COMPLETE GUIDE: Where to Stay in Fiji

Oh, Fiji… what’s not to love about this paradise in the South Pacific? Pristine waters, white sandy beaches, and a huge ocean that contains more than four percent of the world’s coral reefs and 1500 different species of marine life. I would like to move here for a few months! 

There are 333 Fiji islands in total, and 223 are uninhabited! That’s a lot of free space; no wonder people are buying islands and turning them into private resorts. With more than 4,000 square miles of coral reef, including the Great Astrolabe Reef, it’s also no wonder that Fiji is a top destination choice for many diving enthusiasts!

I know it’s hard to decide where to stay in Fiji, especially if you look at all the pictures, but don’t worry, I’ve come up with a list of the best islands here, including all the amazing resorts and hotels, and some good restaurants! 

I’ve looked through hundreds of hotel lists to find you the absolute best one for each price range, and I only recommend the best-rated hotels that I would choose for myself! Make sure you book everything that I’m recommending in advance, this is a famous destination so everything sells out super quickly!

So, let’s go, the island of Viti Levu and all the others are waiting for us!

If you are in a hurry

Here’s a short list of the best hotels on Yasawa Island, to help you decide quickly

Here’s a map that will help you see all the islands that I will be talking about in this post

1. Yasawa Islands – where to stay in Fiji for the first time

Pristine beaches, blue water, and sunsets will convince you to stay here forever! Or at least longer than the time you had in mind! The archipelago, made of 20 outer islands, is located northwest of Nadi on Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji. This region is an actual paradise, especially for those of you who love nature and for all the water sports enthusiasts! 

If you’re traveling here for the first time then the Yasawa Islands look exactly how you picture Fiji in your mind! Small sandy islands with the most amazing blue water, palm trees, and the perfect place for ultimate relaxation.There are tons of hop on hop off boats that run daily from Nadi through the Mamanuca Islands, which I will talk about later, and up to the Yasawa islands so it is super easy to island-hop if you want to explore other beautiful places.

I’m sure you won’t be surprised to hear that many Hollywood movies were filmed in Fiji. The famous Blue Lagoon movie was filmed right on the Yasawa Islands! 

You’ll definitely want to spend all day on the beautiful beaches, in one of the hammocks with a coconut in your hand. I would probably do the same. If you’re looking for more island fun, check this post on the best things to try in Norfolk Island, Australia.

This region is not popular for its many shops or banks, that’s why it’s the perfect getaway from all day-to-day activities, you’ll love it so much here that you’ll forget to think about any problems! Leave that somewhere far away! Just make sure to book these in advance as the Yasawa Islands are the most popular in the country! 

Other accommodation options in Yasawa Islands

Things to do in Yasawa Islands

• Buy a Bula pass and explore other islands like Turtle Island
• Visit the Nanuya Lailai island where they filmed the Blue Lagoon movie
• See the beautiful coral reef on Drawaka Island
• Go diving in the Tavewa Island
• Admire the beautiful Sawa-i-Lau Cave
• Learn new things about the Fijian culture at the Bukama village
• Experience Kava ceremony on the Yasawa Islands
• Relax on the white sand beach of Yanggeta Island

2. Viti Levu – the main Island

This is the largest and the main island in Fiji which includes the areas of Nadi, Suva, Coral Coast, and Denarau. Here is where you’ll find the capital city and is most likely where you will fly into when you arrive in Fiji

When booking your flights keep in mind that there are two international airports in Viti Levu (Nadi Airport and Suva Airport) which are located on opposite sides of the main island, so make sure you know for sure where you are staying and which airport is the closest to your hotel or resort.

FUN FACT: Local people say that a serpent God used to live in the mountains of Viti Levu and that he would dictate if it was day or night when he would open and close his eyes! 

Since the Island is quite large, I have broken it down into a few main places as each part is very special in its own way. 

2.1 Nadi – close to the airport

Located on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu, you’ll probably fly into Nadi Airport when you come to Fiji. Most people start their Fijian adventure in this friendly city as it’s less than 15 mins drive from the airport and it’s a great area to stay for a night or two before you head off to island hop.

What I love about this place is that it has both the city and beachy vibes plus this place it’s so culturally diverse. You’ll learn a lot of cool stuff here! The Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu temple is a big landmark here, almost every tourist has a picture with it, make sure you get one too! 

Nadi is broken up into two sections. There is the city of Nadi where the temple is as well as the majority of the regular shops, markets, and local people. Between here and the airport you will find Wailoaloa Beach, this is where all the tourists stay and it’s about a 15 minutes bus ride from both the city and the airport in either direction!

The public bus into town here is pretty unique, at one point the bus drives along the beach itself! 

Did you know that nearly 40% of the population of Fiji are Indian descent? If you love their traditional food as much as I do then I recommend coming here and eating the most incredible meals for less than $3! You would experience two totally different cultures in one in Nadi!

From Nadi, you can get a boat to go to Yasawa Islands and Mamanucas. Most hotels/hostels offer free transport from the airport to the hotel, and often they can also organize the boat for you, basically like calling a cab to your front door at home!

Other accommodation options in Nadi

Things to do in Nadi

• Visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu temple
• Admire some exotic flowers at the Sleeping Giant Orchid Gardens
• Go hiking on the Nausori Highlands
• Eat a delicious meal at Taste Fiji on the main island 
• Sunbath on Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi
• Buy fresh fruits at the Nadi Market
• Get cool souvenirs from the Nadi Handicraft Market
• Dine in the authentic Indian restaurants

2.2 Coral Coast & Pacific Harbour – where to stay in Fiji for tranquility

Located on the southern side of the Viti Levu island, between Sigatoka and Suva,  just an hour (or two on Island time) away from Nadi, this is the perfect place to stay in Fiji if all you wanna do is chill out, relax, do some yoga and swim in the beautiful crystal clear sea. If you’re looking for more unique places surrounded by nature check this post about the best hotels in New Zealand!

In order to get here, you’ll have to fly to Nadi International Airport. The atmosphere is very laid back here and that’s no surprise! Have you seen how beautiful the Coral Coast is? Palm trees, coral reefs, and amazing sunsets will make you not want to leave this place ever.

Although there are plenty of hotels to choose from here, they’re all spread out along the coast and Pacific Harbour, often with large grounds and private beaches making this area pretty special. There are a few little towns you can visit if you are looking for a market or some local shops, restaurants and bars, otherwise, the Coral Coast is all about enjoying nature with waterfalls, beaches, and time with the kids if you’re traveling with families. 

The Coral Coast is home to Fiji’s first National Park, so make sure you stop by the Sigatoka Sand dunes for a unique experience. Also, uou’re in Fiji so definitely try and learn a new water sport. Natadola beach is one of the most famous on the island for the numerous cool underwater activities, take a day off from the sightseeing and get yourself a surf lesson.

Other accommodation options in Coral Coast

Things to do in Coral Coast

2.3 Denarau – best place to stay in Fiji for the luxury

Located on the western side of Viti Levu just 3 miles (5 km) away from Nadi sits Denarau Island. Known for its Port Marina and the amazing luxurious yachts, this island is actually made by man from reclaimed mangrove swamps. 

In recent years Denarau has developed from not much to see to a top touristy location due to the fact that you can find deluxe beach resorts that offer you a wide range of amenities for your holiday, like the unique swimming pools and fine dining restaurants. If you want to explore outside of your resort, you can rent a yacht or go and play golf all afternoon. 

Even if the beaches here aren’t like the ones on the other islands, you’re in luck if you stay on Denarau Island because the transportation links are great. You have the Nadi International Airport really close and if you want to go on the other islands in Fiji there are helicopters that go to the nearby islands daily, as well as the many boats and ferries that leave for Mamanuca Islands and Yasawa Islands from the Port. 

Here are the best places to stay in Denarau:

Other accommodation options in Denarau

Things to do in Denarau

3. Mamanuca Islands – where to stay in Fiji on budget

A beautiful group of twenty volcanic islands that are situated off the west coast of Viti Levu, the Mamanucas are one of the best places to stay as they’re really close to Nadi International Airport, and they’re famous for their diverse activities and beautiful pristine beaches. Plus, many tourists who travel on a budget choose to come here as they are very similar to the Yasawa Islands but they have more affordable hotels and accommodation options!

If you want to know how to get around the islands then remember that the Mamanucas are split in two parts. In the northern part, you’ll find a group of flat small islands and in the southern part, you’ll find the more tropical part of the Mamanucas. 

I know you’ve been wondering if the famous movie with Tom Hanks, “Castaway” was filmed in Fiji, and yes they chose the uninhibited Monuriki island to shoot this amazing movie and you can visit it! Let’s hope that’s the last time someone can’t find their way around this place! They also filmed some of the survivor seasons on the Mamanuca Islands so get ready for some epic landscapes.

This tropical paradise is wonderful if you want to try all the cool Fijian activities on your holiday, like hiking, surfing, swimming with sharks, kayaking, scuba diving, and many others. Make sure that you visit the famous dive site, The Big W, where apparently people saw a bronze whale shark! Wow! 

Also, you can go to Gotham City, and no, you won’t find Batman but there is a big number of batfishes here, that’s why they gave it this name. Have you ever dreamt of swimming with tonnes of sharks? Well if you come to “The Supermarket” on Mana Island you’ll find that!

Other accommodation options in Mamanuca Islands

Things to do in Mamanuca Islands

• Go scuba diving on Tokoriki island
• Take the boat to visit the Cloud 9 pontoon in the middle of the ocean 
• Try diving at The Big W
• Swim with sharks at “The Supermarket” near Mana Island 
• Go Scuba Diving in “Gotham City”
• Explore the island where they filmed the “Castaway”
• Relax on the pristine tropical beaches of this pacific paradise 

4. Taveuni – best place to stay in Fiji for scuba diving

This picture-perfect island is one of the best places to stay in the Fiji islands during your trip if you want to scuba dive in some of the most popular sites in the world. The best way to get into Taveuni Island is to fly from the main island of Viti Levu. You will arrive at Matei airport in Taveuni in one hour, more or less, depending on which airport you fly from. 

If you’re wondering where to stay in Fiji so you won’t come across a lot of tourists, the Taveuni Island is the best choice for you! There are only a handful of hotels and although there are plenty of tours and attractions to see all the unique sights in nature, this place it’s not completely tourist focussed like the Yasawa Islands. That means you’ll get to experience a bit more of the authentic local vibe here!

Also known as the “Garden Island of Fiji” this beautiful paradise will make your holiday unforgettable! Go deep into the jungle and explore the tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and discover all the beautiful plants and trees.  

The Tagimaucia flower has a special story, the word means “to cry in one’s sleep” in Fijian and the legend says that long ago a princess cried all night in her sleep because her father wouldn’t let her marry the love of her life! Her tears were transformed into red flowers which bear her name now! 

On Taveuni Island, you’ll find the most amazing diving locations! The Great White Wall is one of them and everyone in the South Pacific comes here to wonder at a reef of white coral and the Rainbow reef.  The spectacular Tavoro Waterfalls should also be on your list, as well as the Bouma National Heritage Park, a protected jungle where nature lovers will feel in their habitat, with tons of different species of birds and unique pools. 

Other accommodation options in Taveuni, Fiji

Things to do in Taveuni, Fiji

5. Vanua Levu – where to stay in Fiji for the local experience

I know it can be hard to believe that this archipelago in the South Pacific has any islands that haven’t been transformed into top tourist locations with many luxury resorts at every corner. I’m sure some of you would love to experience the authentic atmosphere of the islands Fiji. That is why I recommend staying on Vanua Levu island! 

One of the best-kept secret locations in the Pacific this place wasn’t touched by mass commercialization like the island of Viti Levu or the other ones.

Although there aren’t high-class bars and restaurants on every street, you’ll love the atmosphere here. Known for its sugar and copra plantations, if you want to explore Vanua Levu you’ll find tons of hidden villages, mountain trails, and fantastic waterfalls! You’re still in Fiji so expect to see some unique beaches and reefs but for those of you who prefer rainforests, fear not, you’ll find tons here to visit and admire. 

Vanua Levu is perfect if you’re wondering where to stay in Fiji in order to get authentic vibes. Discover the rural side of the spectacular South Pacific islands and enjoy some good old beach time!

Other accommodation options in Vanua Levu, Fiji

Things to do in Vanua Levu, Fiji

• Go diving in the Namena Marine Park
• Visit the beautiful Savusavu harbourside town
• Discover the spectacular Waisali Rainforest Reserve
• Get souvenirs in the shops of Labasa
• Go for a swim in the Nakawaga Waterfall
• Admire the beautiful Fijian hidden gems on a Pearl Farm
• Relax in one of the hot springs in Savusavu
• Visit the Tropical Gardens Fiji with the kids
• Go on a fishing trip or another adventure activity

BONUS: Best 3 beaches in Fiji

I know that most beaches in the Pacific are really special and unique but you know that I love to recommend my readers the best of the best. When it comes to where to stay in Fiji we have already decided what island you should choose for your trip depending on your preferences and what local beaches you can find there. 

However, if you’re still in the mood for some more adventures outside the comfort of your resorts and hotels, come with me, and let’s find the best beaches on the Fiji islands that are definitely worth your time.

While not all of them are located on the islands that I talked about earlier, many of them are accessible as day trips from different locations and I’ll let you know where you have to go in order to have access to them. So let’s find the Fiji best beaches, lagoons, and snorkeling sites!

1.  Blue Lagoon Beach
Located on Nacula Island in the Yasawa Islands, this beach is world-famous for its pristine white sand and crystal clear water. On top of that, you have the tropical side of the area which looks so beautiful in contrast with the colors of the water and sand. You can get to Nacula by seaplane or you can take the Bulla Boat to get here.

Take your camera for this one, and spend your days relaxing on this remote beach. Sunbathe, or maybe get in the water and do some snorkeling! I’m sure you’ll see all the colorful cute fishes as it’s super clear. This is a lovely place, especially nice for couples or for those of you who want some peace and quiet. If you love this beach that much that you can actually stay at the Blue Lagoon Resort.

2. Natadola Beach
Located on Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji, you can get here by flying into Nadi Airport, which is the closest one to the beach just one hour away.This corner of paradise was included in the top 100 best beaches in the world by CNN Travel.

It’s not hard to see why you have to come here during your trip! You can spend all day on the beach either admiring the beautiful lush tropical side of it or maybe venture into the Pacific water and swim until the sunset! This spot is also great for snorkeling, as it has some of the most amazing coral reefs so add it to your bucket list! If you stay as close to the beach as possible then book your place at the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort.

3. Castaway Island Beach
Located in the Mamanuca Islands, south of the Yasawa Islands, Castaway Fiji is accessible by boat from Denarau Marina or from Nadi Airport by Heli or seaplane. This is one of the best beaches for swimming in the archipelago. Another famous movie location, they filmed Survivor on Castaway Island! If you decide to stay here for a few nights then I recommend the Castaway Island Resort!

There are tons of underwater activities to try here like diving, snorkeling, kayaking, or windsurfing. Or you can chill on the beach with a glass of champagne in your hand! Castaway Island is also known a little as a party island, this is what I call the “good life”!

Frequently asked questions about Fiji

Conclusion

Wow! That was quite an adventure! I can’t wait for you to hit all the bars and restaurants here, not to mention all the cool pictures you’ll take at the amazing resorts and hotels! I hope this article will help you decide where to stay in Fiji. Whether you choose the main island of Viti Levu or you decide that the Yasawas are better suited, I’m sure you’ll have a great time no matter what.

I know I’ve given you so many hotels and resorts to choose from but here are my top two favorites, both located on the Yasawa Islands. Just make sure you book in advance so you won’t miss the good deals 

Well, that’s it from me! You’re probably already booking your place on some remote island on the Coast (and if not then you should because these places sell fast)! I wish you the most amazing holiday, go sightseeing, take day trips and hit all the bars! You’ll probably think about moving to Fiji more than once!

Do leave a comment if you have any questions or suggestions for our fellow travelers!

Safe travels, 

Victoria