Best Places in Fiji: Island Guide

When is the last time you tasted the salt on your lips after a dip in the ocean…  Drifted off to sleep, watching the clouds roll by a cotton candy sky…  Or sipped cocktails and had an amazing outdoor star-lit private dinner… These are just a few of the amazing experiences you will find on a trip to Fiji.  In Fiji, you can’t help but find your happy place!

The best part!  Fiji will be reopening its borders to vaccinated North American travelers on the 1st of December 2021, and I know I am counting down the days until I can catch sunsets in Fiji again.

With so many beautiful islands to choose from, the best places in Fiji to visit depend on what you wish to see and do! Want picture-perfect white sand beaches? Head to the Yasawas. Looking for the best scuba diving? You’ll want to go up north.

Our island guide will help you determine the best places in Fiji for you!

“The Mainland:” Viti Levu

Snorkeling in Vita Levu - Intercontinental Fiji - Fiji Islands - Fiji Island Resorts
Snorkeling off of Viti Levu. Image: InterContinental Fiji 

  • The biggest island in Fiji, including tourist regions of Denarau Island, the Coral Coast, and Pacific Harbour
  • Head here for resorts that are easy to access from the main airport Nadi, with lots of nearby activities and more action
  • Great for short stays in Fiji or for multi-generational groups looking for options that will please everyone
  • Don’t go here if you want to minimize the risk of cyclones between November and March
  • Don’t go here if you’re visiting Fiji to “get away from it all”

Where to Stay in Viti Levu:

  • InterContinental Fiji
  • Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
  • Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort
  • Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa
  • The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa

The Mamanucas

Blue Water of the Mamanucas - Likuliku Resort - Fiji Islands - Fiji Island Resorts
Enjoy the vibrant blue waters of the Mamanucas. Image: Likuliku Resort

  • An island chain off the West Coast of Viti Levu
  • Pronounced “Mama-nooth-ahs” (C’s are pronounced with a “th” sound in Fiji)
  • Get the private island resort experience while still enjoying easy access from Nadi airport (30-minute to 2-hour boat transfers)
  • Head here for better beaches than Viti Levu and more boutique, authentic resorts
  • Great for island hopping, snorkeling, and paddle boarding
  • Don’t go here if you’re seeking “the real Fiji” or the most exclusive resorts

Where to Stay in the Mamanucas:

The Yasawas

Beautiful beaches on Yasawa Island Resort
Discover some of the world’s most beautiful beaches in the Yasawas! Image: Yasawa Island Resort

  • An island chain north of the Mamanucas, to the northwest of Viti Levu
  • Head here for the best beaches in Fiji, with few tourists around
  • Plenty of romantic resorts that are perfect for honeymoons
  • Head here to minimize the risk of rain
  • Don’t go here if you’re seeking rainforest, tons of activities, or a feel for “the real Fiji”

Where to Stay in the Yasawas:

  • Yasawa Island Resort
  • Navutu Stars Resort Yasawa Islands

The North

Forested spa at Laucala - Laucala Resort - Fiji Islands - Fiji Island Resorts
The spectacularly forested spa at Laucala. Image: Laucala Island Resort

  • Includes the islands of Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Matangi, Laucala, and plenty more
  • Home to some of our favorite luxury resorts located on exclusive private islands
  • Great for those who want to spend at least 4 nights exploring Fiji
  • Head here for the lushest rainforest, island hikes, best scuba diving, and the most authentic Fiji cultural experiences
  • The northern islands have regular flight connections from Nadi, but be aware that some of the flights are on small aircraft with as few as 12 seats
  • Don’t go here if you’re looking for the best beaches

Where to Stay in the North:

Reach out to us directly about travel requirements and protocols.  Browse our Fiji travel packages, or call us at 888-229-0082 to find the best places in Fiji for your handcrafted getaway!