Discover the best things to do in Fiji, from exploring pristine beaches to indulging in Fijian cuisine. Plan your dream getaway with our comprehensive guide. Fiji, a jewel in the South Pacific, beckons with its azure waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture.
Things to Do in Fiji
In this guide, we unveil the myriad activities that make Fiji an enchanting destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Fiji's natural beauty is a canvas painted with pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Explore hidden gems and embark on hiking adventures through verdant landscapes that reveal the heart of the Pacific.
1. Try Kava
Of course, one of the most important things to do while you’re in Fiji is to learn a little bit about the local culture! While there are tons of cultural activities to try out (and we’ll get to more of these), one of the best ways you can do this is by attending a traditional Kava ceremony.
So, what exactly is Kava? Well, it’s a traditional Fijian drink that is made from a ground-up plant root (Piper Methysticum) which is mixed with water. Traditionally, only village chiefs drank Kava. But nowadays, Kava is consumed at celebrations or even just socially with friends. In Fiji, alcohol is very expensive, so Kava is the local people’s substitute.
Honestly, Kava tastes a little like muddy water or really bad tea, so you’re definitely not drinking it for the taste! After having a few glasses you may start to feel “chilled out” or relaxed as Kava tends to have this side effect.
There are also lots of hotels and resorts that will hold Kava ceremonies on certain nights (so you might just get lucky and try Kava for free!). You can also buy Kava at stores and mix it up for yourself, but I wouldn’t recommend it as the Kava Ceremony is all part of the fun.
For the most authentic experience, I’d suggest going on a village tour and trying Kava while you’re there! We love this particular day tour as it combines two of our favorite things about Fiji, the gorgeous scenery and the welcoming locals who are really eager to share their culture with you.
We had the chance to go for a boat ride on the stunning Navua River, learn about Fiji’s colorful wildlife, and, of course, even get to visit a local village too! If you’re a little stuck for time but want to discover more local culture and scenic landmarks, this really is the experience for you.
Tickets for this tour start from just $87 USD for adults (16+) and $44 USD for kids (5-15), with the price varying a little depending on where you would like to be picked up from. This is a popular tour though, so make sure to secure your tickets here in advance to get the dates you’re looking for!
2. Stay in a Bure
Another super authentic Fijian experience is staying in a “bure”, which is a Fijian-style bungalow that many resorts have on offer as an option for accommodation. These Bures are light, airy, and are usually on the beach with an outdoor shower. It’s a fun and authentic alternative and much more interesting than your typical hotel room.
The price of staying in a bure does really depend on where you choose to stay in Fiji, and, of course, what time of the year you are visiting Fiji! Generally, May to October is the most popular time to visit (the weather is amazing at this time!), but of course, this means prices will be higher.
My top tip would be to head over either at the very start or end of the season, so you can find the sweet spot between great weather and low accommodation prices. That being said, here are a couple of my favorite resorts with bures that are perfect for a range of budgets:
If you’re thinking about heading over to the Yasawa Islands, you can stay in a treehouse bure at Mantaray Island Resort for around $250 FJD per night. Imagine your room being surrounded by lush jungle forest with the golden beach being just steps away – that’s Mantaray Island Resort!
There’s also an on-site restaurant that serves a whole variety of cuisines, from Fijian to European, as well as Indian and Asian. My favorite part had to be the desserts though, they were seriously on a whole other level – make sure to try their signature pumpkin pudding (you really won’t regret it).
For something a little more luxurious, check out Navutu Stars Resort on the island of Yaqueta. The hotel is well-known for having a small number of rooms (just 9 beachfront bures in total), so you know you’ll be getting top-level personalized service throughout your stay! The bures here start from around $827 FJD per night and include breakfast as well as fun activities like snorkeling, fishing, and more.
Tip: Bures are nice for couples too since they are so private. If you’re looking for an amazing resort for your honeymoon in Fiji, you can’t go wrong with choosing a place with a bure.
3. Go Scuba Diving
Fiji is world-renowned for scuba diving! There are tons of brightly colored fish and corals to see as well as sharks. Yes, sharks! Scuba divers come from all over the world to go shark diving in Fiji.
Now, we don’t exactly recommend chartering a boat and simply hopping out while you’re at sea… Instead, we’d suggest heading out on an organized shark diving experience where you can safely get up close and personal with some of the most amazing animals on the planet!
Having been on tons of scuba experiences in the past, we know to only look out for tour organizers who genuinely care about the welfare of the animals they’re showcasing. When we learned about this ultimate shark encounter experience through some friends of ours, we were so happy to learn that the guides were really knowledgeable and super friendly.
Setting off from the Aqua-Trek Beqa Dive Center in Pacific Harbour, the entire experience lasts between 4 and 5 hours and includes all the gear you’ll need to have a safe and incredible time. The guides also take tons of photos, so you’ll be sure to get some epic shots while you’re at it too.
Of course, you’ll see plenty of other amazing marine life while you’re down there, like the beautiful coral, huge snappers, and other colorful tropical fish too. But the stars of the show have to be the super impressive bull sharks, which grow to over 16 feet (4.9 meters)! You can also see nurse sharks, gray reef sharks, lemon sharks… The list goes on and on!
Even if you’re thinking of staying in Nadi or Suva, we think this once-in-a-lifetime experience really is worth the journey over to Pacific Harbour. Tickets for this experience start at $180 USD for adults (15+) and you’ll also need to be fully open-water certified in order to participate. You can check dates and secure your spot online here.
If shark diving isn’t your thing, there are tons of other scuba trips all over Fiji that take you to brightly colored coral reefs off the shores of isolated islands. These scuba trips are much cheaper than shark diving trips and if you aren’t already scuba certified, there are many companies that offer training, like Subsurface Fiji in Nadi and even over at Mantaray Island Resort!
4. Visit Seventh Heaven Floating Bar
Ever wanted to be transported to paradise to relax with amazing food and cocktails? Well, Seventh Heaven Fiji is the perfect place for that! We took a trip out to Seventh Heaven with some friends and wow did we have a fantastic day!
You’ll need to book your tickets to Seventh Heaven online before you go. Then the boat ride here leaves from Port Denaru and takes around 45 minutes each way.
Once there, you can grab yourself a spot on the floating bar and soak it all up. The bar is located just off a shallow reef so there is lots of snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and relaxing to do. You can also jump off the dive board, order some delicious food, or just have a few cocktails. We did a mix of the above and really enjoyed it.
The prices at the bar are very reasonable too. We also never expected the cocktails and food to be so good due to the location, but we were pleasantly surprised! Everything tasted fresh and it was one of the best meals we had in Fiji. Oh, and with table service, we never had to go to the bar!
It’s arguably the best bar in Fiji and is located in some of the most pristine waters you’ll ever see! If the photos above don’t get you excited, I don’t know what will!
A day out at Seventh Heaven starts at $73 USD for pre-booked tickets. This includes your boat ride to and from Seventh Heaven and pick-up from select Denarau hotels. They can also arrange transport from your hotel for an extra fee (this is what we did and organized pick-up from First Landing Resort). All food and drinks are on your own dime (and they only take credit FYI!) but prices are reasonable with beers starting at $5 USD and wood-fired pizzas for $15 USD.
You can book your day at Seventh Heaven online in advance so you don’t miss out on this floating paradise!
5. Go Snorkeling
Fiji is surrounded by over 10,020 sq km (3,869 sq mi) of vibrant coral reefs, teeming with some of the most amazing fish we’ve ever seen. It’s a no-brainer then that you’ll want to head out into the big blue and do some snorkeling while you’re on your trip, so where do you start?
While you can go snorkeling on your own from various hotels around Fiji, we found it to be a little bit tricky to know where exactly to go. Even more so if you’re staying on the main island of Viti Levu which is huge. The last thing you want when on holiday is to be wasting time figuring out where exactly is the best place to go snorkeling!
This is where we’d suggest trying out a snorkel tour, where local guides who know the area like the backs of their hands will take you to the very best spots. Some of these tours even include a cruise out to the remote islands, as well as lunch and other fun activities too.
If you’ve got a day to spend and want to get some serious snorkeling action in, then this trusted Nadi Tivua Island day cruise could be just what you’re looking for! With pickup from Nadi and Port Denarau hotels included, you’ll get the chance to sail on a classic two-masted sailing ship over to Nadi Tivua Island. How cool is that!?
Whenever we go on tours, we always look for the ones which are run by locals who really care about their work – these guys really have this down to a T. There was a beautiful Kava ceremony as soon as we arrived at the island, and then we had some free time to get to explore and get to know the island. Of course, we just had to try out some snorkeling through the coral reefs!
Tickets for this tour start from $103 USD per adult (16+) and $71 USD for kids (3-15), which also include a gorgeous buffet lunch too. Honestly, this has to be one of the best ways to do some snorkeling in all of Fiji! You can check dates and reserve your spot on the tour here.
For something even more adventurous, try snorkeling with sharks! This shark encounter tour takes you out to Kuata Island, which is home to a variety of incredible fish and, of course, sharks. After a safety briefing, your guide will take you out to snorkel with the reef sharks. Don’t worry though, these guys are pretty harmless!
6. Go to the Fiji Culture Village
When I first heard about the Fiji Culture Village, which is a mock village set up just outside of Nadi, I was a little skeptical. I mean, how authentic can a mock-up village be when it comes to showcasing Fijian culture? Now, having visited twice (and planning to go back!), it’s easily one of my favorite activities I’ve done while in Fiji.
The village is full to the brim with heart and soul, showing visitors the traditional Fijian ways of life, including a whole host of interesting activities, like weaving, fire making, and even building demonstrations. I even got to meet the village chief and go inside some of the huts and temples.
The last time I visited, I went on the evening experience at the Fiji Culture Village with my mom, which turned out to be really special! After touring the village, we got to eat a traditional “lovo” meal (food cooked in an earth oven) while enjoying a show of dancers, singers, and fire dancers. My favorite part of the evening experience had to be the fire dancers though – they are sooo talented.
If you prefer, the Fiji Culture Village also offers an afternoon experience that includes lunch instead of dinner. The only difference is that you’ll miss out on the fire dancers, which is a bit of a shame, but if you’re on a tight schedule, it’s still tons of fun!
I now can easily see why visiting the Fiji Culture Village happens to be one of the most popular things to do in Nadi. At $77 USD per person for the night tour and $64 USD for the day tour, I’d say it’s also very reasonably priced, includes food, and even pick-up from most hotels.
For families or those just simply interested in Fijian culture, this is a great (and unique) experience to have in Fiji! You can book the Fiji Culture Village online here.
7. Watch a Fire Show
If you know anything about Fiji, you’ll know that it’s famous for its incredible fire dancers! When night comes, the dancers put on a unique show right in front of your eyes as they spin poles lit with fire. It blows my mind how they manage to stand the heat, but it sure does make for a thrilling show.
When it comes to seeing a fire show for yourself, there are a few options. You can go to a paid show such as the one we mentioned at the Fiji Culture Village, or you can try and catch a free one in a bar or restaurant.
If you’re staying in Nadi, two famous restaurants that often have fire shows are Mamacita Mexican Restaurant & Bar and Smugglers Cove’s Ghost Ship Bar & Grill. Just be sure to double-check with them when the shows are on, as we’ve found that the times can often change!
From my own experience though, I’ve found that not all fire dancing shows are as good as the next, so if you want to see the really impressive ones, then I’d recommend going with the paid experience like at the Fiji Culture Village.
8. Explore a Remote Island
Did you know there are well over 300 islands in Fiji?! It’s no surprise then that exploring remote islands is one of the most popular things to do in Fiji. In fact, many people base their entire Fiji holiday on island hopping alone!
Some islands are completely isolated with no inhabitants while others actually have their own little towns. Some have electricity and internet, and some don’t. Some islands are many hours away by ferry and some are just off the coast. So, choose your islands wisely!
You can either spend a few nights on the islands or just do day trips from the main island.
It’s entirely up to you if you’d like to spend a few nights on the islands or to go for day trips from the main island instead. The great part is that many of the islands are only a short ferry ride away, so it’s totally possible to have your accommodation in Nadi and still get to explore some incredible islands!
There are day excursions leaving from Nadi and Port Denarau daily, many of which offer lunch and fun activities as well, so you really don’t have to worry about anything!
I went to Robinson Crusoe Island and had such a great time out there. The guys picked me up from my accommodation over at Wailoaloa before taking a short ferry ride over and spending 5 hours exploring everything on offer. I even got to take part in some cooking classes and saw a super entertaining fire and knife dance!
In general, you can expect to pay between $200-$300 FJD for a day trip to an island including lunch. This trip to Robinson Crusoe costs just $233 FJD (about $103 USD) per person for the full 7-hour experience. So, to avoid disappointment, don’t forget to secure your spot on the tour here.
If you’d rather stay and live the island life, then you have plenty of choices – almost too many that it’s hard to know where to even start! If you’re looking for a luxurious island stay that’s pretty easy to get to, then the Castaway Island Resort would be one of my top picks.
It’s a huge private island resort that comes as one of the most highly-rated places to stay in Fiji. Here, you’ll find 4 restaurants, a pool, a kids club, and an endless list of free activities to keep you busy all day long. You can also take advantage of the tennis court, pool bar, and day spa too.
Rooms here start from around $1,100 FJD but can often rise to around double that price in the high season, so make sure to book early for the best deals.
For an island stay that’s a little more budget-friendly, but is still just as easy to get to and equally beautiful, then check out the Beachcomber Island Resort. This resort is actually located within a marine sanctuary, so it’s an amazing spot to go diving or snorkeling!
There are many different rooms and bungalows to choose from here – something for every budget! Dorm beds go for as little as $139 FJD per night, whereas you can get a standard twin room for around $448 FJD.
9. Eat a Traditional “Lovo” Meal
A “Lovo” is a super tasty meal that’s actually cooked in an earth oven, AKA under the ground! This is a traditional method of cooking in Fiji, and it is still used today (and we’re so glad it is). Meat, vegetables, and potatoes are placed on hot rocks and covered with cloth and leaves to cook, helping to trap moisture and make the food unbelievably tender… My mouth is watering now just remembering it!
Many day excursions include the “Lovo” as lunch or dinner, and it’s honestly always such a hit. You can expect to have a huge selection of fish, chicken, beef, potatoes, cassava, and vegetables to choose from. If you’re vegetarian, I’d always suggest getting in touch with the event organizers beforehand, as they usually cater for these dietary requirements too.
After the food is done cooking, you normally watch them uncover it from the ground. This is a unique and memorable experience you can really only enjoy in Fiji. Once the food is uncovered, it is placed on a table as a buffet-style meal for everyone to tuck into!
10. Visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple
Nestled away on the southern side of Nadi, you’ll find a huge and colorful Hindu temple which is open to visitors! Hinduism is a very popular religion in Fiji due to the large Indian influence here, and this temple is a great place to stop at for a few minutes and explore.
Across centuries, many Indians have immigrated to Fiji and their culture still lives on in Fiji today. In fact, Indian food is some of the most popular food in Fiji (more on that later!).
The temple has a $5 FJD entry fee and only takes about 20 minutes to explore. Keep in mind though that you’re allowed to take pictures of the outside but not the inside. Also, ladies must have their knees covered but don’t worry if you are wearing shorts, as they will give you a shawl to use for free.
Many local tours of Nadi also include the temple as one of the stops, like this half-day experience which also visits the incredibly beautiful Garden of the Sleeping Giant and the local mud pool hot springs! At just $82 USD per person, this tour includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and all entrance fees, making it a pretty affordable way to get to visit some of Nadi’s best attractions!
Although just a quick activity, the temple is one of the most popular things to do in Nadi and well worth adding to your Fiji bucket list.
11. Enjoy the BEST Sunsets
So, where does Fiji rank when it comes to countries with the best sunsets? Well, I won’t lie… For me, it’s right near the top of the list! With beaches as gorgeous as this, you simply couldn’t visit Fiji and not enjoy multiple sunsets over the water. Grab a hammock or a cocktail (or both) and enjoy the show from just about any beach in Fiji.
A small tip from a veteran sunset seeker… Another great way to experience the best sunsets is by boat! I went on a really great sunset and dinner cruise which, as the name suggests, is all about enjoying a beautiful dinner while the sun makes its slow (but undeniably beautiful) descent over the horizon.
If nothing else, I have to recommend this cruise for the amazing dinner alone. It’s made up of 3 super tasty courses off the à la carte menu, from perfectly cooked peppercorn steaks through to the juiciest chicken sautéed kebabs I had in Fiji! With pickup and drop-off from Nadi and Port Denarau hotels included, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy a beautiful meal with the sunset.
This sunset cruise costs just $73 USD per person; however, you can upgrade to have lobster for dinner for just $35 USD extra per person. You can see the available dates and make your reservation online here.
But the truth is, no matter where you enjoy the sunset, be sure to do so! I watched the sunset every single night while I was in Fiji and was never disappointed!
P.S. – If you’re an early riser, checking out the sunrise is a great idea too.
12. Drink Cocktails Made With Fresh Local Fruit
In Fiji, you can get some really delicious fruit cocktails. But what sets these cocktails apart from many that you could order back at home is that they use fresh fruit! No artificial flavors or sugary syrups here, just blended fruit, ice, and plenty of alcohol!
A “Fiji-style” piña colada was my personal favorite. However, I’d recommend indulging in various flavors of mojitos or tasting a typical mai tai. Most hotel bartenders also have their own tropical creations that you should ask to try as well!
Tip: Almost everywhere in Fiji has happy hour deals where you can snag discounted cocktails. Watch out for these deals in restaurants and bars near you to save up to 50%. Most of the time, happy hour is around 4 or 5 pm. This is a great thing to remember if you’re traveling Fiji on a budget.
13. Ride an ATV in the Jungle
Riding a quad through the jungle in Fiji is something many tourists sadly miss out on. This is such a shame as it’s one of the best ways to experience Fiji’s incredible wilderness! While you’re pumped through with adrenaline, you’ll enjoy some of the best scenic views around the island.
Quad tours typically depart from Nadi or nearby and tour through the jungle, on beaches, and even up into the mountains for panoramic views! It is one of those activities the whole family will love. Just be sure not to wear your nicest clothing as you will likely get very muddy.
This particular quad tour is really popular among tourists and having tried it ourselves, it’s easy to see why! Lasting around 2 to 3 hours, you’ll get to easily travel down routes that other vehicles would have a hard time with. Dan and I had such an adventure and even got some free photos included as part of the tour too.
At $164 USD per person, this is on the pricier side. But if you’re looking to splash out a little on a really unique experience, then this quad tour could be just right for you! You can check your dates and book your slot online here.
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, read our complete Viator review to learn more about what we think about Viator.
14. Go on a Catamaran Cruise
Spending a day cruising around on a catamaran is one of the most fun things to do in Fiji on the water. You’ll enjoy gorgeous island views like this one again and again – it seriously never gets old!
Most full-day catamaran cruises include lunch, lots of drinks, as well as stops for swimming and snorkeling. Of course, the beauty of this is that you can do pretty much exactly what you want, even if that’s simply chilling out on deck and watching the world go by.
The majority of catamaran day-trips depart from Port Denarau not far from Nadi. However, some also offer hotel pick-up at hotels as far as the Coral Coast. Typically, you can expect to pay somewhere around $100 to $150 USD for a full-day cruise including lunch.
If you’re wondering where to start, I have to recommend this South Sea cruise, which is one I did and loved! One of my favorite parts has to be the small group size – there’s a maximum of 15 people per trip. Add that to the fact that this is an amazing 78-foot (24-meter) catamaran, and there’s tons of space to go around.
The scenery was so amazing too! I must admit, I was sitting down on a beanbag for a while and may or may not have had a little nap (thanks warm tropical breeze!), but I also got to go snorkeling in the coral reefs and really enjoyed the buffet lunch too.
Tickets for this cruise cost $112 USD per person and can be booked online here. Of course, there’s so much more this cruise offers too and the best way to experience it is to try it out for yourself!
15. Visit the Mud Pools in Nadi
Just on the outskirts of Nadi is The Sabeto Mud Pools and Hot Springs, a little gem of an activity that’s essentially an all-natural day spa. In short, visitors first cover themselves in mud, which leaves the skin super soft (take my word for it!). Then, you get to sit back and enjoy natural hot pools of all different temperatures. How does that sound?!
You’ve got a couple of options when it comes to visiting the mud pools. You can either jump in a taxi from Nadi or Denarau and head there yourself, where entry is $20 FJD per person, or go there as part of a curated tour. The choice is entirely up to you!
If you’re traveling on a budget, then going there yourself would probably be the better option if you just want to see (and try out) the mud pools and springs. Open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, the experience should only take an hour or so, and it is something people of all ages will definitely enjoy.
For those with a little more time on their hands and who are keen to explore some other fun areas nearby, I’d suggest trying out a day tour like this sightseeing experience. Not only does it include stops at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple and the mud pools, but also the Garden of the Sleeping Giant (more info coming below!).
We’ve heard great things about the tour guides who run this experience, so be sure to ask plenty of questions about Nadi and all of the places you are stopping at. All in all, the entire tour lasts around 4 hours, includes all of your entrance fees, and costs $82 USD per person. If this sounds right up your street, then don’t forget to secure your place on the tour here.
16. Wander the Garden of the Sleeping Giant
Right next to the mud pools is the incredible Garden of the Sleeping Giant. This garden is gorgeous and has literally thousands of orchids around to check out. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, it’s also a fascinating place to simply relax and feel at peace. Just like the mountain next to the gardens, which looks like a “sleeping giant” that’s peacefully resting. It’s easy to see where this garden got its name!
When I was there, I spent about an hour wandering the different trails and watching hundreds of frogs jump around on the lily pads. After my walk, I also got to enjoy some delicious and fresh fruit juice (included in the entrance price!).
The entrance fee to the garden is $18 FJD, so it’s pretty inexpensive if you decide to visit on your own or as part of a day tour of Nadi.
17. Try Standup Paddleboarding
The calm ocean waters around Fiji make for the perfect place to try standup paddleboarding. The truth is, it isn’t as easy as it looks! But if you try in a calm bay, then you’ll get the hang of it a lot faster.
Most remote islands have standup paddleboards available for hire, and sometimes they’re even free to use. If you choose to spend a couple of nights on a remote island, you might be able to get some practice in and get really good!
18. Eat Kokoda (and even learn to cook it!)
Kokoda is a traditional fish dish that is very popular in Fiji. It is similar to ceviche in the sense that the fish is “cooked” in very citrusy lime juice but with a Fijian twist – it’s served in a coconut sauce! To me, the coconut juice balances out the citrus and adds a sweet taste (which is super tasty).
Kokoda is often served with Cassava (like fries but made with Yuca instead of your typical potato). It’s often a starter or appetizer and ranges in price depending on the type of fish used, portion size, and how fancy the restaurant is in general.
If you’re really into food, then I recommend actually learning to cook Kokoda and possibly other Fijian dishes in a cooking class, like the one offered as part of this Robinson Crusoe island tour. Cooking classes are always a lot of fun, and you get to bring new recipes and knowledge back home with you too!
19. Learn some History at the Fiji National Museum
History buffs and museum lovers listen up! Yes, Fiji has a national museum and I actually went there. Most people tend to skip the Fiji Museum because, let’s face it, most people come to Fiji to relax on the beach or enjoy the ocean. But Fiji actually has a lot of fascinating history and culture to share that you can learn all about at the National Museum of Fiji.
This museum is located in the city of Suva, Fiji’s capital city. Although the museum is one of the best things to do in Suva, many people never make it to Suva simply because it’s located about a 4-hour drive from Nadi. However, if you do make your way to this side of the island, the museum is a place you really should visit.
I myself am not typically a huge fan of museums. However, this one was pretty interesting with lots of artifacts and explanations everywhere. It costs $5 FJD to enter and took me about an hour to wander through. With that said, if you read all of the information you could easily spend a lot longer there.
You can visit the Fiji Museum as part of a tour to Suva, this is how I visited the museum and it was a fun day out getting to explore Fiji’s capital city.
Tip: The museum is actually located in some gorgeous botanic gardens that are worth a walk through too! These gardens are called the Thurston Botanic Gardens, and although I personally don’t think they are worthy of being included on this list of the best things to do in Fiji, it is a nice side trip if you’re already visiting the museum.
20. Eat Indian Food
Okay, so this one might sound kind of weird. You’re probably wondering why I recommend eating Indian food as opposed to Fijian food in Fiji. Well, the truth is, eating Fijian food is a pretty obvious thing to do, so I thought I would switch it up a bit and tell you to try something you might not have known about.
Fiji actually has a long history of Indian immigrants, which means that Indian culture is very prevalent. You’ll see Hindu temples, like the Sri Siva Subramaniya temple, all over the place, as well as restaurants serving curries, papadams, naan bread, and a selection of Indian food.
Honestly, outside of India itself, Fiji is probably the next best country to eat authentic Indian food!
Most of the time, Indian dishes are quite cheap in comparison to Western dishes or Fijian dishes with seafood. You also don’t need to go to an actual Indian restaurant to have Indian food, and you’ll typically find a selection of curries on the menu at most restaurants all around Fiji!
If you do fancy going to an Indian restaurant though, you should definitely try out Red Pepper in central Nadi. It’s just off Queens Road (the main road that runs through the city), so it’s really easy to reach by taxi from anywhere in the city.
I had some of the most amazing naan bread here, and the main dishes were really good too! Most mains range from $10-20 FJD, so go ahead and pick a few for an authentic Indian experience!
21. Visit Kula Wild Adventure Park
If you’re looking for a fun activity to keep the little ones entertained (or maybe you have a big kid with you!), then you’ll definitely want to stop by Kula Adventure Park. They really have it all, from waterslides to canopy adventures including ziplining, parks, walking trails, and canopy walks, as well as interactive animal experiences too!
Now I must admit, adventures parks usually aren’t my thing (I know, I know!), so I didn’t stop by the last time I was in Fiji. However, I’ve heard from lots of people with kids that the park is a great way to spend a day in Fiji and definitely tires the kids out by the end of the day!
If you fancy this epic jungle adventure, you can purchase your tickets ahead of time to help skip the queues. Tickets cost $44 USD per adult (12+) and $25 USD per child (3-11) and can be booked online here. You can also buy your admission ticket at the park; however, you may need to deal with long waiting times (not always the easiest when you’ve got little ones eager to go in!).
Kula Adventure Park itself is located on the Coral Coast which is on the southwest portion of Viti Levu. It’s about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive right along the highway, so it’s pretty straightforward to get there.
22. Ride in a Helicopter on a Scenic Flight
There is no better way to view the gorgeous ocean and thousands of tiny islands that make up Fiji than from the sky. From a helicopter, you can see the islands, the mountains, and just Fiji’s overall beauty from a birds-eye perspective!
This helicopter tour combines a scenic flight with both ATVing and a visit to a remote Fijian village for the ultimate adventurous day out! Kicking off from Nadi, the 4-hour tour begins with a full safety brief for riding the ATVs, which is also beginner-friendly so don’t worry if you’ve never ridden one before! ATVs are always such a blast, but make sure to wear some clothes you don’t mind getting a bit muddy.
Riding through the pine forests and past sugar cane fields, you’ll explore the scenic Nausori Highlands in a super fun and unique way. We always have such an amazing time when going out on an ATV, and we’re sure you will do too! But of course, the star of the show has to be the helicopter ride, and you’ll want your camera for this one.
Tickets for the tour cost $423 USD per person and include all activities as well as some light refreshments too. Just note, you’ll need to have a driver’s license in order to ride, as you’ll be spending some time out on the roads too. You can check your dates and book yourself onto the tour here.
Alternatively, you could always book a helicopter ride as a transfer out to a remote island to stay for a few days. This is one (pretty expensive) way to arrive in style at your chosen island resort!
23. Shop and Eat at Denarau Island
If you’re heading over to visit or stay on a remote island in Fiji, chances are you’ll be saying “Bula” to Denarau Island, home to Viti Levu’s popular port!
You know how every great vacation story has a dash of glamour and a pinch of luxury? Well, Denarau has been serving up this recipe for years now, with swanky resorts, mouth-watering foodie hotspots, and tons of vibrant boutique shops to explore. It’s no surprise then that many travelers choose to stay on Denarau Island for the Fiji holiday.
But even if you aren’t staying on Denarau Island, the port is well worth a visit for a few hours anyway. We had a great time strolling along the main stretch and soaking in the mesmerizing marina views. You just have to drop by for a sunset here, and the food also isn’t as expensive as we thought it’d be either.
We stopped by Sails@Denarau, which turned out to be a real gem for foodies! They’ve got a pretty extensive menu featuring global dishes and local favorites, and with a beautiful waterfront location, it’s also THE place to be for a sunset dinner. Mains here are around the $40 FJD mark, so again, not too expensive at all.
To me, Denarau is one of those must-visit places in Fiji and somewhere everyone should check out, even if it is just for an hour or two.
We never travel without travel insurance! We’ve had a few instances during our travels when one of us has ended up in the hospital, and travel insurance has saved us thousands of dollars over the years!
SafetyWing is our go-to insurance, we both have policies with them whenever we travel.
They offer travel medical insurance that’s super affordable (only $45 USD per 4 weeks!)The only thing to note is that the insurance must be purchased once you’ve left your home country – we typically buy it as soon as we land at the airport.
We’ve personally used SafetyWing for many different trips, and we’ve been reimbursed for countless expenses when we’ve fallen ill. SafetyWing even covered our flights back to Canada in full when the pandemic first happened (when last-minute flights before the borders closed were super expensive!) While most travel insurance companies left people stranded, SafetyWing fully reimbursed us for our last-minute, pricey flights!
Also, because it is so affordable, there really is no excuse not to take out a policy. Check prices and get a quote online here with SafetyWing (you can even take out a policy if you’re already traveling!)
24. Visit a Local Market
Without a doubt, the best place to find fresh fruit and veggies in Fiji is at one of their local markets. This is where the locals shop for groceries and there is no reason why you can’t visit! Load up on some local fruit to bring back to your hotel with you for a little snack later on.
In Nadi, don’t miss the Nadi Market – it’s the biggest in town and a real treat for the senses. Over in Suva, the Suva Municipal Market is your go-to spot for fresh produce.
But these markets aren’t just foodie heavens – they’re treasure troves of unique souvenirs too. I’d recommend grabbing a little memento of your fabulous Fiji vacation or a special gift for someone back home at the Nadi Handicraft Market! Keep your eyes peeled for handmade jewelry, Fijian tapa cloth, and traditional wooden carvings.
And the best part? You’ll be rubbing elbows with the friendliest locals around. I’ve always found visiting markets to be a fantastic chance to strike up a conversation, learn more about Fijian culture, and even pick up a few local phrases!
25. Adventure on a River
River tubing is easily one of the best, and most adventurous, things to do in Fiji! Photo Credit: River Tubing Fiji
Despite what you might think, Fiji isn’t all about the ocean! In fact, there are plenty of rivers around too which are such a blast to explore. On the main island of Viti Levu, there’s a huge range of river adventures that are sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
One of the most popular activities in Fiji is river-tubing. On the beautiful Navua River, you can join a half-day tour where you’ll slip into a tube and drift down the river, surrounded by some of the most amazing scenery you can imagine!
So, why do we love river tubing tours so much? Well, for me, it’s all about connecting with the pure, untouched side of Fiji, breaking away from the usual beach lounging and experiencing the country’s vibrant ecosystem up close.
Plus, this tour also includes a village visit and a traditional Fijian lunch – you’ll definitely be hungry after splashing around in the water! Tickets for this tour cost $81 USD per person and can be booked online here.
If you fancy upping the pace, then this jet boat ride will be right up your street. It’s the perfect combination of high-speed fun with fantastic cultural immersion along the Sigatoka River.
Your local guide will skillfully navigate the twists and turns, while sharing fun and insightful stories about the area’s history. Just be sure to hold on tight during those thrilling 360-degree spins — they’re no joke! And remember, your waterproof camera or waterproof case will be your best friend on this high-speed adventure.
You’ll also have a chance to explore an authentic Fijian village, speak with warm-hearted locals, and generally gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. Sounds like a great time to us! For this 4 to 5 hour tour, tickets cost $137 USD per person – don’t forget to book online here.
26. Go Ziplining
Ziplines in Fiji are high above the jungle canopy and are sure to get your heart racing while also offering spectacular views!
Perfect for those who love to mix adrenaline with some natural exploration, this zipline experience promises breathtaking views and heart-racing thrills as you zip across the forest canopy. With eight giant ziplines to conquer and suspended bridges to traverse, you’ll be zipping and zooming like Tarzan in no time.
The tour isn’t just about the adrenaline rush though; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Fiji’s rich ecosystem. Between zips, your friendly guide will share interesting insights about the surrounding flora and fauna. Just make sure you remember it all, as there’s a 40-question test at the end (joking -ha)!
The entire experience lasts for about 5 hours and also includes a visit to a nearby cave, which actually turned out to be a super cool experience too. If you fancy taking some time away from the beach, this zipline tour is a memorable way to soak in the beauty of Fiji. With tickets at $119 USD per person, you can book your spot on the tour here.
27. Take a Photo with the President’s Guard
In the city of Suva, you’ll find the president’s house. While you can’t go inside, you can wander around the outside and admire the building and grounds.
At the front gate there is always a president’s guard. The guard does a march every 15 minutes, but other than that, just stands there protecting the gate. Tourists often visit here (myself included) to get a photo with the guard. He won’t speak to you or even acknowledge you for that matter, but it is okay to take a photo! Oh, and it’s free!
Tip: The president’s house is located in Suva not far from the National Museum. Therefore, combining these two activities on a day trip is a great idea!
28. Enjoy the Evening Atmosphere at Wailoaloa Beach
Wailoaloa Beach is my favorite area in Nadi. Here, there are lots of small hotels and restaurants lining the beach. Although it isn’t the nicest beach around by Fiji standards, it’s a super fun place to hang out, especially in the evenings.
As the sun begins to set at Wailoaloa Beach, all of the people come out and there are lots of drinks to be had! The beachside restaurants fill up, and you’ll have a choice of places with live music, dance shows, and even kava ceremonies.
I actually stayed at the Smugglers Cove Hotel on Wailoaloa Beach for a few nights, so I really got to know the area. It seemed like the hotels and restaurants all took turns doing special entertainment nights. There were always happy hour deals too! It was just a vibrant place to have dinner and drinks each night that I really enjoyed.
29. Go Deep-sea Fishing
Deep-sea and game fishing is another unique experience you can have in Fiji. With the right gear and guide, you can catch some seriously big (and impressive) fish!
Some of the fish you might just get lucky enough to catch include marlin, mahi mahi, tuna, walu, and more. While some fish are catch and release, others you can take home with you! That’s right, once you’ve caught your prize, you can whisk it back to your hotel, where the chef can transform it into a mouth-watering meal for you.
This private fishing charter is your golden ticket to not just any fishing experience, but a day of epic reef, deep-sea, and game fishing! The crystal-clear waters of Viti Levu are full to the brim with vibrant fish, so there’s a high chance you’ll be coming back with something. Don’t worry if you’re new to fishing either, as the friendly crew is on hand to give you all the tips and tricks you need to land your dream catch.
So, whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-timer, this private fishing charter promises an unforgettable day on the water, filled with action, excitement, and potentially, a tasty dinner! You also have a few options for how long you want the charter to be, starting from 4 hours all the way up to the full day. Prices start at $677 USD and can be organized online here.
30. Jump Out of an Airplane
The thing I love most about skydiving is that it’s a scenic flight experience and thrill activity all in one! I’ve been skydiving twice in my life, and Daniel actually solo skydives as a hobby – so we are big advocates of skydiving.
Now, you might be thinking, “Skydiving? That sounds terrifying!” But trust me, it’s an absolutely incredible experience that will make your heart race in the best possible way. It’s not every day you get to leap from a plane and free-fall through the sky! So if you’ve never given skydiving a shot, maybe it’s time to change that.
Skydiving in Fiji isn’t cheap though, and you can expect to pay over $300 USD for a jump. You can choose between a 12,000 ft (3,658 m) drop and a 13,000 ft (3,962 m) drop, with the latter being the most expensive. And don’t worry if this is your first time, because your trusty tandem master will guide you every step (or rather, every leap) of the way.
The plane departs from Nadi, so this is another great activity if you’re staying in and around Nadi and Denarau. Tickets for the 12,000 ft drop cost $378 USD for the 12,000 ft drop and $415 USD for the 13,000 ft drop.
FAQs About Fiji
What is the best time to visit Fiji?
Fiji's peak season is from April to October, offering pleasant weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
Are there budget-friendly accommodation options in Fiji?
Yes, Fiji provides a range of budget-friendly accommodations, including guesthouses and backpacker-friendly resorts.
Is it safe to swim with sharks in Fiji?
Absolutely, swimming with sharks is a popular and safe activity in designated areas, guided by experienced professionals.
What cultural etiquette should I be aware of when visiting Fiji?
Respectful attire is encouraged, especially when participating in traditional ceremonies. Removing hats and sunglasses is customary in Fijian villages.
Can I explore Fiji on a solo trip?
Certainly, Fiji welcomes solo travelers. Join group tours for shared experiences or explore at your own pace.
Are there vegetarian and vegan food options in Fiji?
Yes, many restaurants in Fiji offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Local markets also provide fresh fruits and vegetables.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fiji offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation. Embark on a journey to this tropical paradise and create memories that last a lifetime.
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