Whether Love Island 2024 got you hooked or not, it made one thing clear – Fiji Islands is where we’re heading next! With its lucid turquoise waters, sun-kissed islands, lush rainforests, enchanting sunsets, and pristine white-sand beaches, it’s time to experience this tropical paradise. Comprising more than 300 islands, Fiji is nestled in the South Pacific Ocean and is known for snorkelling escapades, promising both beauty and adventure.
How to reach
Although Suva is Fiji’s capital city, the best airport for international flights is Nadi International Airport (NAN). Located on the main island of Viti Levu, the airport serves as the primary gateway for international travellers from major cities across Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.
Best time to visit Fiji Island
A tropical destination, the weather in Fiji Islands is warm and sunny all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the slightly dry season between June to September when the rains are minimal and the weather is pretty pleasant.
Budget requirements for Fiji
Depending on the nature of your trip – backpack, comfortable, luxurious, family vacation or romantic – the average budget requirement for a week’s trip to the Fiji Islands ranges from USD 3,000-3,600 (HKD 23,297- 27,956), inclusive of flights, accommodation, food and activities.
This is an average budget estimate and prices may vary based on travel season, flight costs, and accommodation type.
Fiji visa policy
As per the Fiji Immigration website, several American, European and Asian countries are exempt from visas, including the USA, Canada, Singapore, India, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, the UK, Switzerland, Italy and many more. Any country not listed on the immigration portal’s website will have to apply for a visa before travelling to Fiji.
Top tourist places to explore in Fiji
From cultural sightseeing to cave exploration, here are some top tourist attractions in the Fiji Islands that go beyond the beaches.
- Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple: Fiji is home to at least 40% Indians, and this majestic temple serves as a religious centre for the local Hindu community. Considered to be the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere, it is heavily inspired by South India’s Dravidian-style architecture featuring painted deities and carvings. A popular tourist magnet, a visit to this temple is a must to understand the island’s rich history and culture.
Travel tip: When visiting the temple, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. - Garden of the Sleeping Giant: A tranquil paradise, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant nurtures a diverse collection of more than 2,000 varieties of orchids and hybrids in different colours, shapes and sizes. You will also find tropical plants, exotic flowers and lush palms, making it a stunning backdrop for postcard-worthy photos. The garden is a personal collection of the late American actor, Raymond Burr, who built this oasis as a passion project when he visited Fiji.
- Great Astrolabe Reef: Known to be one of the largest barrier reefs globally, the Great Astrolabe Reef is located off the southeastern coast of Kadavu Island. The reef is home to stunning and diverse marine life offering excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Thanks to its crystal clear water that enhances the visibility divers can explore colourful coral gardens, swim through underwater canyons and observe marine life.
- Natadola Beach: While there is no dearth of options when it comes to pristine beaches in Fiji, Natodola Beach comes highly recommended as the most beautiful white sand beach on this tropical island. From adventurous water sports and recreational activities in the tranquil waters to mesmerising sunsets and high-end resorts, this beach has something for everyone. During evenings, keep an eye out for local cultural performances and ceremonies on the beach.
- Sawa-i-Lau Caves: A popular natural attraction, the Sawa-i-Lau Caves is a great option for those looking to engage in cave exploration. Underground chambers, freshwater ponds, rock and limestone formations – you’re in for an adventurous and awe-inspiring treat. The best part? A thin beam of sunlight filters into the caves to create a magical allure.
- Fiji Culture Village: Imagine the essence of Fiji condensed into a single location. A model-designed centre, the Fiji Culture Village showcases the island’s cultural and historical traditions and offers an immersive experience to the visitors. From traditional huts and wood carvings to the iconic Kava ceremony, and authentic dishes made in an earthen oven – get a sneak peek into the authentic lifestyle of the Fijian people.
- Bouma National Heritage Park: Spread across 150 sq km, this rainforest and natural reserve is often termed the “Garden Island” of Fiji. Featuring lush vegetation, waterfalls, diverse biodiversity, and rare flora and fauna, the national park is a great spot for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Take a trail to the Tavoro Falls, one of the most popular sites in the park for an enriching experience.
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Things to do in Fiji Islands
- Go island-hopping: Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are Fiji’s two main islands, with several more popular ones including the Mamanuca Islands, Taveuni, Yasawa Islands, and Kadavu. Boat tours, sunset cruises and helicopters or planes (for ariel views) are the best ways to island hop and explore rainforests, local traditions, waterfalls and of course soak in the blues.
Travel tip: Blue Lagoon Cruises and Awesome Adventures Fiji offer lucrative island-hopping packages. - Explore the coral reefs: Dubbed the ‘Soft Coral Capital’ due to its vibrant and diverse underwater ecosystem, Fiji houses magnificent coral reefs and diverse underworld marine life. A diving and snorkelling experience here is a must. Some options include the Great Astrolabe Reef (one of the world’s largest barrier reefs), Rainbow Reef, Namena Marine Reserve, Moon Reef and Somosomo Strait.
- Rejuvenate and relax: Take a break from your adventures and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Fiji’s geothermal hot springs. Relax and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters of Sabeto Hot Springs or Tifajek Hot Springs. For an even more luxurious experience, treat yourself to a traditional Fijian massage.
- Watch Cloudbreak, the world-class wave: Cloudbreak, renowned as one of the world’s premier surf spots, boasts waves that can reach up to 20 feet. This iconic spot attracts experienced surfers from around the globe. Located near Tavarua Island, you can book a boat trip to witness the powerful waves firsthand, even if you’re not a surfer yourself.
- Visit historic sites: Travel back in time and learn about Fiji’s history by visiting heritage and cultural sites. The Fiji Museum is a must-visit for history buffs as it showcases a collection of archaeological artefacts from nearly 3,500 years back. Other options are La Galerie and Momi Bay Gun Site. You can also visit Levuka Historical Port Town, Fiji’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, which features many colonial-era buildings.
Also read | This Epic Dream Trip Through New Zealand Is 50 Shades of Green
Shopping in Fiji Islands
Shopping on this tropical island is a delightful experience. From buying local fruits and produce for everyday consumption to taking back a piece of Fiji in souvenirs – there are numerous hotspots for shopping. For souvenirs, consider buying Tapa cloth (traditional Fijian fabric), scented coconut oil, Kava bowls, wooden carvings, Fijian pottery, woven baskets and mats, Fijian jewellery, local spices and Kava.
Markets and shopping hubs
- Nadi Market: Local products, seafood and Fijian food. Jack’s of Fiji is recommended for quality souvenirs.
- Port Denarau Marina Shopping Complex: High-end shopping hub for souvenirs, fancy boutiques and gift shops
- Suva Municipal Market: Local produce, souvenirs and artisanal goods
- Suva Handicraft Market: Gifts and handicrafts
- Damodar City Centre: A one-stop shopping destination
Local food and cuisines in Fiji Islands
The Fijian cuisine is a melting pot of flavours and ranges from the island’s traditionally rooted dishes to Asian-inspired ones. The main players in the traditional Fijian dishes are coconut, fish, rice, taro (aka potatoes) and cassava. One of the staple dishes in Fiji Islands that every traveller must savour is a hearty Lovo meal, a dish made from chicken/fish and veggies, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven.
Other traditional dishes to tentalise your taste buds include Kokoda (Fijian ceviche), Palusami (made from Taro leaves), Fish suruwa (fish curry), Cawaki (only species of sea urchin in Fiji that is edible), Ika lolo (comforting fish stew), Duruka (Fijian asparagus) and of course Fijian Salad (mix of exotic tropical fruits). Indulge in a fusion of Indian and Fijian cuisine with dishes like Fijian chicken curry and lamb curry, prepared using traditional Indian spices and cooking methods. For those with a sweet tooth, try the Vakalolo (a coconut-based dessert), Vakalavalava, Cassava cake and Purini.
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You cannot return from Fiji without trying the Kava. A ceremonial drink with strong roots in Fijian tradition, it is created by crushing the Kava plant into powder and combining it with water. The drink is popular for having a mild calming and numbing effect.
Top restaurants
From fine dining to local eateries, the Fiji Islands offers a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape that seamlessly blends the island’s traditional flavours with global elements. A paradise for foodies and seafood lovers, the Fijian cuisine has something for every palate.
Local and traditional eateries
The Bar Belle, Nadina Restaurant, Wicked Walu Seafood Restaurant, Kanalevu Kitchen, Taste Fiji Kitchen, Surf N Turf, Sweet Laisa’s Kitchen, Elivis Kana, and Tasty BBQ.
Fine dining
Indigo Indian Asian Resort, Port O’Call, Kai Viti, Chefs The Restaurant, Flying Fish Restaurant, Ivi Restaurant, Cloud 9, The Flamingo Cafe, Oishii Sushi and Malamala Beach Club.
Beach-front restaurants
Ocean Terrace Restaurant, Bula Brasserie, Malamala Beach Club, Sundowner Bar & Grill, Maravu, The Boatshed Restaurant, The Beach Club Wailoaloa and Bonefish Seafood Restaurant.
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Best hotels in Fiji Islands
From dreamy beachfront villas and B&Bs to luxurious island resorts and homestays, the Fiji Islands offer a broad selection of ideal lodging options with world-class amenities, spectacular views, and unrivalled comfort.
Luxury hotels
InterContinental: Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Kokomo Private Island Fiji, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, Grand Pacific Hotel, Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Shangri-La Yanuca Island, COMO Laucala, Vomo Island Resort, Six Senses Fiji and Castaway Island Resort.
Book your stay at InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa via Agoda.com
Island resorts
Blue Lagoon Resort Island, Mantaray Island, Barefoot Kuata Resort, Octopus Resort and South Sea Island.
Travel tip: Fiji has many beautiful B&Bs at cost-effective prices if you’re on a budget trip.
Book your stay at Barefoot Kuata Island Resort via Booking.com
Book your stay at Barefoot Kuata Island via Agoda.com
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing
(Feature image credit: Tourism Fiji/Facebook)
Related | This Island Resort in Fiji Puts the Planet (and Pampering) First
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Mini public buses, hiring a car/bike, private taxis and boats are the best options to commute locally in Fiji.
The currency used in Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD).
English is an official language in Fiji and is widely spoken, so the linguistic differences are quite manageable. Local languages include Fijian and Hindi.
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa, Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Six Senses Fiji and The Wakaya Club & Spa are some of the most luxurious hotels on Fiji Island with a view.
It’s important to follow a modest dress code in a religious or sacred place and show respect for local customs.
Fiji Islands is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches, luxurious resorts, lush rainforests and coral reels.
Natadola Beach, Matamanoa Island Beach, Castaway Island Beach, Monuriki Beach and Blue Lagoon are the best beaches on Fiji Island
1-2 weeks are enough to explore the main attractions of Fiji Island.
Written By
Shaili Shah
An ailurophile, a full-time snacker, an emoji fanatic, and secretly a pahadi - Shaili is mostly found ..Read More
