7 Best Resorts to Swim with Manta Rays in Fiji!

Are you curious about where to swim with Manta Rays in Fiji? As a long time diver, I know that each and every moment in the water with them can be absolutely amazing.

So, If you’re planning a trip and dreaming of unforgettable wildlife encounters, this guide will help you start your research in the right place. Today, I’ll walk you through the best islands and resorts for Manta Ray encounters in Fiji, the best times to go, safety precautions, my best tips and what to expect.

In the end, making your dreams become a reality in seeing the graceful Manta Rays up close and personal.

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That's me with a Manta Ray gliding over the top

Where to swim with Manta Rays in Fiji?

Swimming with Manta rays is one of the best activities you can do in Fiji, but just be aware that it’s more common to see them in the surrounding islands, than on the mainland of Viti Levu.

However, it is possible to get to a couple of the sites on a day trip from the mainland.

➡ Find tours in Fiji HERE with GYG, Or HERE with Viator.

Below I have the 3 main islands groups:

1. Yasawa Islands,
2. Kadavau Island,
3. Lomaiviti Island

that advertise the Manta Ray swimming experience, plus examples of the resorts you can book through. If you need to get a visual of where they all are, please see my specially pinned map of the resorts.

Map of where you can swim with Manta Rays in Fiji

Manta Ray tours are the most popular in the Yasawa Island group, followed by Kadavu Islands or Lomaiviti Islands. But, please let me go into more detail below and the resorts!

1. Yasawa Islands

One of the more popular places would be the Yasawa Islands.

You can get there from Nadi with a 2.5-hour ferry ride or a 30-minute seaplane flight, and you have a few options on places to stay.

While many resorts offer trips to “The Manta Ray Passage,” some of the closest resorts you can book through are:

➡ Find Accommodation on Yasawa Islands HERE with Booking.com

Ultimately, the passage runs between Drawaqa Island and Naviti Island and approaches the area by boat for snorkelling.

The water temperatures here stay consistently warm throughout the year, making it the perfect place for a dip among these gentle giants of the sea. Plus, you don’t need to be a seasoned swimmer to enjoy this experience, either.

Tour guides are on offer who will take you out to the best spots and provide you with all the necessary equipment, so even beginners can enjoy the magic of this underwater world.

2. Kadavau Island

Kadavau island is not only a picturesque paradise but the warm waters surrounding them provide an ideal environment for swimming. You can access the Island with a 1-hour flight from Nadi, located in the less visited area in the south.

Stick Bomby Reef is one of best places to see Manta’s from Kadavau, and boat trips leave from the

6. Kokomo Private Island Resort.

The temperature of the water is pleasantly warm, making for a comfortable and enjoyable swim. Many tours on offer cater to all experience levels and interests, whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver.

➡ Search Accommodation on Kadavau Island HERE with Booking.com

3. Lomaiviti Islands

The Lomaiviti Islands consists of many smaller islands like Batiki, Gau, Koro, Wakaya, Ovalau & Makogai. Generally, these groups can be accessed from the capital Suva by a 4-hour ferry or a 15-minute flight.

Transfers are organised through the resort you’re staying in or with the transfer company that provides them. But, to give you a starting place, I have the following resort:

7. The Wakaya Club & Spa

They offer diving with Rays and also features plenty of soft coral. They are members of the Manta Trust and can also help you out with your diving certification.

These islands are perfect for year-round swimming, with warm water temperatures ranging from 25-28°C. But it’s not just the water that will take your breath away.

Planning your first trip to the South Pacific? Don’t miss my blog on Fiji or Vanuatu – which is better for you to help narrow down your decision.

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When’s the Best time to see them?

Anytime between May & October is the best time to swim with Manta Rays in Fiji. While it’s true that you can spot these majestic creatures year-round, plankton levels peak during these months, significantly increasing your chances of getting up close and personal with these gentle giants.

As a whole, anytime through the winter period is a good time to visit Fiji? Although, It can depend on your situation, budget, and time available. But, after I’ve visited the country a few times, either May or September would be high on my list, or in the middle of the season if I had a higher budget.

Fiji Weather Chart with Average Temperatures & Rainfall Month to month

How much does it cost?

Before you dive in, it’s important to know that costs can vary, but typically, prices can range from FJ70 to FJ370. (Convert into your Currency HERE)

This depends on how far you are from the site,
staying on the Island,
how much time you spend on your adventure,
or if you’re travelling from the mainland on a day trip.

➡ Find day trips in Fiji HERE with GYG, Or HERE with Viator.

Checking with your hotel or tour company before booking is always a good idea to ensure you get the best deal. Then, be sure to budget accordingly to get the most out of your Manta Ray swim.

Ultimately, the memories you’ll make will be worth every penny.

FAQ’s – Common Questions?

Can you touch them?

When you swim with Manta Rays, it’s hard not to want to reach out and touch these graceful creatures.

However, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and deserve to be respected in their natural habitat.

Touching them can cause them harm and disrupt their behaviour. They have sensitive skin and are easily disturbed, which can cause them to swim away.

Additionally, humans can carry harmful bacteria on their hands that can be harmful to the rays.

Manta's are amazing creatures to swim with

Is it safe to swim with Manta Rays?

Many people are understandably worried about getting too close to these creatures because of their resemblance to stingrays. I’ll set the record straight that Manta rays are safe to swim with, completely harmless to humans, and pose no threat in the water.

In Fact, there is very little concern on most safety aspects in Fiji.

Unlike stingrays, Manta’s do not have the barbs on their tails, that can be extremely dangerous. In fact, they are known for being friendly and sociable towards humans and have even been known to seek out human company.

In addition, these gentle giants are filter feeders, which means they only consume tiny plankton rather than bigger prey.

But Manta’s are not the only creatures who feed off these types of organisms. I’ve actually snorkeled with Whale Sharks in Mexico, which are also extraordinarily huge and safe creatures to swim with!

What to bring on a snorkelling tour?

When packing for your snorkelling adventure:

don’t forget to include your swimming costume,
towels,
water (although most tours will probably supply this)
Hat
Sunscreen
If you need help capturing amazing shots under the water, I recommend bringing a GoPro or another waterproof camera.

Are you guaranteed to see them?

We all know that the ocean is unpredictable, so unfortunately, you can never guarantee a sightings in the wild. However, that’s why I’ve written this post today, to detail the best time and areas where it’s more common.

And hey, if you really want to up your chances, I recommend booking a few days during the full moon cycle, as it seems like they come out to play during those times! Additionally, don’t just book one tour and cross your fingers. Give yourself plenty of opportunities to spot these majestic creatures.

Can you see them without a tour?

Booking a tour is the best way to ensure a memorable and responsible experience when it comes to swimming with them.

➡ Search for Fiji HERE with GYG, Or HERE with Viator.

Not only do these tours offer convenient transportation to spots that may be too far away for solo travellers. But they also provide knowledgeable guides who can ensure both the safety of the swimmers and the wellbeing of the rays.

Additionally, booking through a responsible tour company can help protect the Manta Rays by ensuring that tourism does not negatively impact their natural habitat.

What is the water Temperatures?

The average water temperature in Fiji is around 26 degrees (70 F), but it can range from 24 to 30 degrees (75 to 88)?

If you plan on visiting Fiji, consider visiting during the months from May to July, as the water is warmer during this time. However, if you’re looking for the warmest water temps, February and March are your best bet (but not good to see Mantas).

My best Tips for swimming?

Do your research

Before you head out, it’s essential to do your research. Ensure you’re swimming with a reputable company that follows all the safety guidelines. It would help if you also familiarized yourself with the local manta ray population so that you can be respectful of their habitat.

Get fitted for the proper gear.

You will need to have the proper gear before you can go swimming with Manta Rays. Make sure you have a good quality snorkel and mask so that you can see clearly underwater.

If you’re anything like me, I always travel with my own, which fits my face appropriately. But, of course, it also helps to invest in a wetsuit or rash guard to protect your skin from the sun and stings, which are sometimes provided on tour.

Use sunscreen

It’s important to use sunscreen on any boat tours that have you in direct light all day is essential. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it generously to all exposed skin. Remember to reapply every few hours, especially if you’re swimming in water.

Don’t touch them.

It’s crucial to resist the temptation to touch the Manta Rays, as they are wild animals and may not be used to human contact. Additionally, touching them could disrupt their natural behaviour or injure them.

Keep your distance

Keeping your distance and giving them plenty of space is vital. Don’t try to chase after them or block their path, as this could stress them out. Instead, let them come to you and enjoy watching them from a safe distance.

Be aware of their movements.

They are large animals and can move quickly through the water. Be aware of their movements at all times to avoid getting hit by their fins or tails. If they do come close, stay still until they swim away again.

Don’t wear jewellery

It’s best to avoid wearing any jewellery as it could injure them if they brushed up against it. If you must wear jewellery, make sure it is made of a soft material such as silicone or rubber.

Don’t use flash photography.

If you want to take photos while swimming, it’s better not to use flash photography as it could startle them or damage their eyesight. Instead, use natural light, or I find using a GoPro is very easy with both Photos and video.

Don’t Snorkel on Your Own

I don’t recommend swimming out from the beach in search of Manta Rays on any occasion. While it may be a short distance from some resorts, tour operators will know the best spots and follow safety guidelines.

Use a life vest or Pool Noodle if your a novice swimmer.

Suppose you’re not that confident in the open water and stressed when you can’t see the ocean floor. Then, please ask the tour operators for a life vest or pool noodle for support.

Stay Calm

Manta Rays will flinch or get spooked by large splashes or quick movements. I even frightened a Ray swimming over the top of my diving bubbles. Ultimately, this will make them swim away! Therefore, stay calm and limit your movements, and they will more likely hang around.

Book more than one tour.

There are no wild creatures around on demand and when you want them to. So while you can organise the best location and best time of year, they are still not guaranteed. If you really want to see wild creatures in their natural habitat, then book more than one day tour to see them.

This increases your chances!

What Else can you swim with in Fiji?

Fiji is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

But, did you know that there’s even more to explore underwater?

Beqa Lagoon, located south of the main island of Viti Levu, is home to some of the most thrilling creatures of the ocean. The Beqa Shark Dive tour allows you to swim alongside these creatures (without a cage) and will undoubtedly be a great way to conquer your fears.

If you’re looking at an alternative spot to stay in Fiji, I would recommend the Coral coast and the Uprising Beach Resort near Pacific Harbour. From here, you can do the shark dive and other wonderful activities on the mainland.

The Sharks are fed right in front of you

Wrap Up & Read More!

Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-timer, there’s no better place to experience the magic of swimming with Manta Rays.

Thanks for reading this blog post today and finding out when it’s the best time to swim with Manta Rays. I hope you found the information you were looking for, but please see my other Fiji articles for planning and research. .

7 Best Resorts to Swim with Manta Rays in Fiji!