One of the main draws of a Fiji vacation is the stunning South Pacific. The islands’ pristine coral reefs offer some of the best diving in the world. Must-see dive sites in Fiji include Rainbow Reef off the coast of Tavueni Island; the Great White Wall facing the mainland of Fiji, Viti Levu; and the Great Astrolabe Reef on the northeast side of Kadavu. The Scuba Bula Dive Center offers 22 different types of dives, giving vacationers the opportunity to explore the lush marine life and crystal clear waters of the South Pacific in a variety of different ways. Those seeking an even more unusual diving experience will find what they’re looking for at the Aqua-Trek Shark Encounter, a unique adrenaline-pumping diving opportunity that brings divers up close to eight species of sharks and nearly 300 species of fish (nature’s death-defying dive experience is tempered by the comforting accompaniment of certified shark experts).
The islands also offer ample opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, boating, kayaking, and surfing. Visitors can take one of the famous day cruises from Nadi (where Fiji’s international airport is located), such as the Beachcomber Day Cruise and the Castaway Island Cruise, and experience many of these water activities in one go. time. The Lomgali Resort or the Takalana Resort even offer guests the opportunity to swim in the sea alongside the dolphins! Whitewater rafting down the majestic 60-kilometre Navua River in eastern Viti Levu is another option for a water-soaked adventure; This full-day excursion takes rafters through impressive canyons and majestic waterfalls.
Both the Mamuanca Islands and the Yasawas Islands, two closely grouped sets of islands, are popular destinations for those wishing to go island hopping, another popular activity among travelers in Fiji. Visitors can do this officially by signing up for a day trip or they can explore the islands on their own by looking for private boats that shuttle passengers from island to island.
The Fiji Islands, like most South Pacific islands, were formed from volcanic activity and although these volcanoes stopped erupting thousands of years ago, they have dotted the Fijian landscape with high, rugged mountains that are perfect for mountain biking and hiking. Visitors can rent mountain bikes and all necessary equipment from Stinger Bicycles in Nadi, Viti Levu. The Colo-I-Suva Forest Park in the capital city of Suva is a must-see for bird watchers and those who want to experience hiking trails in a subtropical rainforest.
For those less inclined to outdoor adventure activities, Suva also offers plenty of landmarks and places to visit, as well as a vibrant nightlife. A walk through the Suva Municipal Market is crucial for flea market fans and a tour of the government buildings designed after traditional Fijian huts is a must for architecture buffs. And what vacation to Fiji would be complete without a bit of bingeing on the islands’ delicious local food? Fiji’s multi-ethnic cuisine tickles and confuses the taste buds with its unique fusion of Polynesian, Chinese, Indian and European influences. In Suva, visitors can try Tiko’s Floating Restaurant for great seafood, or Old Mill Cottage (a beautiful 19th-century house converted into a restaurant) for hearty home cooking, or Maya Dhaba for delicious Indian food.