Region
South Pacific · Fiji
Best time to go
The drier season runs roughly from May through October, with sunny days and lower humidity. The wetter season, from about November through April, is hotter and more humid, and includes cyclone season.
Getting there
Nonstop flights from some West Coast gateways into Nadi; connections from elsewhere, plus boats and small planes to the outer islands.
Trips that include Fiji
Why go to Fiji
Fiji is a country of more than three hundred islands, and most trips start at Nadi on the main island of Viti Levu before heading out by boat or small plane. Expect warm water, healthy reefs, a friendly welcome of bula, and a pace that slows down the moment you arrive.
Things to do in Fiji
Where to stay in Fiji
DenarauConvenient, resort-style, close to airportDenarau is a man-made resort island joined to Viti Levu by a short bridge, a quick drive from Nadi airport. It has a marina, golf, and a long row of large resorts. It suits first nights, short stays, and travelers who want easy boat access to the outer islands.
Mamanuca IslandsCalm lagoons, small islandsThe Mamanucas are a cluster of small islands close to Nadi, reached by ferry, water taxi, or seaplane. Water is calm and clear, and many stays sit right on the sand. They are a good fit for a classic island stay without a long transfer.Yasawa IslandsRemote, quiet, long beachesThe Yasawas stretch north of the Mamanucas in a chain of volcanic islands with long white beaches and very clear water. Transfers take longer and services are simpler, which is part of the appeal. They suit travelers who want quiet days and do not need much nightlife.
Coral CoastRelaxed shore, villages nearbyThe Coral Coast runs along the southern shore of Viti Levu, about an hour or more from Nadi by road. A fringing reef shelters the water, and villages, the Sigatoka dunes, and Natadola Beach are all close. It suits families and travelers who want mainland convenience with a beach.
Pacific HarbourAdventure base, river and reefPacific Harbour sits on the south coast of Viti Levu, between the Coral Coast and Suva. It is known as an adventure hub, close to the Beqa Lagoon dive sites and rafting on the Navua River. It suits divers and active travelers more than pure beach lovers.TaveuniLush, green, dive-focusedTaveuni is a large, rainforest-covered island in the north, reached by a short domestic flight. It is home to Bouma National Heritage Park and sits near the Rainbow Reef. It suits divers, hikers, and travelers who want a quieter, greener side of Fiji.When to go
Dry season
May to October
- Weather
- Sunny days, lower humidity, cooler evenings, and less rain on the western side of the islands.
- Crowds
- Busiest stretch of the year, especially during Australian and New Zealand school holidays.
- Value
- Highest rates, so book early for popular island stays.
Wet season
November to April
- Weather
- Hotter and more humid, with heavy tropical showers, often in the afternoon. This is also cyclone season.
- Crowds
- Fewer visitors outside the December and January holidays.
- Value
- Usually the best value, with more flexible availability.
Holiday peak
Mid-December to late January
- Weather
- Hot and humid, with rain likely on some days.
- Crowds
- Busy with families from Australia and New Zealand.
- Value
- Rates rise again over the holidays, so book well ahead.
The wet season from about November through April, outside the Christmas and January holidays, is usually the best value. The dry months from May to October, and especially Australian and New Zealand school holiday periods, usually cost the most.
Check tour datesGetting there and around
Getting there
- Most international flights land at Nadi International Airport (NAN) on Viti Levu; Nausori International Airport (SUV) near Suva handles some regional flights.
- There is nonstop service from the US West Coast, mainly from Los Angeles, usually as an overnight flight. From other US cities, you usually connect through the West Coast.
- US citizens need a valid passport, and visitor rules for short stays are generally simple, but check current entry rules before booking.
- From Nadi, transfers continue by car to Denarau or the Coral Coast, by high-speed catamaran or water taxi from Port Denarau to the islands, or by seaplane and small plane.
Getting around
- On Viti Levu, taxis are easy to find in Nadi and Denarau; agree on the fare or check that the meter is running before you set off.
- A rental car works for exploring the main island, but driving is on the left and rural roads can be slow and unlit at night.
- Daily catamaran ferries from Port Denarau serve the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands, stopping at resorts along the way.
- Domestic flights connect Nadi with Taveuni, Savusavu, and other outer islands, and seaplanes offer fast, scenic transfers.
Eat and drink
Day trips from Fiji
Sample itineraries
5 days: Nadi and the Mamanucas
- Day 1Arrive at Nadi, transfer to Denarau, and rest off the overnight flight with a swim and an early dinner.
- Day 2Spend the morning at the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and the Sabeto mud pools, then visit Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple in Nadi.
- Day 3Take the morning catamaran from Port Denarau to a Mamanuca island and settle in for snorkeling on the house reef.
- Day 4Join a boat trip to snorkel nearby reefs and sandbars, then watch the sunset from the beach.
- Day 5Enjoy a final morning swim, then return to Nadi by boat for your flight home.
7 days: Coral Coast and the Yasawas
- Day 1Arrive at Nadi and drive to the Coral Coast, stopping at Natadola Beach on the way.
- Day 2Walk the trails at Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park in the morning, then relax on the reef-sheltered beach.
- Day 3Join a guided village visit with a kava ceremony, and stay for a lovo feast in the evening.
- Day 4Return to Port Denarau and take the catamaran north to the Yasawa Islands.
- Day 5Snorkel and kayak from your island, and walk to a nearby village or lookout.
- Day 6Take a boat trip to the Sawa-i-Lau Caves for a swim in the limestone pool.
- Day 7Ride the ferry back to Port Denarau and transfer to Nadi airport for your flight.
Good to know
- The currency is the Fijian dollar. Cards work at most resorts and larger shops, but carry cash for markets, villages, taxis, and small islands.
- Tipping is not traditionally expected. Many resorts have a staff fund box, which is a good way to thank everyone at once.
- When visiting a village, cover your shoulders and knees, take off your hat, and do not touch anyone's head. A sulu, or wrap skirt, works for both men and women.
- The sun is strong year round. Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a rash guard while snorkeling, and drink plenty of water.
- Leave buffer time for island transfers. Boats and small planes can be delayed by weather, so avoid booking your outer-island return on the same day as a tight international flight.
- If you travel between November and April, choose flexible bookings and travel insurance, since cyclones can disrupt plans.
Questions people ask
What is the best month to visit Fiji?
May through October is drier and less humid, which suits most travelers. June to August is the most popular stretch, so book early.
How many days do I need in Fiji?
Plan at least five nights so the long flight is worth it. A week or more lets you combine the main island with one or two outer islands.
Is Fiji good for families?
Yes. Many resorts welcome children and run kids' clubs, and calm lagoons in the Mamanucas and on the Coral Coast suit young swimmers.
Do I need a car in Fiji?
Not for an island resort stay, since boats and transfers cover the trip. A car helps only if you want to explore Viti Levu on your own.
Is Fiji safe for visitors?
Fiji is generally considered a friendly and safe place to visit. Use normal care with valuables, especially in towns and after dark.
What currency does Fiji use?
The Fijian dollar. ATMs are found in Nadi, Denarau, and Suva, but they are rare or absent on smaller islands.
Make a day of it
Tours and activities in Fiji
Tour or activity
Cruisin’ Fiji: Monuriki, Mana Sand Bar & Snorkelling Day Cruise
4.9 / 5 · 2,703 reviews · 8 hours
From $139.77View experience →
Tour or activity
Malamala Beach Club - Full Day
4.6 / 5 · 773 reviews · 8 hours
From $112.69View experience →
Tour or activity
Best of Nadi Highlights
4.7 / 5 · 627 reviews · 6.5 hours
From $80.11View experience →
Tour or activity
Largest Zipline in South Pacific & Cave Exploration in Nadi
4.9 / 5 · 503 reviews · 5 hours
From $121.08View experience →
Tour or activity
River Tubing Fiji, Navua River
4.9 / 5 · 923 reviews · 5.5 hours
From $93.82View experience →
Prices supplied by Viator. Check dates and final prices before booking. We may earn a commission.