10 Best Islands in Fiji - Which One is Right For You?
Posted by Maris on 20th Dec 2023
The 333 distinct islands that make up the archipelago of Fiji are tucked away in the South Pacific Ocean in the shape of a horseshoe. Since over 100 of these islands are populated, travelers visiting Fiji have the option to visit multiple breathtaking tropical islands in a single vacation, should they so choose. And let's face it, why wouldn't they?
It could be difficult to know where to start when there are so many amazing and distinctive islands to select from. Do you like to unwind completely on immaculate white sand beaches? Do you want to experience authentic Fijian culture and live like a local? Or are you hoping to go on an excursion across the coral reefs or jungles of the nation? Fortunately, we've done all the legwork (all that hard lying on beaches—you're welcome!) and compiled this list of the top Fijian islands for you to explore. Bula!
Robinson Crusoe Island
Even though Robinson Crusoe Island is only a 45-minute boat ride from Nadi, once you get there, it seems like a different kind of paradise. A warm "Bula!" from the islanders, traditional music, and open arms await you as you arrive for a really unique Fijian experience.
Visitors to this private island can participate in fun and interesting activities throughout their stay, and it serves as a showcase for everything that Fijian culture has to offer. Take a swing at fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking. Create some jewelry out of coconuts, discover how to climb a coconut tree, and end the day with a breathtaking fire show. Although it is feasible to visit Robinson Crusoe Island in a single day, most visitors prefer to stay longer and spend the night in a traditional Fijian bure.
Taveuni
One of the reasons Taveuni is called the "Garden Island" is that it is the only site on earth where one may locate the red tagimoucia flower. Taveuni is an incredibly beautiful island. Aside from the rare plant life, Taveuni Island has additional natural attractions including the rest of the breathtaking Bouma National Heritage Park, which is home to the flower, and the gushing Tovoro Waterfalls, which have natural swimming pools.
The beautiful terrain of Taveuni extends beyond its rainforests. So why not go from here to the little settlement of Lavena and take the well-known coastal walk? There isn't much lodging available on this tiny island, but what is available is in the communities of Somosomo and Naqara.
Kadavu
The island of Kadavu is an untouched natural paradise that is the ideal destination for those seeking to disconnect from the bustle of the outside world and reconnect with the natural world. All it takes to discover this island's traditional towns and sandy beaches is to go south from Viti Levu, where one can find unspoiled natural beauty.
Scuba divers also frequent Kadavu, coming here to investigate the Great Astrolabe Reef. Surfers visiting the island will have the opportunity to ride some of Fiji's best and largest waves. This hidden gem of an island has only a dozen or so eco-friendly establishments to choose from.
Viti Levu
In addition to the main airport, the largest island in Fiji is home to several breathtaking beaches and tourist destinations. Many visitors intend to take a boat and head straight to one of the smaller islands, but if you stay, you can immerse yourself in Fiji's rich history and take advantage of some of the best activities the nation has to offer.
In search of a thrilling experience? For breathtaking views of the island's traditional villages, sandy beaches, and mangrove forests below, climb Tomanivi, the highest mountain in Fiji. As an alternative, you may explore the museums, temples, and historical sites of Nadi and Suva, or you may simply relax and enjoy the sun on the picturesque Coral Coast.
Ovalau
Ovalau Island, which was once the capital of Fiji, is an interesting location to visit. Although there may be the occasional lovely beach, this island is significantly less developed than others, with mountains covered in vegetation, undeveloped beaches, and traditional communities.
Being one of the few people to venture to Ovalau from the surrounding main island of Viti Levu is worthwhile because it's a land less frequented by tourists and has an enigmatic charm. While you're there, make sure to see the quaint historical village of Levuka. For an authentic tour, you can even ask a native for assistance.
Mamanucas
These islands, west of Viti Levu, are home to gorgeous beaches and opulent resorts. Any of the numerous resorts on this little piece of Fijian paradise will provide you with true pampering if you want to unwind and relax throughout your vacation. You can enjoy sailing and snorkeling if you can drag yourself away from your massage table and hammock. However, no one will hold it against you if you relax and do nothing!
Film enthusiasts will want to plan a day excursion to the gorgeously remote Monuriki Island, which served as the filming location for Tom Hanks' classic Castaway, regardless of whether you decide to stay on one of the Mamanuca Islands.
Yasawa
These little islands extend from the tip of the Mamanuca Islands and offer some of the most breathtaking beaches in Fiji. Imagine immaculate white sand encircled by a canopy of lush tropical vegetation, craggy cliffs, and towering mountains, and you might be able to visualize what we mean.
Even better, how about taking a boat trip to visit as many of these gorgeous islands as you can? Although a few opulent resorts and hippie communes are scattered throughout, a day trip to the Yasawa Islands is probably the best option. All you have to do to get there is board a fast catamaran from Viti Levu or the Mamanucas.
Beqa
The tiny island of Beqa, which is only 10 kilometers south of Viti Levu, is a haven for scuba divers. People come to this remote island, rich in wildlife and marine life, to scuba dive in the pristine waters of the well-known Beqa Lagoon.
You may wonder, nevertheless, what makes diving in Beqa superior to diving in other parts of Fiji. Now, how does it sound to swim with tiger sharks? The lagoon is one among the most well-liked dive sites for daring divers since these elegant predators frequent there. If swimming with sharks isn't your first priority, you'll be more than content to lounge in the sun on Beqa's picturesque shore.
Vanua Levu
Vanua Levu, the second-largest island in Fiji, is a fantastic option for those seeking a tranquil but exciting vacation because it is less crowded than Viti Levu. Its breathtaking scenery, which includes wild jungles, sugarcane farms, towering peaks, and gushing waterfalls, cries out to be discovered.
See Savusavu's main colorful village, which features sheltered coves and eerily colonial-style buildings. Explore the island in style by traveling the Hibiscus Highway in a 4x4 or go into the unspoiled Wasali Nature Reserve jungle and ascend the trails to see some breathtaking vistas from the top.
Laucala, Matagi, and Qamea
Despite being small islands, Qamea, Matagi, and Laucala are three priceless jewels sparkling in the ocean; you will struggle to find a more serene and lovely location. These three islands, which are located off the coast of Taveuni Island, have gorgeous beaches and green surroundings. The shorelines of the islands gently swoop into the tranquil waters.
Here, you'll discover opulent resorts with thatched beach bungalows and magnificent infinity pools, with the unspoiled nature and rainforest in one way and the limitless blue sea in the other. You want to be on these islands for an unforgettable romance getaway.