Unforgettable Things To Do And See In Fiji
When eager travel enthusiasts are looking for a new travel destination in the Oceania region, they often think of traveling to the most popular destinations, such as Australia or New Zealand. That being said, one of the most exciting and majestic places to visit in this region is the vibrant and lush Fiji. There is no place quite like this tropical nation, known for its incredible scenery and jaw-dropping flora and fauna, placed just northeast of New Zealand. The following are the unbelievable top activities and sites travelers should see while enjoying their time in this paradise.
1. The Majestic Mamanuca Islands
Located off the west coast of Viti Levu, the first stop on most travelers journeys through Fiji should be the gorgeous Mamanuca Islands. Home to picture-perfect beaches comprised of white sands and beautiful blue waters, visitors will be hard-pressed to find a place more ideal to spend a day in than here. There are plenty of activities for guests to partake in, the most popular being snorkeling and water sports to take advantage of the beautiful ocean. A variety of accommodations, including lodges or high-end suites, make for an ideal setting including fine Fiji dining, an experience visitors cannot miss. Such an incredible view may seem familiar to some as it is a popular backdrop for movies, such as Castaway. If simply spending the day on a beach is not enough, there is a once in a lifetime opportunity to skydive over the coral reefs.
2. Wondrous Thurston Gardens
Thurston Gardens, located in Suva Fiji, is home to some of the most beautiful flora Fiji has to offer. This family-favorite destination's name came from the fifth governor of Fiji, Sir John Bates Thurston. Commonly found in the botanical gardens are fig trees and indigenous tropical flora that make for a lovely and peaceful stroll great for engaging with both children and parents or between significant others. A beautiful picnic or viewing the grand clock tower makes for a therapeutic stay that allows guests to detox from their daily routine.
3. The Lush Lau Islands
The Lau Islands, which form an archipelago on the eastern end of Fiji, are surely one of the best-kept secrets Fiji has to offer. Lau is one of the less common spots for tourists to visit this region, which makes for an even more unique experience. Unspoiled land creates a stunning picturesque landscape visitors will not want to leave. Rich with culture, the native community here is welcoming and eager to share customs and traditions with visitors to enhance every experience. The primary mode of transportation here is by boat, which makes for a unique opportunity to take advantage of the water, and guests often partake in activities like snorkeling and casual swims.
4. Active In Albert Park
Albert Park makes for another great destination in Fiji, especially those who enjoy partaking in or watching sports. As the community athletics center, it is common for globetrotters to stop and play with local community members in friendly competition. Ideal for families looking to have an active afternoon, the popular sports here are rugby, which is considered the national sport, and cricket. Not only is it fun to participate in games here, but watching club matches is another amazing way to relax and take in some community tradition, a welcoming atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.
5. The Hidden Tavarua
One of the best-kept secrets in Fiji is most definitely Tavarua, a special island located close to Viti Levu. One aspect of this island that makes for such a different experience is the natural heart-shape of the twenty-nine-acre land. The luxurious resort life is perfect for a romantic getaway with a special someone. Although the space on Tavarua is somewhat limited due to the island's smaller size, there is still plenty to do, such as surfing. Just off the coast is Cloudbreak, often regarded as one of the top ten destinations in the world, which is a huge wave attraction drawing tourists eager to test their skills, as well as learn the exciting aquatic sport from some of the best on Earth.
6. Bouma National Heritage Park
Located on Taveuni, the third largest Fiji island, Bouma National Heritage Park takes up a large portion of this land since its establishment in 1990. Popular for hiking through the lush vegetation, there are many trails visitors can get lost in for a day while exploring the truly breathtaking scenery. Here, the park protects much of the land and is owned and operated by three local tribes who ensure preservation is the highest priority. Often, wanderers end up at one of two waterfalls, both of which make for a great photo and a fun time in the generously sized natural pool. Families are encouraged to visit Bouma Park for fun exercise at different difficulties bringing an option for hikers of every level.
7. Fiji Museum For Learning
With plenty of exploring to do in the natural landscape of Fiji, the Fiji Museum makes for a welcome change of pace. An all-encompassing collection of the rich history and culture this wondrous country has to offer makes for an educational and enjoyable day. Located in the capital, Suva, there is an assembly of archaeological artifacts dating back to approximately four thousand years ago that speaks to the well-preserved heritage Fijian citizens foster. Sure, there are plenty of museums in most communities around the world, however, the opportunity to learn about a completely new way of life is a chance many adventure seekers are eager to take advantage of.
8. A Symbolic Ceremony: Vilavilairevo
Vilavilairevo makes for another incredible opportunity for those who find their way to Fiji as it is rooted deep in the native culture. Translating to ‘Fire Ceremony,’ the practice of walking across burning hot stones in a line is a significant practice said to be a gift from the gods. Originally starting as a traditional ceremony on Beqa, this practice has branched out to many other portions of Fiji as a travel attraction drawing thousands to the shores annually to test their courage and strength in the face of adversity. Historically, firewalkers are supposedly required to avoid eating coconuts and a couple of other foods to perform the walk properly without burns. Seemingly, many individuals make it through the walk unharmed, which is why this has become such a popular event.
9. Garden Of The Sleeping Giant
Located in Nadi, Fiji, the next stop is an incredible natural landscape called the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. Those looking for a way to expose themselves to the extraordinary flora indigenous to this region of the world will relish in all these botanical gardens have to offer. Folks often appreciate wandering on the custom-built boardwalk amongst the changing landscape. Crowd favorites are the lovely fountains and astounding lily ponds that multiply in the prime season. With a dense rainforest filled with vibrant colors, there is something unique here that cannot be found many other places on Earth: a collection of over two thousand different species of Asian orchids. With so much variety here, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant every curious wanderer looking for natural beauty should add it to their Fijian journey.
10. Stunning Kadavu Island
Kadavu Island is a 159 square mile patch of land located in the Great Astrolabe Reef, Fiji. Accompanied by other islands, the group forms a volcanic archipelago that is a magnet for remarkable activities keeping visitors coming back for more. Due to the submersion in a later body of water, visitors often find themselves enjoying diving and snorkeling, whether they are at a novice level or expert. Moreover, fishing, bird watching, and hiking provide the chance to view and interact with the impressive diversity in fauna both underwater and in the forests and sky. It is no wonder thousands of eager adventurists find themselves heading to this striking collection of island paradise.
Ready to head to Fiji? These destinations will have every traveler seeing the best this gorgeous country has to offer.
