The Complete Travel Guide to Fiji
Written By Real Travel Writers, Not Algorithms
Peppering the tropical waters of the southern Pacific Ocean, Fiji is an island nation that’s diverse, cultural and beautiful. Each of the 333 islands tells a unique story, whether it has left its mark via a rugged volcanic island or a simple sand cay surrounded by azure waters. Between the islands, shallow coral reefs decorate the ocean with diverse marine life, making Fiji a diver’s, snorkeller’s and angler’s paradise.
But Fiji certainly isn’t all about coral reefs and sandy beaches. Some of the larger islands have a rugged interior typically awash in a mix of plantations and verdant jungles dotted with remote Fijian villages and dramatic river formations leading to more waterfalls than you can count. That’s Fiji in a nutshell, but if you’re planning a trip to the islands, you’ll want to take a deep dive into Fiji Pocket Guide, where this complete guide to Fiji is the ideal place to start…
Learn about the diverse regions and island groups of Fiji and follow our recommendations to various travel guides throughout Fiji Pocket Guide to help plan your trip according to your personal style and interests.
Table of Contents
An Intro to Fiji
Location: Fiji is in the South Pacific in the continent of Oceania. Fiji sits in the centre of Tonga, Wallis and Futuna, Vanuatu and New Caledonia and is about two-thirds of the way between Hawaii and New Zealand.
Size: Fiji’s land area is 18,274 km2 (7,056 mi2) scattered across 1.3 million km² (501,930 mi²) of ocean.
Climate: Daily average temperature –25.5°C (77.9°F), average rainfall 1,826 mm (71.9 in) – 3,065 mm (120.7 in).
Time zone: FJT / GMT+12.
Population: 885,000.
Languages: English, Fijian and Fiji-Hindi.

How to Get to Fiji
What is the best way to get to Fiji? Fiji can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yachts. The most popular way to get to Fiji is by international flight, so let’s start with that.
Flying to Fiji
Direct international flights come from Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Nauru, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Wallis & Futuna, the US, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore. If you are coming from further afield, then you will need to make a connecting flight most likely in Australia, New Zealand, or the US. See Which Airlines Fly Directly to Fiji? for more information.
Although Fiji has two international airports, around 97% of visitors to Fiji come via Nadi International Airport on the island of Viti Levu (Fiji’s main island). Learn more in our guide, Which Airport to Arrive in Fiji.
Cruises to Fiji
Fiji is on the itinerary of several South Pacific cruises from Australia, New Zealand and French Polynesia. There are five ports of call in Fiji, the main ones being Suva, Lautoka and Port Denarau. Cruises occasionally stop at Dravuni Island and Savusavu. Find out which cruise companies have Fiji on their itinerary in the 10 Best Cruises That Visit Fiji, as well as what to do at each port of call in The Guide to Taking a Cruise to Fiji.
Sailing to Fiji
Fiji is conveniently located at the centre of the Transpacific journey between the US and New Zealand. The yachting season is between May and October. Learn about the sailing formalities and the ports of entry in The Sailing Guide to Fiji.
A Note on Customs Declarations
Fiji has strict biosecurity measures at the border to stop unwanted pests and diseases from entering the country. Therefore, anyone arriving in Fiji has to declare any “risk items” they have packed in their luggage – even common items like food and sports gear. Be sure to read up on Everything You Need to Know About Arriving in Fiji so you are prepared.
Check out our complete guide on How to Get to Fiji for even more tips on making your way to the islands of Fiji.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Sunset-Lali-Drum-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x684.jpg)
When to Visit Fiji
Fiji is a tropical country and experiences warm temperatures throughout the year. It has two distinct seasons: a dry season, which is drier and cooler, and a wet season, which is hotter and humid. Learn more about the climate in What is the Weather Like in Fiji?
Dry Season (May to November)
The dry season is also known as the winter season in Fiji, although many would not describe it as winter, with temperatures around 19-29 °C (66-84°F). The rainfall per month is an average of 70-150 mm (2.8-6 in). The dry season is also the time for swimming with manta rays, surfing big waves, clearer scuba diving conditions and catching sailfish, skipjack tuna and wahoo.
Wet Season (December to April)
The wet season is hotter and more humid, with temperatures around 22-33°C (72-91°F) and an average monthly rainfall of 180-310 mm (7.1-12.2 in). This is also Fiji’s cyclone season, which means there’s a risk of cyclones (but only a risk, which you can learn more about in How to Prepare for a Cyclone in Fiji). The wet season is also the best time to catch marlin, yellowfin tuna, and mahimahi, as well as avoid other tourists.
Still can’t decide when the best time is to travel to Fiji? Check out our complete guide, The Best Time to Visit Fiji, which dives much deeper into the subject.

What to Pack for Fiji
The main thing you need to keep in mind when packing for Fiji is having a tropical wardrobe that includes some more modest items of clothing for visiting Fijian villages. A packing list for Fiji might look a little something like this:
👗 Fiji Casual Clothing | |
⬜ | 4 Singlets/T-Shirts |
⬜ | 2 Blouses/Shirts to cover the shoulders for visiting villages and sun protection |
⬜ | 2 Shorts/Skirts |
⬜ | 1 Light evening dress to impress at dinner |
⬜ | 1 Dress/Skirt below the knee for town or village visits (light fabrics recommended, such as bamboo dresses by Moso Morrow) |
⬜ | 1 Sarong (Sulu) for the beach and swimwear cover-up |
⬜ | 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies |
⬜ | 1 Light Cardigan/Pashmina/Poncho for cooler evenings |
⬜ | 1 Sports shorts/Leggings for active activities |
⬜ | 1 Sports T-shirt/Singlet for active activities |
⬜ | 1 Warm fleece if you plan to do mountain hikes |
⬜ | 1 Outfit to travel between Fiji and home |
⬜ | 3 Bras (strapless, sports, and comfortable bras) |
⬜ | 6 Underwear |
⬜ | 4 Socks |
👙 Fiji Swimwear | |
⬜ | 1 Bikini for resort beach/pool |
⬜ | 1 One-piece for watersports/village stays |
⬜ | 2 Boardshorts for guys |
⬜ | 1 Rash vest (we like sustainable Sharkskin rashies) |
👒 Fiji Sun, Rain, and Insect Protection | |
⬜ | Sunhat |
⬜ | Sunglasses |
⬜ | Light shirt to cover arms and back |
⬜ | Light rain jacket/small umbrella |
👟 Fiji Footwear | |
⬜ | Flip-flops/sandals |
⬜ | Walking shoes/sandals |
⬜ | Reef shoes/water shoes |
And that’s just clothes! For a full packing list of everything to take, including accessories and toiletries, check out The Complete Packing List for Fiji.
Health Products
With high UV levels and the presence of mosquitos, certain health products are essential to take to Fiji. Fiji also has a fragile marine ecosystem, so reef-safe sunscreens and repellents are a must. If going to the outer islands, a reusable water purification bottle is preferable to buying bottled water for obvious environmental reasons. See our health essentials packing list in What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Fiji.
Fiji Currency
The currency in Fiji is Fijian Dollars. While credit/debit cards are accepted in major resorts and businesses in Fiji’s towns, you should have cash available for taxis and visiting villages. Get more money tips in What is the Best Way to Pay in Fiji?
Travel Documents and Paperwork
Visitors from around 100+ countries do not need a visa to visit Fiji but do need a passport that is valid for no less than six months after your intended date of departure – see visa-exempt countries in our Fiji Tourist Visa Guide. There may be other current entry requirements, which we keep updated in What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Fiji? More info can also be found on the Fiji Tourism Travel Advisory page.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Couple-Malamala-Cabana-Relax-Drinks-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x684.jpg)
How Long to Spend in Fiji
Admittedly, Fiji makes an idyllic getaway for just staying in the same resort for a few days to a week – and that’s fine; we all need some R&R from time to time. More intrepid travellers, however, will find that Fiji is an excellent country not only for island-hopping but road tripping around Viti Levu.
We’d recommend the minimum number of days to spend in Fiji is five days if just visiting Viti Levu, the Mamanuca Islands or the Yasawa Islands. However, 10 to 14+ days is the recommended number of days for a satisfying trip to Fiji, especially if you include some island-hopping, such as visiting Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
For those of you who want to explore, here’s what you can achieve in certain timeframes… (And don’t worry, we’ll get onto the destinations in the next few sections).
3 Days / A Long Weekend in Fiji
Over a long weekend, you will have enough time to explore Nadi, Denarau and the Coral Coast or perhaps take a quick trip to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. See some example itineraries in The Best Fiji Itineraries for 3 Days / Weekend.
5 Days in Fiji
Five days is enough time for a quick island-hopping itinerary in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands or check out Fiji’s landscape of resorts and adventure activities along the Coral Coast and Pacific Harbour. Alternatively, those with more budget could take a charter flight to and between Vanua Levu and Taveuni. Check out The Best Fiji Itineraries for 5 Days.
7 Days / 1 Week in Fiji
A week in Fiji gives you time to relax in any one of the island groups, but for those who want to move around, you could take a road trip around Viti Levu or do some island-hopping in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Alternatively, you could explore between the two less-visited islands, Vanua Levu and Taveuni. See The Best Fiji Itineraries for 1 Week for trip ideas.
14 Days / 2 Weeks in Fiji
14 days allows you to extend itineraries suggested for a week. It will also give you time to explore a mix of Viti Levu and the Mamanuca/Yasawa Islands or Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Taveuni, or a week in Kadavu and a week in Viti Levu… Check out more suggestions in The Best Fiji Itineraries for 2 Weeks.
How Long Can You Stay in Fiji?
Visitors to Fiji can stay up to four months! Visitor extensions are available, however, which you can learn more about in our guide, How Long Can You Stay in Fiji on a Visitor Visa?
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Viti-Levu-Interior-Landscape-Mountains-Clouds-1-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--683x1024.jpg)
Where to Visit: Viti Levu
Hardly anyone visits Fiji without spending some time in Viti Levu. Home to the main international airport, Viti Levu might be an obligatory place to visit, but at 10,389 sq km (4,011 sq mi), Viti Levu is Fiji’s largest and most diverse island. Fiji’s “main island” is split into several exciting destinations, each with its own unique landscapes, attractions and charm. Dive deeper into what Viti Levu has to offer in The Complete Guide to Viti Levu, or connect to our travel guides for each region below.
Nadi
Nadi is the main city of arrival in Fiji, but it is much more, with an array of attractions to enjoy. From hot springs to bustling produce and handicrafts, Nadi provides a number of ways to immerse in the diverse cultures and landscapes of Fiji. Take a look at more of what Nadi has to offer in The Complete Guide to Nadi.
Denarau
Although just a 10-minute drive from the town centre of Nadi, Denarau is a stark contrast to Nadi’s dusty streets and hustle and bustle. Denarau is a manmade island connected to Nadi by a causeway and is polished to perfection with five-star resorts, a golf course, a shopping centre, and a marina. Learn more about Fiji’s fabulous manmade island in The Complete Guide to Denarau Island.
Coral Coast
Viti Levu’s southern coast is a hotspot for beach resort holidays, as well as inland adventures, should you want to go chasing waterfalls or take a jet boat ride up the Sigatoka River. Find out more about the resorts, attractions and vibes of Viti Levu’s most popular coast in The Complete Guide to the Coral Coast.
Pacific Harbour and Beqa
Situated between the Coral Coast and Suva, the Pacific Harbour and the offshore island of Beqa (pronounced “Beng-ga”) are where most of Fiji’s adventure activities can be found. Think white water rafting, shark diving, jet boating, river tubing, jet skiing and more. Learn more about the wild side of Viti Levu in The Complete Guide to Pacific Harbour & Beqa.
Suva
Fiji’s capital sits on the harboursides of Viti Levu’s southeast coast. The colonial-style buildings offer a different landscape in Fiji, while the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park reminds visitors that nature is never too far away. Find out more about visiting Fiji’s capital in The Complete Guide to Suva.
Suncoast
The northern side of Viti Levu is the island’s least-visited side, but that by no means means that there are no resorts, luxury villas or budget cottages to base yourself for the inland hiking, Bligh Water scuba diving or simply relaxing in Viti Levu’s sunniest region. Start planning your trip to the sunnier side of Fiji in The Complete Guide to the Suncoast.
Be sure to check out The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu and A Guide to the Fiji Regions & Island Groups for more of a comparison.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Malamala-Island-Mamanuca-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x768.jpg)
Where to Visit: Mamanuca Islands
A scattering of some 20 islands in the glistening South Pacific waters feels a world away, yet are conveniently close to Nadi International Airport. A 10-minute helicopter ride or a 30-minute ferry can have you on the idyllic Mamanuca Islands, most of which have just a single resort where you can soak in the sun, feel the sand between your toes and snorkel in the reefs circling the islands.
Each island has its own unique vibe, largely due to the diverse island resorts, ranging from fun-filled family resorts to exclusive adult-only retreats to budget surf or dive resorts. Some of the islands are open to day-trippers, while others are exclusively for guests.
The Mamanuca Islands has just about every type of island activity available in Fiji, but some of the more unique features include floating bars and some of the best surf breaks in the South Pacific, including the famed “Cloudbreak”.
So, if the Mamanucas are calling to you, start planning your getaway with The Complete Guide to the Mamanuca Islands.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Waya-Landscape-Island-Yasawa-MUST-CREDIT-fijipocketguide.com--1024x683.jpg)
Where to Visit: Yasawa Islands
The string of the volcanic Yasawa Islands is often what many envision of the Fiji holiday: secluded islands with sweeping beaches, turquoise lagoons and remote villages of Fijian communities. This group of around 20 islands sit off the northwestern coast of Viti Levu, just north of the Mamanuca Islands. Getting there requires a slightly longer mission, either from Nadi on a 30-minute helicopter/seaplane flight or two to five hours by ferry.
The Yasawa Islands has been known as the backpacker hub of Fiji for many years thanks to its array of budget resorts, but more and more luxury boutique resorts have developed on the islands in recent years.
In terms of experiences, scuba diving, fishing, and cultural activities are all on the menu, as they are across most of Fiji. However, more unique offerings include trips to the Sawa-i-Lau Caves and snorkelling with manta rays between May and October.
Sounds like your type of paradise? Learn more about the Yasawas in The Complete Guide to the Yasawa Islands.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Salt-Lake-Aerial-Landscape-2-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x737.jpg)
Where to Visit: Vanua Levu (Savusavu)
Vanua Levu might be Fiji’s second-largest island and a dot on the Fiji map you can hardly avoid, but the truth of the matter is that only around 2% of visitors travel to the island. That means that tranquillity and unspoiled land and seascapes are easy to find in Vanua Levu (often referred to as its main tourist hub, Savusavu), which is home to a variety of accommodations, from luxury boutique resorts to budget holiday homes.
The island might have its fair share of copra and sugarcane plantations, but jungle landscapes are never too far away, and many of Vanua Levu’s resorts can be found nestled among them, often with a waterfall or two. Beaches are also never too hard to find, but more water exploration can be enjoyed among the coral reefs, where Vanua Levu has some of the most renowned dive sites between the Namena Marine Reserve, Natewa Bay, the Great Sea Reef and the Rainbow Reef.
You don’t have to feel too far from civilisation either on Vanua Levu, which has two major but small towns, Savusavu and Labasa, as well as plenty of quaint Fijian villages. Savusavu is also home to some of Fiji’s most unique experiences, such as organic chocolate factory and pearl farm tours, the mystical “Sacred Red Prawns“, and kayaking or tubing on a tidal river to Salt Lake.
Learn more about visiting Fiji’s “Friendly North” in The Complete Guide to Vanua Levu.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bouma-Tavoro-Waterfall-Robin-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--683x1024.jpg)
Where to Visit: Taveuni
Sitting off the southeastern tip of Vanua Levu across the Somosomo Strait is the island of Taveuni, also known as the “Garden Island”. Around 80% of the island comprises the Bouma National Heritage Park, a volcanic formation carpeted in a tropical jungle where small Fijian villages are guardians of its attractions, from the towering Bouma Falls to the coastal journey of the Lavena Coastal Walk. Needless to say, Taveuni is an island for active nature lovers.
Aside from seeing verdant forests and authentic villages, Taveuni also makes the best base for scuba diving at the Rainbow Reef or snorkelling in the Waitabu Marine Reserve. Pearl farms, beaches, organic farms, birdwatching tours, and general “island time” are other ways to enjoy the island.
While there is a spectacular range of resorts, lodges and private villas on the island to suit most travellers, it’s also worth researching the surrounding islands of Qamea, Laucala and Matangi with their spa resorts, surf resorts and even a private island seven-star resort.
For more information on the garden island, take a look at The Complete Guide to Taveuni.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vatu-i-Ra-Seascape-Wall-Coral-Fish-3-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--896x1024.jpg)
Where to Visit: Lomaiviti Islands
Delve into Fiji’s characterful history in the Lomaiviti Islands, home to Fiji’s first capital, Levuka, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The small town on the islands of Ovalau is preserved with colonial buildings. In contrast, surrounding islands provide an alternative island holiday experience that is much less visited than the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.
The Lomaiviti Islands are located off the eastern shores of Viti Levu, taking only 10 minutes to fly from Suva’s airport or around four to five hours on one of the cargo ferries. Each island has its story, from the historic Ovalau to the luxury private island of Wakaya to the historical leper colony on Makogai. Between the islands, the diversity in marine life is astonishing thanks to several established marine reserves where it’s possible to dive with giant clams, turtles and sharks.
Learn more about Fiji’s less-visited island group in The Complete Guide to the Lomaiviti Islands.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Manta-Reef-Lagoon-Kadavu-Landscape-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--768x1024.jpg)
Where to Visit: Kadavu
Pronounced “Kan-davu”, Kadavu is a large island in the southern regions of Fiji, accessible by a one-hour flight from Nadi or a lengthy cargo ferry trip from Suva. Either way, the journey is worth the effort to see a side of Fiji that stands still in time. The 75 villages of the island are all on the coast, where boat transport is just about the only way to get around as hardly any roads venture into the thick jungle.
Resorts here are all about experiencing life off the grid, being self-sustainable by growing their own crops and working in harmony with local fishermen. Needless to say, a stay in Kadavu provides a real slice of island life. That’s not to say that there isn’t much else to do than get the Robinson Crusoe experience, as the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef curves around the island for some of the best scuba diving, manta ray snorkelling, and even surfing in Fiji.
For those seeking a real off-the-beaten-track adventure in Fiji, check out The Complete Guide to Kadavu.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bay-of-Islands-Lau-Beach-Laura-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x684.jpg)
Where to Visit: Lau Islands
Only a minuscule number of tourists visit the sparse scattering of around 60 islands that make up the Lau Islands, but they are definitely still worth mentioning for the Fiji enthusiast. Almost the entire east side of Fiji is the Lau Islands, where many of the islands are closer to Tonga than they are to Viti Levu. With that, the cultures here have been unique and unchanged for centuries, where some islanders have traditions from both the Fijian and Tongan cultures.
Visiting the islands and their people requires either one of the weekly flights to Vanua Balavu or Cicia, a multi-day island-hopping cargo voyage from Suva, or a private sailing charter, typically departing from Port Denarau or Taveuni. Alternatively, you can take a charter flight to the island group’s only resort, Vatuvara Private Islands, which provides many of the offerings that we feature in The Luxury Guide to the Lau Islands – the only travel style we curated a guide for in the Lau Islands, as the tourist industry here is so undeveloped.
Intrigued? Check out The Complete Guide to the Lau Islands.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Fiji-Link-Plane-Landing-2-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x684.jpg)
How to Get Around Fiji
Yes, after seeing the number of island groups in Fiji, let alone the different islands and some of the larger islands to explore, you’re probably wondering: how do I get around all of these islands?
Transport differs between island groups. More touristic islands, such as the Mamanucas and Yasawas, are well-serviced with ferries, seaplanes and water taxis, while the lesser-visited islands may only have transport provided by your chosen resort. The main ways to get around Fiji include:
Domestic Flights
There are two scheduled domestic carriers in Fiji, both offering regular flights between Fiji’s most populated islands. Learn more about these flights in The Complete Guide to Flights in Fiji.
Charter Flights
Charter flights via fixed-wing, seaplane and helicopter aircraft are available in Fiji to take passengers between Fiji’s island groups, particularly Viti Levu and the Mamanucas, Yasawas, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and Kadavu. Find out more in our guide, Where to Hire a Plane or Seaplane in Fiji and Where to Hire a Helicopter in Fiji.
Ferries
High-speed catamaran ferries service the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands from Port Denarau in Viti Levu, while the slower passenger, vehicle and cargo ferries run from Suva in Viti Levu to the Lomaiviti Islands, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and Kadavu. Find out more in The Guide to Travelling in Fiji by Ferry.
Car Rentals
Rental cars are available in Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Taveuni. Learn more about hiring a car in The Guide to Renting a Car in Fiji.
Public Buses and Express Buses
Public buses are the cheapest type of transport available in Fiji. They are available in Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and Ovalau. Find out more in our guide, How to Travel Around Fiji by Bus.
Taxis (LT and LH)
Taxis in Fiji can be identified by their “Taxi” signs and “LT” at the beginning of the registration plate. They offer affordable metered fares within towns, while fares for sightseeing or going between towns can be negotiated. Ground transport operators with “LH” plates are also referred to as taxis, offering transfers, private drivers and sightseeing services. Find out more in The Guide to Taxis in Fiji: LT Vs. LH Plates, How to Use & More.
There are a lot more ways to travel around Fiji, so be sure to browse our Fiji Transport Guide: 20 Best Ways to Get Around Fiji for more advice.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Beachouse-Coral-Coast-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x768.jpg)
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Fiji
First and foremost, Fiji is a country of resorts. In most cases, resorts handle everything: accommodation, entertainment, tours and sometimes even transport. For these reasons, one of the most important decisions you can make for a trip to Fiji is where you are going to stay. That’s not to say that Fiji solely has resorts. If that’s not your style, then you have lodges, hotels, homestays, holiday homes, villas and even small-ship cruises to choose from.
Take a look at accommodation styles across Fiji in The Best Fiji Accommodations: Where to Stay.
Resorts
The most abundant accommodation type in Fiji, resorts are typically complexes with hotel-style rooms or freestanding bure (bungalows) and facilities such as a restaurant and swimming pool. Many resorts across Fiji, especially on remote islands, offer an entertainment schedule, as well as optional paid tours, such as scuba diving, fishing, massages and more. Note that there are also adults-only resorts in Fiji, as well as family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs. Dive deeper into what a resort entails in How to Pick the Best Resort in Fiji for You. Plus, don’t miss The Top 50 Resorts in Fiji.
Hotels
International-style hotels can be found in Fiji’s largest towns, such as Nadi, Suva and Lautoka. The rest of Fiji’s hotels are typically budget hotels found across Fiji’s smaller towns on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Learn more in our guide, How to Pick the Best Hotel in Fiji for You. Plus, browse our 50 Best Hotels in Fiji.
Holiday Homes and Villas
For a more intimate style of accommodation in Fiji, choose a holiday home or villa. Note that these are some of the very few self-catering accommodations available in Fiji and can usually only be found on Fiji’s larger islands, like Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Taveuni. Learn more about what holiday homes are like in How to Pick the Best Holiday Home or Villa in Fiji for You. Plus, find the ideal stay in the 20 Best Holiday Homes in Fiji and the 10 Luxury Villas in Fiji with a Pool.
Homestays
Becoming more and more abundant in Fiji with the popularity of booking websites like Airbnb, Booking.com and Expedia, homestays are where locals open up their spare rooms to visitors. With many homestays available in Fijian villages, this can be a truly authentic way to experience the Fijian culture. Note, however, that this is not an appropriate accommodation choice for travellers who like their luxuries and modern comforts. Find out more about what a homestay is like in How to Pick the Best Homestay in Fiji for You. And pick a homestay from the 15 Best Homestays in Fiji.
Guesthouses/B&Bs
These small-scale accommodations make up most of the accommodations available in destinations like Levuka on Ovalau Island. They are quite rare elsewhere in Fiji, look out for B&Bs in Wailoaloa (Nadi) and the Pacific Harbour, but provide a more intimate boutique experience compared to resorts. Check out some B&B examples in the 20 Best Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) in Fiji.
Small-Ship Cruises
Fiji’s small-ship cruises sail primarily to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands and less frequently sailing to other island groups throughout the year. They offer cabin accommodation along with the opportunity to visit different islands, free and optional paid activities, and meals. Learn more about these cruises in The Guide to Cruises Around Fiji.
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Clown-Fish-Anenome-Hero-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--896x1024.jpg)
Things to Do in Fiji
Contrary to popular belief, there’s more to do in Fiji than drink cocktails and sit by the pool. Fiji exceeds at adventure, relaxation and culture. There’s so much to do that we could hardly fit it all into our 101 Things to Do in Fiji: The Ultimate List.
The thing to remember is that resorts offer most of the activities in Fiji, especially those in the outer islands. The sort of activities available at resorts include:
- Scuba diving – Explore the “coral capital of the world” teeming with marine life
- Snorkelling – Discover colourful underwater worlds in crystal-clear waters
- Swimming with sharks or manta rays – Encounter majestic marine creatures up close
- Spa treatments – Indulge in relaxing therapies with tropical ingredients
- Fijian village visits – Experience authentic local culture and traditions
- Fijian cultural dancing (meke) – Witness captivating traditional performances
- Fijian crafting lessons – Learn ancient skills from local artisans
- Cooking classes – Master the art of preparing delicious Fijian cuisine
- Kayaking – Paddle through pristine lagoons and mangrove forests
- Stand-up paddleboarding – Glide across calm waters with stunning island views
- Parasailing – Soar high above turquoise seas for breathtaking vistas
- Fishing – Cast a line in some of the world’s best fishing grounds
- Walking/hiking – Explore lush rainforests and scenic coastal trails
- Surfing – Ride world-class waves in tropical paradise settings
That’s not to say that there are no exciting experiences outside of the resorts. Especially on the islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, there are independent tours and activities to try. For instance:
- Jet boat tours – Experience thrilling rides through scenic river gorges
- White water rafting – Navigate exhilarating rapids in pristine landscapes
- Skydiving – Freefall over Fiji’s stunning archipelago
- Quad biking/off-roading – Adventure through rugged terrain and lush forests
- Sightseeing tours – Discover Fiji’s natural wonders and cultural highlights
- Golf – Tee off on world-class courses with ocean views
Again, you’ll find much more inspiration from our 101 Things to Do in Fiji: The Ultimate List so get on there!
![The BEST Travel Guide to Fiji: How to Plan a Trip to Fiji 🌴 [2025]](https://fijipocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bonefish-Couple-Dinner-Restaurant-CREDIT-Fiji-Pocket-Guide--1024x684.jpg)
Food and Dining in Fiji
From the menus of the restaurants in Fiji’s major towns to the resort restaurants, a wide range of international cuisine is represented in Fiji. Fijian foods are also easy enough to come by, especially on resort menus, while Indo-Fijian cuisine is best sampled at town curry houses. If you find yourself on a less developed island, your resort or homestay host provides meals, typically through meal plans. Everything you need to know about food in Fiji can be found in The Food Guide to Fiji: Places to Eat & Food Tours.
Restaurants and Cafes
Restaurants and cafes come with plenty of choices in Fiji’s most-visited hubs, like Nadi, Denarau, Suva and Savusavu, serving up international favourites, including Asian, European, American and Fijian (mostly kokoda) dishes. Outside these hubs, restaurants can almost only be found at resorts, while smaller towns may have the odd Asian takeaway or street food at markets. Check out the food guide to each of Fiji’s regions in The Food Guide to Fiji: Places to Eat & Food Tours.
Resort Restaurants
While resorts on Viti Levu tend to have à la carte menus or optional meal plans with a wide range of food choices, resorts in more remote areas or less-developed islands typically have fewer options and make the most of scarcer resources. These resorts tend to offer daily set menus, where you’ll need to order your meals a few hours in advance. Many resorts pride themselves on showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often incorporating traditional Fijian flavours into their dishes. You can expect to find plenty of seafood options, tropical fruits, and international cuisines with a Fijian twist. Some resorts even offer romantic private dining experiences on the beach – perfect for those special occasions! Meal plans are further explained in our guide, Is it Worth Buying a Resort Meal Plan in Fiji?
Self-Catering
Self-catering is relatively easy on Fiji’s most developed islands, Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Ovalau, with plenty of accommodations with cooking facilities, as well as supermarkets, convenience stores and roadside fruit stalls to pick up supplies. Check out the A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in Fiji for everything you need to know about a self-catering holiday. Plus, check out The Cost of Food in Fiji for restaurant and grocery store prices.
Special Diets
Vegetarian options are widely available in Fiji. More specific diets, such as veganism and coeliacs, are harder to cater for. Check out our advice in Fiji for Vegans & Vegetarians, as well as The Gluten-Free Guide to Fiji.
Food and Water Safety
There are no major health concerns to be worried about when it comes to food in Fiji. Resort restaurants have a high standard. However, one should be a little wary when it comes to street food – it’s best to try food that is cooked and to avoid drinking tap water (or treat it) if you’re unsure of the quality. See Is the Water Safe to Drink in Fiji? for more advice. Plus, check out Fiji Safety Tips for additional advice.
What Food to Try
And what are the foods worth trying in Fiji? Look out for the items listed in Traditional Fijian Food: 20 Foods to Try in Fiji and 10 Drinks in Fiji You Have to Try!

Typical Costs and Budget for a Trip to Fiji
We all travel very differently. Therefore, making a precise budget for everyone is a, quite frankly, impossible task. Nevertheless, you can work out your own needs and budget by simply looking at the typical prices listed below or in the Fiji Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Fiji Cost?
The Cost of Accommodation
Accommodation Type 🏨 | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Dorm bed/night | FJ$40-$100 |
Homestay private room/night | FJ$30-$150 |
Budget double private ensuite room/night | FJ$80-$260 |
Mid-range double private ensuite room/night | FJ$300-$800 |
Luxury double private ensuite room/night | FJ$600-$3,000+ |
Family hotel rooms/night | FJ$225-$700+ |
Family resort bungalow/night | FJ$500-$1,200+ |
Holiday home/night | FJ$180-$1,200+ |
The Cost of Food
Meal Type 🍽️ | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Restaurant breakfast meal | FJ$10-$26 |
Restaurant lunch meal | FJ$16-$38 |
Restaurant dinner meal | FJ$28-$55 |
Resort breakfast meal | FJ$0-$26 |
Resort lunch meal | FJ$18-$30 |
Resort main meal | FJ$24-$70 |
Resort child meal | FJ$14.50-$20 |
Resort meal plan/half-board/day – Adult | FJ$70-$150 |
Resort meal plan/half-board/day – Child | FJ$35 |
Resort meal plan/full-board/day – Adult | FJ$95-$280 |
Resort meal plan/full-board/day – Child | FJ$50-$160 |
Indian restaurant mains | FJ$10-$20 |
Bottle of water (500 ml to 1 l) | FJ$4-$15 |
Glass of wine | FJ$12-$20 |
Bottle of beer | FJ$9-$12 |
Cocktail | FJ$18-$40 |
Grocery prices for self-catering can be found in What is the Cost of Food in Fiji?
The Cost of Tours and Activities
Water Activity 🌊 | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Day cruise/ per adult/child | FJ$200-$270 / FJ$100-$160 |
Sailing charter day cruise/ per group | FJ$2,400-$3,300+ |
Snorkel with sharks or manta rays/ per person | FJ$65-$380 |
Full-day fishing charter/ per group | FJ$550-$1,200 |
Snorkel tour/ per person | FJ$25-$210 |
Two tank scuba dive/ per person | FJ$270-$450 |
Adventure Activity 🐴 | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
River tubing/ per person | FJ$130-$355 |
Cultural night tour/ per adult/child | FJ$70-$210 / FJ$35-$110 |
Beach horse riding/ per person | FJ$70-$200 |
Half-day zipline tour/ per person | FJ$200-$255 |
Jet boat safari/ per adult/child | FJ$300 / FJ$150 |
Skydive/ per person | FJ$740-$915 |
25min helicopter scenic flight/ per adult/child | FJ$630-$690 / FJ$450 |
Land/Culture Activity 🏛️ | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Hot Springs/ per person | FJ$0-$30 |
Sigatoka Sand Dunes/ per adult/child | FJ$10 / FJ$5 |
Bouma Falls/ per adult/child | FJ$50 / FJ$25 |
Nadi city tour/ per adult/child | FJ$160-$200 / FJ$90-$120 |
Cultural village tour/ per person | FJ$80-$250 |
Kula Eco Park/ per adult/child | FJ$50-$125 / FJ$30-$85 |
Massage/ 1 hour | FJ$70-$110 |
Coffee plantation tour/ per person | FJ$100 |
Again, check out our guide, Fiji Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Fiji Cost? for more budget tips and costs.
The Cost of Transport
Boat Transport 🚢 | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Ferries to the Mamanuca/Yasawa Islands/ per adult/child (one way) | FJ$145-$250 / FJ$0-$130 |
Water taxis to the Mamanuca/Yasawa Islands/ per group (one way) | FJ$400-$1,190 |
Cargo ferries to other outer islands/ per person (one way) | FJ$30-$65 |
Get more prices in our complete guide, How Much Do Water Taxis & Ferries Cost in Fiji?
Domestic Flights ✈️ | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Flights to outer islands/ per adult/child (one way) | FJ$100-$700 / FJ$80-$250 |
Charter fixed wing to outer islands/ per person (one way) | FJ$380-$12,000 |
Charter helicopter to outer islands/ per person (one way) | FJ$370-$2,300 |
See more typical flight prices in How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Fiji?
Road Transport 🚌 | Price Range (FJ$) 💵 |
---|---|
Public buses/ per person | FJ$1-$27 |
Express buses/ per person (Nadi to Suva) | FJ$20-$28 |
Multi-day tour bus/ per person | FJ$1,150-$7,500 |
Private resort transfer/ per group | FJ$18-$300 |
Car rental/day | FJ$80-$300 |
Private taxi driver/day | FJ$250-$480 |
Taxi/ flagfall | FJ$2-$7.10 |
Taxi/ metre | FJ$0.10 |
Learn more about road transport prices in Taxi Prices in Fiji: The Costs You Need to Know, How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car in Fiji? and How Much Does it Cost to Travel Fiji by Bus?
Again, check out our guide, Fiji Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Fiji Cost? for more budget tips and costs.
Spending Money Budget for Fiji
Here are a few averages for a daily budget for Fiji. These include food, activities, transport and miscellaneous expenses. Each price is per person per day:
Traveller Type 💸 | Daily Budget 💰 |
---|---|
Budget Traveller | FJ$270 |
Mid-range Traveller | FJ$490 |
Luxury Traveller | FJ$1,700+ |
We break down the budgets further in How Much Spending Money Do You Need for Fiji?
Fiji Accommodation
Viti Levu
- First Landing Beach Resort
- Smugglers Cove Beach Resort
- Ramada Suites By Wyndham Seafront Coral Coast
- Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay
- Nadi Nalagi Hotel
- Tanoa International Hotel
- Mercure Nadi
- Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
- The Ideal Bed & Breakfast
- Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
- The Palms Apartments
- The Terraces Apartments
- Sheraton Fiji Resort
- Sheraton Denarau Villas
- Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa
- Radisson Blu Resort Fiji
- Mango Bay Resort
- Bedarra Beach Inn
- Wellesley Resort Fiji
- Tambua Sands Beach Resort
- InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa
- Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa
- The Warwick Fiji
- Crusoe’s Retreat
- The Beachouse
- Nanuku Resort
- The Pearl Resort
- Royal Davui Island Resort
- Beqa Lagoon Resort
- Matanivusi Beach Eco Resort
- Quest Suva
- Tanoa Plaza Hotel
- Capricorn Apartment Hotel
- Holiday Inn Suva
- Grand Pacific Hotel
- Tanoa Rakiraki Hotel
- Tanoa Waterfront Hotel
- Volivoli Beach Resort
- Dolphin Island
Mamanuca Islands
- Plantation Island Resort
- Castaway Island Resort
- Nakelo Treasure Island Resort
- Malolo Island Resort
- Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki Island
- VOMO Island Resort
- Six Senses Fiji
- Beachcomber Island Resort
- Mana Island Resort
- Serenity Island Resort
- Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina
- Funky Fish Resort
- South Sea Island Resort
- Tokoriki Island Resort
- Matamanoa Island Resort
- Likuliku Lagoon Resort
- Lomani Island Resort
- Tropica Island Resort
- Tadrai Island Resort
- Mana Lagoon Backpackers
Yasawa Islands
- Barefoot Kuata Resort
- Yasawa Island Resort & Spa
- Navutu Stars Resort
- Naqalia Lodge
- Mantaray Island Resort
- Barefoot Manta Resort
- Long Beach Escape
- Boathouse Nanuya
- Nabua Lodge
- Blue Lagoon Beach Resort
- Octopus Resort
- Waya Island Resort
- Safe Landing Eco-Lodge
- Coralview Island Resort
- Viwa Island Resort
- Paradise Cove Resort
- Coconut Beach Resort
- Nanuya Island Resort
- Gold Coast Inn
- Oarsman’s Bay Lodge
- Sunrise Lagoon Homestay
- Yasawa Homestays
Vanua Levu
- Daku Fiji Resort
- Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort
- The Remote Resort
- Viani Bay Resort
- La Dolce Vita Holiday Villas
- Namale Resort & Spa
- Nukubati Great Sea Reef
- Savasi Island Resort
- Salt Lake Lodge
- Tavola Villa
- Sigasiga Sands Boutique Bungalows
- Koro Sun Resort
- Emaho Sekawa Resort
- Island Breeze Fiji
- Naveria Heights Lodge
- Grand Eastern Hotel
- Dolphin Bay Divers Retreat
- Fiji Lodge: Vosa Ni Ua
- The Friendly North Inn
- Savusavu Hot Springs Hotel
- Sau Bay Resort
Taveuni
- Paradise Taveuni
- Vakanananu Retreat
- Taveuni Island Resort & Spa
- Taveuni Palms Resort
- Raiwasa Grand Villa
- Vacala Bay Resort
- Matangi Private Island Resort
- Tides Reach Resort
- Coconut Grove Beachfront Cottages
- Taveuni Dive Resort
- Garden Island Resort
- Qamea Resort & Spa
- Aroha Taveuni Resort
- Maqai Beach Eco Resort
- Makaira Resort
- Camp Taveuni
- Maravu Taveuni Lodge
Lomaiviti Islands
- Toberua Island Resort
- Wakaya Club & Spa
- Leleuvia Island Resort
- Heritage Guest House Levuka
- Old Capital Inn
- Bobo’s Farm
- Ovalau Holiday Resort
- Royal Hotel
- Kauwai Retreat
- The Baystay
- New Mavida Lodge
Kadavu
- Matava Eco Adventure Resort
- Papageno Resort
- Kokomo Private Island
- Oneta Resort
- Tiliva Resort
Lau Islands
- Vatuvara Private Islands
- Moana’s Guesthouse
- Lakeba Guest House
For more information on our top picks, take a look at the 50 Best Resorts in Fiji and Where to Stay in Fiji: A Guide to Destinations & Accommodations.
Fiji Travel Guides: Plan a Fiji Trip According to Your Travel Style
Finally, this wouldn’t be the best travel guide to Fiji without taking into account that everyone likes to holiday differently. Here at Fiji Pocket Guide, we have travel guides for all styles of travel, including budget travellers, luxury travellers, honeymooners, families, adults-only and foodies. If one of these fits your style, then jump ahead to the appropriate travel guide:
- The Complete Budget & Backpacking Guide to Fiji
- The Complete Luxury Travel Guide to Fiji
- The Complete Family Travel Guide to Fiji
- The Complete Adults-Only Travel Guide to Fiji
- The Complete Food Guide to Fiji
- The Complete Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Fiji
And if you simply can’t get enough Fiji wisdom, head over to the 30 Tips for Travelling in Fiji.
Happy travels and thanks for checking out this complete travel guide to Fiji!
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 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])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
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.