Discover More in Fiji
Challenge Fiji. Demand more than pristine beaches and high-class resorts. Search for more than a “tropical paradise” and sun-drenched lazy days. Look for outdoor adventures of the Class IV variety or in the murky waters where eels hide. Put these islands to the test and find out they’re ready for it. Explore a range of off-beach activities that will get your blood flowing—rest assured, the beach will be there when you return.
Hop on a Boat
If you love ocean views but aren’t quite ready to get your feet wet, consider boating. Enjoy an adventurous deep-sea fishing charter out of Nadi or a more relaxed day-long island-exploring excursion on a 15-meter sailing yacht. Numerous options await you.
Some resorts, like the Nanuku Auberge Resort in Pacific Harbor, offer sailing lessons on entry-level vessels like the Hobie Cat, a small catamaran that ideal for beginners to maneuver between port and starboard while learning to adjust the sails and steer.
Deep-Sea Diving Adventures
Ready to dive in? The turquoise waters surrounding Fiji beckon, and for many vacationers, these waters are the primary reason to visit Fiji. The simplest way to experience this underwater wonder is by snorkeling, which reveals some of the best coral reefs in the Pacific.
The Cakaulevu Reef (also known as the Fiji Barrier Reef), off the northern coast of Fiji’s Vanua Levu, is recognized as the third-longest continuous coral reef in the world, stretching over 200 km/120 miles. It supports a multitude of aquatic life, including parrotfish and the fascinating sight of local spearfishermen at work.
For those eager to explore further, boats are needed to reach the more distant reefs. Thankfully, there are abundant snorkeling tours available along the coast. For an adrenaline rush, you might try snorkeling with reef sharks in open water, sans cages.
If diving deep is on your agenda, Fiji stands out as a premier scuba diving destination. PADI-certified outfitters are readily available to guide you through the nation’s world-class dive spots, including the Great Astrolabe Reef and sites in the Somosomo Strait.
Conquer the Rapids
Wet and wild adventures await you not only in the ocean but also inland. The Navua River on Viti Levu winds its way from Mount Gordon through gorges and rainforest before reaching the coast. Experience breathtaking whitewater rafting on the Upper Navua, known for its Class IV rapids. The level of excitement varies by season but is thrilling regardless of conditions.
Rivers Fiji is the go-to outfitter for guiding rafters of all skill levels down these exhilarating waters. For those who may not wish to paddle, there are motor-powered jet boat tours up the Navua and Sigatoka River that will keep you entertained.
Hit the Hiking Trails
The Lower Navua River can serve as an entry point to lesser-known hiking trails in the Pacific Harbor/Navua area. It’s wise to hire a local guide who knows the terrain and can reveal hidden swimming holes on hot days. Defined hiking trails can also be found in national parks like Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, Fiji’s first designated natural site.
Two distinctive trails, ranging from one to two hours in duration, lead you to stunning views of the dunes, some nearly 200 feet (60 meters) high. Bouma National Heritage Park on the island of Taveuni is known as Fiji’s “Garden Island” and features several trails that take you through the jungle to magnificent waterfalls.
Koroyanitu National Heritage Park showcases hiking trails around Mount Batilamu (the Sleeping Giant), providing a challenge to those who choose to summit. For a more leisurely option, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a beautiful botanical estate with accessible boardwalks.
Forage for Food
If you’re hiking through the rainforest with a local guide, they may take a moment to forage for wild ferns to share. These leaves, locally known as ota, are an essential component of Fijian cuisine. Local communities often rely on nature’s bounty, hunting for wild boar, though this is not recommended for visitors.
However, Nanuku Auberge Resort offers exciting eel hunting excursions with a local family, where you’ll wade through muddy creeks with nets, waiting for river eels to surface. The resort emphasizes local active experiences and includes various foraging activities, from mangrove crabbing to learning how to husk a coconut.
Visit the Local Market
If foraging isn’t your style, visiting the local market is an excellent alternative. Towns like Nadi and Suva host larger farmers markets, though smaller towns like Navua have them as well. In these vibrant aisles, discover fresh vegetables, including the Fijian staple rourou (taro leaves) and spicy bongo peppers.
One must-try delicacy is Fijian sea grapes. Unlike the sweet Caribbean variety, these resemble tiny green grape clusters and are often referred to as “green caviar.” They deliver a briny flavor reminiscent of the ocean, with a delightful, slightly crunchy texture similar to fish roe.
Additionally, local markets feature kava roots, sourced for the quintessential Fijian beverage. Kava is a bitter, earthy drink known for its numbing and sedative properties, traditionally consumed during tribal ceremonies. Today, it serves as a social drink enjoyed by both locals and visitors, perfect for relaxing evenings by the beach.
