Explore Nadi: A 48-Hour Adventure Guide
All sorts of fabulous adventures await almost as soon as you step off the plane in Nadi. Since almost all visitors arrive here via Fiji’s largest airport, why not drop the bags and start your island adventure straight away? Atmospheric local restaurants, easy access to Viti Levu’s key attractions, and a spread of luxury resorts mean there’s an abundance of activities and experiences to fill at least the first two days of a perfect vacation.
Day One
Morning
If you’re staying at one of the large resorts on Denarau Island, melt away your travel fatigue at your hotel: grab breakfast, take a dip in the pool, or head to the spa.
The marina here acts as a springboard to the spectacular Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. These 50-odd islands attract tons of romantics, resort-hoppers, and roving families for their sugar-soft sands, eye-poppingly blue waters, and enchanting escapism. Day-trip to one of the nearby islands such as Malamala Island, Tivua Island, or kid-friendly South Sea Island.
The Cloud 9 floating platform – a 45-minute speedboat transfer from the mainland – is a stylish spot for sunbathing, cocktail sipping, swimming, and taking in views of the magnificent Mamanucas.
Afternoon
Ready for lunch? There are plenty of satisfying options in the nicely compact Nadi Town, including local favorite Tata’s. After enjoying some delicious Indo-Fijian curry, explore the area on foot.
A short walk from Tata’s brings you to the vibrant Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, where you’re in for a sensory experience. This Hindu temple showcases traditional Dravidian architecture. Admire its multi-colored paintwork, ceiling frescoes, and wooden carvings of deities.
Next, head to the handicraft market, where you’ll find everything from traditional kava bowls to bright fabrics, carved wooden boxes, masks, and colorful bags. It’s your best bet for locally produced souvenirs.
Evening
For dinner, head back to Port Denarau and treat yourself to a Fijian sunset looking west over the Mamanucas. Consider dining at Cardo’s Steakhouse, Lulu’s, or Rhum-Ba, all of which offer a meal with a view.
Day Two
Morning
Use this day to explore Viti Levu. Numerous operators offer half-day tours of local attractions, with popular destinations including the Garden of the Sleeping Giant (a lush plantation with over 2000 orchid varieties), Sabeto Hot Springs (an outdoor natural thermal mud spa), and Viseisei village (the country’s oldest settlement).
For thrill-seekers, the Coral Coast is renowned as a hotspot. Surfing and snorkeling are popular, along with the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, Fiji’s first national park, featuring ancient dunes up to 190ft high. Explore the lush interior, join a jetboat ride up the Sigatoka River, or visit Kula WILD Adventure Park for wildlife encounters.
Afternoon
For those who prefer to spend the day in Denarau, consider an afternoon cooking class with Flavours of Fiji. This school offers a three-hour kaiviti magiti (local feast) course, where guests learn to create Fijian and Indian dishes as well as tropical desserts. Children eight years and older are welcome to join.
Evening
Whether you’ve tried your hand at cooking or need some sustenance after a day of adventure, it’s time to enjoy dinner. Eco Café on Queen’s Road does excellent wood-fired pizza, or opt for fresh seafood prepared Fijian-style at Tu’s Place next door.
Finally, if you’re looking for evening entertainment, Ed’s Bar is one of Nadi’s top drinking spots, or visit the beer garden at New Nadi Farmer’s Club, where you may find fire dancing and live music.
