Nananu-i-Ra and Nananu-i-Cake Islands

These two islands are nearly joined by the little resort island (Dolphin Island) between them, making this look and feel a bit like one land mass. Adding to the enclosed effect is the proximity of Viti Levu’s north shore. The islands have long low hills, while Viti Levu is more mountainous. The whole area has an attractive mix of golden grasses and green vegetation, and the curving layers of hills and bays add to this area’s appeal.

(Very close by is the anchorage off the cruiser-friendly Volivoli Beach Resort; so it’s easy to go over there for meals, guided dive excursions, and other resort events.)

We feel the best anchorages are at Nananu-i-Cake. They’re well-protected and there are no houses. The anchorage off the Southwest tip of Nananu-i-Cake Island is pleasant with a beach and good access to the windy area favored by kite surfers. Our favorite anchorage, though, is the large inner anchorage at the northwest end of the island. It’s beautiful, roomy, and feels cozy and enclosed.

Large inner-anchorage on Nananu-I-Cake.
Southwest beach anchorage on Nananu-I-Cake.

As for the other islands, little Dolphin Island is a private resort island surrounded by reef. And while there are anchorages at Nananu-i-Ra, they are more reef-strewn, less protected from prevailing winds, and have a fair number of vacation homes.

One of the anchorages on Nananu-I-Ra.