Fabulous Fiji

Fiji offers a tapestry of fabulous experiences beyond its beautiful beaches, says Charlotte Winter, making the archipelago a must-visit destination in its own right.  

For many, Fiji is seen as a natural add-on to a trip Down Under or a Kiwi adventure, and given their proximity, a combination of two or three of these destinations can work. However, during a recent two-week research trip to Fiji, it became clear that there is so much to explore and uncover in this island nation that a standalone trip is well worth considering. 

Situated in the South Pacific, Fiji consists of more than 330 islands, of which 110 are permanently inhabited, each offering their own distinct characteristics and appeal. By choosing just one resort and one island, you are limiting yourself in terms of what the country has to offer – and there really is so much more to Fiji than lazing on beautiful beaches. Fiji is a tapestry of experiences, encompassing rich cultural diversity, lush rainforests, and vibrant communities. Amidst its azure waters lie hidden treasures like vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, offering unparalleled snorkelling and diving adventures. Beyond the coast, verdant landscapes unfold, inviting exploration of cascading waterfalls, rugged mountains and traditional villages steeped in Fijian heritage. The warmth of its people and the rhythm of their traditions provide a glimpse into a world where hospitality is a way of life. 

For almost all guests, the first island you will visit is Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island and home to the city of Nadi, where most international flights arrive and depart, as well as Fiji’s capital city, Suva. For those interested in getting more ‘off the beaten track’ and embarking on adventurous activities, I would highly recommend spending some time on the mainland. Our favourite property on Viti Levu is Nanuku Resort, which is located near Pacific Harbour, also known as the adventure capital of Fiji. Here you can do everything from tubing down the Navua River, mangrove crabbing, embarking on visits to local markets and off-road buggying. Although situated on the coast, you’re not coming here for the beaches – on the mainland, it’s all about adventure and getting under the skin of Fijian culture. 

After spending time on the mainland, I would then recommend heading to one of the islands in the Mamanuca Islands, a cluster of islands known for their pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and luxurious resorts. The islands here are easy to access from the mainland, either by speedboat or helicopter, and provide a lovely contrast to the more rugged and mountainous island of Viti Levu. Whilst in the Mamanuca Islands, where our favourite hotels include Tokoriki Island Resort, Six Senses Fiji and Likuliku, you can expect to enjoy private beach picnics, amazing snorkelling and diving, traditional kava ceremonies, and private dining experiences under the stars. 

Whilst relaxing and unwinding is very much on the cards in the Mamanuca Islands, visitors can also expect to keep busy with lots of unique experiences and day trips, including traditional kava ceremonies, visits to nearby villages and local schools, and delicious Fijian lovo dinners, where the food is cooked in an underground oven. 

For those really wanting to hop their way around Fiji, I would also recommend Yasawa Island Resort, located up in the Yasawa Islands, which is much more rustic and barefoot but arguably offers some of Fiji’s best beaches, with pristine waters and spectacular white sandy beaches. Or for those looking to end on a real high, you can fly either north to COMO Laucala Island in Fiji’s Cakaudrove province or down south to Kokomo Island Resort on Yaukuvelevu Island. 

There is so much variety in Fiji and a tailormade itinerary encompassing different islands is a fantastic way to explore all this sensational destination has to offer.