21 Best Things to Do in Rakiraki & the Suncoast

Last Updated: 25 June, 2025

The Must-Dos on the Suncoast, inc. Rakiraki, Ba and Beyond

While most tourists flock to the south coast of Viti Levu, Fiji’s main island, few fail to discover the hidden gems of the Suncoast. In this list, we’ll show you a whopping 21 things to do on the Suncoast.

On the northern coast of Viti Levu, the Suncoast specifically encompasses the area between the villages of Vatutavui and Nalawa.

The main towns and villages of the area are Ba, Korovu, Drauniivi, Vunitogoloa, Narewa, Volivoli and Ellington Wharf. Rakiraki is the main hub of the Suncoast area and the name you will hear the most when the area is described.

It’s also wedged between the coral-filled Bligh Water and the towering mountains of Viti Levu’s rugged interior. Needless to say, there is a range of experiences to be enjoyed along the Suncoast of Fiji – best for those who would rather “do” on their Fiji vacation than spend all day sipping cocktails by the pool (although, there is the option for that too).

Find out some of the highlights of the Suncoast in this list of things to do on the Suncoast in Fiji! Plus, for more inspiration, see our Complete Guide to the Suncoast.

1. Kayak or Wander Around Nananu-I-Ra Island

An island paradise for budget travellers, Nananu-I-Ra is a hilly 3.5 km² (1.35 sq mi) island with white sand beaches, mangroves and simple budget accommodation. The island is good for trekking offering amazing views of the mainland and the Nakauvadra Ranges.

At low tide, it’s possible to walk around the perimeter of the island in about 4-5 hours. Kayaking is also another free and popular activity here where accommodations like McDonald’s Nananu Beach Cottages, or the nearby Dolphin Island, offer complimentary use of their kayaks.

Snorkelling can also be enjoyed in the marine sanctuary just off the beach and jetty. Because of the budget accommodation on the island and free activities – it makes an awesome destination for backpackers.

See more activities like this in 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on the Suncoast.

Location: Boat transfers depart from Ellington Wharf, 11 km (6.8 mi) east of Rakiraki. Organise transport with your chosen accommodation.

2. Scuba Dive Among the Complex Coral Structures of the Bligh Water and the Vatu-i-Ra Passage

One of the snorkelling and scuba diving hotspots of Fiji is right on the Suncoast’s doorstep, the Bligh Water. The dive sites around Rakiraki are relaxing enough for beginners to feel comfortable yet captivated, while experienced divers will find a new and enthralling underwater world.

The Vatu-i-Ra Passage between Fiji’s two largest islands boasts deep dives into soft yellow coral, while the dive sites around Nananu-i-Ra Island feature interesting channels dubbed the “Amazing Maze”.

Scuba diving can be organised with Ra Divers at the Volivoli Beach Resort or Ring Gold Divers.

Location: Volivoli Beach Resort (Ra Divers), Volivoli Peninsula, Rakiraki, Suncoast. Ring Gold Divers, Rakiraki (take the second dirt road east of Tanoa Rakiraki, towards the coast, then the first right. Look out for dive equipment and/or a boat).

3. Play on a Waterfall Slide at the Narara Village

Combine culture and adventure with this waterfall tour available at Dolphin Island, Ring Gold Divers, and Volivoli Beach Resort. Travel to Narara Village where you will be welcomed with a kava ceremony. Then, you and your family will be guided by foot or horseback for 15 minutes to a cascading waterfall slide plunging into a freshwater pool.

Once is never enough so you’ll get ample time here before having the opportunity to shop local crafts in the village. You can also self-drive to the village – just remember to bring enough cash (FJ$15 per person) to pay for a guide.

Check out more excursions like this in The Best Day Trips from the Suncoast.

Location: Follow signs to Narara Village from Rakiraki Town, Narara Village, Suncoast. Note the road is a gravel road and a high-clearance vehicle is advised.

4. Experience the Excitement of a Dolphin Cruise

Another amazing activity to do with kids and nature lovers alike, a dolphin cruise is a definite must-do on the Suncoast! Dolphins are regular visitors to the Bligh Water just off the Suncoast, so join Golden Point Resort for a boat trip watching them in their natural habitat.

The resort’s activities team will take you to a special location where it’s common to see pods of up to 40 dolphins! After watching the dolphins, who often interact and jump around the boat, you’ll enjoy 30 minutes of snorkelling among the colourful fish and corals of the outer reefs.

Alternatively, Natalei Experience also offers exciting dolphin tours on the east coast of Viti Levu, closer to Suva.

Location: Golden Point Resort, Suncoast, Viti Levu, Northern Region. Natalei Experience, Viti Levu, Eastern Region.

5. Visit the Local Markets in Rakiraki and Lautoka

Visiting a Fijian produce market is a must for any foodie visiting Fiji for the first time.

Not only will you discover vibrant displays of colourful tropical fruit and vegetables which make for excellent photos, but you’ll also experience the friendliness of the local growers. Sellers will be eager to talk to you (but are not too pushy to sell) to tell you more about the food they sell and give tips on how to prepare it.

There are produce markets in Lautoka and Rakiraki, which can be visited independently, as well as on resort tours. For more activities like this, see 10 Things to Do on the Suncoast for Foodies.

Location: Rakiraki Market – Rakiraki Town, Viti Levu, Suncoast (opposite the bus station). Lautoka Market – Tukani Street, Lautoka City, Viti Levu, Western Division (also opposite the bus station). Both markets are located in the town centres.

6. Discover the Real Fiji on a Self-Drive Tour of the Suncoast

A road trip in Fiji provides the ultimate freedom and independence. By being on the largest island of Fiji well-connected by roads, the Suncoast is a must-hit road trip destination.

Pick up a rental vehicle from Nadi International Airport where a 2WD will be comfortable if sticking to the coastal Kings Road. Otherwise, take an SUV to explore the stunning interior and villages of the Suncoast.

Be sure to plan your road trip itinerary with our Trip Ideas category. Plus, see The Best Car Rentals in Fiji for a full comparison of car rental companies.

For excursions, see The Best Day Trips from the Suncoast.

Location: All over the Suncoast!

7. Set the Scene with a Romantic Sunset Cruise

For honeymooning couples or perhaps those on a romantic getaway looking for something special to do together, consider a Suncoast sunset cruise. After all, this part of Fiji is argued to have some of the most dazzling sunsets.

Set out on the waters for golden hour with Volivoli Beach Resort and their utterly romantic sunset cruises. The experiences include indulging in canapes served by the onboard stewardess and sipping on Champagne.

Meanwhile, you’ll cruise around picturesque islands, watching the golden hues in the skies glisten on the water before the sun seemingly dips into the ocean.

See more like this in 10 Romantic Activities on the Suncoast. Plus, for more cruises to choose from, check out the 10 Best Sunset Cruises in Fiji.

Location: Volivoli Beach Resort, Volivoli Peninsula, Rakiraki.

8. Learn How to Make Fijian or Indo-Fijian Cuisine in a Cooking Class

Celebrate Fijian culture and cuisine through an interactive cooking class. Join the chefs at the beachfront kitchen of the Volivoli Beach Resort where you’ll learn how to make kokoda – fresh fish marinated in coconut cream, as well as an Indo-Fijian side dish known as roti.

There’s also the option to pay a visit to the local farmer who grows the ingredients used.

Similar experiences can also be enjoyed at Bularangi Villa – an Indo-Fijian cooking class in your own private kitchen, and at Dolphin Island.

Location: Volivoli Beach Resort, Bularangi Villa and Dolphin Island, Volivoli, Rakiraki.

9. Go Snorkelling

Sticking to a similar theme, we can’t help but mention snorkelling on the Suncoast too! All the gear will be supplied at your resort or be sure to bring your own if you have it. Some of the best snorkelling spots can be organised with your resort just a short boat ride away.

Resorts such as Golden Point Resort and Dua Dua Beach Resort, as well as Ring Gold Divers, are open to casual visitors, offering fantastic boat trips to the coral gardens of the outer reefs. Some of our favourite spots are around Nananu-i-Ra Island and Vatu-i-Ra Island.

Alternatively, there will still be plenty to see at the beach.

Location: Golden Point Resort is 17 km (10.4 mi) and Dua Dua Beach Resort is 10 km (6 mi) east of Rakiraki. Ring Gold Divers, Rakiraki (take the second dirt road east of Tanoa Rakiraki, towards the coast, then the first right. Look out for dive equipment and/or a boat).

10. Try Kitesurfing

Steady winds on the Suncoast make it the premier spot for kitesurfing in Fiji. Beginner lessons are available to those who want to try out this fun alternative sport, otherwise, seasoned kiteboarders just need to go and enjoy.

In fact, there is a place literally called Kite Point at Nananu-i-Ra Island, so if that’s not enough of an invitation… Find out more about the sport in The Best Places for Kitesurfing in Fiji.

Location: Nananu-i-Ra Island. Boat transfers depart from Ellington Wharf, 11 km (6.8 mi) east of Rakiraki. Organise transport with your chosen accommodation.

11. Relax at the Volivoli Beach Resort

Volivoli is not too far from Rakiraki but will feel like another world.

The resort is fully equipped with a restaurant, spa, cultural shows, scuba diving trips, wedding facility and more, so if the fact that it has a beach isn’t enough, then there are surely enough reasons to kick back at this awesome resort, whether you’re a guest or popping in as a casual visitor.

Note that there is a day pass fee for casual visitors.

Location: Volivoli Beach Resort, Volivoli Peninsula, Rakiraki.

12. Visit the Tomb of Udre Udre

One of the most intriguing sites in the Suncoast area is the Tomb of Udre Udre. Once one of the most feared cannibals in Fiji, Udre Udre now lies tucked away on the side of the road just before turning off to Rakiraki.

The chief was famous for terrorising his opponents and eating his victims. Yes, cannibalism was a thing in Fiji before its British colonisation, and perhaps no one was as famous as Udre Udre (pronounced “Un-dre Un-dre”). His tomb is surrounded by 870 stones to represent each of his victims.

See more attractions like this in the 10 Fascinating Historical Sites in Fiji.

Location: Just off the Kings Road, 100 m (109 yd) west of the Vaileka turn-off.

13. Check Out Navatu Rock

Located near Vitawa Village, Navatu Rock is one of the oldest known human settlements in Fiji. The rock used to hold a fortified village, where artefacts from the village date back to around 1,000 BC. Aside from that, Navatu Rock is a very picturesque place to stop for photos.

Location: Seen along the Kings Road near Vitawa Village, 10 km (6 mi) west of Rakiraki.

14. Spend the Day on the Open Water on a Sports Fishing Charter

Thanks to the warm currents pushing through Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji, and Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second-largest island lying to the north of Viti Levu, there’s plenty of big game fishing to be had!

Hop on a fishing charter, of which there are many organised through your accommodation, and get ready to tackle the likes of yellowfin tuna, dogtooth tuna, giant trevally, sailfish, marlin, mahimahi and more! Just check out What Types of Fish Can You Fish For in Fiji to get you excited.

Join Half Cast Charters at the Volivoli Beach Resort for the day where the resort’s chefs are happy to cook your catch for you. Trawling trips are also available at Dolphin Island and Dua Dua Beach Resort.

Otherwise, there’s plenty of reef fishing to be had, which is ideal for family fishing trips.

Location: Half Cast Charters at Volivoli Beach Resort, Rakiraki, Viti Levu, Suncoast. Dolphin Island and Dua Dua Beach Resort, Rakiraki, Viti Levu, Suncoast.

15. Relax With a Spa Treatment

Take a break from travelling and unwind with a sensational spa treatment. The larger resorts in the area offer an array of treatments on their spa menu, but the one we recommend is the “bobo” treatment, where skilled therapists use their feet in a traditional Fijian massage that’s been used for hundreds of years.

Location: See specific locations in the 5 Best Spas in Rakiraki, Lautoka & the Suncoast.

16. Have a Cultural Experience at Fiji’s Most Picturesque Village, Navala Village

Located inland from Ba, Navala Village is a traditional 200-year-old village still using thatched-roof bures. It feels like stepping back in time where old traditions are alive today.

Tours run regularly to meet the villages and see their way of life where you will partake in the kava ceremony, which is drinking a traditional earthy drink with the villagers, as well as visiting the school and mingling with the villagers who are sure to raise your spirits with their friendliness.

After that, you can cool off in the river running alongside the village.

Visit the village yourself in a 4WD vehicle on the inland road from Ba. There, you will be welcomed by the village elder on presentation of your sevusevu (gift) – as explained in Fiji Village Etiquette: What to Do When Visiting a Fijian Village.

It’s also a small fee to enter the village and hire a guide there, costing around FJ$30 each. Alternatively, guided tours to the village are available with pick-up from Nadi and Lautoka with Omnus Travel & Tours or Pacific Valley View Tours (PVV Tours).

Location: Navala, Ba Inland Road, Suncoast.

17. Stop by the Tavua Hotel

This quaint colonial hotel is a great vantage point for views over Vatia Bay and Tavua town. Its 1930s flair makes a great photo opportunity and is one of the only places to stay in Tavua.

What’s more, behind the hotel hides an epic waterpark, bringing this attraction to the 21st Century with several waterslides!

For more interesting places to stay, check out the 10 Best Hotels in Lautoka, Rakiraki & the Suncoast.

Location: 8 Nabua Road, Tavua.

18. Go on a Multi-Day Guided Excursion to Villages, Waterfalls and the Highest Peak in Fiji

For a real inland adventure, join a guided trek through Viti Levu’s rugged interior with Talanoa Treks. This is where many say the true Fiji lies, among authentic Fijian villages, verdant rainforest scattered with waterfalls, golden grasslands and the highest peak of Fiji, Mt Tomanivi.

Rakiraki and the Suncoast is one of the best places to set off on a multi-day island trek. Because trails are unmarked, it’s best to go with a guiding company such as Talanoa Treks, which stays in exclusive accommodations in Fijian villages and helps you discover what’s around you, from medicinal plants to old battlefields.

Check out the 10 Best Walks in Lautoka, Rakiraki & the Suncoast for many more hiking opportunities!

Location: Mt Tomanivi, Navai, Suncoast.

19. Visit the St Francis of Xavier Church

Fiji is dotted with beautiful buildings of worship and the Suncoast is no different! The historic St Francis of Xavier Church is southeast of Rakiraki overlooking Viti Levu Bay.

The church, built in 1917, is famous for its mural of black Christ painted by Jean Charlot in 1962. Visitors are welcome but a small donation is appreciated.

Location: On top of the hill of Navunibitu, Kings Road, 28 km (18 mi) southeast of Rakiraki. The uphill road access is a rough dirt road and should only be attempted in a high-clearance vehicle. Otherwise, it’s a 400 m (0.2 mi) walk up the hill.

20. Take a Trip to Malake Island

Yes, there are more island excursions from the Suncoast! One of the most popular is Malake Island with a population of 200. Meet the villagers and discover another stunning island in paradise.

Organise this trip with your accommodation. Boats depart from the Volivoli Beach Resort taking you to the island in around five minutes.

Location: Volivoli Beach Resort, Volivoli Peninsula, Rakiraki.

21. Relax on the Beach

Don’t lie: this is the real reason you came to Fiji. So enjoy it! Relax on the beach alongside beautiful turquoise waters and watch the sunset. You’ll see exactly why they call this the Suncoast.

Location: Nananu-i-Ra Island, Dolphin Island, Volivoli Beach Resort and more.

More About the Suncoast

That’s it for our guide to the Suncoast, for more information about this stunning region, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our 10 Best Resorts in Lautoka, Rakiraki & the Suncoast and The Complete Guide to the Suncoast.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism Suncoast (Regional tourism website)
Tourism Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (Customs and visitor taxes - Updated [2025])
Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Fiji Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
Land Transport Authority (Road safety advice - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Tourism Suncoast (Regional tourism website)

Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lora) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Fiji’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

About Laura About Our Team