Known for its luxurious private-islands, all-inclusive resorts, top spas, culinary destinations and outdoor adventures, Fiji is most widely celebrated for its culture, which uniquely welcomes visitors home to it’s 333 lush islands. Fiji’s white sand beaches and pristine, crystal-clear ocean waters offer an ideal vacation destination for divers, honeymooners and families- or simply, those looking to relax and get away from it all. Fiji is easily accessible through convenient, non-stop flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Honolulu by Fiji Airways.

Best Times to Visit: Fiji weather is typically either hot and humid (Nov-April) or dry and mild (May-Oct). Generally, the best time to visit these islands is between mid-October to mid-November as prices are reasonable, there are fewer crowds, and weather conditions are dry and pleasantly warm.

Things to do:

See Fire-Walking on Beqa. Located just off Vitu Levu’s southern coast is Beqa Island and the surrounding lagoon, are home to more than 100 dives sites. However there is far more to this island than just it’s rich underwater life… The beautiful Beqa Island is home to the Sawau tribe who created the traditional art of fire-walking. You can experience members of the tribe participating in a fire-walking ceremony where warriors tread over burning embers from a lovo (earth oven) shouting “O-vulo-vulo!” at the Lalati Resort and Spa.

Drink Kava on Vanua Levu. Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu, sits to the north. It is accessible via a short flight from Nadi. This is a great place to experience the traditional island life and culture first hand. Take a tour of Nukubaluvu Village, where you’ll take part in a sevu-sevu (gift giving) ceremony, kava drinking (an absolute must-do in Fiji!) and a wild traditional dance with grass-skirted warriors.

Hike the Falls of Taveuni. Taveuni Island is located just off Vanua Levu’s east coast and known as Fiji’s Garden of Eden. It is overflowing with beautiful rare orchids, prehistoric tree ferns, tumbling waterfalls and natural water slides. Don’t miss the Tavoro waterfalls, a 60-foot waterfall that cascades into an emerald pool! It is easily accessible via a flat, grassy trail and a great way to spend a day!

Shop for pearls in Savusavu. Justin Hunter has spent the past decade cultivating some of world’s most unique pearls in Savusavu Bay. While you can find these beautiful, locally sourced pearls at a variety of stores and resorts, they are best found right at the source – Hunter’s flagship store off Savusavu’s main street. There is truly no better Fiji souvenir!

Information courtesy of Islands.

Feature Hotel: Vomo Island Resort, Kokomo Private Island, Castaway Island Fiji

• Know the Meaning of Bula and Vinaka. Although most Fijians speak English these local words will make their way into each conversation so definitely brush up before arriving. 

  • Bula means “hello” and is the Fijian greeting

  • Vinaka means “thank you”

• Pack some conservative outfits. If you plan to visit local villages, schools or attend a local church service it is important that you respect the conservative culture and cover up a bit more than you might at the resort.

• Understand how tipping works. Most hotels and resorts will tell you that tipping is not necessary, and on paper Fiji is a non-tipping country. However, we suggest to bring or set aside some extra cash for tipping staff members that go above and beyond. 

• Sunday is a church day for the islanders. Almost all of the locals go to church on Sundays and that many restaurants and shops are closed. If you are planning activities in town over the weekend to take this into consideration.

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