Fiji is a dream destination made up of over 333 tropical islands scattered across the South Pacific with just over 100 of them inhabited. Before travelling to Fiji for the first time, I had no idea how to even choose an island.
But knowing where to stay in Fiji can make or break your trip, whether you want honeymoon luxury, family fun, diving adventures or affordable relaxation.
Now after having spent time travelling Fiji multiple times across different islands, including the main island Viti Levu, I will break down the most popular areas to stay in Fiji, who they’re best for, things to do and my top hotel picks for each spot.
Fiji Budget: What to Expect
Personally, I recommend visiting Fiji if you have a bigger budget, because this is where the country truly shines: there are so many incredible luxury properties that are absolutely worth the splurge for the full island paradise experience.
For mid-range travellers, options are more limited, and you might find yourself paying close to luxury prices for accommodation that doesn’t fully meet expectations.
Budget stays are available, especially in the Yasawa Islands, but the quality can feel basic, often more like paying mid-range prices for a very simple or no-frills stay. In short: to really enjoy the best of what Fiji has to offer, a healthy budget goes a long way!
1. Denarau Island (& Nadi): Best for Convenience & Short Stays
Best for:
️ Resort lovers
️ Families wanting a hassle-free trip
️ Honeymooners who don’t want to travel far
️ Short-stay luxury without venturing far
If you’re arriving by international flight, Nadi is your gateway to Fiji and its islands. Denarau Island is a man-made island just 20 minutes from the airport. It’s often the first name that pops up when searching for where to stay in Fiji.
This small island is linked to the mainland by bridge and is home to most of the large resorts, world-class spas and golf courses. The Denarau marina is also the departure point for all island hopping trips to the outer islands.
Pro Tip: I wouldn’t recommend staying in Nadi itself if you’re after a true Fiji island experience. Nadi is best suited for budget travellers or those needing a quick overnight stop before heading to the outer islands. While it offers cultural sights like local markets and temples, the town itself is busy and the beaches are far from the white-sand tropical paradise you might expect!
What’s good about Denarau?
- Only 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport.
- Gated area with luxury hotels (like Hilton, Sofitel, Radisson Blu)
- Well-kept grounds, golf course, spas, and waterfront dining
- Easy departure point for island-hopping (most ferries leave from Denarau Marina).
Downsides to staying in Denarau
- Beaches are man-made or not as stunning as outer islands
- Feels very “built for tourists” and less authentic Fijian culture
- Expensive: meals, activities, and rooms priced for tourists
Things to do in Denarau
- Explore Port Denarau’s shops and restaurants
- Relax at your resort’s pool or beach
- Take a day trip to the nearby Mamanuca Islands (the closest island group to Nadi/Denarau)
- Visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and soak in the Sabeto Mud Pools (35-minute drive from Denarau Island)
Top Hotels in Denarau
($$$) Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa: Modern, luxurious, beachfront with a fantastic pool scene.
($$) Radisson Blu Resort Fiji: Family favourite with waterslides and a massive lagoon pool.
($) The Palms Denarau: Affordable, apartment-style stay right near the marina.
2. Mamanuca Islands: Best for Honeymoons & Island Paradise Vibes
Best for:
️ Couples and honeymooners
️ Luxury seekers
️ Island hopping adventures
The Mamanuca Islands are what Fiji postcards are made of — powdery beaches, swaying palms, and dazzling turquoise waters. These islands are easily reached by boat or seaplane from Nadi, making them perfect for short or luxury stays.
Things to do in the Mamanuca Islands
- Snorkelling and diving in crystal-clear lagoons
- Sunset cruises and romantic private experiences
- Island hopping adventures
- Relaxing on some of Fiji’s most famous beaches
- Visit the famous Cloud 9, Fiji’s floating beach club & bar
Top Hotels in the Mamanuca Islands
($$$) Six Senses Fiji: Eco-luxury resort offering private villas, wellness programs and perfect for honeymoons. Read my full resort review here.
($$) Castaway Island Resort: Family-friendly, laid-back luxury with stunning beaches.
($$) Tropica Island Resort: Tranquil adults-only retreat with infinity pool views.
3. Yasawa Islands: Best for Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Best for:
️ Adventure seekers
️ Couples
️ Budget-conscious visitors
️ Backpackers and solo travellers
Further afield than the Mamanucas, the Yasawa Islands offer untouched beauty and a slower pace. Ideal for travellers looking to explore traditional Fijian culture and natural wonders without the crowds.
Things to do in the Yasawa Islands
- Snorkel the famous Blue Lagoon
- Explore the Sawa-i-Lau caves
- Enjoy sea kayaking and paddleboarding
- Swim with Manta Rays (seasonal)
- Visit local villages
Top Hotels in the Yasawa Islands
($$) Blue Lagoon Beach Resort: Affordable beachfront resort with excellent snorkelling.
($$) Barefoot Manta Island Resort: Eco-friendly, known for seasonal manta ray snorkelling.
($) Octopus Resort: Affordable, vibrant vibe and fantastic diving nearby.
4. Coral Coast: Best for Families & Mid-Budget Resorts
Best for:
️ Couples and honeymooners
️ Families with kids
️ Beach lovers
️ Culture enthusiasts
Stretching along the southern coast of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, the Coral Coast is dotted with resorts that blend beach relaxation with easy access to cultural experiences and adventure.
Things to do along the Coral Coast
- Sigatoka River Safari adventure
- Visit Fijian villages
- Horseback riding along the beach
- Explore sand dunes at Sigatoka
Top Hotels on the Coral Coast
($$$) InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa: Luxury beachfront resort with a stunning stretch of Natadola Beach, world-class golf course, and excellent dining options. Read my full review of this resort.
($$) Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort: Beautiful setting, kids club, and cultural activities.
($) Fiji Hideaway Resort & Spa: Affordable, relaxed atmosphere on the beachfront.
5. Pacific Harbour & Beqa Lagoon: Best for Adventure & Diving
Best for:
️ Adventure junkies
️ Divers
️ Those wanting an uncrowded, wild Fiji
Known as Fiji’s “Adventure Capital,” Pacific Harbour offers thrills from land to sea. Think shark diving, white-water rafting, and jungle ziplines. Beqa Lagoon nearby is famous for world-class scuba diving.
Things to do in Pacific Harbour
- Shark diving at Beqa Lagoon
- Ziplining and jungle trekking
- White-water rafting trips
- Surfing or golf
Top Hotels in Pacific Harbour
($$$) Nanuku Resort: Luxury boutique stay with private villas and ocean views.
($$) Beqa Lagoon Resort: Located on Beqa Island, specializes in dive trips including shark encounters
($) The Pearl Resort: Affordable beachfront resort with diving and golf packages.
6. Taveuni Island: Best for Nature Lovers & Waterfalls
Best for:
️ Hikers and nature lovers
️ Divers
️ Off-the-beaten-path travellers
Nicknamed “The Garden Island,” Taveuni Island is lush, wild, and perfect for travellers wanting to explore Fiji’s natural beauty away from the crowds. It’s also home to the famous Rainbow Reef.
To reach Taveuni Island, you can take a domestic flight from Nadi or Suva, which lands at Matei Airport on Taveuni. Alternatively, there are ferry options from Suva.
Things to do in Tavenui Island
- Hike Bouma National Heritage Park
- Swim in the Tavoro Waterfalls
- Explore the Lavena Coastal Walk
- Dive the Rainbow Reef
Top Hotels in Tavenui
($$$) Taveuni Island Resort & Spa: Romantic luxury with spectacular views.
($$) Paradise Taveuni: Boutique resort perfect for diving.
($) Maravu Taveuni Lodge: Budget-friendly, laid-back, and great for backpackers.
FAQ: Where to Stay in Fiji
Is it worth staying on mainland Fiji?
While Denarau is convenient, especially for a short stay or an easy start to your trip, it’s not my top pick when it comes to Fiji’s best beaches. The sand and water here simply don’t compare to what you’ll find out on the islands. If you can, I highly recommend heading to the Mamanuca Islands, they’re close enough to the mainland but offer that true island paradise feel that makes Fiji so special. Otherwise, the Coral Coast is a good middle ground, where you can drive 1 to 1.5 hours from the airport to reach some much prettier beaches without needing to catch a boat or flight.
Which islands are best for couples?
If you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, the Mamanuca Islands are ideal for honeymooners and luxury seekers. Think private beachfront bungalows, white-sand beaches, and sunset cruises, perfect for unwinding and celebrating love in a tropical paradise. On the other hand, if you and your partner crave seclusion, adventure, and lush natural beauty, head to Taveuni. Known as Fiji’s Garden Island, Taveuni offers incredible hiking, waterfalls, and diving, which is perfect for couples who want to explore nature together and enjoy quiet, off-the-beaten-path moments away from the crowds.
How expensive is Fiji?
Fiji can suit a range of budgets, but overall it leans towards the pricier side, especially if you stay at luxury resorts or on the outer islands. High-end properties like those in the Mamanuca or Yasawa Islands (think overwater beachfront bungalows, private villas, and all-inclusive stays) can easily cost AUD $800–$2,000+ per night. Mid-range resorts on the mainland or Coral Coast are more affordable, with rooms starting around AUD $250–$500 per night. Budget travellers can find dorm beds or simple bure (bungalow) stays in the Yasawas from as low as AUD $50–$100 per night.
Activities like diving, island-hopping ferries and private tours also add up, but you can save by choosing package deals or sticking to free activities like snorkelling or hiking. Food and drinks at resorts tend to be expensive, so opting for meal-inclusive stays or venturing to local eateries on the mainland can help manage costs. Flights to Fiji can be reasonable from Australia and New Zealand, but add to the overall spend if you’re coming from farther afield.
Where to Stay in Fiji – Final Words
With its breathtaking landscapes and welcoming culture, Fiji and its islands offer endless ways to make your dream holiday come true, no matter if you’re here for relaxation, romance or adventure, there’s a perfect place for you to stay in Fiji.
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