Explore Fiji’s Small Towns and Villages
Swap the hustle and bustle of Nadi or Suva for the small-town vibe of towns and villages like Sigatoka, Savusavu and more.
From Fijian villages with traditional South Pacific architecture to boutique shopping hubs to even a town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are a number of interesting towns and villages to visit in Fiji.
Check out our top recommendations in this list of Fiji’s best small towns and villages.
Table of Contents
1. Navala
The last remaining Fijian village with traditionally thatched bures (bungalows), Navala is a picture-perfection set among the grassy mountain backdrop of Viti Levu’s interior.
While there is one accommodation nearby the settlement, the most popular way to visit is on day trips, either with a guided tour, such as with Pacific Valley View Tours (PVV Tours), Omnus Travel & Tours or by hiring a high-clearance vehicle and taking the gravel and dirt roads to get there independently.
If visiting independently, don’t forget to bring a sevusevu (gift), such as kava roots, to present to the chief. Learn more about village etiquette here. For more ways to visit Fijian villages, see the 10 Best Village Tours in Fiji.
Island Group: Viti Levu
© Mark Snyder - Tourism Fiji
2. Levuka
See an alternative historic settlement in Fiji, the town of Levuka. Fiji’s first capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has resulted in beautifully preserved colonial buildings to admire. Levuka sits on the coast of Ovalau Island, just 20 km (12 mi) off the eastern coast of Viti Levu.
The town features quaint boutiques, a museum, historic churches and several hotels, lodges and guest houses. The town also makes a good base for exploring the rest of the lush volcanic island and taking kayaking and boat trips to the surrounding coral reefs.
Learn more about Levuka in The Complete Guide to Levuka & the Lomaiviti Islands.
Island Group: Lomaiviti Islands
© Captain Cook Cruises
3. Sigatoka
The hub of the popular Coral Coast, Sigatoka provides a pleasant small-town vibe for any travellers craving such while staying in Viti Levu. Pronounced “Sing-a-toka”, Sigatoka is based along the Sigatoka River, which is the start of exciting inland river adventures with Sigatoka River Safaris and Off-Road Cave Safari.
The town is also excellent for shopping with duty-free stores, handicraft shops and a vibrant produce market, while the Indo-Fijian restaurants are among some of the best in Fiji. There are hotels in town, as well as resorts within a short driving distance.
Learn more about exploring Sigatoka and the Coral Coast in The Complete Guide to the Coral Coast.
Island Group: Viti Levu
© FijiPocketGuide.com
4. Savusavu
Savusavu is one of the main hubs of Fiji’s second-largest yet far less-visited island, Vanua Levu.
Sitting on the edge of the Savusavu Harbour, Savusavu offers a good and varied selection of places to eat, hot springs to check out, and is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding rainforests, waterfalls, beaches and more.
There are a few budget lodges and hotels in the town, while some of Vanua Levu’s most prestigious resorts are only a 15-minute drive away.
Learn more about the “Friendly North” in The Complete Guide to Savusavu & Vanua Levu.
Island Group: Vanua Levu
© FijiPocketGuide.com
5. Port Denarau
The manmade island of Denarau, exclusively home to lavish holiday homes, five-star resorts and apartments, has its own small-town set-up. On the harbour, Port Denarau is a manicured town centre unlike anywhere else in Fiji, consisting of a championship-style golf course and an array of shops and eateries.
As one of the main tourist hubs of Fiji, you’ll also find plenty of tours to take you out to the idyllic Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Learn more in The Complete Guide to Denarau Island.
Island Group: Viti Levu
© FijiPocketGuide.comFAQ About Fiji’s Best Small Towns and Villages
Now that you know about the best small towns and villages in Fiji, here are the answers to the internet’s frequently asked questions about Fiji’s most beautiful locations!
What is the nicest part of Fiji?
The nicest part of Fiji is subjective, as the country offers diverse attractions. Many consider the Mamanuca Islands and Yasawa Islands to be Fiji’s most stunning regions, known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The lush interior of Taveuni, often called the “Garden Island”, is a favourite for nature lovers. For a mix of culture and scenery, the Coral Coast on Viti Levu is hard to beat.
For more information, check out our Guide to the Best Regions in Fiji.
What is the nicest city in Fiji?
Suva, the capital, is often considered the nicest city in Fiji. It offers a blend of colonial architecture, modern amenities, and vibrant markets. Nadi is popular for its proximity to beautiful beaches and resorts, while Savusavu on Vanua Levu is known as the “hidden paradise” for its charming small-town feel and natural hot springs.
For more information, check out our Guide to the Best Cities in Fiji.
What is the prettiest island in Fiji?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but some islands consistently top the lists.
Taveuni is renowned for its lush forests and waterfalls. Kadavu offers unspoiled beauty and the Great Astrolabe Reef. In the Yasawas, Nacula Island is famed for its stunning beaches. Qamea is a favourite for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts.
For more information, check out our Guide to the Most Beautiful Islands in Fiji.
What are some popular small towns in Fiji?
Levuka, Fiji’s former capital on Ovalau Island, is a charming small town with colonial-era buildings and a rich history.
Savusavu on Vanua Levu is known for its picturesque bay and natural hot springs.
Sigatoka on the Coral Coast offers a blend of local culture and beautiful beaches.
These towns provide a more authentic Fijian experience compared to larger tourist hubs.
What traditional Fijian villages can tourists visit?
Many villages in Fiji welcome tourists for day visits or overnight stays. Navala in the Ba Highlands of Viti Levu is known for its traditional thatched bure houses.
Wayalailai in the Yasawa Islands offers homestays and cultural experiences. Lavena on Taveuni provides access to beautiful waterfalls and coastal walks. When visiting villages, it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly.
For more information, check out our Guide to Village Etiquette in Fiji.
What activities can you do in Fiji’s small towns and villages?
In Fiji’s small towns and villages, you can participate in various activities that showcase local culture and natural beauty. Join a traditional kava ceremony, learn to weave baskets or mats, try your hand at Fijian cooking, or take guided nature walks to discover native flora and fauna.
Many villages also offer snorkelling or kayaking in nearby waters. Some towns, like Sigatoka, have markets where you can shop for local crafts and produce.
For more information, check out our Guide to Experiencing Fijian Culture.
© FijiPocketGuide.comMore About Small Towns and Villages in Fiji
That’s it for our guide to small towns and villages in Fiji; for more information about Fiji’s communities and regions, check out the following articles:
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our guide, Who are the People of Fiji? Ethnicity, Population & More.
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 Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
- Land Transport Authority (Road safety 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])
- 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])
- Savusavu Tourism Association (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.









