In the heart of the South Pacific, beneath Southern skies, lies this magical resort. If you enjoy fine food, looking for romance, or simply want to relax in a tropical paradise, Beqa Lagoon Resort (formerly Marlin Bay Resort) is what you’re looking for.If its seclusion you seek, look no further. Only fifteen square kilometers, Beqa Island has no roads, no towns, and only a few isolated villages scattered around the perimeter. The island is skirted by stretches of sandy beach laced with mysterious tide pools.This intimate resort features 25 deluxe, private air-conditioned villas(called bures) spread out beneath the lush tropical landscape. Each of these generously sized mini-suites is beautifully appointed with traditional island décor.Although the resort grounds are neatly groomed, colorful island critters still have free range. Just behind the resort, the land slopes gently upward into a tropical forest. Further into the forest one comes across a fresh water stream descending from a waterfall just about a mile from the resort. Tropical flowers bloom everywhere, and the tables at the resort are always filled with fresh cuttings.If you hike a short way up the hillside, you will find yourself at the base of an impressive waterfall. After cooling off a bit in the pool you can hike further up the path and right at sunset you hit the top of the trail where you can look out over the entire lagoon.Surrounded by over 190 miles of spectacular coral, Beqa Lagoon is one of the world’s largest barrier reefs. Diving in these calm protected waters is like exploring another world. The water is clear and warm, visibility is typically over 100 feet, currents are mild, and the water temperature stays a fairly constant 80 F (26.5 C). Many of the most spectacular dive sights are only a few minutes from shore, and if you stay long enough, you can explore over 100 different sights! The Dive Masters at Beqa Lagoon have been diving in these waters since they were children and are some of the most caring people you ever meet. The Resort diving staff knows every reef and coral head, and if you stay close they will show you some of the most intriguing creatures ever. Blue Ribbon Eels, Clown Triggers, Lion Fish, Leaf Scorpions, Reef Sharks, and millions of colorful Anthias and Fusiliers all abound in these waters.When the diving is over, guests can relax in a nearby hammock or lounge by the large and luxurious infinity pool followed by a soothing aromatherapy massage in their own private bure.End a perfect day by sitting around the bar and enjoying one of the two local bands that perform every night. Fijians have the sweetest voices on Earth and hearing them singing will reassure you are in paradise.Photographs courtesy of Beqa Lagoon