Coral Coast- Fiji?

Hi guys.
I'm thinking of going to Fiji for 3/4 weeks around April. I've done a bit of research, and narrowed my accommodation down to 3, Beach Escape Villa's in Nadi, Horizon Backpackers in Nadi, and Raintree Lodge in Suva. So has anyone been to any of these? How were they? Also, I get the sense that the Coral Coast on the South is the nicest place for beaches, scuba, etc. Is this true, and is it much hassle to get there from Nadi or Suva. Also (sorry to go on), but the Yasawa islands look nice, but is it much of a hassle to get there, and what's the deal with "needing permission to enter the islands"? Thanks for your time

Just because the name is "Beach Escape" does not mean that it is actually ON the beach......
The Coral coast is a bus ride from Nadi or Suva. Spend a night or 2 in a variety of places, but don't miss the Yasawas if you want nice white beaches and blue water.

There is a ferry every day to all the Yasawa destinations. No "permission" required.

Cheers,
Peter

The "Coral Coast" was the area heavily promoted by the tourism industry back in the 1960's and 70's. The
result was that hordes of package tourists and others descended on this section of Viti Levu. The impact on the
reefs is what you would expect when so many people are visiting the same area. With so much time for your trip,
consider going offshore from Viti Levu to the Manamucas, where the beaches are gorgeous and the marine life
thriving. Transport is by boat. Another great option of getting to islands like Taveuni, Kadavu and Vanua Levu
(each has world-class skin diving) is Air Fiji's air-pass which allows you to fly to a number of islands within 30 days
for something around $300. there are lots of budget options on the outer islands, and the experience will be more
like the South Pacific dream you want to realize.

Going to Fiji for a month and giving the Yasawas a miss is a bit like going to Cairo and missing the Pyramids.

I agree. Wayasewa and Waya Islands are awesome-- thought they were part of Mamanucas. Actually they are Yasawa
Islands.

Question for Kenko.
Could you lend a hand on locating Fiji Air pass for domestic air travels. All my internet searches turn up that Air Fiji is out of business. Do they now exist under another name? You've convinced me to shorten my trip to the Coral Coast and take in some outer islands. Mahalo!

Not kenko but I'll answer. I flew Air Fiji on many an inter-island flight in July 2008 and shortly thereafter (thank goodness not when I was in the middle of flying) did they go under. So Pacific Sun which is now a subsidiary of Air Pacific, runs the domestic show and charges like they own the country (which it may well do!).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Fiji

Damn! There went a great deal to see several of the outer islands away from Viti Levu. In May 2009, Air Fiji
suspended operations permanently. The best destinations without breaking the bank are boating
to the Yasawas or flying to Savusavu on Vanua Levu. The main point I'd make is that after all the effort
and expense travellers make in initially getting to Fiji- be sure to visit islands other than Viti Levu if you want to
have the incredible South Pacific experience you probably had in mind.