What to see in Fiji: 10 must-sees
Discover what to see in Fiji: 10 must-see destinations, from Natadola Beach to Suva. Predominantly beach and city; each entry includes the best time to visit and the link to its official source.
Beach(4)
Explore Natadola, on the southwest coast of Viti Levu, one of Fiji's most renowned white-sand beaches. Swim in its clear waters, snorkel over corals close to shore, or cross the fine sand on foot and on horseback, a popular activity in the area. The waves allow bodyboarding on certain stretches, while the inner reef stays calmer for swimming. Reach it from Sigatoka in about 30 minutes and take advantage of the local stalls selling fresh fruit and crafts near the beach entrance.
Sail to the Yasawa Islands, in northwestern Fiji, and swim in clear waters over coral reefs just meters from shore. Rent a mask and snorkel among tropical fish, or walk the fine white sand when the tide goes out. Resorts here are scarce and the villages small, so you'll share the beach with very few people. Arrive by catamaran from Denarau and stay at least two nights to watch the sunset at a leisurely pace.
Walk along the shore of the Coral Coast, the southern stretch of Viti Levu where the reef comes almost to the sand. Put on your mask and snorkel over the corals, among colorful fish in clear, warm water. When you get out, sit on the fine sand and watch the waves break on the reef in the distance. At sunset, the sky turns orange over the Pacific, and nearby Fijian villages offer fresh fish and the warm hospitality that defines these islands.
Swim among the coral reefs of the Mamanuca Islands, a volcanic archipelago west of Viti Levu reached by catamaran from Port Denarau. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters where clownfish and sea turtles swim, or walk the white-sand shores of islands such as Malolo and Mana. This is where the film "Cast Away" was shot, on Monuriki Island, now visited on day trips. Sleep in beachfront resorts, try fresh fish cooked in an earth oven, and end the day watching the sunset over the South Pacific.
City(2)
Watch Suva blend colonial buildings with the daily rhythm of Fiji's capital, on the southeast coast of Viti Levu. Get to the Central Market early to see piles of taro, fresh fish, and kava stalls, then stroll the harbor while the rain showers pass within minutes. Spend an afternoon at Thurston Gardens and its green lagoons before heading out at night, when the restaurants on Victoria Parade fill their tables with Indo-Fijian curry and live music.
Stop in Nadi, the gateway to Fiji on the island of Viti Levu, and explore its municipal market, where stalls offer kava, tropical fruit, and local crafts. Visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, the largest Hindu temple in the South Pacific, and stroll Main Street among shops and cafés. A few kilometers away, Wailoaloa Beach offers swimming and sunsets. The blend of Fijian and Indian cultures shows in the food, music, and everyday life of this west coast city.
National Park(2)
Walk beneath tree ferns to the three Tavoro Falls, the heart of Bouma National Heritage Park, which protects 80% of Taveuni's virgin jungle. Follow damp dirt trails among the tree ferns, listen for parrots and collared doves in the treetops, and take a dip in the natural pool of the first waterfall, the most accessible for families.
Follow this coastal trail in Bouma National Park on Taveuni, alternating stretches of white-sand beach with others of black volcanic sand. The route passes sea caves carved by the surf and winds through tropical vegetation before ending at Wainibau Falls, where a dip in the pool is customary before heading back. Bring footwear suited to wet rock and plenty of water, since the trail combines palm shade with open, sunny stretches.
Natural(2)
Anchor in Savusavu Bay, the yachting harbor nicknamed "the Switzerland of the Pacific," on the south coast of Vanua Levu. Watch the hot springs bubble along the waterfront, where steam rises between rocks just a few meters from the water. Buy black pearls cultivated at local farms on the bay itself, and book a boat trip to Namena Reef, a protected marine reserve with reef sharks and soft corals. Between May and October the trade winds favor sailing, and the yacht club on the seafront offers moorings, showers, and provisions for sailboats on passage.
Discover Beqa Lagoon, south of Viti Levu, where cage-free dives with bull and lemon sharks are run by local guides who know every dive site. Swim among the soft corals that made Fiji famous, look out for moray eels, turtles and schools of reef fish, and cruise by boat to the nearby cays. On land, walk the volcanic coastline of Beqa province, home of the legendary firewalkers.
New destinations and itineraries, by email
Subscribe to receive newly published destinations and itineraries, plus seasonal travel ideas. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Fiji?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about destinations in Fiji, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.