Family-Friendly Fiji: A Guide for Visiting with Kids

For decades, Fiji has been renowned as one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Pacific, making visits with kids an absolute delight. Recently, it has become a favorite spot for multigenerational family holidays, with vacationers of all ages drawn to its aquamarine waters, tropical weather, laid-back culture, and a wide range of soft adventure experiences, such as swimming in waterfalls and snorkeling with sharks.

Ultimately, it is the genuine sincerity and warmth of the Fijian people and their inherent reverence for the importance of family that makes this an unbeatable destination for children.

What Makes Fiji Good for Kids?

Fiji is unparalleled in its family-oriented atmosphere. Almost every resort, hotel, restaurant, and public space is welcoming to families with children, unless designated as an adults-only facility. Many resorts have established award-winning kids’ clubs that feature dedicated spaces, skilled chefs, and engaging programs influenced by the sharing of Fijian culture and the learning about the fragile environment.

However, it’s important to note that infrastructure in Fiji is basic, and public amenities outside of major resorts are very limited. It is advisable to bring enough baby medicine, formula, diapers, and wipes to last throughout your stay. Visitors can comfortably breastfeed, but modest dress, including covered shoulders, is the norm outside of resort areas.

Moreover, the pace of life in Fiji is relaxed, so embracing “island time” is essential. Whether regarding departure and arrival schedules or waiting for restaurant service, expect things to unfold at a slower pace.

With its 300-plus islands scattered over thousands of kilometers of ocean, navigating Fiji requires some planning and patience. Some of the most family-friendly island destinations involve boat transfers that can be lengthy and susceptible to seasickness. For easy transitions from ferry to tender, consider using a carrier and bringing a small stroller for convenient daytime naps around the resort.

Where is Best in Fiji for Kids?

If you’re a first-time visitor, the large island of Viti Levu is the ideal choice, especially for families. Most family-friendly resorts are concentrated in the western region around Nadi. Denarau Island, located just a short 20-minute drive from Nadi International Airport, caters perfectly to families seeking an uncomplicated resort holiday featuring generously-sized pools.

From Port Denarau Marina, guests can access the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island resorts. Further south, you’ll encounter the Coral Coast and stunning interior regions like the Navua River and Sigatoka River. Beyond the main island, consider visiting Vanua Levu, a favorite among sailing families, and Taveuni, known for its lush greenery and breathtaking waterfalls.

Best Activities in Fiji for Babies and Toddlers

Fiji remains a popular spot for parents with babies and toddlers, particularly due to the presence of kids’ clubs and nanny services at top resorts. Most activities celebrate Fijian culture, allowing families to share experiences together.

Denarau Island is ideal for families with babies due to its straightforward accessibility, five-star facilities, and all-inclusive resorts. Young children enjoy taking the thatched Bula Bus around the island and splashing at the Big Bula Waterpark while cultural shows and family-friendly dining options are available at Port Denarau Marina, which also features pharmacies and supermarkets for basic needs.

For those eager to explore the islands but needing to ensure little ones return for an afternoon nap, South Sea Cruises offers a short “Finding Nemo” morning cruise designed for families with infants and toddlers.

Best Activities in Fiji for School-Aged Kids

A family trip to Fiji presents a remarkable opportunity for kids to discover an extraordinary underwater world. In addition to snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sailing, there are numerous chances to learn about marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation. Many family-centric resorts, like Nanuku near Pacific Harbour, allow kids to plant coral and mangroves as part of the kids’ club program. Meanwhile, Kula Wild Adventure Park on the Coral Coast features a ranger-for-a-day program, offering kids encounters with colorful lories, endangered Fijian iguanas, and sea turtles.

Many family-friendly resorts cluster in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island groups, but if you’re staying on the mainland, day trips to the islands can provide a sample of the reef and opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters.

Near Nadi, consider swimming at Orchid Falls as part of the Sleeping Giant Safari tour. For rainy-day activities, a visit to the Vanua Chocolate factory for a tour and tasting experience or exploration of the Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu Temple in Nadi is highly recommended. The island’s lush interior also warrants exploration: Ecotrax offers tours using custom-made e-bikes along old railway tracks through scenic countryside.

Experiencing the traditional lifestyle of Fijian families is essential for visitors of all ages. Day trips through Mick’s Fiji Tours include visits to local villages, meetings with the chief, cultural shows featuring meke dancing, and kava ceremonies. For those wishing to immerse themselves for longer, Yasawa Homestays provides the opportunity to stay in a local home for extended periods, accommodating larger families.

Best Activities in Fiji for Tweens and Teenagers

Fiji is often mistakenly perceived as only a destination for young children; however, there are plenty of engaging activities available for tweens and teenagers.

Head to the Navua River for a variety of river-based adventures. Thrill-seekers can enjoy white-water rafting on the Upper Navua or traditional rafting on a bamboo raft with Rivers Fiji. Alternatively, explore the Sigatoka River through jet boating and village visits with Sigatoka River Safari, or try zip lining in the jungles near Nadi with Zip Fiji.

With its stunning coral reef system, teens can snorkel or, for those feeling adventurous, take an introductory scuba diving course with Subsurface Fiji. For adrenaline-seekers, many resorts offer jet ski rentals or surfing lessons at renowned beaches like Natadola Beach, while more experienced surfers can head to world-class reef breaks such as Cloudbreak.

Planning Tips for Traveling in Fiji with Kids

If you plan to visit a village, ensure that you pack clothes that cover your shoulders and skirts or pants that extend below the knee. Modest dress is required in most villages; hats and sunglasses worn on your head are considered disrespectful to village chiefs.

Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial. Fiji’s tropical climate and humidity can be challenging, particularly for young children. It is also advisable to bring sunscreen, as it can often be costly and hard to find in certain areas.

Fiji has seen significant growth in visitor numbers, so it is prudent to secure bookings for popular tours, such as Ecotrax, well ahead of time to ensure availability.