Fiji Destination Guide

Fiji Holidays »

Pristine and postcard perfect, the Fiji Islands are made up of one thousand miles of unspoiled white sand beaches, fabulous coral gardens and azure lagoons. In total there are 333 islands, and many are uninhabited. Think wide smiles, soothing melodies on string guitars, romantic dinners by lantern light, world class snorkeling and diving, or simply snoozing away the afternoon in a hammock.

Before you know it, you’ve slowed down a notch or two, are hollering "Bula" back to friendly passersby and have adopted the locals approach to life 'Fiji time' when things don’t quite go as planned. So leave your watch behind, tuck a frangipani behind your ear (right side if you’re married, left if unattached), and submit to the lure of the Pacific. 

The essentials:

• Country: Fiji
• Currency: Fijian dollar (FJD)
• Offical Language: English, Fijian, Fiji Hindi
• Visas: Australians travelling to Fiji as tourists do not require a visa
• Tipping: Voluntary
• Electricity: Fijian outlets run on  and average 230 volts and use a Type I plug

Temperature (max C)

• Bula Festival in July
• Coral Coast Sevens Rugby in November
• Bula Belly Dance Festival in September 

Top Attractions »

Fiji serves up a fine concoction of things to do, most of which make this a water-lovers' haven. If you go a little out of your way, you'll be rewarded with coral gardens, manta rays and turtles when you dive the Great Astrolabe Reef off the tiny southern island of Kadavu.

Keen surfers should head to the Mamanuca islands for waves of legend. The permanent six-metre wave 'Cloudbreak' off the coast of Tavarua is described by surf champion Kelly Slater as one of the most perfect waves he’s ever surfed.

The Yasawa and Turtle Islands are cited as having some of the best beaches in the region, while the shores of the Mamanucas are known for their starring roles in major Hollywood films including Cast Away, and the hit TV show, Survivor.

Tap into your adventurous spirit with…

• Surfing or kite-surfing lessons
• Snorkelling in the Beqa Lagoon Reef 
• Inland quad bike tours 

Launch Fiji photo gallery »

Eat and Drink »

There was a time when Fiji’s food scene didn’t rate with travellers. Today it has had a much-needed makeover. If you’re staying in and around Nadi or Suva, there are plenty of terrific dining options. In the outer islands, you are restricted to meals served at the resort you’re staying at, unless there are other hotels or restaurants nearby (or you have access to a boat). Be sure and try Fijian specialties such as the tangy Kokoda (fish marinated in lemon or lime juice and coconut cream) and a traditional lovo cooked in the ground. 

Share the culture with your taste buds by…

• Drinking Kava: a natural sedative
• Eating taro leaves with coconut cream
• Trying raw fish with coconut

Where to Stay »

All Fiji holidays begin on the main island Viti Levu (Big Viti), the jumping off point for the outer islands, and here you’ll find a huge range of hotels and resorts. South of Nadi, is the Coral Coast, which wraps around the southwestern corner of Viti Levu's coastline, offering one of the largest fringing coral reefs in the world.

Many travellers make a beeline for the famous Mamanuca group of islands, which boast a string of tropical resorts on 14 of its islands, as well as local villages and several of its own deserted islands. Among the first islands to be developed for tourism, the Mamanucas hold a special place in the heart of many Aussie travellers. 

For a secluded stay try...

• Yasawa Island Resort – just 18 bures
• The Wayaka Club – popular with celebrities
• Vomo Island – a range of villas

Shopping »

Let’s face it, Fiji is paradise but not the retail therapy kind. This isn’t the place to head for a shopping fix involving large retail centres, malls, or outlets. Having said that, you can still have lots of fun shopping for locally made arts and crafts, black pearls grown in the warm waters of Savusavu Bay, locally harvested coconut oil (great for massage, dry skin and cooking) and divine Pure Fiji products.

There are souvenirs to be had at every turn, including pretty shell necklaces, bracelets and beautifully woven baskets. At local markets you can pick up carved kava bowls, war clubs, woven mats, pottery and beautiful masi or tapa cloth. Plus you get to interact directly with the makers.

Spoil that special someone with…

• Day cruises to secluded islands 
• Couples treatments at Frangipani Spa 
• Mystery flights to exotic destinations 

Fiji like a Local

When you start to explore this part of the South Pacific, you'll get an introduction to 'Fiji time'. Like 'island time' – things happen, when they happen. Why rush? You're surrounded by beautiful scenery, friendly locals and tropical ocean.

Once you’re relaxed you’ll be well on your way to seeing Fiji like a local. With white beaches and sparkling blue water, Fiji is also the perfect place to try your hand at water activities such as diving, kayaking, spear fishing or a leisurely cruise on a sail boat.

Insider Secrets:

1.  A school holiday favourite: If at all possible, avoid travelling in school holidays. Every man and his dog has booked their family holiday at this time and both hotels and airfares are often booked out, and at their most expensive.

2. Snorkel for free: Many hotels and resorts offer free snorkeling equipment and other water sports gear including paddleboards and kayaks. Fiji offers a fantastic choice of snorkeling sites where you can explore the underwater world for nix.

3. Don't forget your sunscreen: Pack your own reef shoes for beach exploring, boat trips and to avoid being cut by coral. Bring sarongs to take you from beach to the bar, and lots of sunscreen too as it’s expensive to buy.

Grab your snorkel and take a dive at...

• The Somosomo Strait
• Rainbows End's excellent coloured corals
• Navini & Matamanoa (great for beginners) 

Did you know...? Fiji barely has a winter! The lowest temperature during the season is a mild 18 degrees, and while strictly speaking Fiji has a rainy season, tropical downpours are usually short and sharp, meaning it’s a terrific destination to visit year-round.