Fiji’s tourism industry was charting its place in the world when Castaway first opened on Qalito Island. Workers cleared scrub with bush knives to build the bures that would be a new kind of South Pacific escape, opening with four bures for fisherman to stay overnight.
In 1992, the resort was transformed by the arrival of new owner, Geoffrey Shaw. Under his stewardship, Castaway became known for barefoot island hospitality, a blueprint that drew guests back year after year. That endures in the resort’s hosts, some of whom have worked on the island for more than 30 years, and in the guests who have made Castaway Island, Fiji a family tradition across generations.
The resort is ow under Outrigger Resorts & Hotels, and is a founding member of the Mamanuca Environment Society.
From 22-28 November 2026, Castaway Island, Fiji will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a week of events themed around 1960s vintage. The programme includes a traditional Fijian welcome ceremony, a returnee guest appreciation day, a management cocktail evening and more.
