Fiji, an archipelago of more than 300 tropical islands, is famed for its picture perfect palm-lined beaches and coral reefs. It is the perfect destination to escape, relax and discover the stunning surroundings, its people and culture, making Fiji a favourite holiday destination for many. Whether it’s a romantic honeymoon or family holiday, choose from the myriad of activities and all-inclusive package deals at Fiji’s top resorts for the ultimate tropical island getaway.
Thanks to its geographical location in the Pacific, Fiji has a beautifully mild sub-tropical climate all year round. 'Summer' is between the months from November to April, temperatures average 25°C, and afternoon downpours, spectacular sunsets and high humidity the norm. Winter is between May and October and the days are shorter and evenings cooler. Temperatures average 23°C and the rainfall drops by 50% or so, compared with the summer months. It is worth noting that water temperatures don’t fluctuate much throughout the year. There is no particular best time of the year to visit Fiji as it often depends on personal preferences, with school holidays during the winter period regarded as the peak time. If bursts of rain and higher humidity don’t bother you, the summer season generally sees off-season deals on flights and accommodation, although there is a smaller peak-season spike in December and January during the Southern Hemisphere summer break.
Getting around Fiji is via a number of ways. Paved highways encircle the two big islands connecting villages, towns and cities so it’s fairly easy to get around by road with most tour operators arranging airport transfers. If you have time on your hands, buses operate along the Coral Coast to Suva however they can take anywhere between 1- 4 hours! Fiji Link and Northern Air – Fiji’s domestic airlines - fly to most small airports around the country whilst resort ferries and cruises depart daily from Port Denarau to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.
Fiji offers a variety of accommodation styles ranging from family friendly to high-end resorts with the following locations being the most popular choices. Nadi is the main entry point for flights, and a convenient place to stay if you have a late arrival or early departure. If you have some free time, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a tranquil setting with paths and picnic areas and home to over 2,000 types of orchids, plus many native plants.
The Coral Coast, on Viti Levu, stretches along the coastline between Suva and Sigatoka. It was one of the first areas developed for tourism with unspoilt beaches, lush forests and authentic Fijian villages. Beaches offer calm swimming conditions for families with young children and there a variety of cultural and outdoor activities here. There is a range of resorts along the Coral Coast with something to suite all budgets, tastes and needs. It is some 80km from Nadi airport and the drive can take 1-2 hours.
Denarau Island, only 15 minutes from Nadi Airport, is nestled among 850 acres of landscaped tropical gardens, palm trees and sandy beaches. It features 9 world-class resorts, cafes and restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, and shopping centre. It is also a port and marina with regular transfers to island destinations for locals and tourists alike.
The Mamanuca Islands, located to the west of Nadi, are a popular tourist destination, consisting of 20 islands, with some seven covered by the Pacific Ocean at high tide. They have flawless beaches, stunning sunsets, calm, clear lagoons, and reefs ideal for snorkelling and diving. It is a 30-45 minute ferry ride or just a 12-minute flight by seaplane, aeroplane or helicopter from the mainland.
The Yasawa Island group of 20 islands are famous their beautiful white sand beaches and gorgeous weather. A catamaran trip to the Islands takes more than 6 hours from Nadi or perhaps consider a seaplane flight. Popular islands include Mana, Turtle, Castaway and Matamanoa and there is a range of resorts to suite all budgets, tastes and needs.
Click here for our holidays to Fiji or contact the Holidays of Australia & the World team on 1300 854 897.
Image credit: Tourism Fiji - Chris McLennan
