Sun-drenched beaches, turquoise lagoons, swaying palm trees – Fiji supplies all the classic images of paradise.
With a reliable tropical climate, a good tourist infrastructure, English as its main language, travelling in Fiji is as easy as it gets. As the hub of South Pacific tourism, Fiji attracts over half a million visitors a year, mostly from Australia and New Zealand – its largest neighbours lying over 2000 kilometres southeast.
While it can be tempting to spend your whole time in Fiji sunbathing and sipping cocktails from coconuts, there is so much more to discover about this incredible island paradise. So, before you book your plane tickets, we’ve put together the ultimate holiday itinerary to Fiji – a travel guide filled with all of the best places to visit and, of course, all of the best things to do in Fiji. Bula!
When is the best time to visit Fiji?
If you’re looking for comfortable weather, May through to September each year is the best time to visit Fiji. Otherwise, for higher temperatures, you may want to visit during the wet season which is from October to April.
The Best Places to Visit in Fiji:
Photographed by Sara Petersson. Image via Shutterstock.
Nadi
Nadi is one of the most popular places to visit in Fiji. With a bustling multicultural town, this is a main hub for international travellers. When you plan your holiday, we recommend using Nadi as the starting point or base for your trip.
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Mamanuca Islands
Think white sanded beaches, pristine water and resorts to match – this chain of exotic islands is only a short boat trip from Nadi International Airport. Home to the set Cast Away and Survivor: Fiji; if you’re looking for water activities or exciting things to do, you’ll find something for everyone on the Mamanuca Islands.
Photographed by Ignacio Moya Coronado. Image via Shutterstock.
Yasawa Islands
The remote Yasawa Island Group make up Fiji’s western border and are mostly high, grass-covered islands with brilliant porcelain beaches. You won’t find any shops or banks here but, instead, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty helping you embrace the break from civilisation.
Photographed by Thomas Haupt. Image via Shutterstock.
Denarau Island
If you want to splash out and be pampered, then Denarau Island is one of the best places to visit in Fiji. You’ll find an excellent range of accommodation, with the resorts offering designer suites, stunning swimming pools and a wide range of restaurants.
Photographed by Thomas Haupt. Image via Shutterstock.
Pacific Harbour
Pacific Harbour is no doubt Fiji’s adventure capital. With everything from shark feeding to four-wheel-drive tours, the area lives up to its reputation as a spot for adrenaline junkies – offering a wide variety of activities to get your heart racing. Otherwise, for a more laid-back experience, try a round of golf on the championship course.
The Best Places to Stay in Fiji:
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Wyndham Resort Denarau Island
Wyndham Resort Denarau Island provides spacious and luxurious accommodation located on a beautiful white sanded beachfront. With a lagoon-style outdoor pool and a swim-up bar, an outdoor spa, fitness centre and delicious dining, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Select from one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments and relax on your private terrace or by the beach.
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Warwick Fiji
The Warwick Fiji is uniquely located on a stretch of brilliant gold sanded beach with crystal clear lagoons on Fiji’s famed Coral Coast. It is nestled among acres of lush tropical gardens and has long been regarded as one of Fiji’s premier holiday destinations – it’s also one of our top places to stay in Fiji!
Photographed by Amy K Caillis. Image via Shutterstock.
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa
Welcome to a world of personal luxury thanks to the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa. Poised high on a plateau overlooking one of Fiji’s best beaches, the InterContinental is Fiji’s first exclusive club-like experience offering discerning travellers the exclusivity of a resort within a resort.
Raiwasa Resort
One of the most luxurious places to stay in all of Fiji is Raiwasa Resort. Home to one of the world’s most exclusive and private hideaways, this villa is perched high above the South Pacific with 180-degree views overlooking the Somosomo Straight.
Kulu Bay Resort
Tucked away on Fiji’s secluded Beqa Island, the breathtaking Kulu Bay Resort is a lush tropical sanctuary where you can leave the world and its worries behind. Stay in one of just seven luxuriously appointed beachfront bures just steps from calm, warm waters of the bay.
Volivoli Beach Resort
Step into the heart of Fiji for an energising mix of watersport activities at this family-owned and operated resort. Apart from being one of the best places to stay in Fiji, if you’re looking for things to do, here you’ll also have the chance to sample Fijian culture at traditional dancing performances and discover shipwrecks and marine life with one of the great diving packages the resort has to offer.
The Best Things To Do in Fiji:
Fiji boasts such a wide range of experiences, you might find it hard to know where to begin – that’s where we come in. Whether you’re a self-confessed adrenaline junkie or a subdued traveller; or if you’re here for a romantic escape, an annual family trip or a corporate conference, there is something for everyone in Fiji.
So read on for our list of the best things to do in Fiji!
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Off-Road Cave Tour
Take the road less travelled with Fiji’s Off-Road Cave Safari. Journey through the Sigatoka Valley and cross the mighty Sigatoka River in a modern-day bilibili where you’ll be transported to Fiji’s largest cave system.
Photographed by Ignacio Moya Coronado. Image via Shutterstock.
Cloud 9 Fiji
Also known as Fiji’s floating paradise, Cloud 9 is surrounded by nothing but the turquoise blue waters of Vanua Malolo on Ro Ro reef. This two-level floating lounge bar and restaurant have day beds, sun decks and massage therapists on board. Fiji is also home to incredible diving locations, so it’s no wonder it’s been dunned the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World. So why not dive in and explore some of the best snorkelling tours and spots in Fiji.
Photographed by Auggieferns. Image via Shutterstock.
Nadi Cultural & Mudpool Tour
Similar to the Tropical Fiji Tour, if you’re looking to unwind, then the Nadi Cultural 7 Mud Pool Tour is for you. Here you’ll be visiting the Sebeto Natural Mud Pool and Hot Springs for an indulgent and natural therapeutic treatment experience.
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Flavours of Fiji Cooking School
Located on Denarau Island, Flavours of Fiji Cooking School helps visitors to learn and cook the Fijian way. It’s a fun and interactive half-day cooking class that’s perfect for both beginners and intermediate cooks. Expand your knowledge of Fijian culture with this fun (and equally delicious) thing to do.
Flyboarding in Fiji
Feel an adrenaline rush like no other with Hydro Sports Fiji. Offering 15-, 30-minute or one-hour sessions, here you can soar to new heights with this unique experience available at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort and Spa.
Tropical Fiji Tour
Begin your day with this diverse half-day heritage tour which offers you an exciting insight into the culture and everyday life of Fijians. Visit one of the largest orchid collections in the South Pacific, one of the first Fijian villages and take your pick between the local produce market or the Subramaniya Temple which will give you a glimpse into the traditional Indian architecture on the island.
The Best Spas and Wellness Centres in Fiji:
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InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa
The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa runs into the pristine Natadola Beach on Viti Levu. But, apart from breathtaking views, the spa offers traditional Fijian massage therapy and features a Wai Zone – an area with a steam room, hydrotherapy jacuzzi and ice room.
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Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island
Conveniently tucked away in a secluded adults-only area of the island, treatments here are completely distraction-free. With spa treatments named Awaken, Renewal, Detox, Tranquillity and Purity, you can only just imagine what you might feel after one of these wellness treatments. We recommended the unique Fijian Warm Seashell Ritual – a massage using exactly what its name suggests.
Photographed by Sarah Ball. Image via Unsplash.
Qamea Resort and Spa Fiji
Nestled in a jungle, this award-winning spa on Qamea Island in Fiji has treatments designed with the traveller in mind – from jet lag therapy and sunburn relief, to the more traditional Fijian massages. You can’t go past the Qamea Night of Decadence where a Fijian warrior will escort you from your bure to the spa where you can enjoy a range of treatments, followed by a candlelit dinner on your balcony.
The Best Places to Eat in Fiji:
Wicked Walu
This award-winning restaurant is located on its own private island. Here you’ll be surrounded by tranquil waters, and even if you don’t dine outside, you can still experience the sand between your toes as they bring the sandy beach inside to their restaurant dining hall. Enjoy fresh crab and lobster at this exclusive adults-only restaurant.
Ports O’Call
One of Fiji’s first and best fine dining restaurants, Ports O’Call can be found at the Sheraton Fiji Resort and offers premium steaks, seafood and speciality dishes. With authentic decor to resemble the luxury of a classic ocean liner, this restaurant offers a charm of its own.
LomaniWai Resort Villa
Considered by many to be a must-visit experience when staying at Denarau Island, we have to agree! With its name translating to ‘in the water’, at LomaniWai Resort Villa this is exactly what you’ll be doing. Indulge in a three-course dinner served by Fijian warriors, all while you listen to traditional singers with you feet keeping cool in the water.
Helpful Tips for Travelling to Fiji:
The Language
Learning a new language can be hard, especially when you are trying to plan and get excited for your next holiday destination. In Fiji, there are three official languages spoken: Fijian, English and Hindi. However, in Fiji, most locals speak English as a second language – this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t at least try to attempt to speak the local lingo as an act of courtesy and respect. Be sure to keep our Fiji travel guide handy with these three, easy to learn words which will help you get around in your time in Fiji!
Local Customs
While the people of Fiji are accepting of different cultures and practices of foreigners, visitors are urged to take note of the conservative customs. Try to dress modestly when away from hotels and resorts (particularly when visiting a Fijian village), and speaking loudly implies anger in Fijian culture so its best to keep a soft tone of voice. Tipping is also discouraged.
Bargaining
If you venture out of the main shopping precincts, you’ll discover fruit and vegetable markets overflowing with produce, vendors, Indian merchandise and speciality gift stores. It’s here you might find yourself in a bargaining session over price. It’s all part of the experience, so go ahead and enter into the spirit of it.
Visit somewhere local but still get that tropical escape you desire with our list of the 10 Most Beautiful Islands Around Australia. Or, for an added touch of luxury, you can now book a private island for a mere $500,000.
Scattered across the South Pacific, there is plenty of things to do in this unparalleled beauty called Fiji.