Monuriki Island, Mamanuca Islands - Image 1
1 / 10

Monuriki Island Mamanuca Islands

4.8
·147 reviews·, Fiji

Famous "Cast Away" filming location in Fiji's Mamanucas, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and iconic movie sites.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Monuriki Island, Mamanuca Islands - Image 1

Monuriki Island Mamanuca Islands

Best Time

Late afternoon

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Famous "Cast Away" filming location in Fiji's Mamanucas, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and iconic movie sites.

4.8
(147 reviews)

"Monuriki Island is an absolute paradise, a must-visit for "Cast Away" fans and nature lovers alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

Stay Nearby for Solitude

Consider staying on a nearby island for early/late access to Monuriki without day-trippers. :housewithgarden:

Pack for Rocky Shores

Wear water shoes for easier boat landing and navigating the rocky shoreline. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The "Cast Away" Movie Site

The "Cast Away" Movie Site

Various locations on the island

See the iconic spots where Tom Hanks' character survived, including the famous 'Wilson' rock.

Pristine White-Sand Beaches

Pristine White-Sand Beaches

Island shores

Sink your toes into soft white sand and marvel at the crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Panoramic Island Views

Panoramic Island Views

Island peaks

Hike to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding Mamanuca Islands.

Vibrant Coral Reefs

Vibrant Coral Reefs

Offshore waters

Snorkel or dive in the clear waters teeming with marine life and colorful coral formations.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the "Cast Away" Vibe

Monuriki Island is famous as the filming location for "Cast Away." Expect stunning natural beauty, but remember it's an uninhabited island. Plan for a day trip or stay nearby to truly soak in the serene atmosphere without the crowds.

Island Access & Activities

Access is typically via boat tours from larger islands. Snorkeling and hiking are popular. Be prepared for rocky shores and potential jellyfish or sealice when swimming. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Monuriki Island. Literal paradise. Castaway was filled here #travel #fiji #mamanucaislands
@travelwithonaje
13.9K likes • 141.3K views

Stay Nearby for Solitude

Consider staying on a nearby island for early/late access to Monuriki without day-trippers. :housewithgarden:

Pack for Rocky Shores

Wear water shoes for easier boat landing and navigating the rocky shoreline. :athletic_shoe:

It’s a Beautiful Day 🌞🎶 Third stop ➝ Monuriki Island 🌴 aka Castaway island. Here’s where you sit down to a full traditional Fijian LOVO lunch — chicken roasted underground on hot stones, cassava, taro, rourou (island spinach), smoky eggplant in miti 🥥, papaya & more. Head chefs Sai + Josefa prepare everything fresh in our village lovo, pulled from the earth oven in the morning, packed on board, an...
@cruisinfiji
966 likes • 31.9K views
Got 99 problems but Fiji ain’t one 😌 📍Monuriki Island, Mamanuca Islands #fiji #wherehappinesscomesnaturally #fijihappy #travel #explore #nature #island #escape
tourismfiji
1.1K likes • 28.2K views

Beware of Sealice & Jellyfish

Snorkeling can be amazing, but watch out for sealice and jellyfish, especially after rain. :warning:

Hike for Epic Views

Climb to the island's peak for stunning 'Cast Away'-esque vistas. :camerawithflash:

Pure bliss ✨ 📸 @brooksabin 📍Monuriki Island, Mamanuca Islands #fiji #wherehappinesscomesnaturally #island
tourismfiji
597 likes • 14.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Stay Nearby for Solitude

Consider staying on a nearby island for early/late access to Monuriki without day-trippers. :housewithgarden:

Pack for Rocky Shores

Wear water shoes for easier boat landing and navigating the rocky shoreline. :athletic_shoe:

Beware of Sealice & Jellyfish

Snorkeling can be amazing, but watch out for sealice and jellyfish, especially after rain. :warning:

Hike for Epic Views

Climb to the island's peak for stunning 'Cast Away'-esque vistas. :camerawithflash:

Traditional Lovo Lunch

Some tours offer a traditional Fijian Lovo lunch cooked underground. A must-try! :food:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(147 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Monuriki Island is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking natural beauty, often described as paradise and a must-visit for "Cast Away" fans. Visitors love the stunning beaches, clear waters, and the unique movie site experience. Some minor drawbacks include potentially rocky shores and occasional issues with sealice or jellyfish during snorkeling.

"We went on a day tour here, and the boys guiding our tour were lovely. As the boat pulled up, the colour of water can only be described as picturesque. Absolutely breathtaking. Our guide took us for a short tour around the island as we were not allowed up to the top as Survivor was being filmed. Afterwards, we had a snorkel. The reef wasn't as colourful as Mana wall, still lots of fish, quite a few jelly fish, and a lot of Sealice. My son and I were bitten quite a few times, which scared him and made the snorkelling time shorter. We saw Wilson, the rock, and it took me back to the scenes on the movie castaway. I would recommend a trip here as the scenery really is beautiful"

Travel Girl

"Beautiful spot, getting from the boat to the shore can be tricky as the shore is pretty rocky. This is the island used for the movie Castaway and where the current season of Survivor is being shot."

Charyn McG

"Monuriki is an incredible destination with stunning sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The well-maintained walking trail around the peninsula is a delight, and hiking to one of the peaks offers breathtaking views. Additionally, Monuriki is famous for being the filming location of Tom Hanks' movie "Castaway.""

Duncan Andrews

What People Like

Stunning natural beauty
"Cast Away" movie site
Beautiful beaches & clear water

What People Dislike

Rocky shores
Sealice/jellyfish

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Monuriki Island is typically accessed via boat tours from larger Mamanuca Islands or the mainland of Viti Levu, Fiji. Tours often depart from Denarau Marina. The journey takes about an hour by boat. Some travelers recommend staying on a nearby island like Tokoriki for easier access and to experience Monuriki with fewer people. InstagramReddit

There are no public transport options directly to Monuriki Island as it is uninhabited. Access is exclusively through organized boat tours or private charters. TikTok

The travel time to Monuriki Island is generally around one hour by boat from Denarau Marina or nearby resort islands in the Mamanuca chain. Instagram

Yes, Monuriki Island is a very popular day trip destination. Many tour operators offer excursions that include snorkeling, hiking, and sometimes a traditional Fijian Lovo lunch. TikTok+1

The most common departure points for Monuriki Island tours are Denarau Marina on the main island of Viti Levu, and from various resort islands within the Mamanuca Islands group. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, you will need to book a tour or charter to visit Monuriki Island. Entry is not typically sold as a standalone ticket but is included as part of an excursion package. TikTok

The cost varies depending on the tour operator and what is included. Day tours can range from $100-$200+ USD per person, often including boat transport, snorkeling gear, and sometimes lunch. TikTok+1

Monuriki Island itself doesn't have set opening hours as it's an uninhabited island. However, tour operators typically run excursions during daylight hours, usually from morning to late afternoon. TikTok

While technically possible with a private boat charter, most visitors experience Monuriki Island through organized tours. This ensures you have transport and often guides for activities. Instagram

Access to certain areas might be restricted if filming for 'Survivor' or other productions is underway, as noted in one review. Otherwise, it's generally open for exploration during tour hours. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular activities include snorkeling right off the shore, hiking to the island's peaks for stunning views, exploring the 'Cast Away' movie filming locations (including Wilson the rock), and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. TikTokReddit

Yes, Monuriki offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with clear waters and a variety of fish. However, some visitors have noted that the reef might not be as vibrant as other locations and have encountered sealice and jellyfish. Reddit

Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended. Water shoes are highly advisable due to the rocky shoreline for easier boat access. InstagramReddit

Yes, a rock painted to resemble Wilson from the movie 'Cast Away' is a popular photo opportunity and a must-see for fans of the film. InstagramReddit

Some tours include a traditional Fijian Lovo lunch (cooked underground) and fresh coconut water. It's advisable to check with your tour operator beforehand or bring your own snacks and water. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The white-sand beaches with turquoise water, the 'Cast Away' movie sites, and the panoramic views from the island's peaks are prime photography locations. The golden hour light in the late afternoon also creates stunning shots. Instagram+2

Absolutely! Monuriki Island is incredibly photogenic, often described as paradise. Its pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush volcanic landscape make for postcard-worthy pictures. TikTokInstagram+1

A waterproof camera or action camera like a GoPro is great for snorkeling and beach shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive landscapes. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant water shots. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with your tour operator or local authorities regarding any restrictions on drone flights over the island or surrounding waters. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting glow. Midday can be very bright. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Monuriki Island offers a fantastic day out for families, combining movie magic with natural exploration. Kids will love the 'Cast Away' connection and the chance to see 'Wilson.' The calm, clear waters near the shore are generally safe for younger swimmers, though supervision is always key. Instagram+1

Consider tours that offer a Lovo lunch for a fun, cultural dining experience. Bringing plenty of snacks, water, and reef-safe sunscreen is essential. Water shoes are a must for easy boat landings and exploring the beach. While snorkeling is great, be mindful of potential sealice or jellyfish and keep an eye on children. TikTokReddit

🎬 Movie Buffs & "Cast Away" Fans

For fans of "Cast Away," Monuriki Island is a dream destination. You can walk in Tom Hanks' footsteps, find the iconic 'Wilson' rock, and see the very landscapes that portrayed Chuck Noland's survival. It's an immersive experience that brings the film to life. InstagramReddit+1

Look for tours that specifically highlight the movie filming locations. While the island is uninhabited, the sense of isolation and the raw beauty will transport you. Imagine the challenges faced and the resilience shown, all within this stunning natural setting. Instagram

🏝️ Island Hoppers & Adventure Seekers

Monuriki Island is a perfect stop for island-hopping adventures in the Mamanuca chain. Its dramatic volcanic peaks and pristine beaches offer a different vibe from other nearby islands. Combine it with visits to other Mamanucas for a diverse Fijian experience. InstagramReddit

Embrace the hike to the summit for rewarding views, and don't miss the snorkeling opportunities. For a more exclusive experience, consider staying on a nearby resort island and visiting Monuriki during off-peak hours to enjoy its tranquility. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The "Cast Away" Connection

Monuriki Island gained international fame as the primary filming location for the 2000 film "Cast Away," starring Tom Hanks. The island's untouched, dramatic landscape perfectly embodied the isolation and survival theme of the movie. Visitors can explore recognizable spots, including the famous 'Wilson' rock, offering a unique chance to step into a cinematic world. InstagramReddit+1

This connection draws many tourists, eager to recreate iconic scenes or simply experience the 'paradise lost' setting. While the island is uninhabited, tour operators often point out specific locations used in the film, adding a layer of storytelling to the visit. It's a pilgrimage for movie buffs and a picturesque backdrop for everyone else. Instagram+1

Island Activities & Natural Beauty

Beyond its cinematic fame, Monuriki Island is a natural gem. The island boasts stunning white-sand beaches fringed by crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding coral reefs offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, allowing visitors to discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. TikTokInstagram+1

For those seeking a more active experience, hiking to the island's peaks is highly recommended. These trails lead to breathtaking panoramic viewpoints, offering sweeping vistas of the island itself and the scattered Mamanuca Islands. The volcanic rock formations and lush vegetation contribute to the island's rugged and captivating beauty. TikTokInstagramReddit

However, visitors should be aware of the island's natural conditions. The shoreline can be rocky, making water shoes a practical choice for disembarking from boats. Some reviewers have noted the presence of sealice and jellyfish in the waters, which can impact snorkeling experiences. Reddit

Experiencing Monuriki: Tours & Local Culture

Access to Monuriki Island is primarily through organized boat tours, often departing from Denarau Marina or nearby resort islands. These tours provide a convenient way to reach the island and often include guided activities. Some tours offer a unique cultural experience by including a traditional Fijian Lovo lunch, where food is cooked underground using hot stones. TikTok+1

Travelers often highlight the friendly nature of the tour guides, who enhance the experience with local knowledge and hospitality. For a more serene visit, some suggest staying on a nearby island and visiting Monuriki early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds of day-trippers. This allows for a more personal connection with the island's tranquility. InstagramReddit