Backpacker's Top Spots in Fiji

1. Taveuni Island

 

 

Taveuni is a major drawcard for enthusiastic divers, adventurous backpackers and for those who seek to reconnect with the environment. It’s known as the ‘Garden Island’ for its dense tropical greenery and sublime scenery. 

Here you can find stunning secluded beaches, hiking trails and meet friendly locals. Explore the Lavena Coastal Walk – a gentle 6 kilometre trek spliced with picturesque waterfalls and rock pools. Or hike through the Bouma National Heritage Park, passing some of Fiji’s most picturesque waterfalls. The world-famous Rainbow Reef is located within the Somosomo Strait, a short boat ride from Taveuni.

Learn more about Taveuni

2. Coral Coast

The Coral Coast has 80 kilometres of gorgeous beaches and rolling green hills. This pretty region is understandably a popular destination for backpackers visiting Fiji. 

There are top notch coral reefs to explore right off the beach, delicious fresh produce at the roadside market stalls, friendly waves to surf and plenty of lovely, isolated bays to discover. There are awesome boutique backpacker lodgings dotted along the way and even a few unique homestay options too. Transport is affordable, and we suggest taking a local open-air bus to really experience an authentic Coral Coast escape. A must see is the Sigatoka River and local villages.

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3. Suva and Surrounds

 

Suva is the largest city in the entire South Pacific and the capital of Fiji. Here you will find yourself in a vibrant city filled with historic pockets and a host of beautiful natural reserves. Be sure to check out Cummings Street, a haven of colourful rustic buildings and a buzzing shopping district. The Fiji Museum is well worth visiting with its historical artefacts, maritime relics and interactive exhibitions. If you are keen to get off the beaten track, take the scenic bus trip to Colo-i- Suva Forest Park and admire the superb rainforest, bountiful swimming holes, blooming orchids and an abundance of birdlife. There’s no shortage of friendly budget backpacker dorms in Suva. Same goes for affordable and delicious local cuisine and exotic eats.

Did we mention a secret local surf break? Find boats at the Suva Yacht Club to take you out. You will be stoked!

Learn more about Suva

4. Pacific Harbour 

 

Base yourself in Pacific Harbour and get ready for some fun! This area is known as the adventure capital of Fiji, and is the gateway to Beqa Island, home of Fijis famous firewalkers. You will quickly discover there is plenty to do. Activities such as jet ski tours, white water rafting, river tubing, ziplining, surfing, game fishing, hiking and some of Fiji’s best diving are all on offer here. Beqa Lagoon is one of the few places on the planet that offers guided shark dives. Beqa’s translucent blue lagoon is a glorious underwater world teeming with marine life too! 

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5. The Mamanuca Islands

 

Backpacking the Mamanuca Islands can be affordable if you know where to look. Research options on Bounty Island or South Sea Island or even Malolo Island for shared beachfront dorm rooms and eco-inspired bures.  Beachcomber Island is a haven for international visitors and has a reputation as the Mamanuca Islands most popular party spot! 

Day cruises are a highly recommended option for those seeking that island experience. South Sea Island is the perfect location to visit. This small island guarantees you lots of fun in the sun with its all-inclusive day tour. Bounty Island is another gem that is well worth a day trip too! If capturing that envious instasnap is what you are after, there is no better place to visit than Monuriki - the island made famous by Cast Away, the movie starring Tom Hanks.

Cloud 9 is a floating pontoon bar, complete with live DJ tunes and tasty wood fired pizzas. Book a day trip out here if you’re keen to experience a unique island-style party. The diving, snorkelling and surf spots throughout this region are absolutely world class and not to be missed. Did we mention this is the home of Cloudbreak, voted one of the world’s top surf spots? Make your Mamanuca Islands backpacking adventure happen - you only live once! 

Learn more about the Mamanuca Islands

6. Savusavu and Surrounds

 

Savusavu is ‘the hidden paradise of Fiji’. Located on Vanua Levu’s south coast, this charming former trading port is full of eclectic bars, rustic homestyle cottages and unique coastal hideaways. There are two excellent marinas which are frequented by locals and interesting yachties. Be sure to check out Savusavu’s geothermal hot springs, spectacular diving sites and the rare and highly coveted Savusavu pearls. 

Mid-range and budget backpacker accommodation options are available in Savusavu.

Learn more about Vanua Levu

7. The Yasawa Islands

 

The Yasawa Islands are considered one of Fiji’s prime backpacking and island-hopping regions. The boutique backpacker lodgings scattered throughout the islands are absolute, unadulterated, beachfront paradise! It is worth every dime!

The dramatic land and seascapes were formed by (now dormant) volcanic activity. Popular activities here include snorkelling with manta rays, diving and swimming in the famed limestone pools of the Sawa-i-lau Caves. Traditional Fijian culture is evident everywhere in the Yasawa Islands, with lots of opportunities to visit traditional Fijian villages. The Yasawas are truly heavenly. 

Learn more about the Yasawa Islands