With its beautiful islands, rich cultural heritage and friendly Fijian hospitality, it’s easy to see why Fiji is one of the top holiday destinations for Aussies. There’s over 300 islands in the Fijian archipelago, which means there’s so much to see and do when you’re there. From secret waterfalls to scenic sand dunes, we’ve tracked down some of the best spots in this incredible island nation. Don’t miss these attractions on your next trip!
It’s worth venturing beyond your beachside resort to learn more about Fiji’s diverse culture and traditions, it’s part of what makes Fiji such a special place to visit. Here’s a few must-see cultural attractions to get you started…
If you want to find out more about Fiji’s cultural heritage, the Fiji Museum is a good first stop. It’s located in Fiji’s capital, Suva. Browse the museum’s extensive collection to learn about Fiji’s past from the prehistoric right through to the present day. It’s a great way to enrich your understanding of Fiji’s indigenous people and traditions. Admission costs $5FJD per adult.
FYI: If you need to pay with a card for any attraction admission fees, you can load up our Currency Pass with AUD and use it just like you would a regular bank card. Just make sure you select to pay in local currency.
Around three hours from Nadi, you’ll find the picturesque village of Navala – it’s the last traditional Fijian village on Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji. Navala is famous for its thatched bures – they’re huts made with either split-bamboo or reed walls and a thatched roof. You’ll be invited to attend a kava ceremony on arrival and, if you’re there during the week, you can make a stop at the local school. It’s worth joining an organised tour because they’ll take care of the transport to this remote village and ensure you follow the right cultural protocols throughout your visit. Day tours from Nadi start at around $200FJD, with an entrance fee of $40FJD typically paid directly on arrival at Navala.
Quick tip – it would be wise to bring this entrance fee in cash as Fiji is largely cash-based. ATM access can be scarce outside major centres, so get some Fiji Dollars (FJD) in advance. For more Fiji money tips, check out our comprehensive guide.
No trip to Fiji is complete without experiencing its incredible coral reefs and marine life up close. There’s plenty you can spot with a simple snorkel, but if you’re a keen diver then you are in for a treat. There are countless dive sites scattered around the islands, but here’s a few to try…
Fiji is known as the soft coral capital of the world and the waters off Rakiraki are a prime place to see it. The Rakiraki district is located in the far north of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. From there, a short boat ride will take you to a wonderland of colourful coral. Don’t miss the ‘Dreammaker’ site, which features walls of golden coral, and ‘Neptune’s Wedding Chapel’, a shallower dive that’s ideal for beginners. Private dive companies can arrange an itinerary tailored to your interests.
History enthusiasts will be fascinated by this dive, where you’ll get to see the remnants of a crashed American bomber plane from World War Two surrounded by schools of tropical fish. It’s easily accessible from the nearby Beachcomber Island or the popular resort haven, Malolo Island, in the Mamanuca group of islands. You can get to Malolo Island via seaplane, water taxi or fast catamaran. To reach the dive site, arrange a dive tour through your resort or use one of the private dive companies operating in the area.
If you’re looking for adventure, Fiji won’t disappoint. There are plenty of breathtaking natural landmarks and off-grid destinations to discover. Here are some to seek out…
The journey to get here isn’t easy, but it’s worth the trek to see Fiji’s highest waterfall, Savulelele. You can find this natural gem in northern Viti Levu – it’s accessed via a steep hike from the small village of Nabalasere. Savulelele is nestled in a jungle paradise, amidst lush greenery and towering rock faces. Eagle-eyed adventurers might even spot a rare ganivatu – AKA, the Fiji Peregrine Falcon – nesting at the waterfall. Fun currency fact: the ganivatu appears on Fiji’s $2 coin.
We’d recommend getting a guide for your visit to Savulelele, so you follow the correct cultural customs when passing through the village of Nabalasere. If you’re staying on in the area, adventure-lovers can also hike up Mount Tomanivi, an extinct volcano and the highest mountain in Fiji.
On the popular Coral Coast of Viti Levu lies the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, just 10 minutes’ drive from Sigatoka town. Once you’ve entered the national park, explore the dunes and take a stroll along the stunning coastline. The dunes are a key historical site – over the years ancient artifacts like stone pottery and tools have been discovered in the sand and are still being uncovered today. Keen bird watchers will also enjoy seeing the vast array of bird species that call the area home. You’ll need to pay a fee of $10FJD per adult at the visitor information centre to enter the park.
From its ancient settlement by the Austronesian peoples through to colonial rule and eventual independence, Fiji has a fascinating past. History buffs won’t want to miss these significant sites…
Perched above Momi Bay, you’ll find one of the gun batteries built to protect Fiji during World War 2. You can discover more about the site’s history at the visitor information centre and take a stroll around the park to see the original guns, command post and armory room. You’ll also be able to spy the Mamanuca Islands in the distance. Momi Battery Historical Park is open 7 days and entry costs $10FJD per adult.
The historical port town of Levuka is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was Fiji’s first capital. It was established by Europeans as a trading post in the early 1800s and grew to be a key port in the region. Wandering through this town and past its weatherboard shopfronts will give you a glimpse into Fiji’s colonial history. Levuka is located on the island of Ovalau. You can fly to Ovalau from Fiji’s capital, Suva, or take a bus/ferry service if small planes aren’t your thing.
Beyond the bustling tourist hotspots, Fiji has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Here’s some secluded natural wonders where you can go off-grid (… just don’t tell everyone about them!)
With its incredible vistas, rare native birds and easy access to one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, the remote island of Kadavu is a nature-lovers paradise. If you’re keen to discover Fiji’s spectacular marine life, the Great Astrolabe Reef can be found just off the coast and is also one of the best places to swim with manta rays. On land, there are rainforests to explore and hikes aplenty. Kadavu is a 50-minute flight from Nadi, but feels like it’s a world away from anywhere.
A true off-the-beaten path destination, the Bouma National Heritage Park is a must-visit for adventurers. It’s found on Taveuni Island, known as Fiji’s ‘garden island’ – a 90-minute flight from Nadi. Once there, you won’t want to miss the three Tavoro Waterfalls, a highlight of the park. You can also take a guided hike to Lake Tagimaucia to spot the national flower of Fiji, the Tagimaucia. This beautiful flower is featured on Fiji’s $50 bank note.
Wondering how to pay for all these incredible adventures while you’re in Fiji? Here’s some insider tips from our team.
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