20 Things to Do in Fiji On Your First Trip

Planning a trip to Fiji and not sure where to begin?! These top things to do in Fiji should get you off to a good start. These Fiji activities and must-do’s can be found in most of the main islands and areas, and will ensure you don’t miss out on anything awesome.

Fiji is what postcards and screen-savers are made of, but there are more than just stunning views to be found on a tropical Fijian holiday. If you are planning an island escape, here are 20 things to do to keep you busy and explore every corner of this fabulous location. So pack your hat and sunscreen, and let’s get into this sun-filled list. 

Enjoy a Traditional Kava Drink

The beauty of visiting any new destination is experiencing the culture. Be sure to enjoy a traditional Fiji and drink, Kava. Previously this drink was only enjoyed by the village chief but now it is enjoyed at celebrations and by eager travelers who want to learn more about Fiji and its culture.

It might taste a little bit like muddy water but those who have tried it say they feel very relaxed after they finish a glass, so make sure you were only lounging on the beach or heading home after a few.

Try Adventurous Scuba Diving in Fiji

You must go scuba-diving in Fiji as there are so many incredible fish species under the water and bright coral to be found. There are lots of fantastic dive sites around Fiji where you can experience different types of underwater life and landscapes.

For those who are after a bit of a thrill, you can also go shark diving. Many travel to Fiji to go shark diving and it is safe and in a controlled area on Beqa Island. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Snorkeling: One of the MOST Popular Things to Do in Fiji

If shark diving has no appeal to you whatsoever, then you are not alone. Fortunately, there are many spots where you can go snorkeling in Fiji instead, without sharks circling you. The reefs here are unbelievable and some of the best in the world, so you snorkeling is one of the BEST things to do in Fiji that you have to try.

There is so much to see when you snorkel, so don’t think of this as a consolation prize. If you are not sure where to start, then try booking a dive out at Viti Levu.

Enjoy Luxury Accommodation All Over Fiji

I think it’s fair to say we all daydream about five-star accommodation in a tropical location. Accommodation in Fiji caters to all types of people, from budget travelers through to luxury seekers.

You can experience these fine accommodations by staying there or even just stopping by for a high tea, day pass at the pool, or for lunch. Check out some of the top all-inclusive resorts in Fiji for inspiration.

Enjoy a Lovo Meal, A Classic from Fiji

A “Lovo” meal is cooked in the earth, securely buried underground, and dug up to be enjoyed in stunning Fiji surrounds. This is one of the classic meals to eat in Fiji that you have to experience!

The Lovo can be a dish of chicken, beef, seafood or vegetables. The meal is presented in a buffet style, so be sure to enjoy it with a large group of friends and other travelers. 

Try Standup Paddleboarding 

The crystal blue ocean in Fiji is not just for swimming, diving, and snorkeling – you can also enjoy a fantastic morning or afternoon standup paddleboarding. Many hotels have them available to rent, or you can find them on some of the more public and crowded beaches too (the ones without waves)!

This is quite a workout, so make sure you are hydrated and have your sunscreen on so you can enjoy the activity on calm protected waters.

Learn some History + Culture at the Fiji National Museum

You must visit the Fiji National Museum when you head to Fiji’s capital, Suva. Whether you love history or have a simple curiosity, this museum is sure to delight you. There are some life-size boat replicas at the Museum as well as some authentic artifacts that are totally unique to Fiji culture.

The Fiji Museum is also next to the Thurston Gardens, which you should explore at the same time. It’s worth spending some time in Suva to explore the capital city’s culture.

Have Some Indian Food

You probably didn’t come to Fiji to have an Indian food experience, but there is also a huge Indian community in Fiji which means there is great multicultural food to be enjoyed on the island. The Indian population in Fiji is actually over 1/3!

Indian food is probably going to be one of the more affordable meals you have in Fiji. It is often cooked by Indian people themselves and might just be the best Indian feed you have had. 

Visit the Fiji Street Markets

You can learn so much about a culture by visiting the local markets. This is where Fijians shop and where you can see what the seasonal produce is and how that produce can be cooked into delicious street food.

If you love fruit then you will be blown away by the stunning presentations of colorful fruit in all shapes and sizes. Be sure to buy more than you think you need as fresh fruit on a sunny day is absolutely divine. There are local markets in Suva, as well as lots of smaller towns along the tourist track.

Try out Ziplining Through the Fiji Mountains

You can go Ziplining in many places but we would wager that there are no Ziplining environments as stunning as Fiji. Fly through the dense rainforest foliage and get an incredible view of the island from various vantage points.

This is a must-try for all thrill-seekers, so be sure to book ahead. The best places to zip line are outside of Suva and outside of Nadi. This is the most popular Zipline tour.

Consider a Fiji Cruise, Island Trip, or Liveaboard Package

Have you been on a cruise before? Perhaps this is your opportunity to spend a night on an island cruise. There are a number of cruises that port on the island and you can stay overnight and enjoy cruise life. They also offer liveaboard scuba trips. This is quite an expensive experience for only one night, but it will be a night you won’t forget and it’s a great way to dip your toe into cruising.

Fiji is also a stop on some larger South Pacific Cruises that last for a week or more. This may be a great idea if you want to see multiple places from the comfort of one boat – mostly starting from Brisbane and stopping in Fiji, Vanuatu, or New Caledonia.

Sit Back and Enjoy Fiji Sunsets

Like any stunning beach location, Fiji has beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Make some time to sit on the beach with your thoughts as you enjoy one of these views. Head to the east side of the island for a great sunrise and the West for sunset – or different coves in the north and south so you don’t have to travel far.

Whether you come to the beach with a cocktail or a tea, this is an experience like no other, and when you will be glad you enjoyed it. You can take some photos but they will probably not do it justice.

Go Fishing – Catch some FRESH Fish in Fiji

There are so many options for fishermen in Fiji. If you haven’t tried deep sea fishing before then you must, as there is so much to be caught and enjoyed back on the island. Pack a lunch and spend the day out on the water and see if you can’t catch dinner while taking in the ocean views and looking back at Fiji.

You can also learn from a lot of the local fishermen for whom fishing is their livelihood. Check out their fishing gear and what kinds of fish they catch and provide for their communities.

Enjoy Coconut Water/Juice

You can buy coconut water and coconut juice at the supermarket, but you won’t get it fresher and more delicious than in Fiji. There are little stalls all over Fiji with big fresh coconuts ready to be sawed at the top and enjoyed with a straw.

You can also order fresh coconut juice at a restaurant or in your hotel too. You can pretty much find fresh coconut dishes, fresh coconut water, and fresh coconuts themselves everywhere in Fiji.

Beach Hopping is one of the BEST things to do in Fiji

Don’t just stay at one beach, but do your best to try and visit all the beaches you can. Beach hopping is one of the most obvious and most important things to do in Fiji as they’re beautiful and diverse. Some of the most popular are Like Beach, Seagrass Bay, and Yasawa Island Group.

Fiji beaches will all look different and the water might even be at a different temperature. So keep on beach hopping until you find the best beach for you. You can even take boat trips to some of the smaller islands or explore small coves and bigger beaches too.

Learn About Culture at Authentic Fijian Villages

It can be easy to get wrapped up in beach activities in Fiji and delicious food, but make sure you make time to visit a traditional Fijian village. You can book a tour that will allow you to respectfully visit these villages and the locals who live there are very friendly. 

When you visit a Fijian Village, you will be able to experience the traditional island way of life. It may be demonstrated to you for tourism purposes, but it’s still fascinating to see how they used to live, cook, and organize the home.

Enjoy a Traditional Fijian Show!

There are many experiences to be enjoyed in Fiji and some restaurants will have dances, singers and fire dancers performing in the outdoor restaurant. Be sure to book a traditional meal and check out the local talent as they showcase traditional cultural dances and ceremonies. This is a Fijian cultural experience you will never forget.

Experience a Fire Show on the Beach

Fiji has truly perfected the art of fire dancing, so make sure you get to see a show. These shows often include multiple impressive fire dancers doing different types of routines along with live drumming and music too.

You won’t believe what they can do with these fire twirlers and it might make you think you’re sitting too close to the show. Rest assured, these shows of totally safe and a fabulous way to get to know the exciting Fiji culture.

Visit Other Fijian Islands by Boat Tour

Sure, there are lots of things to do in Fiji’s main island, but why not take a boat out and see what else awaits? There are lots of remote islands to be explored, after all, Fiji is made up of over 300 islands!

There is no way you will see all 300 islands but you may as well give it a try. Some of the best possible beaches in Fiji, best coral reefs, and best snorkeling and scuba diving sites occur on some beautiful smaller offshore islands in Fiji, so to make the most of Fiji you must visit at least some.

Simply Relax!

Fiji is to be enjoyed in so many ways, but when it comes to your trip, make sure one of those ways is totally relaxing and letting go of your everyday stresses. Whether you choose to sleep in your bungalow all lounge by the ocean for a full day, there are so many ways you can relax and recharge in Fiji.

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We hope you are ready to enjoy this Fiji escape! We would love to hear what plans you have and what things to do in Fiji are at the top of your list.

If you’re looking for more South Pacific escapes, learn more about visiting the Solomon Islands or hop up to try some adventures in Kauai too.