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Header image courtesy of Rosslyn Sinclair
Bula! Welcome to Fiji, a nation composed of 333 islands in the South Pacific ocean, so there's an island for everyone. In this guide, we will highlight the main attractions on five of them—Viti Levu, Mamanuca Islands, Vanua Levu, Taveuni Island, and Yasawa Islands.
Viti Levu is Fiji’s main island, and by far the biggest. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, then this is the island for you! It offers a little bit of everything in terms of activities, but it is best known as a surfer's haven. The main island itself offers three sweet spots for surfers to catch a wave, suitable for new and professional surfers. Starting in the North, Wilkes Passage is an accessible area just off the coast of Nadi. The best time to go is during a southwest to west swell direction, so definitely check the winds before heading out.
For any beginners out there hoping to surf in some of the world’s clearest waters, then Natadola Bay, southwest of Viti Levu, is the break for you! As a simple beachfront break, this bay is awesome for beginners to paddle out and start getting the feel for things. If you’re tired and need a break, just let the waves push you back to the shore where you can prop yourself up on the beach and absorb some sunshine before heading back out again.
For those who want to surf with the locals, make your way over to the east side of the island where Suva Reef lighthouse is located. Waves are rare, but at the right time, they can reach six feet, perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers. It is also very accessible—just a 5-minute boat ride from the Royal Suva yacht club. It is a great way to mingle with the locals and find out more about their other secret spots!
Just west of Viti Levu are the Mamanuca Islands, and the best way to see this group is by cruising through the crystal clear ocean. With many islands to cover, the multi-day cruise is the best way to maximise your opportunities of exploring new islands, hiking new peaks, walking across white beaches, and snorkelling in vibrant coral reefs. These cruise packages are suitable for all travel groups, whether it be couples, families, or friends. Captain Cook Cruises offer a variety of cruise tours that cover the entire stretch of the Mamanuca Islands.
For a less commercial experience, head inland into Vanua Levu, the second largest Fijian island, yet also one of the most overlooked. With a history of being an exporter of coconut oil, back when the Europeans were exploring these unknown islands, take a walk down memory lane by taking part in the coconut plantation tours. Savusavu is a booming town on the island that is gradually getting embellished with bars and restaurants due to their growing expat community. Vanua Levu’s most notable feature is its proximity to the stunning Rainbow Reef—one of mother nature’s best dive sites, perfect for advanced or open water scuba divers. Just off the north shore of this island is the Great Sea Reef, the world’s third-largest coral reef system—a dreamland for any free divers, snorkelers, and scuba divers.
Just east of Vanua Levu are the Taveuni islands, jam-packed with numerous adventures for families. This area is known for amazing deep-sea catches for those into semi-professional fishing. You can also hire some kayaks with built-in fishing rods and take part in some kayak fishing! Snorkelling and coral reef gardening are also unique opportunities offered in the Taveuni islands. You can plant a young coral within the developing reef at Makaira resort, where things can get a little sentimental. Hopefully, you can return in the future to check up on how your reef is doing.
The Yasawa Islands, northwest of Fiji, are an ideal getaway for lovebirds looking to escape the real world and luxuriate in some exclusivity. These islands offer adults-only resorts, just a 25-minute flight away from Nadi airport. Yasawa Island Resort and Spa Fiji is a luxury resort with 11 private white beaches for guests. The resort is all-inclusive, so you wouldn't need to worry about anything while you’re there. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy your time with your partner.
For a more exclusive yet eco-friendly experience with nature, Turtle Island resort only hosts 14 couples at a time, and provides every pair with the opportunity to indulge in turtle tagging. You’ll also get to travel around the island on solar-powered electric carts—super environmentally friendly. While you’re there, definitely check out the Blue Lagoon, which is rated as one of the top 50 beaches in the world, offering remote, sheer untouched beauty.
This pacific land is definitely worth a visit so grab your friends, family, or loved ones and book a flight! There are direct flights from Hong Kong to Fiji on Fiji Airways, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines. For those unfamiliar with Fiji Airways, don’t you worry because their service and hospitality is excellent—your Fijian experience will begin at take off!.
Rosslyn is currently working on her undergraduate degree in Montreal—however, her interests run far beyond the classroom. She craves hands-on learning through new experiences in different countries and cultures. Raised in Hong Kong, she’s had the privilege to travel to numerous Asia-Pacific regions within arm’s reach. Therefore, with any spare time available, Rosslyn is up for new adventures, whether it be action-packed or simply lounging by the beach soaking up some rays.
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