Top Things To Do In Fiji

Discover the best things to do in Fiji - from pristine beaches and coral reefs to authentic cultural encounters and hidden island gems. Explore top attractions, unique experiences, and off-the-beaten-path adventures across this South Pacific paradise. 

Top Bucket List Experiences, Must-Do Things & Unmissable Attractions.

Snorkelling the Coral Coast 
Fiji’s Coral Coast is a living aquarium of neon corals and tropical fish stretching along Viti Levu’s southern shoreline. Shallow lagoons, soft coral gardens, and nearby reef walls offer an easy window into Fiji’s underwater world. The colours are astonishing - turquoise water, pink coral, and shimmering schools of butterflyfish beneath a canopy of sunlight.

  • Insider Tip: Head out early morning for calm seas and fewer crowds.
    Timing / Best Time: May to October for clear visibility and gentle currents.

Exploring the Mamanuca Islands 
This dreamy cluster of sun-drenched isles west of Nadi offers postcard-perfect lagoons, luxurious resorts, and authentic village visits. Cruise through crystal waters or stay overnight to enjoy secluded beaches and sunset sails. The islands combine indulgence and tradition, where you can snorkel one moment and share kava with locals the next.

  • Best Way: Take a day cruise or stay on one of the main islands such as Mana or Malolo.
    Good to Know: Ferries depart regularly from Port Denarau - book in advance during high season.

Visiting the Garden of the Sleeping Giant 
Nestled near Nadi, this lush garden is home to more than 2,000 varieties of orchids and tropical plants. Originally started by actor Raymond Burr, it feels like a secret Eden surrounded by mountains and rainforest. Meandering wooden walkways lead past lily ponds and shaded groves alive with bird calls.

  • Insider Tip: Visit early to enjoy the misty calm before the day heats up.
    Timing / Best Time: Year-round, but mornings are most pleasant.

Yasawa Islands Adventure 
Remote, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful, the Yasawa chain offers an untouched side of Fiji. White-sand beaches, dramatic volcanic peaks, and warm-hearted villages make this a paradise for explorers. Swim in the famous Sawa-i-Lau limestone caves or kayak between emerald bays where no roads reach.

  • Best Way: Take the Yasawa Flyer ferry or join a small-boat expedition.
    Good to Know: Pack cash - there are few ATMs once you leave the mainland.

Cultural Discovery in Navala Village 
Navala, in the highlands of Ba, is Fiji’s last fully traditional village, where thatched bures stand in neat rows and customs run deep. Guests are welcomed with a kava ceremony and genuine warmth. Visiting here offers insight into the daily rhythms of Fijian life untouched by modernisation.

  • Insider Tip: Bring a small gift (like kava root) as a token of respect.
    Timing / Best Time: Dry season (May–October) for easier road access.

Hiking to Tavoro Waterfalls, Taveuni 
Located in Bouma National Heritage Park, these cascading falls drop into emerald pools surrounded by thick rainforest. It’s a nature-lover’s dream - lush ferns, rare birds, and the scent of frangipani drifting in the air. The trek combines adventure and serenity in perfect measure.

  • Best Way: Hire a local guide from Bouma village to support community tourism.
    Good to Know: Bring swimwear and reef shoes - the rocks can be slippery

Cloud 9 Floating Bar 
A two-level floating paradise moored over a turquoise reef near the Mamanucas, Cloud 9 is Fiji’s most photogenic bar. Sip cocktails, feast on wood-fired pizza, and dive straight from the deck into luminous blue water. The 360° ocean views make it a daytrip highlight for sunseekers.

  • Insider Tip: Arrive before midday for the best sun and open space on deck.
    Timing / Best Time: Year-round, but best on calm days from June to October.

Unique Experiences

Join a Traditional Kava Ceremony 
Fiji’s social heart lies in its kava rituals, where guests share a communal bowl made from the root of the yaqona plant. The earthy drink brings people together in calm conversation and laughter. It’s a chance to experience genuine hospitality and cultural respect.

  • How to Do It: Most resorts arrange ceremonies; in villages, always wait to be invited and follow the host’s lead.

Participate in a Meke Dance Performance 
Meke combines rhythmic drumming, chanting, and dance to tell ancient legends of warriors and spirits. The energy, colour, and passion are contagious - a vivid link between Fiji’s past and present.

  • Good to Know: Performances are often part of resort evenings or community festivals; modest attire is appreciated when attending.

Take a Fijian Cooking Class 
Learn to prepare classics like kokoda (marinated fish in coconut milk) or lovo (earth oven feast). The experience blends storytelling, spice, and cultural pride, showing how every dish connects to the land and sea.

  • Timing: Available year-round, with lovo preparations especially popular during holidays and celebrations.

Sail on a Traditional Drua Canoe 
Experience Fiji’s seafaring heritage aboard a handcrafted double-hulled canoe gliding across translucent waters. The quiet of the ocean, punctuated only by the sound of waves against wood, is pure magic.

  • How to Do It: Book through heritage operators in Nadi or Savusavu offering cultural sailing excursions.

Stay with a Local Family (Village Homestay) 
Live the Fijian way - sharing meals, joining village events, and learning daily crafts. It’s an immersive, heartwarming exchange that goes far beyond resort life.

  • Good to Know: Book via accredited community tourism networks for responsible stays; always respect customs and dress modestly.

Hidden Gems / Off-The-Beaten Path

Kadavu Island 
Remote and wild, Kadavu remains one of Fiji’s best-kept secrets. It’s ringed by the Great Astrolabe Reef, offering pristine diving and unspoiled rainforest hikes. With few roads and fewer tourists, it’s perfect for travellers seeking raw nature and authentic village culture.

  • Getting There: Short flight from Nadi or Suva, then by boat to your resort.
    Timing: Best between May and October.

Levuka, Ovalau Island 
Fiji’s first capital, Levuka is a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in colonial charm. Wooden storefronts, old churches, and weathered wharves evoke a bygone era. It’s quiet, atmospheric, and historically rich.

  • Good to Know: This is the birthplace of Fiji’s modern identity - a must for history buffs.
    Timing: Visit in the dry season for gentle sea crossings.

Savusavu (Vanua Levu) 
Nicknamed “Fiji’s Hidden Paradise,” this laid-back town offers natural hot springs, boutique resorts, and friendly markets. The surrounding bays and coral reefs make it a haven for sailors and divers.

  • Getting There: 1-hour flight from Nadi or Suva.
    Good to Know: Local hot springs near town are free to visit but extremely hot - observe locals before entering.

Nausori Highlands 
A scenic drive inland from Nadi reveals sweeping mountain vistas, cool air, and traditional villages untouched by mass tourism. The journey rewards you with Fijian hospitality and panoramic views over Viti Levu’s coral-fringed coast.

  • Timing: Clear mornings after sunrise are best for photography.

Beqa Lagoon 
Known for its famous shark dives and coral walls, Beqa Lagoon offers thrilling marine encounters in crystal-clear water. Away from the crowds, it’s also home to the legendary firewalkers of Beqa Island.

  • Good to Know: Diving requires certified operators; check weather forecasts before booking.

Natewa Bay (Vanua Levu) 
The largest bay in the South Pacific, Natewa is teeming with dolphins, colourful corals, and rare birdlife. It’s remote yet rewarding, ideal for eco-travellers.

  • Getting There: Drive or transfer from Savusavu via scenic coastal roads.
    Timing: Calm seas from June to September ensure the best marine sightings.

Unusual / Quirky Experiences

Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park 
These massive coastal dunes form an otherworldly landscape that feels more desert than Pacific. Ancient burial sites and wind-carved ridges make for hauntingly beautiful walks at sunset.

  • Why Go: A rare mix of archaeology and wild coastal scenery.
    Good to Know: Bring water and sun protection - shade is limited

Visit a Floating Cinema at Sea 
Off the Mamanucas, special events occasionally project films under the stars on floating platforms surrounded by ocean. Watching classics with waves lapping below is truly surreal.

  • Why Go: Combines starlit romance with tropical novelty - ideal for couples.

Attend the Bula Festival in Nadi 
This vibrant annual celebration bursts with parades, dance, and Fijian pride. Locals crown a “Miss Bula” and fill the streets with colour and laughter.

  • Good to Know: Usually held in July; expect lively crowds and warm hospitality.

Try Mud Bathing at Sabeto Hot Springs 
Near Nadi, you can slather yourself in mineral-rich mud, let it dry, then rinse off in natural hot pools. It’s messy, relaxing, and surprisingly rejuvenating.

  • Why Go: A playful wellness ritual loved by locals and visitors alike.

Suggested Activities by Region / City

Nadi & Denarau

• Visit the colourful Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple and wander Denarau’s marina cafés.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid cruise crowds.

• Enjoy day cruises to nearby Mamanuca Islands.
Best Way: Book through Port Denarau for flexible island-hopping options.

• Relax at Sabeto Hot Springs and the Garden of the Sleeping Giant.
Good to Know: Combine both for a half-day itinerary.


Suva & Pacific Harbour

• Explore Fiji Museum and Thurston Gardens for deep cultural context.
Insider Tip: Great on rainy days.

• Go river rafting or zip-lining near Pacific Harbour.
Best Way: Join guided tours for safety and equipment.

• Stroll Suva Market for tropical fruits and local crafts.
Good to Know: Markets are liveliest in the morning.


Taveuni & Northern Islands

• Trek the Lavena Coastal Walk for waterfalls and village encounters.
Insider Tip: Bring reef shoes - the route includes stream crossings.

• Dive the Rainbow Reef, one of the world’s top soft coral sites.
Best Way: Book via dive centres in Matei or nearby resorts.

• Visit the International Date Line marker - where “tomorrow meets today.”
Good to Know: A quirky photo stop unique to Taveuni.


Adventure & Outdoor Activities

• Scuba Diving on the Great Astrolabe Reef
Tip: Best between May–October for calm seas and peak marine life.

• Whitewater Rafting the Upper Navua River
Good to Know: Operated year-round, but most dramatic after rains.

• Hiking the Sigatoka Sand Dunes
Tip: Sunrise or sunset offers the best lighting and cooler temperatures.

• Kayaking Around the Yasawas
Good to Know: Guided expeditions include camping and meals - ideal for adventurous travellers.


Cultural & Food Experiences

• Attend a Village Lovo Feast
Tip: Ask your resort to arrange an authentic lovo meal where meat and taro are cooked underground.

• Visit a Local Market (Suva or Nadi)
Good to Know: Bargaining is polite but gentle; Sundays are quieter.

• Join a Handicraft Workshop
Tip: Learn weaving or carving directly from Fijian artisans.

• Try Kokoda and Fijian Curry Tastings
Good to Know: Coastal areas serve the freshest kokoda - perfect with a sea view.