When I dove Kadavu (Matana Bay Resort), we had a layover in Nadi. We checked our bags into a secure storage area with a security guard on duty. Our bags were rifled but only very odd items were stolen (sunglasses, candy, deoderant
- nothing of high dollar value disappeared). We then got a taxi into the city and had a "typical" Fijian breakfast and then did some souvenir shopping. It took three plane trips (small single and twin engine aircraft) to ferry the entire crew into Kadavu.
IMPORTANT- you will have to wade out to board the boat that will deliver you to Mantana Bay Resort. The dive crew will hump the gear and bags out to the boat but wear shorts and sandles that you won't mind getting into salt water with. The same thing will happen at the resort. Dive crew will unload the boat and deliver luggage to your bure but you will wade ashore. The toilet in the Kadavu airport is REALLY basic. You may want to change in Nadi before you leave there. The water isn't real deep. Maybe calf to knee deep unless you're a midget.
The plane ride from LAX to Nadi is miserably long. Be sure to get up and walk around occasionally.
The electricity is NOT on 24 hours a day. When you hear the compressors fire up to refill scuba tanks, plug in your battery rechargers. They need the electrical generators to run the compressors. If you're going to be recharging a lot of batteries, consider buying an "octopus" outlet. (One electrical inlet, multiple outlets). And the electrical outlets are not the same as in the States. As I recall, the resort has some plug adaptors for loan or rent but I would check ahead of time.
You're going to have a ball as long as the weather cooperates. The head dive guy is Joeli (Joe- Ellie). On your surface intervals, he will play a game with you. Somebody tosses out a coconut. Everybody else then tosses theirs to see who ends up closest. Do NOT bet on the outcome with him.
Have a good time and post a trip report when you come back. I predict good times and good diving.
Art