Visiting Fiji: Main Island Vs. Outer Islands

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Why Stay on the Main Island

Before you take a flight or hop on a boat to the other islands of Fiji, you might want to consider the main island, Viti Levu. If you’ve been on an island getaway before, you might know that the first island you arrive in isn’t a good representation of what the country has to offer. However, Viti Levu is a large island with an array of landscapes and holiday experiences. There are two main reasons why you might want to consider having your Fiji holiday to Viti Levu: to experience it all and for convenience.

Experience it All on Viti Levu

Viti Levu is the perfect base in Fiji to get a taste of everything the country has to offer: beaches, scuba diving, city sightseeing, wellness and spa treatments, the highlands, remote villages, ziplining tours, game fishing, jet boating, white water rafting and the list goes on. The outer islands of Fiji do not have jet boating, ziplining or white water rafting, for example.

You’ll also find the largest variety of accommodation types here, including budget guesthouses, homestays, hotels, budget resorts, mid-range resorts and five-star luxury resorts. In contrast, the outer islands may only have a fraction of these accommodation types.

Those staying on Viti Levu also have the opportunity to see a lot more of Fiji than perhaps someone staying on one of the smaller outer islands. For instance, day trips to off-shore islands are a common way to spend your time here. On top of that, Viti Levu is home to several regions, each offering something different for tourists, from the Coral Coast‘s fabulous beaches to the Pacific Harbour‘s adrenaline activities. It’s easy to make a road trip itinerary by hiring a car and staying at various accommodations across the island in as little as five days.

Learn more about the regions of Viti Levu in The Complete Travel Guide to Viti Levu.

Viti Levu is Just Plain Convenient!

For many of us, we don’t want to spend a significant portion of our time abroad simply getting to a place. Staying on Fiji’s main island eliminates the need for overwater travel. Getting to your destination on Viti Levu usually involves road transport, which is cheaper and much faster than waiting for a ferry or another flight. You can transition into “Fiji time” almost immediately!

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Why Visit the Outer Islands

Arguably, there are many reasons to visit the outer islands of Fiji, most of which are with a sense of “because I want to” rather than for, well, logic. But is travelling to one of the outer islands really worth the extra travel time and cost? Well, perhaps it is! While you might not have quite the variety of experiences that you can have on the mainland, that might not matter when you have a few great things to do anyway, on top of being surrounded by idyllic island scenery.

A Sense of Tranquillity

The outer islands are where you’ll find those postcard-perfect island vistas with glorious beaches, snorkelling available just off the island and a sense of tranquillity. The outer islands certainly present an away-from-the-world ambience that Fiji’s main island doesn’t quite capture. And we’re not just talking about the archipelago islands of the Yasawas or Mamanucas; the larger islands of Vanua Levu, Taveuni and Kadavu are less developed than Viti Levu, creating a sense of remoteness and adventure.

Just One Place

While island-hopping is available in some of the island groups, many visitors may want to stay in one place, which is perfect! You don’t need to worry about decision fatigue from an array of things to do. You’ll have the opportunity to get up and do something, whether it be scuba diving, cruising, kayaking or a village visit, if and when you want to. Mostly, you’re here to relax.

The Best Photo Opportunities

It’s a common opinion that the outer islands are where you’ll find the most beautiful landscapes in Fiji, whether it be the volcanic rocky peaks jutting atop an island with palms and sandy beaches in the Yasawa Islands or verdant rainforest and waterfalls carpeting the larger islands like Taveuni.

Decide which islands are right for you with The Best Islands to Visit in Fiji.

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FAQ About Whether to Visit the Main Island or the Outer Islands of Fiji

Now that you know about the main island and outer islands of Fiji, here are the answers to the internet’s frequently asked questions about choosing between Fiji’s islands!

Is it better to stay on the main island in Fiji?

Staying on the main island, Viti Levu, offers convenience, a wider range of accommodation options, and easy access to many attractions. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time. However, the experience may feel less “remote” compared to the outer islands. For more information, check out our guide to Viti Levu.

What is the best part of Fiji to go to?

The “best” part of Fiji depends on your preferences. The Mamanuca Islands are popular for their pristine beaches and luxury resorts. The Yasawa Islands offer a more laid-back, authentic Fijian experience. For adventure, consider Taveuni or the Coral Coast on Viti Levu. For more information, check out our guide to choosing the best Fijian island for your holiday.

What is the easiest island to get to from Nadi?

Denarau Island, connected to the mainland by a short causeway, is the easiest to reach from Nadi. For actual islands, the closest is in the Mamanuca group, such as South Sea Island, Malamala Beach Club or Beachcomber Island, which are about 30 minutes by boat from Port Denarau. For more information, check out our guide to island transfers in Fiji.

Are the outer islands of Fiji worth visiting?

Absolutely! The outer islands offer a more authentic and secluded Fijian experience. You’ll find pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and traditional village life. However, they may require more travel time and planning. For more information, check out our guide to Fiji’s outer islands.

How many days do you need in Fiji?

For a satisfying Fiji experience, we recommend at least 7-10 days. This allows time to explore one or two islands and enjoy various activities. If you want to visit multiple island groups, consider 14 days or more. Remember, Fiji is all about relaxation, so don’t rush! For more information, check out our guide to planning your Fiji itinerary.

What’s the best way to island-hop in Fiji?

Island-hopping in Fiji can be done via ferries, small planes, or private boats. The Yasawa Flyer is a popular ferry service for the Yasawa Islands. For more distant islands, domestic flights are often the best option. Some resorts also offer transfer services. For more information, check out our guide to getting around Fiji.