Photo: Tom Servais/ESPN
Restaurants: now open for businessThe island nation of Fiji passed The Surfing Decree 2010 yesterday, which will open up of all surfing spots in Fiji to anyone interested in surfing or marine sports.

Fiji Surfing Association President John Philip supports the Decree, as he believes that both tourists and local villages will benefit.

It's fantastic news! It's very positive for the development of surfing in Fiji and especially tourism. It's great for the people of Fiji the beach users and anyone who feels they got ownership in our beaches and clean oceans. As I've said the biggest benefit is going to the rural areas it will create employment for surfing related industries.

Although many beaches were already open to the public, certain exclusive and serene sports like Tavarua's famed Cloudbreak and Restaurants, will be forced to change their normal mode of operation. These beaches were previously governed by "reef rights" restrictions, which gave control to native resort owners.

The Decree may boost tourism, but it also may disrupt the relationship between the native people, their village, and outside visitors. Hopefully, this will be a positive change for the beach communities of Fiji, and will also allow more surfers to explore the wonders of the islands.

Get the full new story from Radio Fiji and a perspective on the native population from ESPN.