Summary
Travel Information for Visiting These Friendly South Pacific Islands.
Spread across 18,372 square miles of the South Pacific, the Republic of the Fiji Islands consists of 333 islands, of which 110 are inhabited.
Although Fiji’s landscape may not be as jade-green as Tahiti’s, its waters are equally crystal-clear, providing some of the best diving experiences amidst stellar coral formations. Unlike Tahiti, Fiji is more renowned for thatched-roof bures (bungalows) discreetly placed on pristine beaches instead of overwater bungalows (though a few can be found).
If a trip to Fiji is on your calendar, it’s likely a romantic getaway with your significant other. Fiji’s secluded private-island resorts offer idyllic South Pacific hideaways designed for couples. However, families will also find Fiji welcoming, as several resorts cater to parents and children. Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit:
Where Is Fiji?
The islands of Fiji are located in the South Pacific, approximately 11 hours by air from Los Angeles and four hours from Australia. They are categorized into several groups.
The two main islands include Viti Levu, the largest, which hosts Nadi International Airport and Fiji’s capital, Suva. The southeast coast of Viti Levu, known as the Coral Coast, along with Denarau Island near Nadi, is lined with numerous resorts.
Vanua Levu, the second largest island, is situated north of Viti Levu and features several resorts catering to divers, as it is bordered by one of the longest barrier reefs in the world.
The third largest, Taveuni, is referred to as the “Garden Island of Fiji” due to its lush tropical rainforest. Kadavu, the fourth largest island, remains underdeveloped, making it an excellent spot for hiking, bird-watching, and eco-adventures.
The other islands are grouped into clusters. Off the coast of Viti Levu, the Mamanucas comprises 20 volcanic isles surrounded by reefs, scattered with small resorts.
The Yasawas, comprising seven main islands and various small islets, stretch in a northeasterly direction away from Viti Levu. Here, upscale resorts are favored by couples, while budget-friendly options appeal to backpackers. Pristine waters attract divers and yacht enthusiasts.
Further afield, the Lomaiviti group includes seven main islands, one of which is home to The Wakaya Club & Spa, among the most exclusive resorts in Fiji.
When to Go
Fiji is a tropical destination with consistent air and water temperatures at about 80 degrees throughout the year, divided into two primary seasons: summer and winter.
The best time to visit occurs during the clear, dry winter months from May to November. However, even during the more humid summer period from December to March, brief showers often occur in the late afternoon or overnight, alongside plenty of sunshine.
How to Get There
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves as the primary U.S. gateway to Fiji. The nation’s official airline, Air Pacific, operates daily non-stop flights to Nadi International Airport (NAN), along with codeshare connections to/from Vancouver, and nonstop flights from Honolulu three times a week.
Other airlines flying to Fiji include Qantas, Air New Zealand, and V Australia.
How to Get Around
Fiji has numerous islands with resorts; thus, the primary modes of transportation are air (via domestic carriers or private seaplane and helicopter) and sea (via scheduled ferries or private boats). On the main island of Viti Levu, taxis and buses facilitate land links between Nadi International Airport and resorts on Denarau Island and the Coral Coast.
Fiji’s domestic air services include Pacific Sun (a regional carrier of Air Pacific), Pacific Islands Seaplanes, and Island Hoppers Helicopters.
Regularly scheduled ferries or fast catamarans provide service to both the Mamanucas and Yasawas, while some resorts offer private boat transfers. It is advisable to check resort websites for details about air and sea transfers before your stay.
Is Fiji Expensive?
The answer is both yes and no. Larger resorts on Viti Levu, such as the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa or Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa, feature affordable nightly rates starting around $169. However, food prices can be high, since nearly everything aside from seafood, particular vegetables, and tropical fruits must be imported.
Rates for private-island resorts may initially seem high, ranging from $400 to $1,000 per night, yet these are typically all-inclusive, covering meals and some beverages in the total cost. Generally, the most secluded resorts are the priciest, with an additional charge for seaplane or helicopter transfers, which can reach up to $400 per person one-way. More affordable accommodations are available as budget properties targeting backpackers and some divers.
Do I Need a Visa?
No visa is necessary. Citizens from the U.S., Canada, and many other nations need only a valid passport for at least six months post-visit and a ticket for return or onward travel. Entry visas are issued upon arrival for stays less than four months.
Is English Spoken?
Yes, English is the official language of Fiji, and the majority of the population speaks it. Nonetheless, Fijian is highly regarded, and learning a few basic words and phrases is seen as a considerate gesture.
Do They Use U.S. Dollars?
No, Fiji’s currency is the Fijian dollar, abbreviated as FJD. One U.S. dollar is equivalent to a little over two Fijian dollars. Currency exchange is available at resorts, and Nadi International Airport has ATMs in major cities.
What Is the Electric Voltage?
Fiji operates on 220-240 volts, so visitors should bring both an adapter set and a converter; the outlets feature three prongs with two angled bottom prongs (similar to those used in Australia).
What Is the Time Zone?
Fiji is situated on the opposite side of the International Date Line, making it 16 hours ahead of New York and 19 hours ahead of Los Angeles. Travellers lose nearly a full day flying from Los Angeles to Fiji, but regain it on their return journey.
Do I Need Shots?
No vaccinations are mandatory. However, it is advisable to ensure that routine vaccinations such as diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and polio are up to date. Recommendations also include Hepatitis A and B vaccinations, as well as typhoid. Additionally, bringing insect repellent is wise, as Fiji is home to mosquitoes and other insects.
Can I Cruise the Fijian Islands?
Yes, small cruise operators like Blue Lagoon Cruises and Captain Cook Cruises navigate between the islands, while numerous operators offer yacht charters.
