Mamanuca's or Yasawa's?

I am planning a trip for a group of my friends, we are 5-10 girls about 30years old who want a week somewhere in Fiji in February 2014. I am currently doing some research as to where would be best to go for a group of girls who just want to relax and have fun and enjoy a week on a beautiful pacific island.

I have narrowed it down to wanting to stay somewhere in the Yasawa's or Mamanuca's, however I can't decide where we should go.

We are looking for fairly budget/dorm accommodation, however want somewhere really nice at the same time.

Preferably somewhere quick/easy to get to and to sightsee as I don't think we could all do any more than a week, but prepared to travel by boat to an island further away if it's worth going to.

Not sure about staying on the mainland, would like to stay somewhere that doesn't require a trip to an island so we can stay in one spot by a beautiful beach and clear seas. (Not to say that we can't do some day trips to other fantastic islands!)

So far I like the look of Octopus and Blue Lagoon. Not too sure about Beachcomber (We prefer relaxing and nature to partying).

Would really appreciate any recommendations, tips, or thoughts about where would be good, and any information. Thank you.

Octopus is a good choice.

Cheers,
Peter

Blue Lagoon Beach Resort is also very good. The spacious dorms there have 8 beds only (versus 12 or 14 in Octopus) and there are less bungalows as well, so less people and a tad less impersonal. But both are very good, with lovely staff, good food, loads of activities, good house reefs and beautiful beaches. Octopus shares the beach with Oarsmans Bay Resort, BL has the whole beach for itself. It takes longer to get to BL, as it is on the last island the Yasawa Flyer gets to.

You could'nt go wrong with any of these resorts. Have a good time!

Only went to the Mamanucas once but overall wasn't impressed-you'd do better following the hordes to the Yasawas.