Top 12 Must-Do Activities in Fiji for Your Dream South Pacific Vacation

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, Fiji is a tropical paradise that attracts adventure and beach lovers alike. Here are some of the best things to do in Fiji.

“Bula Vinakka! Hello, Welcome to Fiji!” You will hear these words everywhere you go in Fiji, as warm and genuine smiles greet you at every turn.

Things to Do in Fiji

With its 332 islands to explore, planning a vacation to Fiji can be overwhelming. Where do you begin? We suggest establishing a base on the main island of Viti Levu at one of its luxury resorts and then planning day trips to some of the more isolated islands by boat.

Fiji is a tropical paradise, a thousand miles from anywhere, filled with waterfalls, rainforests, and white sandy beaches. Here are our recommendations for memorable activities in Fiji.

1. Kava Ceremony

When traveling to Fiji, you must partake in a traditional Kava ceremony. Upon entering any establishment, hotel, or restaurant, locals will exclaim Bula Vinaka and offer Kava to welcome you. Kava is a mild narcotic, which makes your tongue feel slightly numb. However, don’t worry; it won’t hurt you, and you’ll feel very relaxed afterward.

How a Kava Ceremony Works

When visiting any village in Fiji, it is customary to present a gift of Yaqona (Kava root). The root is ground down and strained through cloth into a large wooden bowl.

• The ceremony starts as villagers grind the Kava and pour it into the bowl.
• It is then offered to your chief, typically the oldest man in your group.
• The village’s executive head drinks the Kava.
• Afterward, it is shared with everyone.
• The men drink first, followed by the women.

2. Raft the Upper Navua River

Rafting the Upper Navua River is one of the most picturesque rafting trips available. The rapids are gentle class 3 and 4, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views while still getting your adrenaline pumping with the help of fun guides.

This trip spans 26 km through breathtaking scenery, with waterfalls cascading down deep canyons surrounded by lush jungle. It’s an eco-friendly tour; the local village chiefs permitted Whitewater rafting on their territory. All tours are managed by villagers with local guides.

3. Visit the Oho Caves – Home of the Headhunters

The Oho Caves were home to the Navatua Tribe: the fiercest tribe in Fiji.

Fiji has inspired tales of paradise islands filled with headhunters, such as in the story of Gilligan’s Island. When visiting Fiji, take the opportunity to explore its history through a tour of the Oho Caves.

The Navatua Tribe was the first to abandon headhunting, embracing Christianity instead. This shift transformed the community, and the villagers are eager to share their heritage with visitors, making this an essential activity in Fiji.

4. Go Ziplining

The Pacific Coast is the adventure capital of Fiji, and ziplining is the main attraction. Zip Fiji offers a canopy tour that lasts an afternoon, featuring 8 exhilarating zip lines that soar over the jungle canopy. These lines are not only long but also fast and incredibly fun!

As with most attractions in Fiji, ziplining is eco-friendly. Ropes and harnesses secure the metal platforms to trees rather than nails, ensuring minimal disturbance to the environment.

5. Jet Boat Safari

Jet Boating the Sigatoka River is undoubtedly the wildest experience available. The small craft glides through the river, performing exhilarating 360-degree spins at high speeds amid stunning scenery.

Local guides expertly narrate the rich history and culture of Fijians, recounting tales from their past, including the final cannibalistic incident in 1867 involving the Reverend Baker, which resulted in his gruesome fate after a cultural misunderstanding.

6. Visit a Traditional Fijian Village

Submerge yourself in Fijian culture via a boat ride down the river, far from civilization. Stopping at Tuvu Village, participating in a Kava ceremony with villagers stands out as one of our most cherished experiences in Fiji. The friendly locals make the afternoon delightful with dancing, traditional foods, and music.

This authentic Kava ceremony reflects the customs practiced throughout the island, making it a rich cultural experience.

7. Visit a Traditional Salt Factory

Gathering salt from tidal pools is a labor-intensive process. A visit to a traditional salt factory reveals the hard work involved, as women collect saltwater from wells in tidal pools to be processed for salt.

They carry buckets of saltwater back to a hot, humid hut where it is boiled until evaporation occurs. This method of salt production has been maintained for centuries.

8. Island Hop

Fiji boasts numerous islands waiting to be explored. Having visited Fiji twice, we participated in three day cruises to explore stunning, secluded islands.

The Mamanuca Islands are the most popular destinations, situated just off the coast of Viti Navu. Daily flights depart from Nadi Airport for overnight trips, or one can take a taxi to Port Denarau for boat transfers to the islands. Snorkeling the incredible barrier reefs of Fiji is a must-do here.

9. Swim with Manta Rays

Scuba diving holds high popularity in Fiji, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

• Shark Reef Marine Reserve is renowned for its exceptional shark diving experiences.
• Sososomo Strait is famous for its stunning soft coral.
• The Great Astrolabe Reef showcases magnificent coral formations and wall dives.

During manta ray season (May to October), snorkelers and divers flock to Fiji, particularly to Barefoot Manta Island, the prime location for swimming and diving with these magnificent creatures.

10. Paintball at Sonaisali

A unique adventure awaits at Sonaisali Resort, where you can challenge yourself to a thrilling game of paintball in the jungle. The sweltering heat and humidity bring to mind the challenges faced by soldiers in tropic wars, making it a true test of endurance.

Everything necessary for the game is provided; just dress in durable footwear and bring your sense of adventure!

11. Garden of the Sleeping Giant

If you want an offbeat experience in Fiji, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant offers a lovely destination for nature enthusiasts. This garden, rich with orchids and South Pacific plants, is a botanical delight.

Enjoy a raised canopy stroll along a winding forest trail to discover the original collection of flowers cultivated by Raymond Burr.

12. Spa Day at The Pearl

Indulge in luxury at The Pearl Fiji, an ideal location for couples seeking a retreat. Their couples massage is unparalleled, and the resort’s atmosphere allows for rest and relaxation amidst stunning surroundings.

Where to Stay in Fiji

• The Pearl stands out as our favorite accommodation.
• Sonaisali Resort is another wonderful option we wish we could have spent more time at.
• Outrigger Fiji is family-friendly, though it may not have suited our preferences.

With so many islands to explore, experiencing all that Fiji has to offer could take a lifetime. Yet, with just a few weeks, you can create your dream vacation. We eagerly anticipate our return to hear the warm greeting once more – Bula Vinakka!