Coral Coast Sand Dunes

1. Breathtaking Panoramic Views 

Probably one of the best reasons to visit the sand dunes is for the incredible views. From the waves crashing against the shore to the expansive rolling dunes, this wild coastline is a visual feast. Time your trip for early morning or late afternoon when this breathtaking scenery takes on an enchanting mystical quality.
 

2. Affordable Eco-Adventure 

Accessible every day between 8am-4.30pm, including public holidays, a visit to the Park is a cost-friendly eco-adventure. The midday heat (11pm-2pm) can be intense and there is very little shade so plan your trip accordingly. Remember to slather on sunscreen, wear a hat, covered shoes and take loads of water before you head out. Your first stop should be the Visitor Centre where you can study the various trails or plan a guided tour with one of their knowledgeable rangers. If you’re a photographer chasing that magical light, you can also arrange to visit the Park outside opening hours at an additional cost. 
 

3. Unique Geology

You might be surprised to find a sprawling 360-acre sand dune system in Fiji, but that’s exactly what awaits at the point where the country’s longest river meets the sea. The Sigatoka Sand Dunes are a unique geological masterpiece sculpted by an intricate dance between natural forces - persistent river erosion, prevailing trade winds and powerful ocean currents. The ever-changing landscape will reward you with a new perspective each time you visit. 
 

4. Rich Cultural History 

Over the years, excavations have unearthed pottery shards, stone tools and even an ancient settlement site dating back 2600 years to Fiji’s Lapita-era ancestors. You’ll see evidence of this ancient past scattered throughout the dunes as primitive tools and pottery is uncovered by the wind and shifting sands. Many unearthed artifacts are also on display at the Fiji Museum in Suva.
 

5. A Haven for Bird Watchers & Naturalists 

Over 37 local and migratory bird species frequent the Park making it a paradise for bird watchers. Look carefully and you may spy 8 of the endemic birds here including the Fiji Bush Warbler, Fiji Goshawk, Many-colored Fruit Dove and the Fiji White-eye. Keen eyes will also spot the shy skinks, lizards, geckos, fruit bats, Fijian swallowtail butterflies and Pacific Boas that call this diverse ecosystem home.

6. Get Active 

A leisurely walk around the Dunes is a chance to offset some of the pool lounging and buffet binging that typically happens on holidays. You don’t need to be a fitness fanatic to tackle the Park trails as there’s a few options for every ability. There are 2 walking trails; a shorter hour-long walk over grassland and through the forest that’s perfect for birdwatching while the 2-hr walk combines the naturalists trail with dune climbing for spectacular views of the coastline.
 

7. A Place to Unplug  

The park is a tranquil retreat where you can easily unplug, soak in the serenity, and connect with nature. The rhythmic roar of the ocean, gentle wind rustling through the vegetation and the mesmerizing sight of sand crossing the vast, deserted dunes provides a sense of peace that is hard to match. 

8. Support Conservation Efforts 

Established in 1989 to protect its unique natural and cultural heritage, the Park is one of 9 National Heritage sites around the country, managed by the National Trust of Fiji. Your small entrance fee supports it's maintenance and ongoing conservation work. If you wish to suppport further, you can join the rangers in activities like tree planting, beach clean-ups, making tree huggers and teepees from natural debris or donating directly to the park's conservation work and environmental education program (Heritage in Young Hands).