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The quintessential South Seas paradise, Fiji’s pristine white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and whispering palms make it the perfect getaway. Dive vibrant coral reefs, visit secluded desert islands, enjoy glamorous restaurants and of course, sample some of the local Kava. Bula vinaka!
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| While there’s plenty to do on any budget, this guide looks at the most popular attractions, and how you can make your holiday dollar go further. We’ll be expanding our guides to include suggestions from LayAway travellers. So email us your recommendations for great deals, attractions and dining out in Fiji. |
| Things to do | Dining | Getting around | Shopping |
Things to do, places to go
Nadi
The gateway to Fiji’s beautiful resorts, Nadi has several sights of its own. Visit its bustling street markets, and take in the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple – it’s Fiji’s largest. If you’ve got time, hire a local guide and visit to Viseisei village in the Nausori Highlands, where the traditional Fijian way of life is preserved.
Snorkeling and diving
You’re never far from vibrant coral and colourful tropical fish in Fiji! Most resorts will offer tuition and day trips.
Coral Coast
20km south of Nadi, you’ll find the spectacular Coral Coast, dotted with resorts. Make sure you get to Natadola Beach – the best beach on Viti Levu. Yasawa Islands A group of islands north west of Viti Levu, the Yasawa Islands offer palm-lined beaches and coral seas. Explore the villages, hike, discover underwater grottoes, or dive spectacular reefs. Flights from Yasawa depart from Nadi, or take an organised tour, but the cheapest option is to take one of the daily boats leaving from Nadi calling at the islands.
Mamanuca Islands
They’re just a short jaunt from Nadi, but these islands are the picture-perfect South Pacific paradise. Pack a picnic, jump on a boat, and enjoy the snorkelling, sand and sunshine! Join the party at Beachcomber, enjoy the chilled out vibe at South Sea Island, soak up some luxury on Malolo, or feel the romance on Castaway. Flights run to Mana, the largest island, or you can get a local boat service to any island.
Taveuni Island
Famous for its nearby dive sites the Great White Wall and Rainbow Reef, Taveuni also offers plenty on land for hikers.
River trips
It’s not for those on a strict budget, but a Navua or Luva River trip is a great way to see Fiji. Whether you travel by speedboat, raft or kayak, you’ll visit traditional villages and scenic waterfalls and canyons. Rivers Fiji and Discover Fiji Tours offer a variety of water adventures. http://www.riversfiji.com/, www.discoverfijitours.com
Dining
From delicious curries to traditional Fijian cuisine, these days there’s plenty of choice in Fiji. Fresh fruit and fish are abundant, and curries are a staple, usually with a tropical twist of coconut cream or fruits. There are some good quality Chinese and Japanese restaurants in Nadi and Suva, and resorts offer international-style dining. If you’re looking to splurge, there are several restaurants and bars on offer at Port Denarau. If you get the chance, a lovo is a great way to experience Fijian food: meats and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground oven, emerging with a delicious smokey taste. And be sure to try a mouthwatering Kokoda while you’re in Fiji (marinated raw fish). A traditional custom in Fiji is the drinking of Kava. Murky and brown, it’s not the best looking – or tasting – drink, but hey, when in Rome... Here are a few budget dining options in the main centres and resort areas:
Bad Dog Cafe
Share a pizza (around $15FJD), or grab sushi or a grill at Suva’s top pub. Victoria Parade, at MacArthur St, Suva
Le Cafe
Fish and chips, curries, pastas, and some reasonably good pizzas, with a thatch-roofed bar for a sunset tipple. Sunset Strip, Korotogo, west of the Outrigger on the Lagoon Fiji
Mama’s Pizza
A big range of wood-fired pizzas, along with pasta and salads. Queen's Rd, Nadi and Port Denarau
Nadina Authentic Fiji Restaurant
There aren’t too many budget restaurants doing excellent traditional dishes, so Nadina’s is worth a visit if you’re in Nadi. Queen's Rd, Nadi
Getting around
There’s a pretty good – and seriously relaxed – bus network throughout Fiji, and it’s by far the cheapest way of getting around. Local buses are usually packed, and will often pick up or drop off wherever you ask them to. Express buses between towns offer great value too. Pick up a timetable at Nadi Airport or at the Fiji Visitors Bureau. If you’re visiting the resorts on Denarau, the green, thatch-roofed Bula Bus shuttles between resorts and is always a hit with the kids.
The big car rental groups are represented at Nadi Airport, but bear in mind that you won’t be able to drive to some of Fiji’s best attractions.
Air Fiji and Sun Air offer flights to islands for pretty reasonable prices. Air Fiji offers special air passes which allow for four domestic flights within 30 days and can be good value if you’re planning on visiting several islands during your stay. There are also several smaller companies offering scenic and charter flights.
Ferries are a great way to explore the islands. From speed boats to cruise liners, there’s a vast choice. Often, you can grab a ride with a local for a few dollars, or most resorts offer a ferry services and organised day trips.
Shopping
Markets in the main towns, craft shops and street hawkers all have mementos aplenty – some better quality than others! Be prepared to haggle for that flamboyant bula shirt, fresh fruit or island pottery.
*Please note, all prices above are in local currency. |
