Rainbow Reef, Bligh Waters, Beqa Lagoon. Great Astrolabe... Fiji's most famous dive destination. But did you know that there's another equally amazing side to Fiji diving that's rarely mentioned?

The Great Sea Reef stretches for more than 120 miles along the remote northern coast of Vanua Levu island. It is the world's third-longest barrier reef, encompassing nearly 80,000 square miles of pristine coral ecosystems. There are few roads and even fewer settlements along the shores, and only one dive resort.

Nukubati Great Sea Reef resort in Fiji

Nukubati is an off-grid, eco-luxe resort located on its namesake private island. Getting to the resort is a three-step process that begins with a commuter flight from Nadi's international airport, followed by a van transfer and a short boat ride. With just five beachfront bures, Nukubati earns high marks for its family-like hospitality and relaxed atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the region's traditional cultural heritage with kava ceremonies, singing, and storytelling sessions.

The resort maintains a deep commitment to sustainability through the use of solar power, rainwater harvesting, waste reduction, and wastewater recycling. Bures feature traditional open Fijian designs with louvered walls that catch natural cooling sea breezes and eliminate the need for energy-hungry air conditioning. As a result of this and other design elements and efficiencies, the resort is 99 percent self-sustaining. Rooms are free of televisions, phones, and other electronic distractions, while providing amenities such as a minibar, ceiling fans, and hair dryers.

A vibrant traditional Fijian feast showcases fresh local flavors, tropical fruits, grilled fish, and colorful island ingredients

The resort's Pavilion restaurant features upscale farm-to-table dining utilizing fresh local seafood, fruits, and vegetables drawn from an on-site organic garden. Guests enjoy a wine cellar, two bars, spa services, a library, tennis, volleyball, sailing, paddle boards, fishing, snorkeling, beach picnics, and traditional tatavu feast nights.

The on-site Great Sea Reef Divers is a PADI facility operated by Leone Vokai, a local Fijian diver who pioneered the exploration of the reef. A majority of the dive staff are recruited from local villages and share a deep understanding of the reef and its inhabitants. The dive team organizes small-group trips and often explores untouched areas where new discoveries are continually made rather than focusing on a fixed list of dive sites.

A striking lionfish glides above Fiji’s vibrant coral reef in the pristine waters of the Great Sea Reef.

In addition to extensive areas of shallow reefs that include 75 percent of Fiji's coral species, the reef features walls, canyons, swim-throughs and tidal channels. Rewarding and exciting underwater experiences are matched to each diver's interests and abilities. The reef's excellent overall health and robust fish populations are further enhanced by a series of marine protected zones. Larger reef species and pelagic marine life are also in abundance, including white-tip, grey reef, and hammerhead sharks, spinner and bottlenose dolphins, eagle and manta rays, and green and hawksbill turtles.

Get the Latest from Caradonna | Sign up For Our Newsletter