could do with a little more organisation for meal times.
• Georgia (8/5): - I loved the staff and thought they were so interactive and looked after us so well. I LOVED the seafood pasta, it was my favourite food I ate of all time! The dorms were comfortable and nice The showers could have been designed better, however it didn’t take away from the experience. It felt like an on the beach shower, which was fine but is the only negative I can describe from my stay! Everything else was amazing
• Maria Rachelle (9/5): - The staff were all so friendly and motivated, you could tell that they all enjoy working there. Beautiful location with three beachfronts. Cute rooms with outdoor shower and own hammocks and chairs outside. Cool activities. Great for snorkeling and they spread environmental awareness with their marine lab. We didnt like that there was no way to lock our rooms/huts and the food could be maybe a little tastier (but portions were always generous, effort has been put into presentation, loved the infused rice, and on the Fidji night saturday buffet the food was super delicious). That wouldnt stop us from going to Barefoot Manta again though, it was great overall.
• Ryan (10/5): Incredible and welcoming stay at Barefoot Manta - Incredible stay at Barefoot Manta. The staff were so welcoming and made us feel at home. Amazing food and the activities were great. The night snorkel and manta snorkel in particular was amazing. Would definitely recommend staying! Nothing, it was excellent
• Lisa (8/5): Beautiful Barefoot Manta, a great location. - Great location. It was nice to be able to walk up to some viewpoints. The snorkeling was great. I enjoyed talking to the marine science people there. Their talks were very good. The Fijian staff were all very nice. I liked that they had hot water available. Our Bure was on the leeward side of the island, not much breeze there. The floors were not clean enough to go barefoot. It would be great if they had a broom for each Bure to deal with the sand. It would be great to have decent water to refill water bottles without having to buy plastic. I have allergies and the kitchen never seemed to get that right. The food was okay.
• Brigitte (10/5): -
• Norina (10/5): Perfection! - Paradise! Everything was amazing. Falling asleep to the sound of nature and the ocean, super friendly staff & great food. The 3 beaches are so beautiful. Snorkling and/or diving is a must at this place!
• Toni-Maree (8/5): Amazing Snorkeling - Amazing snorkeling. Beautiful coral and fish life. 3 beaches meant you always had somewhere to swim if it was windy. Staff very friendly and attentive. Good food and really interesting marine talks. Small hiking track with 3 lookouts perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset. Was hoping to see Mantas but it was the end of the season so knew I could miss out. It would have been nice to have a discounted price for subsequent bookings following unsuccessful trips like the neighbouring resort.
• cecilia maria (2/5): -
• Christine (9/5): Toller Schnorchelaufenthalt in einzigartiger Lage - Die Lage an 3 Stränden ist unschlagbar. Beste Schnorchelmöglichkeiten- unglaublich tolle Unterwasserwelt, gratis Schnorcheltour mit guide unbedingt zu empfehlen. Strände ohne Müll, hier wird wirklich auf den Schutz der Riffe/ Natur wertgelegt und man kann viel darüber erfahren! Kajaks und SUPs stehen gratis zur Verfügung, je nach Gezeiten. Blacktips waren vom Strand aus zu beobachten und auch beim Schnorcheln konnten wir gleich 3 kleine Haie sehen- ein wunderbares Erlebnis. Top Essen, zum Frühstück gab es zum Buffet frische Omeletts und Spiegeleier auf Wunsch, leider haben manche Gäste ins Buffet gegriffen und Sachen angefasst/ daran gerochen und sie wieder zurückgelegt- dafür kann das Resort nichts. Das Personal war sehr freundlich und zuvorkommend. Wer komplette Ruhe sucht ist hier nicht richtig, es kommen immer wieder größere Gruppen junger Leute, dafür ist das Resort auch ausgelegt, man vermittelt hier Wissen über die Unterwasserwelt und den Schutz der Riffe/ Arten was großartig ist. Uns hat nicht gefallen daß man vor Abreise in einem Fragebogen aufgefordert wurde Leute vom Personal die einem besonders positiv aufgefallen sind beim Namen zu nennen. Alle waren toll und freundlich und gut, es fühlt sich falsch an einzelne herauszupicken und ich denke für die Angestellten ist dies nicht schön und bringt Anspannung, als Gast denke ich dann daß die Freundlichkeit nicht authentisch ist sondern wegen der Bewertung vorgetäuscht werden muss. Einmal bekamen wir im Restaurant eine Zurechtweisung durch ein Mitglied der Taucherbase mit- was sich dann als nichtig herausstellte. Es war uns unangenehm dies als Gast mitkriegen zu müssen, Mitarbeitergespräche sollten nicht vor Gästen stattfinden.
• Luciano (10/5): - Posizione perfetta, un paradiso, staff gentile e ambiente familiare.
• Don (9/5): Barefoot Manta is delightful with a beautiful location, excellent snorkelling and wonderful staff. - Barefoot Manta was overall a delight. It was like being on Gilligan’s Island: low key and gentle without anything flashy or out of place. The experience was very enjoyable because of the overall atmosphere, plus the snorkelling was excellent. It is true that you can snorkel just off the beach and find an abundance of fish with many colourful varieties, and some live corals. The staff at Manta were lovely, helpful and friendly. Oh, and the singing was superb. The staff sing every day, actually more than once a day so a treat to look forward to often. The facilities were fine for the style of accommodation. The food was delicious and good qualities at each meal. Nice menu choices and well organised meal service, Maybe helpful to have a dark coloured bath mat or two to avoid dirtying the lovely little white one. It felt bad to not be able to keep things clean with all the dark sand. And a broom for the room to enable us to sweep each day to avoid too much sand accumulating.

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