SMUGGLERS Cove Beach Resort Mark and Janice Hinton were recognised by industry peers at the 2025 ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards for pioneering tourism in Wailoaloa.
Honouring the couple before the award was presented to them by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Fiji Hoteliers and Tourist Association president Fantasha Lockington said the couple were pioneers by turning a small stretch of beachfront in Nadi into a popular tourist spot.
“These are people who through sheer tenacity and unwavering belief in their dreams have persevered against the odds,” said Ms Lockington.
“When the banks said no to loans that could have helped when friends and colleagues said they were crazy to continue.
“In doing so I have not only succeeded personally but I really I find how an industry views a particular segment or region shifting perspectives.
“Opening opportunities and inspiring change that ripples far beyond their own work.”
She said the Visionary Award was a tribute to their courage and conviction and the power of imagination turned into reality.
“It is a reminder that the future is shaped not just by ideas but by the determination to see them through.”
Ms Lockington said Mark and Janice Hinton’s dream to start their own resort in Wailoaloa was the catalyst for a thriving industry.
“Over the next two decades that stretch of black sandy beach became more than a shoreline.
“It became a stomping ground of airline families and hotel workers and the countless chain that fueled a growing industry.
“Together the couple transformed perceptions of what was once dismissed as a cheap backpacker scene and became a vibrant beach scene for tourists and locals alike alive with music, frothy cocktails, great and affordable food and affordable clean accommodation.”
The couple, significant in their contribution to a thriving and significant piece of the tourism industry, say they were humbled by the recognition.
“We are very humbled and appreciative of the recognition the industry has bestowed on us,” said Mr and Mrs Hinton.
“We have always challenged ourselves to achieve continuous improvement.
“We wish to thank the many industry colleagues for their support.”
The couple added the Fijian people has been key to their success.
“The warmth and friendliness of the Fijian people is the reason Fiji’s tourism is so successful.”
Visionary Award recipients Janice Hinton and Mark Hinton during the ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards 2025 held at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa in Wailoaloa Nadi. Picture: REINAL CHAND
