Curator’s statement
Fiji, a breathtaking dreamy South Pacific island nation made up of over 300 islands, is famous for its volcanic islands and incredibly friendly people complete with a rich culture. The stunning islands offer dramatic peaks, lush tropical landscapes, crystal clear turquoise water with hard-to-beat vibrant coral reefs alongside pristine white sand beaches. When you’ve landed in Fiji, you are struck by the warmth from the Fijian people who spread their Bula Spirit. With so much to offer, there is no better way to see Fiji than to island-hop by staying on one or multiple islands and including a cruise in your trip.
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Where to stay in Fiji
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Things to do in Fiji
Clear turquoise waters off the islands excellent for snorkeling
Fiji provides a plethora of opportunities that simply cannot be missed! Some of the best activities include:
Diving and snorkeling: The crystal clear water combined with the incredibly vibrant coral reefs and excellent marine life, make this a not-to-be-missed spot for this activity.
Water sports: Continuing with the water theme, if you love being on the water, don't miss an opportunity to kayak, paddleboard, or take up surf lessons.
Beach clubs: Fiji has two wonderful beach club spots offering a unique chance to see more of Fiji and depart from your island. Malamala offers a more traditional Beach Club atmosphere, while Cloud 9 is a floating platform with music, dancing, and in the middle of the ocean.
Visit a filming location: Visit Monuriki Island to see where the famous 'Cast Away' film took place with Tom Hanks. If you're a 'Blue Lagoon' film lover or just love Brooke Shields, you can go to Turtle Island, where they provide experiences with the actual film setting.
Cultural connections: A trip to Fiji is not complete without experiencing the highly unique and strong culture of the Fijian community. Don't miss out on a village visit, a traditional Kava ceremony, and checking out the local markets.
Hiking: Fiji has incredible hiking opportunities where you can see some gorgeous waterfalls or find a hidden gem. Each island offers a unique opportunity to explore, so don't miss out.
Boat day tours: If you love snorkeling and want to experience numerous reefs, consider renting a catamaran or boat for the day.
Deep sea fishing: If you've been dying to try deep-sea fishing or you're an experienced fisherman, you don't want to miss the fishing of your dreams! With abundant marine life year-round, Fiji offers prestigious year-round game fishing.
Sunset cruise: If you're a sunset chaser, want a little romance during your visit, or just enjoy being on a boat at sunset, you can't miss catching the unbelievable sunset views that Fiji offers on the water with the islands in the backdrop.
Places to eat & drink in Fiji
The cuisine of Fiji is unique and if you're anything like me (a foodie!), is one of the best parts of the trip. Here are five dishes you have to try.
Kokoda: Raw marinated fish in a lime and coconut milk mixture.
Lovo: aka Earth Oven Feast, is a method of cooking whereby items are wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked in a pit in the ground covered in hot coals.
Palusami: Taro leaves wrapped in parcels filled with coconut and vegetables that taste like stew.
Fish Suruwa: Incredible fish curry with spices and coconut milk.
Sea grapes: aka Nama, is a crunchy bead-like seaweed. It tastes similar to caviar.
Need to know
Fiji has much to offer you, so I highly recommend opting for the Ultimate Fiji Experience with island hopping to at least two or more islands with an additional multi-day cruise.
Fiji is made up of two main sets of islands, the Mamanuca Islands and the Yasawa Islands, and additional islands around the main island of Viti Levu, each with vastly different experiences.
The Mamanuca Islands are suited well for those who want accessibility, with gorgeous beachfront resorts allowing for easy access to water sports and day trips to other islands, beach clubs and more. If you prefer a lively and social atmosphere mixed with convenience and a range of activities to do while on the islands, this is a great location for you.
Alternatively, the Yasawa Islands offer a remote experience with pristine waters and beaches and are favored by those looking for tranquil and secluded luxury experiences. The Yasawas provide the best location for an intimate, authentic cultural experience with an untouched landscape that provides a deep connection to the natural beauty of Fiji.
Wanting a varied and diverse trip in Fiji? Why not have a dynamic and diverse experience of visiting both sets of islands on your trip? If you want to see other areas outside of these sets of islands that most travelers visit, consider my resort recommendations of Kokomo Island or Royal Davuni.
Each resort I recommend presents a distinctly different approach to luxury and exploration, ensuring your stay in Fiji is tailored to your preferences, whether you’re desiring tranquil serenity, cultural immersion, or high adventure. Selecting the right resort is key to crafting the ideal experience you’re envisioning, and I can help make that vision come to life.
Cruise options
To top off your dynamic Fijian visit, I highly encourage ending (or starting) your trip with a multi-day cruise through the islands, allowing you to maximize on your trip and experience fully what is Fijian paradise.
Why a cruise? Embarking on a multi-day cruise allows you to have a diverse, culturally rich, and immersive experience to fully understand a country’s culture and beauty. When you opt for adding a cruise to your trip, you have the convenience of not having to move to one more resort while being able to see remote islands few see, experience more, make new friends and uncover the real Fiji you may have otherwise missed.
If you love cruising and want to see as much of paradise as possible, consider some of the many wonderful options for cruising from, to or through Fiji below.
A few I recommend and can secure for you that depart from Fiji that can take you onward to other nearby islands like the Society Islands/ French Polynesia.
Paul Gauguin Cruises: If you want culturally immersive and small boats
Ponant: French-style luxury cruises with unique vessels
Windstar: A casual yachting experience
Silversea Cruise Line: High-end luxury cruising
Blue Lagoon Cruises: Provides the only opportunity to strictly cruise throughout much of the Fiji islands
I can evaluate the cruise's pace—whether it offers a leisurely exploration of fewer islands or a broader itinerary covering multiple destinations, and make the best recommendation for you. Choosing the right cruise depends on your preferences for adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion, budget, duration, etc. and I will create the ideal cruising experience you’re seeking.
In essence, Fiji is a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, unique cultural traditions, and welcoming hospitality, making it an enticing luxury and idyllic destination.
If this is the type of Fiji you are hoping to experience, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Not your type of trip you’re envisioning and want something different? Let me help make that happen for you.
Travel Advisor
Lauren Anderson
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Fiji page.