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Destinations > Oceania > Fiji > The Best of Viti Levu - Nadi, Denarau, and the Coral Coast

Nadi | Denarau | Coral Coast

Escape to the enchanting paradise of Fiji, where adults-only resorts in Fiji offer an exclusive and tranquil haven for those seeking a serene getaway. In this guide, we delve into the luxurious world of these secluded retreats, highlighting the unique experiences and amenities they offer. From breathtaking landscapes to rejuvenating spa treatments, our exploration extends beyond the resort walls to uncover the best things to do around Denarau Island. Join us as we unveil the allure of Fiji's adults-only escapes and the endless possibilities that await just beyond the shores of Denarau.

Learn more about this country, and its customs and culture, by reading the short Culture Smart! book today!

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The Best Adults-Only Resorts in Fiji: A Symphony of Luxury and Exclusivity

Fiji, renowned for its paradisiacal landscapes, is home to some of the world's most exquisite adults-only resorts. Experience a harmonious blend of luxury and exclusivity at Tokoriki Island Resort, where overwater bungalows offer unparalleled views of the crystal-clear waters. For an intimate escape, Likuliku Lagoon Resort stands out, featuring traditional Fijian architecture and private plunge pools. The Kokomo Private Island Resort redefines opulence with its spacious villas nestled in lush tropical gardens. These resorts not only provide a serene backdrop but also boast world-class amenities, ensuring an unforgettable adult-only escape in Fiji.

Unique Experiences and Amenities: Elevating the Adults-Only Retreat

Immerse yourself in a world of unmatched experiences and amenities at Fiji's adults-only resorts. These havens of luxury prioritize personalized service, with dedicated staff attending to every need. Indulge in private candlelit dinners on the beach, embark on sunset cruises, or partake in traditional Fijian ceremonies. With exclusive access to premium dining options and extensive wine cellars, guests are treated to a culinary journey that complements the stunning surroundings. Pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments, where the therapeutic sounds of the ocean accompany massages and wellness rituals. From water sports to cultural excursions, these resorts curate bespoke experiences that cater to every desire.

Landscapes and Spa Treatments: A Tapestry of Serenity

Fiji's adults-only resorts are masterfully integrated into the island's breathtaking landscapes. Wake up to the gentle lull of the ocean and panoramic views of azure waters. The landscapes themselves become an integral part of the overall experience, with lush gardens, swaying palm trees, and pristine beaches enveloping these retreats. The spa treatments offered are not merely indulgences but holistic journeys to rejuvenation. Unwind with Fijian-inspired therapies using local ingredients like coconut, pineapple, and papaya. Outdoor treatment bureaus, often perched over the water, allow guests to bask in the soothing sounds of nature while enjoying a range of massages and beauty rituals. These resorts encapsulate the essence of Fiji's natural beauty, creating a serene backdrop for ultimate relaxation and unwinding.

Best things to do around the Adults Only Resorts in Fiji

When you think of an island paradise, Fiji is probably one of the first places that comes to mind. But the Republic of Fiji is not just one island, it’s actually made up of 333 islands! Viti Levu, which means “Great Fiji” in the Fijian language, is the largest of these many islands and home to the capital Suva and the main international airport in Nadi. Most of the country’s people live on Viti Levu, and they are just waiting to make visitors welcome with a big warm “Bula!”.

You could plan out your trip to each area by yourself - to see the sights that you want to see - and then rent a car in Fiji to go and see them. Keep in mind that driving is on the LEFT SIDE in Fiji.

Alternatively, a quick and easy way to cover most, or all, of these places within 5 days is to book the Fiji Viti Levu Island Experience 6D/5N Tour, which handles just about everything for you. The tour is run through Bamba, a reputable tour operator in Fiji, and offered through TourRadar for the best price. They’ll bring you to:

Robinson Crusoe Island to see Fire Dancers
Along the Coral Coast to Sigatoka Town
Through a Rainforest to swim in a Waterfall in Pacific Harbour
A Guided Tour of the Fiji Museum in Suva
Through Rakiraki Cave - a 7-Chamber Cave System
Experience a Village Tour, Kava Ceremony, and Fijian Bilibili Rafting
Enjoying a relaxing dip in the Sabeto Hot Springs

We believe that we have covered most of the best things to do on Viti Levu in this article. After spending a few months here ourselves, we can attest that you really don’t need more than a week to see and experience the best things that Viti Levu has to offer.

After you’ve explored this island, we recommend that you visit the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands of Fiji to get your true Fijian experience!

Nadi Area

Garden of the Sleeping Giant

Nestled at the base of Sleeping Giant Mountain in the foothills of the Nausori Highlands, a 10 minute drive north of Nadi, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant is a peaceful oasis of nature’s beauty. The garden was created to house the late actor Raymond Burr’s collection of tropical orchids and is home to more than 2,000 types of the gorgeous flowers. Even if you’re not obsessed with orchids like Burr was, the flower displays are impressive and the paths through the tropical forest and around the lily pond make this tranquil space a must stop.

It is mostly a canopy-covered boardwalk, but there are a few natural paths that lead to the outlook point on a hill overlooking the Sleeping Giant Mountain itself.

Entrance includes a brochure, a guide (if you ask for one), and a fruit punch drink - with papaya and guava - that you'll receive once you come back out.

*NOTE: This location is separate and about 45 minutes away from the Sleeping Giant Zipline

Sleeping Giant Zipline & Orchid Falls Jungle Safari

For a different view of the rainforest, Sleeping Giant Zipline is an eco-friendly adventure park located 20 minutes from Nadi. With a range of packages and adventures, you can be sure to see and experience a perfect day for your family. The park offers 5 zip-lines - ranging from 80 to 160 meters - that will take you through a tropical forest, flying over rivers and waterfalls.

Take a Jungle Safari walk through the rainforest, with 100 foot trees covered with giant vines, lacey ferns and wild colorful orchids to two jungle waterfalls. “Here coffee trees grow wild along the path with pineapples, bananas, citrus trees and thousands of other exotic tropical plants. Parrots big and small fly in the treetops eating wild fruits alongside colorful butterflies and flowers.” On the way, you’ll stop by the ancient cannibal rock village.

There’s also Orchid Falls, where you can cool off in the tropical pool, and a riverside restaurant onsite that is surrounded by streams, jungle foliage, and a Japanese koi pond that includes other exotic fish as well.

Photo courtesy of Fijiisparadise, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Fiji Culture Village

This is the primary cultural village experience in Nadi. A guided culture village walk is included with your admission. You will see the Fijian Temple, the Chief’s House, and authentic thatched roof houses. Walk through the garden, with tropical flowers and plants, as you listen to the beat of the lali drum.

Additionally, you will learn about how people lived in old Fiji with an introduction to their culture, history, handicrafts - like pottery, carving, and weaving, as well as customs - including a Kava Ceremony, Fijian meal (Lovo, cooked in an underground oven), a Meke Show/Dance, and a Fire Dance.

Great Taste of Fiji

A visit to the islands wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Authentic Fijian Foods & Kava. As you might expect from an island, seafood is a primary ingredient in many of the traditional dishes. Cassava, taro, and sweet potatoes, as well as seasonal produce, are also key features. Fiji’s location on trade routes and its colonial past mean that many other elements have been incorporated to these core ingredients over time. The traditional preparation called lovo, where the ingredients are wrapped in leaves and slow-roasted underground, is similar to the Hawaiian luau and the Māori methods.

Kava is another big tradition in Fiji. Made from the roots of yaqona plants, the beverage is often consumed in a social atmosphere, with lots of conversation. It will make your tongue numb, and has a very relaxing effect. The earthy tasting drink is important in special ceremonies as well as being central to evening socializing.

If you’re looking for Fijian food, head to Tu’s Place in Nadi; Alternatively, you could go to the Nadina Fijian Restaurant in the Port Denarau Marina.

At Tu’s Place we tried the Fijian Lolo Fish, a side of Tavioka (Cassava), and Fijian Kokoda. While in Fiji, you must try the local food at this restaurant! The Lolo Fish was our favorite and reminded us of our favorite Khao Soi from Chiang Mai (Thailand) and our favorite Singapore Laksa - but with a unique and flavorful island twist (the eggplant and local fish definitely helped!)

While the Grace Road Church has caused some controversies for their religious beliefs, there is little doubt that the agricultural and food contributions to Fiji have been huge. Among the restaurants in their group, a visit to Awesome Grill in Nadi and one of the The Grace Road Kitchen’s various locations are both highly recommended. Awesome Grill offers delicious Korean BBQ and other Korean favorites, all using locally and organically grown fresh ingredients. The Grace Road Kitchen has a more limited menu, but also specializes in fresh, delicious Korean food at a very reasonable price.

Other great choices for food in Nadi include: IKKYU Japanese Restaurant (inside the Tanoa International Hotel), Bulaccino Cafe, January Tea Time, Mama’s Pizza (located all over Fiji), Daikoku (a Japanese Style Teppanyaki), and Kushneel's Restaurant (for Indian Food or Fish & Chips).

Check out other amazing dishes and recipes in our Authentic Fijian Food article!

Wailoaloa Beach

Nearby to the Awesome Grill, Wailoaloa Beach can be a great place to walk off your meal. While the dark volcanic sand here can give the appearance of murky water, perhaps not as good as some of the other swimming locations, sunsets over the water are nevertheless spectacular, especially from one of the nearby resorts.

This beach isn't far from the primary tourist choice of Denarau Island, but it's between two separate resort areas that are more affordable than Denarau. It's also a local Fijian favorite beach. Beware of extra friendly Fijian's - they might invite you for free food or request to pose for a photo!

I jumped out of our regular taxi for a few minutes to take some pictures of this beach in Fiji. Suddenly, a lady saw me taking photos and said "Hey, how about of me?" Confused, I said "You want me to take your picture?" And she posed. Then she said "Wait wait, my daughters!" She then called to her daughters from the nearby tent and they all posed for the photo.

Then they invited me for lunch. "Thank you so much for the invite, but my wife is waiting for me in the car!" Fijian's are so friendly! Bula, Fiji!

Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple

At the southern end of Nadi’s main road, the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple is the largest Hindu temple in the Pacific. The Hindu religion is the second largest religion in Fiji with 27.9% of the citizens practicing it. While there had been a temple on the site for a long time the current large temple was constructed in stages from 1976 to 1994 to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The traditional Dravidian architecture, rarely seen outside of India, is a brightly colored tribute honoring several Hindu gods. Remember to be respectful and dress appropriately as this is an active place of worship.

Did you know that 37.6% of the population in Fiji are of Indian decent? This is primarily due to the fact that many Indians were brought to the islands as indentured servants by Fiji's British colonial rulers between 1879 and 1916 to work on Fiji's sugar cane plantations and never left.

Thus, this Temple is important in Fiji. It's also the largest of its kind in the region, and one of the few Hindu temples outside of India that features ancient Dravidian architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the god of seasonal rains.

Fiji Religions: Christianity 64.5%, Hindu 27.9%, Muslim 6.3%, Sikh 0.3%, Other 0.3%, None 0.8%

Tanoa International Hotel

We did visit the Tanoa International Hotel on 4 separate occasions. Not only because of their great live band and ATM (you have to get cash somewhere!), but because of their secret IKKYU Japanese Restaurant - which is always quite busy and delicious.

True, we were also picked up at this hotel to go island hopping once - so we tried a pizza at their main restaurant (also very good!) at the end of that day as well. Overall, we were already happy with our small visits here - and then we caught an amazing sunset here just before having dinner one night. Thanks for letting us swing by your hotel, Tanoa!

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Bula Festival

In nearby Nadi, the Bula Festival is a great way to experience more of Fijian culture. Bula means “welcome” in the local language, and the festival, held every July or August, welcomes visitors with music, dancing, storytelling, and, of course, delicious food. All of these elements showcase the multicultural flavor of Fiji, demonstrating influences from India, China, and Europe, as well as is Melanesian and Polynesian roots. The proceeds from the week-long festival all go to charities, so it’s an opportunity to help out while you experience the rich island culture.

Photo courtesy of Maksym Kozlenko, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sabeto Thermal Springs Mud Pool

Sabeto Thermal Springs Mud Pool, situated amidst the lush landscapes of Fiji, is a captivating natural wonder with a rich history and vibrant cultural significance.

This enchanting mud pool holds roots deeply embedded in Fijian heritage, having been utilized for centuries by the local people for healing and rejuvenation. Known for its geothermal activity, the warm and mineral-rich mud is believed to possess therapeutic properties, promoting healthier skin and soothing various ailments.

Today, this unique site has become an enticing attraction for tourists who seek a blend of wellness and cultural experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the warm mud, allowing its natural minerals to detoxify their bodies, while also enjoying the immersive ambiance of Fijian traditions and hospitality. Sabeto Thermal Springs Mud Pool embodies the fusion of natural wonders and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to rejuvenate body and soul amidst the embrace of Fiji's rich traditions.

Denarau Island Area

Located on the western side of Viti Levu and connected to the larger island by a causeway from Nadi, Denarau Island is a resort development that is the epitome of tropical luxury. The Denarau Marina offers visitors access to a wide variety of water activities, as well as shopping, excellent dining options, and the resorts themselves. One of the highlights of the marina is the free Fire Dance demonstration every day from 6:30 to 7:30. In addition to the fire dancing, other traditional Polynesian and Melanesian dances are performed.

Port Denarau Marina

What better way to start off your trip to Fiji than with a fire dance? Here at the Denarau Marina, we saw 5 guys twirling flaming batons at the same time! That’s more than we’ve ever seen on stage at one time before (in Hawaii). It got even more exciting when the 3 ladies joined in with their flaming poi balls (8 fire dancers at once!) - WOW!

Denarau Resorts

As the island is just a few kilometers across, a Denarau Island Resorts Walk is a great way to work off some of that delicious food (or access more, as each resort offers different dining options). The resorts have a range of activities and events just waiting to be explored, as well. For those who don’t want to walk, there’s also a shuttle service that runs continuously between the various resorts all day.

For some gorgeous beach views and photos, make sure you walk over to the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa. This place is perfect for idyllic photos of Fiji! We also tried their “Ultimate Fijian Culture Experience” - which included a Fijian Lovo Buffet, Live Serenaders, Kava Ceremony, Fijian Story Telling, and Meke Performance!

However, one of our favorite places to relax was at the poolside of the Sheraton Denarau Villas resort for sunset… which is so magical that it's hard not to get absorbed into it!

Awesome Adventures Fiji & South Sea Cruises

Since Fiji’s main international airport is in Nadi, it is often a good jumping off point for a tour of the other Fijian islands. There are two main Island Ferries from Nadi – Awesome Adventures Fiji and South Sea Cruises. There are also smaller private ferry services, but they’re much more rustic than the main lines, and can also be quite expensive. You can check times and book tickets online, though remember island time may mean that things move a little slower than you expect.

Big Bula Waterpark

The resort community also offers a fun adventure for the whole family at Big Bula Waterpark, located next to the Westin and Sofitel Resorts. In addition to the slides and pools you’d expect at a waterpark, Big Bula also has the world’s largest inflatable waterpark. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, when the waterslides and inflatables get too exciting, you can cool off in the wave pool.

WHERE TO EAT:

If you’re looking for Fijian food, head to Nadina Fijian Restaurant at the Port Denarau Marina; Alternatively, you could go to Tu’s Place in Nadi. We also recommend the Beach Shack Bar & Grill at the Wyndham Resort for great food and a free fire dance show on Wednesday nights (reservations recommended).

Other great budget options are the Indigo Restaurant for Indian/Asian food, The Hot Bread Kitchen, and even Mama’s Pizza - all located at the Port Denarau Marina.

*We wouldn’t necessarily recommend the “Ultimate Fijian Experience” buffet and dance show at the Sofitel Resort & Spa - primarily because it was a massive outdoor buffet on the beach, in the dark (although under a lighted open tent) with only a few lovo food items and it didn’t include a Fire Dance show. However, it did have a wide selection of Fijian food items - including Kokoda (probably the highlight of the meal). The dance show was a traditional dance and song show that was quite enjoyable, especially considering that it included the traditional “Isa Lei”, the national farewell song.

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*Maui Jetty, Coral Coast - Photo by* *Maksym Kozlenko*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Natadola & the Coral Coast Area

Momi Bay & Momi Battery Historical Park

Just south of Nadi, history buffs will want to make a visit to Momi Battery Historical Park. In 2017 the National Trust of Fiji restored the battery of 8 cement gun shelters, complete with their original guns, that were put in during the Second World War to defend Viti Levu and the Navula passage. Fiji’s strategic location in the trade routes put the island in danger during wartime. A visitor center was also installed to provide information on the history of the site and its role in the Pacific theatre.

*Natadola Beach, photo by* *Maksym Kozlenko*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Natadola Beach at Sanasana

Moving further south along the west coast of the island, a stop at Natadola Beach is an absolute must. Gorgeous blue waters make this white-sand beach a popular destination for snorkeling and swimming. If you’re looking for more than a lazy day on the beach, horseback riding, scuba adventures, and deep-sea fishing trips can be arranged through the resort on the beach.

Nahehe Cannibal Cave

Starting at Raravou Village, you’ll participate in a traditional Kava Ceremony and then take a 15 minute walk to a traditional bamboo raft that will ferry you across the river to the “Nahehe” caves. These caves were once part of a fortress for one of the last cannibal tribes in Fiji, complete with a ritual platform and cannibal oven! It is an easy access cave environment with plenty of fresh air and no bats - that was once ruled by a pagan priest. Apart from the creepy history, you will see amazing natural features including sparkling stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and underground springs. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a light lunch in the village and participate in village entertainment. www.coastalinlandtours.com

Off-Road Cave Safari

Transfer from your hotel to start your adventure in Sigatoka Town, where restrooms and a store are available.

Head off to board your Off-Road vehicles & Life Jackets
Head inland along a dirt road
Learn history about Fiji’s last Tribal War
Arrive at Fiji’s largest cave system - “Naihehe Cave”
Present kava to the priest to gain access to the cave and learn how it was used
Walk through shallow cave water through the cave
Pass by “pregnancy gap” - a 6 ft tighter crevice
Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch after exploring the caves
Head back to the river on your Off-Road vehicles
Cross the river on a “Bilibili” - a large wooden raft
Option to swim in the river
offroadfiji.com

Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park

If the natural beauty of the beach is your thing, a visit to Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park takes this to the extreme. The nature reserve on the southwest corner of the island features towering sand dunes at the mouth of the Sigatoka River. Though the park is quite small as national parks go, the massive dunes are thousands of years old and offer visitors a fascinating look into the archeological past as well as their natural wonder. There are two trails to explore, each giving a different perspective on the dunes.

Sigatoka River Safari

After a visit to the dunes, head upriver and take a Sigatoka River Safari to experience another facet of the natural wonders of the island. The adventure takes you on a cruise up the river where you’ll get a closer look at the natural beauty of the island’s jungles, rivers, and highlands. The safari also makes stops in some of the local villages so you can interact more closely with Fijian daily life.

Transfer from your hotel to start your adventure in Sigatoka Town, where restrooms and a store are available.

Head through the Sigatoka Valley
Take the Safari jet boat up the river - passing locals, scenic hills, and lush green vegetation
Enjoy views of the river bed and fish swimming by as you cross over the shallow areas
Arrive at one of 17 different villages
Be greeted warmly in true Bula style and experience the traditional Fijian lifestyle.
Visit the Chiefly house to present an offering of Kava and take part in the Kava Ceremony
Touring the village and meet many of the villagers, including children, at the community hall
Enjoy a traditional Fijian lunch followed by traditional music and dancing.
End with the traditional Fijian farewell song of “Isa Lei”
sigatokariver.com

Sigatoka “Nahigatoka” River Cruise

The River Cruise includes a 45 minute cruise on the Sigatoka River, with picturesque mountain backdrops, a visit to the Sigatoka District School to meet children from nearby villages, and join the village tour of Sigatoka Village - where you get to see coconut husking, scraping and cooking, the village hall Kava Ceremony, pottery making, mat weaving, and Fijian Tapa (‘masi’) making. A traditional Fijian lunch is provided at a village home. They will also sing you the traditional Fijian farewell song. www.coastalinlandtours.com

Sigatoka Valley Tour

Begin with a 25 minute drive to the Sigatoka Valley where you’ll be able to take pictures of the magnificent “Salad Bowl of Fiji” - where fruit and vegetable crops are grown. Learn about how Fijian farming has changed over the years before visiting the Sigatoka District School for a bit of fun! Next you’ll go on a guided tour of Sigatoka Village to observe a traditional fire cooking demonstration and watch as traditional handicrafts are made. Finish up with a traditional lunch and the Fijian farewell song and entertainment. www.coastalinlandtours.com

Kula WILD Adventure Park

Round out the Viti Levu portion of your trip with a day at Kula WILD Adventure Park. This eco-park offers incredible access to nature while helping to preserve the diverse natural heritage of the island. Nature walks and educational programing are offered alongside a family fun park, as well as a roller-coaster zip rail and a jungle waterslide. Various tours and packages are available so you can customize your day to include everything you want to see and do.

Biausevu Waterfall Tour

Begin at the Biausevu Village Hall for the required Kava Ceremony, followed by short visit to a preschool to learn how children are taught in Fiji, and then go on a guided 25 minute village and forest tour - pointing out plants that provide medication for the villagers - to arrive at “Biausevu” waterfall. Here you’ll get to enjoy therapeutic waters and relax with the tranquility of the atmosphere while enjoying a light lunch. www.coastalinlandtours.com

Tavuni Hill Fort

The Tavuni Hill Fort in Fiji was built by the ancient Fijians. This fort serves as a testament to their incredible engineering skills and defensive strategies. With its strategic location atop a hill, it provided protection from potential invaders. The fort's massive stone walls, intricate pathways, and intriguing artifacts offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. As you explore Tavuni Hill Fort you will be transported back in time, experiencing the daily life of the ancient Fijians. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the historical and cultural importance this site holds for the local community and Fiji as a whole.

Zip Fiji

Nestled along Fiji’s breathtaking Coral Coast, Zip Fiji offers an exhilarating adventure in the heart of paradise. This one-of-a-kind attraction takes visitors on an adrenaline-pumping zip line journey through the lush tropical rainforest, offering panoramic views of pristine turquoise waters and swaying palm trees. With a variety of zip line courses available, thrill-seekers can soar through the treetops, suspended high above ground, feeling the rush of the wind against their skin. An experienced team of guides ensures the safety of each participant, while also providing fascinating insights into the surrounding flora and fauna. Zip Fiji promises an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience, combining the best of nature, adventure, and the unparalleled beauty of Fiji.

Coral Coast Heritage Tour

The Coral Coast Heritage Tour in Fiji offers visitors a fascinating journey through the rich cultural and historical heritage of this picturesque region. Embarking on this immersive experience, travelers are transported back in time as they explore ancient villages, interact with friendly locals, and witness traditional ceremonies and rituals. Along the pristine coastline, visitors have the opportunity to admire the vibrant coral reefs, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and learn about the vital significance of these ecosystems to the local Fijian way of life. From tasting mouthwatering Fijian cuisine to visiting historic temples and meeting talented artisans, every step on the Coral Coast Heritage Tour in Fiji is an opportunity to deepen one's understanding of the captivating traditions and heritage of this tropical paradise.

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Best Things to See on Fiji’s Main Island

Though it’s just a small island, Viti Levu will offer you so much to see and do that when it’s time to leave, you will already be planning your next Fiji trip. The welcoming people and the natural beauty will have you wanting to return again and again to this island paradise.

FAQ’s

How much does it cost to stay at the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island¹ or the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort²?

The cost of staying at these resorts depends on the type of room, the season, and the availability. According to some online sources, the average nightly rate for the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island is around FJD 471³, while the average nightly rate for the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort is around FJD 611⁴. However, these rates may vary and are subject to change. It is advisable to check the official websites of the resorts or contact them directly for the most accurate and updated information.

What are some of the best local dishes to try in Fiji and where can I find them?

Fiji has a rich and diverse culinary culture, influenced by its indigenous and immigrant populations. Some of the best local dishes to try in Fiji are:

- Kokoda: A raw fish dish marinated in lime or lemon juice and coconut cream, with onions, tomatoes, and chillies. It is usually served cold as an appetizer or a light lunch. Kokoda is widely available in Fiji, and can be found in many restaurants and resorts, such as Nadina Authentic Fijian Restaurant⁵ in Port Denarau.

- Fish Suruwa: A fish curry cooked with coconut milk, onions, tomatoes, chillies, and various spices. It is served with rice or roti flatbread, and often garnished with fresh coriander. Fish Suruwa is a popular dish in Fiji, especially among the Indo-Fijian community. It can be enjoyed in many places, such as Indigo Indian Asian Restaurant & Bar in Denarau Island.

- Rourou: A dish made from taro leaves cooked or stewed in coconut milk. It is served like a soup, often as a side to a fish or chicken main, or mixed with other ingredients. Rourou is a staple food in Fiji, and can be found in most local markets and eateries. It can also be sampled in some resorts, such as Solis Restaurant & Suka Bar in Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa.

How can I get to the Mamanuca Islands from Nadi or Denarau and what are the best activities to do there?

The Mamanuca Islands are a group of islands located off the west coast of Viti Levu, Fiji's main island. They are easily accessible from Nadi or Denarau by air or by sea. There are several options to get to the Mamanuca Islands, such as:

- By air: You can take a helicopter or a seaplane from Nadi International Airport or Denarau Marina to your chosen island resort. The flight time is usually around 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the destination. This is the fastest and most scenic way to get to the Mamanuca Islands, but also the most expensive.

- By sea: You can take a ferry or a water taxi from Port Denarau to your chosen island resort. The journey time is usually around 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the destination. This is the most common and affordable way to get to the Mamanuca Islands, but also the most dependent on the weather and the tide.

The Mamanuca Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with a range of activities to suit every taste and budget. Some of the best activities to do in the Mamanuca Islands are:

- Scuba diving and snorkelling: The Mamanuca Islands are home to some of the most stunning coral reefs and marine life in Fiji, with over 30 dive sites to explore. You can see colourful fish, turtles, sharks, rays, and more. There are many dive operators and resorts that offer diving and snorkelling trips and courses for all levels of experience.

- Surfing: The Mamanuca Islands are famous for their world-class surf breaks, such as Cloudbreak, Restaurants, and Wilkes. These waves are suitable for experienced surfers, as they can be challenging and powerful. There are also some beginner-friendly spots, such as Namotu Lefts and Swimming Pools. You can join a surf charter or a surf resort to access these breaks, or rent a board and a boat from some of the island resorts.

- Island-hopping: The Mamanuca Islands are ideal for island-hopping, as they are close to each other and offer different attractions and experiences. You can take a day cruise or a hop-on hop-off ferry to visit some of the islands, such as Malolo, Mana, Castaway, and Treasure. You can enjoy the beaches, the villages, the culture, and the activities on each island, or just relax and soak up the sun.

(1) The Complete Travel Guide to the Mamanuca Islands ⛱️ [2024]. https://fijipocketguide.com/the-complete-guide-to-the-mamanuca-islands/.

(2) Mamanuca Islands - The Official Travel Site of the Fiji Islands. https://www.fiji.travel/places-to-go/mamanuca-islands.

(3) The Travel Guide to the Mamanuca Islands on a Budget. https://fijipocketguide.com/guide-to-mamanuca-islands-on-a-budget/.

(4) The Mamanucas and Yasawa Islands Travel Guide - Rough Guides. https://www.roughguides.com/fiji/mamanucas-yasawa-islands/.

(5) The Travel Guide to the Mamanuca Islands for Families. https://fijipocketguide.com/the-guide-to-the-mamanuca-island-for-families/.

Learn more about this country, and its customs and culture, by reading the short Culture Smart! book today!

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