The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com
The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu

The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu [2025]

© FijiPocketGuide.com
Last Updated: 28 October, 2024

A Travel Guide to Fiji’s Main Island

The archipelago islands of Fiji might be made up of a whopping 333 islands, but it doesn’t have to be that complicated. Viti Levu is the island of arrival for more than 97% of visitors to Fiji. That island alone has a landmass of 10,389 km² (4,011 mi²) split into several exciting and diverse regions to visit. Many will find the Fiji getaway they’re looking for right here on Fiji’s largest island, and we’ll show you the what and the how in this complete travel guide to Viti Levu.

Most of Fiji’s population lives on the large island, explaining the landscapes of sugarcane fields, pockets of urban areas, and scattering of Fijian villages. But despite the human manipulation of the island, Viti Levu also has a good share of natural landscapes, from sweeping sandy shores to a rugged mountainous interior created by ancient volcanic activity. Needless to say, you’ll find plenty of diversity in Viti Levu.

Table of Contents

FAQ About Viti Levu

Before delving into the main article, let’s address some frequently asked questions about Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island.

Where is Viti Levu located?

Viti Levu is the largest island in Fiji, located in the South Pacific Ocean. It’s part of the Melanesia region and sits approximately 2,588 km (1,608 mi) northeast of New Zealand. The island is the heart of Fiji, home to the capital city, Suva, and the main international airport in Nadi. You’ll find Viti Levu surrounded by smaller islands, including the popular Mamanuca and Yasawa groups to its west. Learn more about the island’s location in our complete guide, Where is Fiji Located?

What is Viti Levu known for?

Viti Levu is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rugged mountains. It’s home to Fiji’s capital city, Suva, and offers a rich mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and luxurious resorts. The island is also famous for its vibrant markets, traditional villages, and world-class surfing spots. Learn more about why Fiji is famous in What is it Like to Visit Fiji? + 20 Reasons to Visit.

How many people live in Viti Levu?

Approximately 600,000 people, or about 70% of Fiji’s total population, reside in Viti Levu. This makes it the most populous and developed island in the Fijian archipelago. Find out more in our complete guide, Who are the People of Fiji? Ethnicity, Population & More.

How long does it take to drive around Viti Levu, Fiji?

Driving around Viti Levu takes about 8 to 10 hours, covering a distance of approximately 500 km (311 mi). However, we recommend allowing two to three days for a more leisurely journey, enabling you to explore various attractions along the way. Check out The Driving Times & Distances in Fiji to learn more.

How do you get to Viti Levu?

The primary gateway to Viti Levu is Nadi International Airport, located on the western side of the island. Most international flights to Fiji arrive here. See How Long Does it Take to Fly to Fiji? for more information. Alternatively, you can reach Viti Levu by cruise ship or yacht, with many vessels docking at Port Denarau or Suva. Take a look at Getting Here: How to Get to Fiji to dive deeper into the subject.

What is the weather like on Viti Levu?

Viti Levu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F). The island experiences a dry season from May to October and a wet season from November to April. The highlands in the centre of the island tend to be cooler and receive more rainfall than the coastal areas. Furthermore, the eastern side is much rainier than the western side. Learn more about the climate of Viti Levu in our complete guide, Fiji Weather, Seasons & Climate + Weather by Month.

The Complete Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com

Nadi – Where Most Travellers Arrive in Viti Levu

Nadi is the vast majority’s introduction to Fiji, which, while a far cry from the undeveloped archipelago islands that holiday dreams are made of, provides plenty of ways to jump straight into “Fiji time“.

Fiji’s third-largest town is spread across several sprawling suburbs, from the town centre with a colourful Hindu temple and a bustling market to Wailoaloa Beach, with some of the closest beach resorts to the airport. The town has a scattering of high-end hotels and humble resorts, providing a place to stay that is on-theme with a tropical holiday should you need a place to stay between flights.

Highlights of the town range from the vibrant produce and handicraft markets of the urban centres to the Sabeto Hot Springs and Garden of the Sleeping Giant in the countryside. Alternatively, you can enjoy day trips out on the water through fishing charters, scuba diving or island excursions to the nearby Mamanuca Islands.

Take a look at more of what Nadi has to offer in The Complete Guide to Nadi.

Plan Your Trip to Nadi

Ready to explore the vibrant gateway to Fiji? To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled some essential resources that’ll have you navigating this Pacific paradise like a pro.

  • 25 Best Things to Do in Nadi – From soaking in mud pools to exploring colourful temples, this guide unveils the must-see attractions and hidden gems that will make your Nadi adventure unforgettable.
  • Where to Stay in Nadi & Denarau: Best Accommodations – Finding the perfect place to rest your head is crucial. Discover a range of options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay that suits your style and budget.
  • The Food Guide to Nadi: Places to Eat & Food Tours – Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure! Learn where to savour local delicacies, find the best international cuisines, and join food tours that’ll introduce you to the flavours of Fiji.

With these resources at your fingertips, you’re all set to dive into the wonders of Nadi.

The Complete Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com

Denarau – Viti Levu’s Resort Village

Just a 30-minute drive from Nadi Airport, Denarau Island is the Fiji go-to for a fly-and-flop getaway at a famous Fiji resort. The manmade island from a reclaimed mangrove swampland has been polished to perfection with its manicured lawns, championship golf course, the attractive Port Denarau shopping centre and a collection of five-star resorts from some of the world’s most prestigious hotel and resort groups.

Aside from enjoying a resort getaway, Denarau Island, which is attached to Viti Levu by a causeway, is a popular spot for trips to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Port Denarau Marina is the base of Fiji’s high-speed catamaran ferries, and day excursions can be made via jet boat, sailing yacht, fishing charter, dive boat, and more.

Learn more about Fiji’s fabulous Denarau in The Complete Guide to Denarau Island.

Plan Your Trip to Denarau

See yourself relaxing by a luxury resort pool? Plan your getaway to Denarau using one of the following guides:

  • 20 Best Things to Do in Denarau – From world-class golf courses to thrilling water sports, discover the top attractions and activities that make Denarau a paradise for all types of travellers.
  • 10 Best Resorts on Denarau Island – Find your perfect tropical retreat with our curated list of Denarau’s most luxurious resorts, complete with stunning pools, spa facilities, and breathtaking ocean views.
  • The Food Guide to Denarau: Places to Eat & Food Tours – Indulge your taste buds with Denarau’s diverse culinary scene, from fine dining restaurants to casual beachfront cafés and exciting food tours.

With these comprehensive guides at your fingertips, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your Denarau getaway. Get ready for sun-soaked days, unforgettable experiences, and the warm Fijian hospitality that awaits you!

The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com

Coral Coast – Viti Levu’s Resort-Lined Coast

Boasting some of the most spectacular coastlines in Viti Levu, the Coral Coast is where you’ll find your Fiji beach holiday without leaving the mainland. Stretching along the southern coast of the island, the Coral Coast has a scattering of resorts, from affordable adult-only stays to five-star golf resorts.

Aside from lazying by the pool and sipping on cocktails, the Coral Coast offers a range of interesting attractions across the coast and inland. Sigatoka is the main hub of the area, where jet boats and river cruises take you up the Sigatoka River to remote villages. Alternatively, you can get off the beaten track with off-roading tours to ancient cannibal caves or enjoy an independent visit to the Biausevu Waterfall. The region is also home to one of Fiji’s national parks, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park.

Find out more about the resorts, attractions and vibes of Viti Levu’s most popular coast in The Complete Guide to the Coral Coast.

Plan Your Trip to the Coral Coast

Want to relax by the beach or have inland adventures on the Coral Coast? Plan your trip with one of the following guides:

With these comprehensive guides at your fingertips, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your Coral Coast adventure. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, the perfect Fijian getaway awaits!

The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com

Pacific Harbour and Beqa – Viti Levu’s Adventure Capital

Dubbed the “Adventure Capital of Fiji”, the Pacific Harbour and the off-shore islands surrounding Beqa Island (pronounced “Beng-ga”) are a place for the traveller who wants more than just coral reefs and cocktails.

On the southern coast of Viti Levu, a 45-minute drive from Suva and a 2 hrs 30 mins drive from Nadi, the Pacific Harbour might be a little longer to get to on Viti Levu, but many agree the journey is worth it.

Aside from the landscaped lawns of the well-kept town centre, the highlight of the area is the Navua River, where white water rafting, jet boating, river tubing and bilibili rafting are all ways to enjoy the river, which leads inland to secluded Fijian villages where traditional Fijian lunch awaits on most tours. Cascading waterfalls and dramatic river gorges await the further upriver you go.

Offshore, you can find your Fiji island holiday on Beqa Island and Davui Island, which are moments away from one of the world’s largest barrier reefs, the Beqa Lagoon. Here is a place for magnificent scuba diving, snorkelling and even shark diving for certified divers.

Learn more about the wild side of Viti Levu in The Complete Guide to Pacific Harbour & Beqa.

Plan Your Trip to the Pacific Harbour

Does the Pacific Harbour sound like your kind of adventure? Cater a trip more to your style with the following guides:

  • 15 Best Things to Do in the Pacific Harbour & Beqa – From thrilling shark dives to tranquil river kayaking, discover the top activities that make the Pacific Harbour Fiji’s adventure capital. Don’t miss the chance to experience the region’s natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping excursions!
  • 15 Best Resorts on the Pacific Harbour & Beqa – Find your perfect accommodation, whether you’re seeking a luxurious beachfront resort or a cosy eco-retreat. We’ve handpicked the best options to ensure your stay in this stunning corner of Fiji is nothing short of extraordinary.
  • The Food Guide to the Pacific Harbour: Places to Eat & Food Tours – Embark on a culinary journey through the Pacific Harbour and Beqa. From fresh seafood to traditional Fijian delicacies, this guide will lead you to the best eateries and food experiences in the area. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

With these comprehensive guides at your fingertips, you’re all set to plan an unforgettable Pacific Harbour adventure that perfectly suits your travel style.

The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com

Suva – The Capital of Fiji

Fiji’s capital city sits on the southeastern shores of Viti Levu, a bustling harbourside city with a mix of cultures. Far from your sandy beach holiday in Fiji, Suva provides an opportunity to experience the South Pacific urban life with its multicultural eateries, shops and huge municipal market.

The city is awash in colonial architecture, and there’s further opportunity to delve into Fiji’s history through the Fiji Museum. For those seeking a more natural setting, just outside of the city is the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, home to waterfall trails and swimming holes to cool down on this much hotter side of Viti Levu.

Find out more about visiting Fiji’s capital in The Complete Guide to Suva.

Plan Your Trip to Suva

Whether you’re a couple on a honeymoon, a young family or backpackers on a budget, we have a Suva travel guide to suit most travel types:

  • 15 Best Things to Do in Suva – Discover the must-see attractions and hidden gems in Fiji’s vibrant capital. From exploring the Fiji Museum to strolling through the bustling Municipal Market, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.
  • 30 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Suva – Find your perfect accommodation in Suva, whether you’re after luxury resorts or budget-friendly hostels. We’ve got options to suit every traveller’s needs and preferences.
  • The Food Guide to Suva: Places to Eat & Food Tours – Indulge in Suva’s diverse culinary scene, from traditional Fijian dishes to international cuisines. Don’t miss out on the local delicacies and food tours that will tantalize your taste buds!

With these comprehensive guides at your fingertips, you’re all set to make the most of your Suva adventure.

The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu© FijiPocketGuide.com

Suncoast – Viti Levu’s Hidden Gem

An often-overlooked region of Viti Levu, the Suncoast provides the ultimate off-the-beaten-track adventure for travellers. The Suncoast typically refers to the northern part of Viti Levu, running between Lautoka to the west and Korovou in the east, encapsulating the sun-soaked shores to Fiji’s highest mountains.

Holidays on the Suncoast range from resort getaways, luxury private island stays, lavish private villas, budget cottages and homestays. Those seeking sun and relaxation will certainly find it at the resorts on the side of Viti Levu, which receives the longest sunshine hours. Those seeking adventure will find it one of the many guided hikes into Viti Levu’s rugged interiors, whether it’s to waterfalls in the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park or the top of Fiji’s highest peak, Mt Tomanivi.

Like pretty much anywhere in Fiji, there’s also an opportunity to get out on the water through scuba diving in the Bligh Water and dolphin cruises at the famous Moon Reef.

Start planning your trip to the sunnier side of Fiji in The Complete Guide to the Suncoast.

Plan Your Trip to the Suncoast

Plan your getaway to northern Viti Levu with our comprehensive guides:

With these guides at your fingertips, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure on Fiji’s stunning Suncoast!

More About Viti Levu

That’s it for our guide to Viti Levu; for more information about Fiji’s main island, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in A Guide to the Fiji Regions & Island Groups.

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:

    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.

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