The Fijian Islands
Diversity, Beauty and Culture
The country of Fiji is made up of 322 islands that have risen from the waters of the South Pacific on the backs of massive volcanoes in an area now known as the Pacific Ring of Fire. The islands are anything but uniform as they vary in everything from size to rainfall to even being inhabited.
There are 10 regions that make up the Melanesian islands of Fiji; Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Nananu-i-Ra Island, Lomaiviti Islands, Lau Islands, Kadavu, Yasawa Islands, Mamanuca Islands, and Denarau Island.
Viti Levu is Fiji’s largest island and where the capital and largest city, Suva, can be found as well as the largest percent of the population. This will be the island that welcomes you to Fiji since the airport is located on the island in the city of Nadi.
Known affectionately as the airport town, Nadi is the third largest city in Fiji, and as can be expected Nadi is where visitors can the most facilities, shops, many hotels and resorts and surfing camps so you can hit the water right away.
Suva is decidedly the most modern of Fiji’s cities, however it’s also one of the oldest which makes for a unique blend of old world and new. Here is where many of the western world pleasures like dance clubs, book stores, and museums can be found, as well as the government buildings of Fiji. While there many people take advantage of the city tour, a great way to see the heart of Fiji.
Viti Levu is also where the Coral Coast can be found. As beautiful as it sounds, this regions offers cannibal cave exploration, a scenic train ride along the coast, and a number of resorts along with its amazing environment.
The Suncoast is on the opposite side of the main island covering the whole north coast. This area was given its name because of the lack of rainfall and constant sunlight it receives. This drier climate is perfect for growing the sugar cane that Fiji is so famous for.
The Suncoast is also where the famed Fiji water comes from that is enjoyed by so many Americans. The region of the south coast of Viti Levu is known as Pacific Harbor. Many resorts have been built here to take advantage of the excellent diving nearby, The Arts Village, and world class surfing spots.
Vanua Levu is the second largest island in Fiji is among the islands of the north. These islands are far different from the more developed and tourism driven island of Viti Levu. The appeal of Vanua Levu comes from its unspoiled nature.
Here the cities are smaller, Labasa in the north and Savusavu farther south. In Savusavu there are actually hot springs right along the harbors, rainforest reserves, diving, and pearl farm.
Taveuni is also among the islands in the north and is the third largest island in Fiji. Here the rainbow reefs offer some of Fiji’s most spectacular diving. It’s become a popular spot but the resorts are still on the smaller side lending to the touched feel of the north. Taveuni is known as the garden island because of the amazing waterfalls, thick rainforests, and Waitabu Marine Park.
If you’re looking for the resort experience where you can find all the comforts of home, relaxation, and pampering like you’ve never had then Denarau Island is the place for you. With grand hotels like the Hilton and Westin, more rooms can be found in Denarau than any other island. Visitors and residents enjoy championship golf courses, top of the line service, and some of the best dining in Fiji.
The group of small islands just west of Viti Levu is known as the Mamanuca Islands. These islands boast some of the most impressive beaches that are ringed by coral reefs that create vivid green patches throughout the shallower waters. The reefs protect the islands making for very calm waters perfect for diving, snorkeling, and boating.
At Fiji’s northwest lies the 20 odd islands that make up the Yasawa Islands. These islands are known for their tucked away lagoons and the towering volcanoes that gave birth to the islands. Among these islands authentic Fiji is found and visitors and residents have a variety of choices in their accommodations. People keep busy in Yasawa with sunset cruises, hiking, cave exploring, and kayaking.
The Lomaiviti Islands are right in the middle of Fiji, surrounded by other island groups on all sides. With just over 16,000 people calling the islands home visitors are given the chance to find their own secluded spot.
It’s in this region that Levuka, Fiji’s first capital, shows off its many land sites. Being the first capital, it was in Levuka that many institutions such as banks and schools were first built and they have preserved many of the colonial buildings giving visitors the chance to see a part of Fiji’s history.
In the far southwest of Fiji is the Kadavu group of islands. Kadavu is the fourth biggest island and one of its most popular destinations is the Great Astrolabe Reef and the rainforests.
Kadavu is one of the most rural islands which means amenities like roads aren’t always easy to find, but you’ll get to see Fiji the way locals see it. However, the preservation of more than 75% of the rainforest has made Kadavu most of the best spots in Fiji for taking in the wildlife and bird watching.
Interesting Fact
Luckily for American visitors the official language of Fiji is English. However, Fijian and Hindi are also widely spoken in the islands.