Fiji holidays: the Mamanucas, Yasawas and private islands
More than 300 islands, coral reefs just off the beach and a friendly bula everywhere. Fiji is the Pacific's most varied island nation, from family resorts to private islands with a single hotel.
Fiji
Photo: Josaia Cakacaka / Unsplash
Fiji at a glance
The boat from Denarau pulls up to a white beach, and the staff are singing on the jetty. Fiji is an island nation in the Pacific, around four hours' flight east of Australia, with more than 300 islands. About a third are inhabited.
English is an official language alongside Fijian and Hindi. The currency is the Fijian dollar. For the rest of the region, see our Oceania guide.
Which islands suit you?
The Mamanucas, close and easy
The island group just off the main island, Viti Levu, is under an hour away by boat. Many resorts suit families, and the water is calm.
The Yasawas, further out and quieter
A chain of volcanic islands north-west of the Mamanucas, with long beaches, caves and fewer hotels. The Yasawa Flyer boat runs daily.
The private islands
Laucala, Kokomo and Turtle Island each have a single resort and are Fiji's luxury choices. You arrive by light aircraft or seaplane.
Taveuni and Vanua Levu, for nature and diving
Rainforest, waterfalls and soft corals in the Somosomo Strait, one of the Pacific's best-known dive sites.
Fiji
Photo: Siray Li / Unsplash
When to go
May to October: dry season, around 26 degrees and little rain. The best time.
November to April: hotter and more humid, with a risk of cyclones from December to March.
Good to know
International flights land in Nadi on Viti Levu. There are no direct flights from Europe, so travel via Asia, Australia or the US.
Fiji makes a good stop between Australia and the US.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and respect village customs: cover shoulders and knees when visiting a village.
Where to stay
COMO Laucala Island and Kokomo Private Island are among the Pacific's most exclusive hotels. Six Senses Fiji on Malolo and Tokoriki Island Resort are good choices in the Mamanucas. Read more about overwater bungalows.
Frequently asked questions about Fiji
When is the best time to visit Fiji?
May to October is the driest and most settled.
Which Fiji island is best?
The Mamanucas for an easy trip and families, the Yasawas for calm and a private island for full luxury.
Can I combine Fiji with Australia or New Zealand?
Yes. Flights from Sydney and Auckland take around four hours.
Do I need a visa for Fiji?
UK visitors get a visa on arrival for short stays. Check the current rules.