Is Fiji Worth it? 28 Things to do that prove it for First-Timers!

Wondering if Fiji’s mainland is worth visiting for your first trip? Many travellers immediately think of the outer islands, but Viti Levu (the main island), is full of things do do that are exciting for first-timers looking to explore more than just resort life.

After visiting a few times over the years, I can understand if you’re feeling overwhelmed with planning and researching. So, today’s post will answer your question on the MANY things to do in Fiji that make it worth visiting, plus some additional helpful insights that you need to know.

We loved every moment in this Island paradise, so please consider adding the following to your Itinerary.

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Is Fiji Worth visiting for First-Timers?

Without a doubt, I think Fiji is worthy destination to visit for First-Timers and will create a fun and memorable getaway. This includes for the friendly locals, waterfalls, adventure activities and engaging cultural shows.

But, what are the best things to do that make it worth it? Well, these are just some of the great activities you can choose from:

➡  Search all Fiji Tours HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

Best things to do in Fiji (Viti Levu)!

1. Join a Kava Ceremony

Originating from the Pacific Islands, the Kava (or yaqona) Ceremony tradition involves drinking pulverised plant roots of the yaqona plant. This is mixed with water and has been used for centuries to create social change and cultivate calmness. 

Not only is the tradition fascinating to watch and very spirited, but it also offers participants many health benefits. For example, its plant-based ingredients produce anti-anxiety effects in users, allowing them to relax their minds and centre their thoughts. 

I have seen a Kava ceremony performed in EVERY hotel I’ve stayed at and I recommend you participate at least once. While it just looks like dirty water, the most it did for me was make my lips a little numb or tingle.

2. Stay in a beachside Bure.

If you want an authentic Fijian experience, I would consider staying in a traditional Bure. A Bure is essentially a bungalow that many resorts offer as accommodation. It still has the same facilities as any standard hotel room, but potentially open air showers and very close beach access. 

We were lucky enough to stay in a beachfront Bure on our third visit to Fiji. You can read my review on The Uprising Beach Resort in Pacific Harbour, as it has a few available to book (which is pictured below). 

3. Go Scuba Diving

The scuba diving in Fiji is a soft coral paradise, bursting with colour and life. With its crystal-clear warm waters and vibrant schools of fish, it’s no wonder the country is the go-to place for avid divers. 

Even if you don’t have your diving ticket, the first hotel I stayed at had in-house instructors, ready to guide you into the depths. So, if it’s something you’ve been interested in, just check with your hotel before you book.

The soft corals provide refuge to hundreds of reef fish species, such as Angelfish, Spadefish, and Blue Maomao, making every dive at least a little bit different!

Even better, that out of hundreds of dive sites, your bound to have one near your hotel.

4. Snorkelling the reef bommie’s

If diving is off the cards, then some of the snorkelling sites I’ve seen in Fiji are phenomenal. You can join any of the snorkelling tours to explore the reef bommie’s, where beneath the surface lies a world of vibrant colours, and darting fish.

Surprisingly, along the Coral coast, I was able to snorkel for FREE in a massive shallow area, straight from my hotel. Every morning I would start my day with an hour or two snorkel and you would be surprised at the amount of fish life I saw.

Other days, I purchase the local boat tours from my hotel, for as little as $10AUD. These would take a small boat within a 15 minute drive to amazing deeper areas for added variety.

Note: If Manta Rays are what you seek, please read this post where to swim with them in Fiji.

5. Join a cultural village Tour.

The Cultural village tours are a wonderful opportunity to learn about this unique island nation and its fascinating culture.

You’ll enjoy songs and dances belonging to the various tribes, while learning more about the traditional customs of wearing sulus, wood carving, and mat weaving. 

➡  See Village tours HERE with GYG, Or HERE with Viator.

See the ancient indigenous weapons that were used by locals long ago before venturing into a traditional home. Plus, you can relax at the end of your tour with a shared kava ceremony.

Fun Fact: On the island of Taveuni, you can stand in two different time zones simultaneously due to Fiji’s position across the international dateline.

6. See a Fire-twirling Dance show.

See the talent at their best and attend one of the spectacular fire twirling shows that take place nightly around the islands. Enquire at your reception for shows at your hotel, or ask if there is one nearby, but they will be performed everywhere.

The exhilarating drums and hypnotic music fill the air and will have you in awe. At the same time, incredible skills are showcased by the talented performers, spinning fire sticks and poi balls with ease while creating an entrancing atmosphere. 

7. Try some Island Hopping

Island hopping is an exotic, sun-filled journey that will fulfil your travel goals. There are 330 idyllic islands to explore and many different ways to achieve your utmost Island experience. 

Whether you spend a few days on each island or take day trips with local operators, you will indeed discover fascinating cultures and breathtakingly scenic ecosystems native only to this collection of untouched paradises. 

8. Eat a Lovo meal

“Lovo” is a meal cooked by placing the food on hot rocks underground, which is then covered with leaves and cloth (similar to a Maori Hangi).

The meal usually consists of fish, chicken, beef, potatoes, cassava, and vegetables.

This cooking method is still used today, and many tourists have the chance to try it when they go on excursions that include the Lovo as lunch or dinner. While you might not see the entire process being made, you can still taste test the end result!

9. Visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple

The Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple is located in the heart of Nadi. It’s a Hindu Temple and offers a unique cultural and religious experience.

It’s full of intriguing Hindu statues, shrines, and mantras, and it’ll take around 20 minutes to explore the exhibits. This will get you acquainted with Hindu traditions that are deeply held throughout the country.

10. Relax while watching a Sunset.

Watching a mesmerising sunset is an experience you’ll always remember. Plus, the colours are heightened around the islands, with less pollution than the big cities.

Reflect on the days activities as the sun shifts through shades of bright oranges, purples, and pinks, and you can feel all your worries drift away.

People everywhere will flock to the beach, balconies, outside bars or gardens with a drink in hand, so ensure you don’t miss the social affair!

11. Try the Cocktails

Want to try some delicious cocktails? Then, this is a brilliant place to start!

Thanks to many flavours and tropical fruit-infused offerings, there are many types of cocktails to try. What’s more, there’s some with rum-based concoctions, fruity classics, inventive new interpretations, and many more.

You can even get to know your Bartender and convince them to create your own combination. 

12. Join an ATV Tour

A four-wheel ATV Tour in Fiji is one of the most exciting and adventurous ways to explore the island’s lush rainforest and rugged terrain. Most tours depart from Nadi or Pacific Harbour and take you off the beaten path as you navigate muddy jungle trails, splash through creeks, and climb into the highlands.

Tours typically last between 1.5 to 3 hours, with prices depend on the tour length and whether you ride solo or tandem. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages, dense tropical forest, and rocky hills, often stopping at scenic lookouts with sweeping views of the mountains and coastline.

13. Take a cruise

From sunset views over the South Pacific to discovering remote, lesser-known islands, it’s easy to see why Boat Cruising tours are a favourite experience for travellers in Fiji. These day cruises offer a relaxing yet adventurous way to explore the pristine beauty of the surrounding archipelagos.

Most tours depart from Denarau Marina near Nadi, or directly from select resorts on the Coral Coast, making them incredibly accessible. Popular stops include Sandbar picnics, snorkelling in coral gardens, visits to traditional Fijian villages, and swimming in lagoons.

Many cruises also include a freshly prepared BBQ lunch, tropical fruit platters, and even live music on board.

14. Paddle Boarding

Paddle boarding is often a free activity offered right from your hotel or resort. It’s an easy and rewarding way to enjoy the island’s calm, turquoise waters, with no previous experience required.

Thanks to the islands sheltered lagoons and typically flat seas, paddle boarding is both fun and accessible. Glide peacefully across the glassy surface while taking in views of palm-fringed beaches, vibrant coral reefs below, and nearby islands in the distance.

15. Visit the National Museum 

If you’re like me and enjoy diving into local history and culture, then a visit to the Fiji National Museum in Suva is a must. Tucked within the beautiful Thurston Gardens in the heart of the capital city, the museum offers a look into Fiji’s rich and complex past.

From ancient canoes and traditional tools to exhibits on colonial history, Indigenous Fijian culture, and the indentured labour era. I was genuinely surprised by how much there was to learn, and how well it was presented.

Plan to spend at least 1–2 hours exploring the exhibits. Entry is very affordable, usually around FJD $5–10 for adults, and it’s a great way to gain deeper insight into the country you’re exploring.

16. Helicopter Flights

Nothing beats the thrill of soaring through the skies on a Helicopter flight, where you’ll gain a whole new perspective of the islands natural beauty. From above, the vibrant turquoise waters, lush jungles, coral reefs, and postcard-perfect beaches look even more surreal.

Most scenic helicopter tours depart from Nadi International Airport or nearby Denarau, with popular routes flying over the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, Coral Coast, or even landing on remote sand cays for a private beach picnic.

Durations typically range from 10 minutes to over an hour, with prices starting around FJD $300–$800 per person, depending on the route and inclusions.

17. Ziplining

The Ziplining Tours are a whole bunch of fun and an absolute must if you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities!

I’ve done Ziplining all over the world, but not sure I’ve ever laughed so much on this tour. Its a brilliant family-friendly activity (or the couples like us)and you can watch my my short video on our experience below.

The guides were very helpful, entertaining and support you along the way through the forest.

Not only that, but I found the zip line tours a little more affordable than others. 

18. Waterpark fun

Big Bula Waterpark is located on Denarau Island and easily accessible from Nadi. This adventure waterpark has activities for all ages, with a selection of solid fiberglass waterslides, permanent inflatable waterslides, and a pool.

Therefore, if you need a way to exhaust the kids or just fill in time before flying out of Nadi? Then, you can choose to stay the whole day or a few hours.

You can even purchase tickets online to help make the most of your day!

19. Learn to Open a Coconut

Learning how to open a coconut is an interesting process, but I’m so glad I got the opportunity to try. This was just a small gathering of people from my hotel and organised as part of the free daily entertainment.

The locals guide will walk you through the process, step by step, and it honestly is very easy once you know how.

With that said, don’t worry too much if it doesn’t work the first time or does not look right. After all, you’re opening a coconut, not preparing a gourmet meal for the royal court.

20. Beqa Shark Dive

If you’re around the Pacific Harbour region (and a diver), you can experience the Beqa Lagoon Shark Dive like we did. This is one of the biggest shark dives in the world and features many species like Bull sharks, Tiger Sharks, Reef Sharks, Nurse Sharks, and nearly a dozen others.

This is definitely for the more experienced divers, or at least ones that don’t shy away from a little danger, since there is NO CAGE!

However, if you’re not in this area and still up for something more exciting. Chances are you can spot other sharks during any organised Scuba diving tours. Many sharks like Lemon and Whitetip Reef Sharks live among the coral bommie’s here.

Fun Fact: The country is making strides in environmental conservation, aiming to become completely plastic-bag free to protect its rich marine life.

21. Go River Tubing

Everyone loves to spend a day out on fresh waters, and nothing is better than a day trip River tubing.

As you drift through the clear waters and lush jungle interior, you’ll be enthralled by the stunning beauty that comes with it.

Besides taking in awe-inspiring sights, river tubing also offers thrilling rapids and a ton of laughter and fun.

22. Visit a Waterfall or two.

You’ll find waterfalls available all over the Fiji’s mainland and some in the surrounding Islands. Most of the time you’ll find them included on a full day village tour, or you can even visit some on your own if you’ve hired a car.

With that said, I would recommend finding out which ones are the safest to visit, before exploring on your own. Otherwise, if you want to cool off from the tropical temperatures, there is always ones that the guides will bring you too.

23. Kayaking

Kayaking is often a free activity for hotel and resort guests staying along Fiji’s beautiful beachfronts, especially in areas like the Coral Coast and Denarau. It’s a peaceful yet energising way to explore the coastline, glide over coral reefs, and maybe even spot marine life in the crystal-clear shallows.

Whether you’re paddling solo or with a partner in a double kayak, it’s a great way to add some gentle exercise to your holiday while lapping up the views of lush palm-lined shores and turquoise waters.

24. Souvenir Shopping

Fijians have always had a talent for arts and crafts, so be sure to pick up some cool local souvenirs! I’m a bit of a magnet fan, but also like wall hangings, wooden artefacts, and sometimes clothes.

These can all be picked up at resort shops and local shopping districts, or jumping on one of the City tours for a guided experience. 

There is an astounding variety of handicrafts available, from wooden cannibal forks to tapa cloths to carved masks, little knickknacks, and polished coconut shells. But one of the most commonly found is pottery. 

25. Indulging on the local Cuisine.

As a person who indulges in every country’s culinary delights, you need to taste-test some of the best cuisine options.

For any seafood lovers, there’s always the word-famous dish called kokoda or pourou (similar to Ceviche in Mexico). This can be made from freshly caught local fish marinated with lime juice before being served as one delectable mix of flavours. 

Then for any vegetable connoisseurs, there’s palusami. This dish involves young taro leaves in coconut cream and spices, all wrapped up in tin foil baked in the lovo, much like an old-style curry. 

Did you know: The former capital, Levuka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into Fiji’s colonial past with its preserved 19th-century architecture.

26. Horse Riding on the Beaches

Horses remain an important part of daily life in many rural parts of Fiji, where they’re used for transport, farming, and even herding cattle. In some villages, it’s common to see young children confidently guiding multiple horses along dirt paths.

For visitors, horseback riding offers a unique way to explore the coastline. Natadola Bay and Wailoaloa Beach, both located along the Coral Coast and near Nadi, are two of the most popular spots for scenic beach rides.

You can trot along golden sands, splash through the shallows, or enjoy a sunset ride as the sky transforms with colour.

27. Indulge yourself in a Massage.

Take some well-deserved time out for yourself and unwind with a traditional Fijian massage. Whether you’ve spent your days snorkelling, hiking, or simply soaking up the sun, a relaxing massage is the perfect way to reset and rejuvenate.

Most resorts and tourist hubs offer a variety of spa treatments. These range from deep tissue massages and Fijian bobo (traditional healing massage) to coconut milk body wraps, hot stone therapy, and frangipani oil treatments.

Many spas use locally sourced ingredients like coconut oil, dilo oil, and tropical flowers, known for their soothing and nourishing properties. You can enquire at your hotel reception for spa menu and pricing.

28. Nadi Market Tour 

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in local Fijian culture is by exploring the bustling streets and vibrant markets for an authentic experience.

You can choose to wander on your own or, if you’d prefer a more insightful experience, join a local guide who can share stories, introduce you to vendors, and help you navigate the best spots to eat and shop.

Make time to visit a traditional open-air market, such as the Suva Municipal Market, Nadi Market, or Lautoka Market. Here, you’ll be surrounded by colourful displays of fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, spices, kava root, and locally caught seafood.

Be sure to try snacks from the iconic “bean carts”, local street food vendors offering spicy chickpeas, fried dhal, or sweet roti wraps, often for just FJD $1–$3.

Where to Stay?

In Fiji, you can choose to stay at 5-star resorts, luxurious private islands, to beachside resorts, and there are many options for accommodation.

Finding something within your budget is no problem, and I recommend watching out for the deals and all-inclusive packages, which include drinks, or at a minimum, your meals. 

As a first-time visitor, choose your accommodation based on your preferred location and then, the activities available at the Hotel or Resort. From there, you can research other things to do in Fiji from the list above, to add value to your entire trip.

While both countries offer stunning beaches and warm hospitality, the overall vibe can be quite different, see my article on choosing between Fiji or Vanuatu for tips.

About Fiji!

If you didn’t know, Fiji is an archipelago of more than 330 islands in the South Pacific (with only 110 inhabited). From this, there are 2 major islands, which house about 87% of the population.

• First Island is Viti Levu (which is where we’ll be exploring today). It’s home to the country’s capital of Suva, the principal cruise ship port, and the international airport at Nadi.
• Next major island is Vanua Levu, which is best known for its coral reefs and rugged rainforests.

It’s all located approximately 3000km (1865 miles) east of the Queensland Coast of Australia. Plus, around 40% of its people are of Indian descent and this cultural blend is reflected in the country’s languages, which include English, Fijian, and Fijian Hindi.

With a “Bula” welcome everywhere you go, the friendly Fijian people will make you feel completely at home, and it’s one of the safest countries I’ve been to.

How many days do you need?

When it comes to how days you should spend there, I think 1 week is a great starting point for a first-time holiday in Fiji. As it happens, the few times I’ve been have both been week-long visits, and I still intend to go back for more one day!

The Best time to visit?

In truth, the best time to visit Fiji is ANYTIME! However, there are a few factors to consider that might assist in deciding what time of year would suit you better.

Dry Season

The dry season ranges from May to October and is generally considered the best time of year to visit. Temperatures average around 26 Degrees Celsius (78F), with less rainfall, clear skies, and less humidity. 

Wet Season

The Wet Season runs from November to April, and temperatures average around 30 Degrees Celsius (86F). At this time, it is more humid with increased bursts of heavy rainfall which can hang around for 30 minutes or days.

That being said, I have previously visited in December, September, November and March and still had a great time. This means, doing your research and picking a time of year that suits what type of holiday you’re after. 

FAQ’s – Common Questions!

What are the People like?

From the moment you step off the plane, you are welcomed with warm smiles, as though you’re family.

Even if a plane lands at 2am, a group of locals will be there harmoniously singing “Bula Maleya,” the Fijian Welcoming song, and placing beautiful handmade leis around your neck.

Do the locals speak English?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Fiji, and you’ll find all the hotel staff and tour operators speak English. But that doesn’t mean you won’t come across a few native words here and there. In fact, it’s almost impossible to visit without picking up a few! 

Of course, Bula is the most iconic word everyone knows and means “hello,” or “welcome.” Another important phrase is Vinaka, which means “thank you.” 

Out of respect, I suggest getting to know a few words and using them daily to talk to staff and locals.

What is “Fiji Time”

Like other island countries, the country has a more relaxed pace and is often referred to as Island Time or “Fiji Time.”

Therefore, do not expect anything to start on time, from flights, transfers, tours, and even lunch.

Although it may be frustrating, try your best to go with the flow because it is an important part of the culture here.

Can you drink Tap water?

When it comes to drinking Tap water, it’s always important er on the side of caution. Although many households have access to safe-to-drink treated water, it is NOT recommended for visitors and tourists to drink the tap water.

This includes in Hotels or Resorts!

Instead, buying bottled water from supermarkets or convenience stores is advisable. This is also cheaper than purchasing water through your accommodation. 

However, if you’re staying at a hotel with its own filtration systems, you can rest assured that it’s probably safe. Although, you should always check with the staff first before indulging.

Note: I’ve brushed my teeth or drunk small amounts of tap water plenty of times and never been sick. 

Wrap up & Read more!

Thanks for reading this blog post today, and I hope I’ve given you plenty of activities to keep you entertained on your trip to Fiji. However, if you’re still researching, please check out my other Fiji Blog Posts for inspiration and planning.

• Fun Things to do in Port Vila
• Breakas Beach Resort Review in Vanuatu
• Blue Lagoon in Vanuatu: Complete Guide & Review
• Jungle Zipline Tour Review & Complete Guide
• Things to see on a Brisbane to Cairns Road trip
• 100+ Bucket List Ideas in Australia & Map