Nadi (on Fiji’s main island Viti Levu) is the country’s main travel gateway, and while many visitors head straight out to the islands, Nadi itself and its surroundings offer a lot worth exploring. Here’s a guide:

🌺 Things to Do in Nadi, Fiji

1. Cultural & Historical Sites

• Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple – The largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere, brightly painted with intricate carvings and South Indian Dravidian architecture. A must-see for culture and photography.

• Nadi Handicraft Market – Good spot for picking up Fijian souvenirs like kava bowls, woven mats, shell jewelry, and wood carvings.

• Local villages – Many nearby Fijian villages welcome visitors for kava ceremonies, dance performances, and cultural exchanges.

2. Nature & Relaxation

• Garden of the Sleeping Giant – A beautiful orchid garden founded by actor Raymond Burr, set in lush jungle with walking trails and lily ponds.

• Sabeto Mud Pools & Hot Springs – Natural geothermal pools where you can cover yourself in warm mud and rinse off in soothing hot springs.

• Wailoaloa Beach – A long beach close to town, great for a casual stroll, swimming, or enjoying sunset drinks.

3. Adventure & Day Trips

• Island Hopping – Nadi is the departure point for the Mamanuca Islands, perfect for day trips with snorkeling, sailing, and beach picnics.

• Jetboat Safari on the Sigatoka River – Combine thrills with cultural stops at riverside villages.

• Zip-lining at Sleeping Giant Zip Line – Jungle canopy zip lines plus waterfall hikes just outside town.

4. Food & Entertainment

• Denarau Island (20 minutes from Nadi): Luxury resorts, the Port Denarau Marina with international restaurants, bars, and evening entertainment.

• Try a lovo feast – Traditional Fijian underground oven cooking, often available at resorts or cultural shows.

• Kava ceremony – Experience this iconic Fijian ritual drink made from the pepper root.

5. Excursions Nearby

• Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park (1 hour away) – Fiji’s first national park, with walking trails over ancient dunes and archaeological sites.

• Sleeping Giant Mountain Range – Hiking opportunities for those who want stunning views of western Viti Levu.

The Mamanuca Islands (just off Nadi, Fiji) are a postcard-perfect chain of about 20 small islands, famous for turquoise lagoons, soft coral reefs, and white-sand beaches. They’re some of Fiji’s most accessible and activity-packed destinations. Here’s what you can do there:

🏝️ Things to Do in the Mamanuca Islands

1. Beach & Water Activities

• Snorkeling & Diving – Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes reef sharks. Great spots include Malolo Barrier Reef.

• Swimming & Kayaking – Calm lagoons make it easy for beginners and families.

• Surfing at Cloudbreak – One of the world’s most famous surf breaks, best for advanced surfers (accessible from Tavarua & Namotu Islands).

2. Unique Experiences

• Monuriki Island – Visit the filming location of Tom Hanks’ Cast Away. You can take guided tours here for a “desert island” experience.

• Sandbar Picnics – Take a boat out to an isolated sandbar for a private picnic surrounded by nothing but sea and sky.

• Day Cruises – Many operators offer sailing or catamaran day trips from Nadi and Denarau.

3. Wildlife & Marine Encounters

• Dolphin spotting & whale watching (seasonal).

• Manta ray swims (seasonal, usually May–Oct, though more common in Yasawas than Mamanucas).

• Coral planting programs at eco-resorts that let you contribute to reef conservation.

4. Relaxation & Luxury

• Private Island Resorts – Many Mamanuca islands are home to boutique resorts where you can enjoy spa treatments, fine dining, and seclusion.

• Sunset cruises – Watch the sun melt into the horizon while sipping cocktails.

5. Culture & Entertainment

• Traditional Fijian lovo feast – Try food slow-cooked underground on hot stones.

• Kava ceremonies – Participate in this important Fijian ritual drink.

• Meke dances – Evening cultural shows of song, storytelling, and dance.

What to Do at the Sawa-i-Lau Caves

1. Swim in the Ethereal Caverns

• Marvel at two partially submerged limestone chambers filled with vivid, saltwater pools. The first and larger cave is bathed in natural daylight filtering through a ceiling opening—it's a serene, Instagram-worthy experience. 

• For the more adventurous, there's a second, inner chamber accessible only through a short underwater tunnel. This passage adds thrill and sense of discovery to the visit. 

2. Explore with a Guide

• Entry is best enjoyed with a local guide. They provide orientation, help with navigating the dark underwater tunnel, and ensure safety.

• The guides also share rich local lore: the caves are considered sacred—believed to be the resting place of the ten-headed god Ulutini—and feature prominently in legends involving young lovers seeking refuge. 

3. Getting There: Scenic Access

• Most tours depart from nearby resorts such as Blue Lagoon Beach Resort, Yasawa Island Resort, or through boat or seaplane arrangements from the mainland or surrounding islands. These options often include resort pick-up, boat transfers, and a Fijian-style lunch or cultural welcome. 

• Cruises through Blue Lagoon Cruises often include guided visits to the caves.

• Alternative options include hiring a local water taxi or booking through tour providers (e.g., half-day trips around FJ$60–70, pricing varies).

4. Tips for a Quiet & Enjoyable Visit

• Aim to visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better light for photos.

• Carry small cash; there are often local vendors near the cave entrance selling handcrafted items or sarongs.

5. Combine with Other Island Activities

• Many organized tours to the caves include additional experiences such as snorkeling, village visits, shell markets, or cultural performances.

ere are some vibrant snapshots from Pacific Harbour, Fiji’s foremost hub for adventure and natural beauty—featuring dramatic river canyons, thrilling ziplining over verdant landscapes, rugged rafting scenes, and serene beachfront resort views.

Things to Do in Pacific Harbour

1. Adrenaline & Nature Adventures

• Dubbed Fiji’s adventure capital, Pacific Harbour is your gateway to exhilarating experiences both inland and in the water. 

• Zip‑lining over the Wainadoi River Valley catapults you across lush jungle canyons—a high‑flying thrill. 

• White‑water rafting and river tubing along the Navua River let you ride scenic rapids, swim under waterfalls, and visit remote villages. 

2. Marine & Wildlife Enthusiasm

• Shark diving in Beqa Lagoon is a heart‑pounding, cage‑free dive with up to eight shark species, including bull, grey reef, and silvertip sharks. 

• For colorful marine life, snorkeling among the soft corals and sea creatures in Beqa Lagoon is unforgettable. 

• Sportfishing charters offer the chance to helm a boat and chase impressive fish like blue marlin and wahoo in Beqa Lagoon. 

• Surfing at Frigates Passage, a world-class left-hand break near Beqa Island, is a must for experienced wave riders. 

3. Cultural & Village Experiences

• Dive into Fijian culture with village tours, partake in a kava ceremony, watch meke dances, or learn traditional crafts like weaving—especially in villages around Beqa Lagoon. 

• Combine nature and culture in the “Jewel of Fiji” tour—a boat, rafting, and waterfall experience complete with a traditional Fijian lunch. 

4. Tours & Day Trips

• A variety of especially family-friendly day tours are available:

  • Full-day Viti Levu island circuit tours.

  • Boat, raft, and waterfall culture tours with included meals. 

  • For a mix of energy and culture, river tubing and the “Jewel of Fiji” boat-and-waterfall tours are top picks. 

5. Resort Leisure & Activities

• Enjoy the Pearl Resort & Spa with beachfront access, a marina, spa offerings, and leisure activities such as kayaking and fishing. 

• For upscale comfort, Nanuku Auberge Resort offers luxury stays, or you can try glamping with beachside bonfires and marshmallow toasting.

Here’s a vibrant snapshot of Suva, Fiji’s dynamic capital—showing its coastal cityscape, harborfront, and lively urban atmosphere.

Top Things to Do in Suva, Fiji

1. Fiji Museum & Thurston Gardens

Nestled within the scenic Thurston Gardens, the Fiji Museum is a treasure trove of Fijian heritage—from a 13-meter double-hulled canoe to artifacts from Lapita-era voyagers and colonial history. 

2. Suva Municipal Market & Handicraft Centre

Immerse yourself in local life at the bustling Suva Municipal Market, filled with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and fresh seafood. Nearby, the Handicraft Centre offers beautifully crafted kava bowls, masi cloth, war clubs, and more. 

3. Colo-i-Suva Forest Park

Just a short drive from the city center, this lush rainforest reserve invites you on walking trails to waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and birdwatching spots amid serene tropical vegetation. 

4. Guided Walking Tours

Join a 2.5-hour guided tour to navigate Suva’s intriguing mix of colonial architecture, busy markets, historical gardens, and intimate storytelling from locals. 

5. Explore Historic Parliament & Grand Pacific Hotel

Admire the colonial-era façades and lush surroundings of Fiji’s Parliament and Government House. Nearby, the iconic Grand Pacific Hotel—a century-old landmark—is perfect for a coffee with historic charm and harbor views. 

6. Sacred Heart Cathedral

Marvel at this grand ecclesiastical building and appreciate a quieter, spiritual side of Suva’s architectural beauty. 

7. Outdoor Strolls & City Vibe

Take a leisurely walk around Albert Park, the waterfront, or explore the city’s vibrant streets—rich with color, life, and character. 

8. Joske’s Thumb

For a nature challenge, hike or admire this dramatic volcanic plug rising behind Suva. It’s celebrated in local history—and even Sir Edmund Hillary attempted its ascent! 

Additional Insights

• Suva offers a refreshing contrast to Fiji’s beach escapes—a glimpse into urban culture, markets, history, and daily life. 

• Rugby is a passionate part of local culture—if available, attending a match offers a vibrant, unforgettable experience.