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Where to Stay in Fiji – and Why

Planning an upcoming vacation? Likely one of the first questions you need to answer is, “where do I want to go?” This year, many travelers immediately answer, “Fiji!” – and with good reason. However, deciding on Fiji as a destination isn’t the end of your research and decision-making process. You need to determine where to stay in Fiji.

Where Do People Go in Fiji?

Fiji is an archipelago located in the South Pacific. This makes it an ideal vacation spot for relaxation, water activities, and jungle exploration. But there are over 330 different islands in Fiji, and no two are exactly the same. However, most also remain entirely unpopulated.

There are 106 Fijian islands that have permanent populations. This fact suggests a wide range of options for travelers in Fiji, and it’s true that Fiji offers travelers a diversity of locations and end-destinations. However, a vast number of the Fijian islands are still without accommodation or tourism amenities. Many people choose to visit these smaller, undeveloped islands on day trips or excursions, but few people choose, or are even permitted, to stay overnight in more remote locations.

In fact, the majority of visitors to Fiji find themselves booked into a resort or big hotel in one of three different locations –Viti Levu, the Yasawa Islands just north of Viti Levu, or the nearby Mamanuca Islands. While all three of these Fijian destinations are fantastic, travelers with a keener sense of adventure or need for solitude will consider other islands.

A Look at Fiji’s Most Popular Destinations

Your first stop in Fiji, even if it’s only a layover, will be Nadi International Airport. Currently, Nadi is the sole gateway to the island nation, but a steep increase in domestic flights throughout Fiji finally allows travelers to reach other islands with ease. Yet, Nadi’s location on Viti Levu ensures Fiji’s biggest island is the most popular for tourism. And Viti Levu has several places of interest.

The Coral Coast of Viti Levu is one of Fiji’s star attractions, but better known for its big resorts than privacy. There are long stretches of white sand, and this was where tourism was founded and flourished in Fiji. It remains extremely popular, perhaps the most visited place in Fiji, and offers a wide range of accommodation. Everyone from backpackers to families flocks to the beautiful Coral Coast.

You can nearly see the Mamanuca Islands from Nadi International Airport, which is part of their appeal to tourists in Fiji. It’s a short boat ride over to this beautiful collection of islands that offers both opportunities for snorkeling in shallow reefs and some of Fiji’s better surf breaks. However, proximity to the airport also leads to a rise in visitors across the Mamanucas, particularly during high season.

If you are looking for something slightly more natural and serene, then the Yasawas are a good bet. These islands were fully protected by the government until the 1950’s, and continued ecological protections keeps the number of accommodation options low. The guesthouses, hotels, and hostels that have appeared in the Yasawa Islands are surprisingly inexpensive, with many places targeting backpackers and a younger crowd. Due to the demographic, certain parts of the Yasawas have a party-vibe during the mid and high season.

Finding Quieter Sands in Fiji

If you are wondering where to stay in Fiji, it’s worth considering islands and locations outside these three major destinations. With 333 islands, Fiji is an island destination that can offer space, peace, quiet, and serenity – and visitors who seek these qualities are certain to find the perfect vacation spot.

Naturally, the team at Raiwasa highly recommends Fiji’s third-largest island, Taveuni. The dense and protected jungle provides plenty of privacy between the different private resorts and hotels scattered on the island. As well, the pure dearth of visitors ensures those who did venture here are rewarded with deserted beaches, tranquil snorkel spots, and untouched dive sites. Plus, there are plenty of direct flights and domestic island transfers in Fiji to get you to Taveuni hassle free.

Another benefit of Taveuni, over Fiji’s more condensed spots, is the ability to find experiential, luxurious accommodation. Raiwasa Private Resort provides high-end travelers with a dream destination that is a far cry from the big, crowded hotels found on Viti Levu.

Have the time and desire to venture even farther from Fiji’s tourism hub? The Lau Islands are located in the farthest east part of Fiji – nearly halfway to Tonga – and relatively unvisited by tourists. Here, visitors catch the best glimpse of Fijian culture and traditions, there aren’t any restaurants or solid infrastructure. For the adventurous souls that do travel to the Lau Islands, it’s usually part of an extended boat trip around Fiji or for a few days before or after a stay on another island.

Questions About Fiji?

The entire staff at Raiwasa Private Resort is passionate about travel and tourism in Fiji. We are extremely proud to be part of a location that welcomes visitors from all over the world and is known for some of the world’s best destinations. And we can’t wait for you to experience our home in Fiji!

If you want to learn more about our gorgeous property or a stay in Fiji, visit our website at https://fijiluxuryvacations.com/.