Fiji, a beautiful and vibrant nation of more than 300 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, is best known as a paradise with white sandy beaches, inviting crystal clear waters, and a variety of natural wonders to explore. It's no wonder why Fiji is one of the best tropical holiday destinations for Australians!
From the lively coral reefs that line Fiji’s coastlines to the natural hiking paths and beautiful waterfalls, Fiji impresses visitors worldwide. No matter what kind of traveller you are or how you want to spend your time on holiday, there’s something to do for everyone.
For families, parents and children alike will enjoy the various parks, beaches, and family-friendly attractions like Kula WILD Adventure Park, as well as the opportunities to truly immerse themselves in Fiji’s fantastic local culture.
Couples travelling to Fiji for a romantic, tropical getaway will enjoy the famous Fijian massages, stunning oceanside dining options, and a variety of island-hopping excursions. For budget-conscious travellers, Fiji offers affordable pricing and attractions, like Natadola Beach, Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, and Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park.
There is so much to explore in this beautiful island nation, from Nadi to Suva to Robinson Crusoe Island, so to help you plan your trip to Fiji, here’s our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Fiji for first-timers, families, couples and more!
Located only 17 minutes from Nadi, Port Denarau Marina is the gateway to Fiji’s West Coast and an activity itself with a bustling atmosphere full of restaurants, shops, and fun for everyone. This marina is a convenient hub for several dining options and shops, including a bakery, supermarket, and pharmacy. Those seeking to stock up on souvenirs and supplies for their vacation will find what they are looking for at Port Denarau Shopping Centre.
Port Denarau Marina also offers access to yachts and boats for day trips to many surrounding islands, including the Yasawa Islands. Anglers will be able to organise fishing charters at the Port, which allow travellers to fish without a permit, which is required otherwise around the islands. For those seeking transport to other parts of Viti Levu, the marina offers taxis and buses that run frequently throughout the day.
Perfect for all travellers, the Port Denarau Marina is the ideal spot for a relaxing day spent shopping, eating, or even cruising on the South Pacific on a yacht or catamaran. Allow at least two hours for shopping and dining but a whole day for those looking to set sail.
Website: https://www.denaraumarina.com/
Location: Denarau Island
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm
2. Garden of the Sleeping Giant
The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is a tranquil natural park with 30-40 types of orchids, as well as several native tropical plants. The orchid collection, started in 1977 by the late Raymond Burr, is the centrepiece of this attraction. This botanical garden is located only 12 minutes from Nadi Airport by car and is the perfect spot for a picnic after wandering through the lush tropical gardens. Visitors can walk along the jungle path around a large lily pond and through the native Fijian forests.
Be mindful that Fiji law ensures environmental conservation, so respect the local wildlife during your visit. Great for families, couples, and solo travellers alike, this destination requires a few hours—at least a morning or afternoon—as there are 25 hectares to explore in this park.
Website: https://gardenofsleepinggiant.com/
Location: Nadi, Viti Levu
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm
Cost of entry:
Children: FJ$12.50 (~A$9)
Adults: FJ$25 (~A18)
Family (2 adults, 2 kids): FJ$62.50 (~A$43)
3. Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple
Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple is considered the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere and a must-see for travellers who enjoy cultural experiences and stunning architecture. Located only 15 minutes from Nadi, Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple is unique to Fiji because of its distinct architectural style and the sacred statues housed within it that Indian artisans crafted. With intricate, colourful sculptures and exquisite exterior design, this temple is a top choice for travellers seeking to understand Fiji’s expansive cultural influences.
Tourists can explore most of the temple, except one section, which is closed to non-Hindus. To respect the local culture and villages, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and need to take off their shoes and hats before entering the temple. For those with bare shoulders, all visitors need a covering or will be provided one before stepping foot inside.
Sometimes there is a short wait, but most travellers only need one to two hours to experience all Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple has to offer.
Website: https://sangamfiji.com.fj
Location: Nadi, Viti Levu
Opening hours:
Weekends, Wednesday and Thursday: 6am to 7pm
Monday ,Tuesday and Friday: 6am to 8pm
Cost of entry: FJ$5 (~A$3)
4. Natadola Beach
Beach lovers can’t miss Natadola Beach, considered to be one of Fiji’s finest beaches due to its pure white sandy shores and turquoise, pristine waves. Located an hour’s drive south of Nadi, Natadola Beach is worth the trip. Boasting crystal-clear, warm waters for visitors to snorkel and surf, this destination is the perfect tropical seaside escape in Viti Levu. Visitors can explore the vibrant corals and marine life, have a picnic, or unwind and relax in the sunshine.
Those looking to take a break from watersports and swimming can book massages directly on the beach. After indulging in a traditional Fijian massage, visit a nearby restaurant for a snack or meal before heading back into Nadi, or heading out to Robinson Crusoe Island for a night tour. We love this destination because it appeals to everyone, including families and solo travellers. To truly experience all that Natadola Beach offers, set aside an entire day to enjoy the sand and surf.
Location: Sanasana, Viti Levu
5. Kula WILD Adventure Park
Kula WILD Adventure Park is a must for families seeking adventure, outdoor exploration, and a fun way to cool off. Sprawling across 28 acres in three valleys, with 12 acres of forest open to the public, Kula WILD Adventure Park is Fiji’s biggest family fun park, offering water slides, a splash pool, and a roller-coaster zip line.
Those who enjoy the outdoors will love the opportunity to walk the kilometre of boardwalk to explore the rainforest, view marine displays of Fiji’s coral, and visit the aviary to witness the diverse wildlife. Visitors can opt for a self-guided tour of the adventure park, book a behind-the-scenes tour, or even give their kids the chance to be park rangers for the day! As one of the ultimate spots for families, travellers of all ages will find things to do at Kula WILD Adventure Park.
Set aside a day to venture out to this attraction if you’re venturing from Nadi, as it is one hour away from Nadi Airport.
Website: https://fijiwild.com/
Location: Korotogo, Viti Levu
Opening hours: 10am to 4.30pm
Cost of entry:
Children 2-11 years: FJ$17.50 (~A$12)
Adults: FJ$35 (~A$24)
Package options available
6. Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool
Rest and relaxation are not only possible but expected at Fiji’s Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool. Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool offers a natural therapeutic experience for those seeking to indulge in natural mud wraps, mud pool baths, hot springs, and Fijian massages. Only 20 minutes from the Nadi Airport, this destination offers convenient airport transfers, so plan to arrive immediately after you touch down to unwind after a long flight!
For travellers who want to experience more, this popular tourist attraction offers various packages to choose from. Visitors can purchase one package to visit both the hot springs and the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a second package that offers a trip to the hot springs and a tour of Fiji, or a third package that offers access to all three attractions.
Perfect for couples, solo travellers or simply those looking to unwind, the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool is a great choice to include relaxation on your tropical getaway. Plan for at least two hours at this destination before departing for your tour or an afternoon at the Garden of the Sleeping Giant.
Website: https://sabetohotspringandmudpool.com/
Location: Sabeto, Viti Levu
Opening hours: 7am to 5pm
Cost of entry: FJ$70 (~A$50)
7. Fiji Culture Village
Travellers seeking to dive deep into Fiji's cultural traditions and history will want to book their trip to Fiji Culture Village. Only 20 minutes from Nadi, Fiji Culture Village offers travellers of all ages the opportunity to experience the nation’s lifestyle, hospitality, and customs while interacting with villagers in a natural setting. The immersive excursion offers visitors a chance to learn about pottery, wood carving, tapa making, and the island's history. When interacting with the locals, visitors are encouraged to respect elders and follow their lead in activities and tours.
For adventurous travellers, Kava ceremonies are a great way to indulge in the local cuisine while witnessing a Meke show with stunts, singing, music, dancing, and storytelling that encompasses Fiji’s rich cultural traditions. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy fish, kokoda, and lovo, which are traditional Fiji-style meals. If you would like to take photos, always ask permission beforehand, as is custom in their culture. Dressing modestly is also encouraged for your visit to Fiji Culture Village.
With a day and night tour available, we recommend setting aside at least four to six hours. Ideal for all types of travellers, but this is a must-visit attraction for families and culture seekers!
Website: http://culturevillagefiji.com/
Location: Navo, Nadi, Viti Levu
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 9am to 9pm
Cost of entry (Day Tour):
Adult: FJ$139 (~A$95)
Children FJ$79 (~A$54)
Family of Five (2 Adults, 3 Children): FJ$398 (~A$272)
Cost of entry (Night Tour):
Adult: FJ$160 (~A$110)
Children: FJ$99 (~A$68)
Family of Five (2 Adults, 3 Children): FJ$488 (~A$333)
8. Lavena Coastal Walk
Lovers of the outdoors will want to head to the Lavena Coastal Walk, a 10-kilometre walking trail in the Bouma National Heritage Park that weaves along Taveuni Island’s coastline through vibrant rainforests, volcanic rocks, and pristine beaches. You’ll even encounter a local village and friendly villagers along the way! Only 40 minutes from Matei Airport (Taveuni Airport) on Taveuni Island, the beachside walk journeys to breathtaking Wainibu Falls, and gives you ample opportunity to take a dip a swimming hole near the local beach.
The hiking trails are marked clearly but expect a bit of a workout. Travellers should also bring a water bottle for the journey, especially if they venture on the trail in the afternoons when it is hotter and more humid. Recommended for couples and families with older children, many visitors find the path easily navigable without a guide. Plan at least a day for this hike due to the distance from villages such as Somosomo and Naqara.
Location: Lavena, Taveuni Island
Cost of entry: FJ$30 (~A$20)
Cost of guide: FJ$20 (~A$13.65)
9. Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park
Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, one of Fiji’s most unique natural wonders, offers 650 acres of sand dunes and dry forests to explore. Protected since 1989, this National Park was one of the first in Fiji and remains one of the most popular spots for adventurous travellers and outdoorsy tourists. Located one hour from Nadi, archaeological treasures were discovered buried deep beneath the sand dunes from the Lapita people, the ancestors of modern-day Fijians who lived on the island nearly 2,600 years ago.
Those who traverse through the dry forests of Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park will encounter the Fijian Swallow Tail Butterfly, fruit bats, and Goshawks. A beautiful destination for nature lovers and families, enjoy bird watching, planting trees, and creating sand sculptures in this National Park. There’s also ample opportunity to explore – the walking trails around the area take about one to two hours, so we recommend planning two to three hours to visit this spot in the morning before the day's heat arrives and the park closes for lunch.
Website: https://nationaltrust.org.fj/
Location: Yadua, Viti Levu
Opening hours: 8am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
Cost of entry:
Children under five: Free
Adults: FJ$10 (~A$7)
10. Fiji Museum
Fiji Museum, located in the Suva Thurston Gardens and only a ten-minute walk from the Presidential Palace, is a quick stop for those curious to learn more about Fiji’s history and culture. Housing artifacts and archaeological materials dating back nearly 3,500 years, it’s a must-visit for history buffs and culture seekers. This is a fantastic spot for travellers of all ages, especially families and budget-conscious travellers looking for a low-cost educational activity. Plan for at least one to two hours here. We recommend visiting this spot in the afternoon after exploring some of Suva’s markets downtown.
Website: https://fijimuseum.org.fj/
Location: Suva, Viti Levu
Opening hours:
Weekends, Monday-Wednesday: 9am to 4:30pm
Thursdays: 9am to 7pm
Cost of entry:
Adult: FJ$5 (~A$3.50)
Children under 12: FJ$2 (~A$1.37)
Family (2 Adults, 3 Children): FJ$16 (~A$11)
Robinson Crusoe Island, located on Likuri Island on Fiji's Coral Coast, is an island resort that boasts untouched natural beauty and provides travellers with an array of activities. From mud crab catching, kayaking, and snorkelling to beaches, volleyball fishing and exploring villages, families, couples, and even solo travellers will enjoy this immersive cultural experience. The laid-back setting is perfect for those who want to truly experience Fijian culture and take in the beauty of Fiji and its islands.
With special tours operating every day, travellers can choose from the island’s day tours (Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday), which includes exploring the island, kayaking, snorkelling, buffet-style lunch, weaving demonstrations and even fire walking demonstrations, or the Sunset Cruise Dinner & Show tour (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday), which feature a sunset sing-a-long, dinner and mesmerising fire performers. Those wanting to experience a truly unique and memorable cultural experience can book in a Day and Night Combo Tour. We recommend planning for at least six hours for a half-day trip, but for the day and night tours combined, plan for a whole day for this extraordinary experience.
Location: Likuri Island
Website: https://www.rcitours.com/tours-c321854.html
Cost of entry: From FJ$189 (~A$129) to FJ$309 (~A$211)
2. Wander through the local markets
There’s no better way to experience the local Fijian culture than to explore some of the various bustling markets! From the Suva Municipal Market to Nadi Produce Markets, travellers can find just about anything they desire: fresh tropical fruit, arts and crafts, and even clothing for sale by local vendors. Many enjoy the array of delicious foods and snacks to indulge in, offering all types of travellers the chance to truly get a taste of Fiji's local cuisine.
Plan to spend at least one to three hours exploring the markets, and don’t forget to bring cash if you intend to do some shopping. The markets are family-friendly, so it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon with the kids. They’re also filled with local delights, so foodies won’t want to miss trying something new, and there’s even plenty of souvenir shopping to be done for couples looking to take a break from relaxing along the shore.
Suva Municipal Market
Location: Harris Rd, Suva, Viti Levu
Opening hours:
Monday-Thursday: 7am to 6pm
Friday-Saturday: 6am to 6pm
Nadi Produce Markets
Location: Raniga St, Nadi, Viti Levu
Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 7am to 6pm
Saturday: 6am to 6pm
3. Indulge in a traditional Lovo meal
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Fiji, you can’t go wrong with partaking in an authentic Lovo meal. Lovo is a traditional Fijian dish made with chicken or fish and vegetables, cooked exclusively in an underground oven. This delicacy is served at celebrations, weddings, and festivals, taking multiple hours for the banana leaf-wrapped meal to be adequately prepared. It has been a part of Fijian culture for many centuries, and the locals love sharing it with tourists who come to experience the Fijian lifestyle.
After removing the stones and then the Lovo from the underground oven, this smoky, barbecued meal is best served amongst friends and family. Robinson Crusoe Island is one of the most popular places to enjoy Lovo, but you will find this in many cities and villages across Fiji. Perfect for travellers of all ages, including families, indulging in a Lovo meal is a must to truly experience Fiji’s exceptional cuisine.
4. Go island hopping
Whether you’re staying on Viti Levu or one of the smaller islands, like Beqa Island or Malolo Island, Fiji offers travellers the chance to island hop from destination to destination relatively easily by boat. For those seeking to explore the West Coast, a trip to Port Denarau Marina can give you access to several popular spots like Tivua Island, the Yasawa Islands, the Mamanuca Islands, and Malamala Island. Island hopping offers visitors the perfect opportunity to snorkel, swim, and explore to their heart’s content—whether they choose to organise a charter on their own, or join a local tour.
No matter what you seek in your travels to Fiji, there’s something for everyone on Fiji’s various islands. Plan for at least a half-day trip for short excursions. For those travelling to larger islands with more to explore, we recommend a day or more to discover each destination.
5. Hike to watch the sunrise
Adventurous and athletic travellers should plan for an early wake up to hike to see the mesmerising sunrises in Fiji. With stunning views from any of Fiji’s islands, seeing the sunrise is an ideal way to start your day—and on the right foot, too. Sabeto is one destination we recommend for a hike, as it is only 15 minutes from Nadi and offers a stunning view of the start of the day.
To see the sunrise on time—and to maximise your rest—plan to start the hike at 5:30am to get the ultimate view of the sun rising over the horizon while you sit and admire the view. The landscape from the top of this hiking path offers a view of the mountains, Nadi Bay, and many of Fiji’s farmlands. Best of all, there’s a great breakfast waiting for you at the bottom and a mud bath experience at Sabeto Hot Springs if you want to unwind the rest of the day.
Plan at least three hours from getting up to finishing your hike. Even if Sabeto is not the path you choose for your sunrise hike, Fiji offers travellers several options for hiking and watching the sunrises and sunsets, including Mt Tamasua on Yasawa Island and Mt Batilamu near the village of Abaca.
6. Try Kava
Kava, a ceremonial drink in Fiji, is a beautiful choice for travellers seeking to explore more of Fiji’s culture and cuisine. As it is widely consumed, visitors can choose from several destinations to try Kava or even participate in a Kava ceremony. The best destinations to take part in this extraordinary tradition are at Robinson Crusoe Island and the Fijian Culture Village, both of which offer Kava ceremonies guided by locals.
As you indulge in this unique ceremony, the drink will have a tingly numbing effect on the tongue and can take some getting used to. Travellers are encouraged to drink in moderation and to follow the lead of the locals guiding the ceremony. The ceremony often consists of sitting around the Kava bowl, chatting with others, listening to music, and enjoying each other's company. Best for couples and solo travellers seeking an immersive cultural escape while visiting Fiji.
7. Book a surfing lesson
As a nation of islands, if there’s one thing Fiji offers that is incomparable to other destinations, it’s surfing. With several swells and beaches boasting impressive waves, Fiji is one of the ultimate spots to improve your surfing skills or learn how to surf for the very first time. The ideal time to surf in Fiji is from March to November, but you can also surf between November and February to catch some amazing waves. In Fiji, several surfing schools are available to students of all ages and abilities. Even if you come without plans or scheduled lessons, you’ll have no shortage of choices when finding the best surfing school for you.
Surf resorts are also vastly popular in Fiji, offering opportunities for those to immerse themselves in the sport. Tavarua Island Resort or Plantation Island Resort are ideal for those seeking to elevate their surfing while exploring some of Fiji’s majestic, powerful swells. For true beginners, Coral Coast is a great place to start, or travellers can opt for a one to two-hour lesson near Colova Village. However, true beginners should also be mindful of the strong currents surrounding Fiji. More advanced surfers will want to check out Cloudbreak, located just 5-kilometres south of Namotu Island, or Wilkes, located West of Namotu Island.
8. Watch a firewalking show
Firewalking ceremonies have been a tradition in Fiji for over five centuries, starting first on Beqa Island. As legend has it, in the small highland village of Nakarovu, a young man was seeking favour with a village elder. To impress him, he sought an eel as a gift but stumbled upon one of the spirit gods or the veti. When offered power by the veti, the young man agreed, taking part in the first firewalking ceremony and solidifying the village’s power over fire within their bloodlines.
Preparations occur over many days for the firewalking ceremonies and encompass strict rules. Travellers who visit will watch young men walk over a large pit filled with massive river stones, gingerly stepping on each stone one by one until they reach the end. The best spots to see this incredible cultural tradition are in Beqa, on the Coral Coast, or Denarau Island.
9. Unwind with a massage in a Fijian bure
Fijian massages are a must for travellers seeking to truly unwind, relax, and experience some of the many cultural traditions on the islands. Best for adults and couples, massages are offered in Fijian bures along the beach or at several resorts, making you feel like you’ve found your own little sliver of paradise. However, as with any tourist destination, be mindful of potential unsolicited services from overly friendly strangers and always keep your belongings secure.
Fijian massages involve deep tissue massage techniques using the edges of the feet, encouraging the loosening of the muscles and a greater degree of relaxation than other massages. Travellers who opt for Fijian massages will enjoy the comforting feel of nut and coconut oil on their skin and fragrant tropical aromas that will create a sense of bliss. Many find this the perfect activity after a long day spent snorkelling and surfing under the sun.
The best way to experience a Fijian massage is in a traditional Fijian bure overlooking the vibrant coastline! Plan at least two hours for your massage to truly indulge, unwind, and feel at ease as you listen to the soft lapping of the waves. There’s no shortage of locations that offer this exclusive Fijian experience, including Sofitel Spa and Harmony Retreat Day Spa near Nadi. Prices will vary but remain inexpensive compared to what you may find in Australia at the local spa, especially at popular beaches or luxury resorts where massage services are available to tourists in abundance.
10. Explore the vibrant coral reefs
A trip to Fiji would not be complete for ocean lovers without exploring the exquisite coral reefs that line the coast. Known as the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World,’ Fiji possesses several dive sites that offer travellers the chance to witness the most biodiverse marine life they may have ever encountered. As a nation, Fiji is dedicated to protecting its coral reefs and natural biodiversity and encourages all visitors to respect the wildlife. Rainbow Reef is the most colourful of them all, providing divers with the opportunity to see reef sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish in abundance.
Beqa Lagoon provides access to the famous Shark Reef Marine Reserve, where eight different species of shark reside. On the other hand, the Great Astrolabe Reef is one of the most extensive barrier reefs in the world. Exploring the mysteries and vibrancy of Fiji’s coral reefs is perfect for travellers of all ages, especially those more adventurous and interested in exploring Fiji’s natural environment. We recommend planning a day trip to the coral reefs to ensure you have enough time not only to explore to your heart’s content but also to relax after a long day of scuba diving or snorkelling in the South Pacific.
Things to do in Fiji for families
Fiji is famously one of the best family holiday destinations. If you’re looking for things to do in Fiji that both parents and children will enjoy, the islands offer bountiful options to keep the whole family entertained. A trip to Kula WILD Adventure Park is best for those with young kids who want to experience adventure and nature, hand-feed turtles, or visit an aquarium or playground. For the more adventurous families, island hopping is a fantastic idea to explore Fiji’s smaller islands and see stunning cultural traditions firsthand, while guided snorkelling tours show off Fiji’s kaleidoscope of colours and its stunning coral reefs.
For parents looking for a day of cultural immersion, plan a visit to the Fiji Culture Village to unwind or get their adrenaline pumping at the Sleeping Giant Zipline. Don’t forget about Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, where you can explore Fiji’s first National Park and learn about the local wildlife.
Top 6 activities for families
- Visit Kula WILD Adventure Park
- Go island hopping, snorkelling and swimming
- Plan a visit to Fiji Culture Village for a day of immersion
- Get your adrenaline pumping at Sleeping Giant Zipline
- Explore the wonder of the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park
- Cool off at the Big Bula Waterpark
Things to do in Fiji for couples
Couples travelling to Fiji will have no shortage of excursions to enhance the romance and spend ample time together. Stargazing on Taveuni Island allows nature lovers to see Fiji’s exquisite natural beauty while appreciating each other’s shared company. For those looking to unwind together, a luxury couple’s massage along the beach in a bure invites the opportunity to relax and share time together before a romantic meal.
All-inclusive sunset cruises are the best dinner dates for couples looking to discover local Fijian cuisine while taking in the spectacular views as another day ends on the island. The more adventurous couples will find hikes to Wainibu Falls the perfect excursion, offering them a chance to be active and explore more of Fiji’s tropical idyllic landscape. For the truly indulgent holiday, visiting the Sabeto Mud Baths for a mud bath offers a chance for couples to unwind and relax naturally.
Top 5 activities for couples
- Stargaze on Taveuni Island
- Book a Fijian couple’s massage
- Take an all-inclusive sunset cruise
- Hike to a waterfall
- Enjoy a mud bath at Sabeto Hot Springs