Fiji

Consisting of 300 islands, Fiji is a tiny country full of huge beauty and color. Known for its beaches, reefs, inland forests and its friendly people, this South Pacific archipelago is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The people of Fiji are among this destination’s most alluring attractions – they are as welcoming as they are laid back. Visitors will be infected with the slower pace of life demonstrated by the locals, who carry on the traditions and culture of their ancestors from centuries past. As the tourism capital of Fiji, the city of Nadi spills down from the lush tropical hillside in a colorful display of shops, hotels and cheerful houses. One can enjoy a horseback ride in the highlands, a deep sea fishing expedition on the water, or simply soak up the infectious smiles for which the locals are known.

The resorts of the Coral Coast are a welcoming respite from the bustle of Nadi. A restored sugar cane locomotive on the Coral Coast railway is a great way to discover the sights of this part of the island, while the bright coral reefs that jut out from the mainland like piano keys provide an alluring undersea diversion. The outer islands of Fiji offer some of the most intriguing destinations in this island chain. From resorts with over-water bungalows to secluded luxury hotels built on crystal blue lagoons, these islands are a favorite for families, honeymooners and anyone seeking an ultimate tropical escape.

Locations

Coral Coast

Named after the coral reefs that jut out into the sea like piano keys, the dry Coral Coast offers shelter from the driving rains of Suva and the crowds of Nadi. Creep along the scenic coastline using Queen's Road and watch the landscape ripen from cane fields dancing in the wind to blankets of thick forest. For a wilder ride, hop on the Coral Coast Railway and sit in a restored sugar cane locomotive as it takes you to the sights including the stunning Natadola Beach and the shopping town of Sigatoka. When the day dies down, take advantage of the resort amenities and enjoy an invigorating massage or a first-class meal in an open air dining room.

Mamanuca Islands

A chain of 20 islands near Nadi and Denarau, the Mamanucas are stunningly beautiful, emanating island paradise. Known as one of the most established resort areas in Fiji, the Mamanucas provide a stunning array of activities for all types of travelers. These islands offer parasailing, windsurfing, dolphin-watching, famous dives such as the Big W and Gotham City, some of the best surf breaks in the world, and just about any other activity you can do on or under water. Young or old, whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic vacation or a family holiday, there's an island for everyone.

Nadi

Sitting amongst sugar cane fields on the west coast, Nadi is Fiji's third largest city and its tourism capital. Once a small community of farmers and shopkeepers, Nadi has mushroomed into a thriving island metropolis. The main street, Queen's Road, is decorated with cheerful planter boxes and staff smile infectiously from restaurants and souvenir shops. Hotels trickle down the lush mountainside and a plethora of activities, ranging from horse riding in the Nausori Highlands to wrestling a marlin on a deep sea fishing expedition, await you. Crowning Queen's Road is the opulent Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, a spiritual sanctuary for Fiji's large Hindu population. To feel at one with nature, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, and be engulfed by acres of exotic orchards and native trees.