Fiji is sinking.
And whilst it’s unlikely you’re going to experience any Titanic-esque escape sequences, the Island is becoming less and less habitable every year.
Which is why now is a perfect time to go!
Fiji is home to thick rainforest, drastic and rugged hills, and water that makes skinny dipping extra extra risky. It is tropical island paradise, and will provide you with as much rest, relaxation and adventure as you need!
Alas, with so many awesome islands to choose from, working out where to stay in Fiji can be difficult, or confusing. However, just like Superman swooping in to save an undoubtedly feeble female character, my guide is here to extricate you from this troublesome predicament.
With all my top tips, you will be well-prepared for tackling a holiday in this amazing country, so let’s get stuck in!
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Fiji
- Where to stay in Fiji for your first time – The Yasawa Islands
- Where to stay in Fiji on a budget – Nadi
- The best area to stay in Fiji for nightlife – Suva
- The coolest place to stay in Fiji – Coral Coast
- Best neighbourhood in Fiji for families – Denarau
Not too fussed about where to stay but want a great stay? These are our top recommendations for places to stay while travelling in Fiji.
Best Airbnb in Fiji: Malaqereqere Villa
If you’re looking for stunning sunsets, impeccable beach vibes, and a whole lot of sauce, you will find it super tricky to beat this stunning Airbnb. With room for 6 guests, a pool that is tactfully carved into the landscape, and a lush garden that opens onto the beach, your stay won’t fail to be super comfy. Located on Fiji’s main Island, there is a fantastic kitchen, washing facilities, and the cold air thing.
Best Hostel in Fiji: Bluewater Lodge
As one of Fiji’s top hostels, the Bluewater Lodge hosts an awesome vibe, and is a fantastic place to start your Fiji adventure. Located just 10 minutes from the Airport and 2 minutes from the beach, there is no better set up to ease you into the country. When starting on the main Island, you can’t go wrong with a pool, chilled hostelmates, and great facilities.
Best Hotel in Fiji: Blue Lagoon Beach Resort Nacula Island
This exceptional resort is the best hotel in Fiji. It is in the Yasawa Islands and offers four-star accommodation, a private beach, an outdoor pool, and other great amenities. Rooms have air-conditioning, seating areas and comfortable beds. There’s also a great on-site restaurant.
The Yasawa Islands
The Yasawa Islands are an archipelago of 20 islands set northwest of the main island of Viti Levu. Although you won’t find any banks or shops here, the Yasawa Islands offers visitors a myriad of breathtaking sights and extraordinary natural beauty.
Nadi
Located on the main island of Viti Levu, Nadi is one of the busiest towns in Fiji. Home to the country’s international airport, Nadi is where most visitors will start or end their journeys.
Suva
Suva is the capital and largest city in Fiji. It is located on the southeastern coast of Viti Levu and is a hub for tourism, politics and commerce.
Coral Coast
Fiji’s Coral Coast is home to many resorts and high-end hotels. Since the coast is so pristine, and lengthy, there are an unbelievable number of great spots to hang out in. Think R&R, but wayyy nicer.
Denarau
Denarau is a man-made island situated just five kilometres from bustling Nadi. It’s the perfect destination for travellers keen to sit back, relax and enjoy the view.
Fiji is a picture-perfect postcard of paradise. This island nation in the South Pacific Ocean is known for its pristine white sand beaches, verdant jungles, laid-back atmosphere and generous helping of epic places to visit.
Viti Levu is the largest and most important island in Fiji and it’s where you’ll find the majority of its inhabitants. Set in the south is Suva, the capital city. Here you’ll find an excellent selection of bars, restaurants, cafes and pubs perfect for a lively night out.
North of Suva is Nadi. This port city is one of the busiest and most well-connected in Fiji. It’s a great base for travellers looking to island-hop and is host the Nadi airport, where you’ll likely fly in. It’s hard to miss off any great Fiji itinerary, because you kind of have to go here!
Coral Coast is located on the underbelly of Fiji’s main island. Not far from Pacific Harbour, Coral Coast is home to less concentrated accommodation and unspoilt coastline. If you’re looking to relax at a luxury hotel or pick up a drink at one of those sunset bars, this is the place to do it.
Just five kilometres northwest of Nadi is Denarau Island. A private and upscale area (even though Fiji is already quite expensive), Denarau is packed with luxury resorts and hotels, as well as shops, attractions and amenities. Because there’s so much to do, this is our number one pick for where to stay in Fiji as a Family.
Finally, the Yasawa Islands are a chain of islands north of Viti Levu. These islands have picture-perfect beaches and shimmering blue waters, which is why they make a great addition to any trip!
Fiji’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a look in more detail at the five best places in Fiji to stay. Whether you want one of those tasty beach houses or a scrappy hostel bed, I’ve got you covered.
#1 The Yasawa Islands – Where to Stay in Fiji for Your First Time
The Yasawa Islands are an archipelago of 20 islands located northwest of the main island of Viti Levu. Although you won’t find any banks or shops here, the Yasawa Islands offers visitors a myriad of breathtaking sights and extraordinary natural beauty.
It has remote beaches, blue lagoons, and lush jungles to explore.
Want to indulge in local cuisine? Well, look no further. The Yasawa Islands are home to a great selection of restaurants and café that serve fresh and delicious Fijian staples, like roti, cassava and taro.
Best Hostel in the Yasawa Islands: Barefoot Kuata Island
With palm trees, coral coast, and an unbeatable vibe, this hostel will make your stay in Fiji memorable as hell. There’s a bucketload of free activities on offer, including crab racing, basket weaving, kayaking and snorkelling. A poolside bar is perfect for chilling out and absorbing the atmosphere.
Best Hotel in the Yasawa Islands: Coconut Beach Resort
Coconut Beach Resort is an awesome option for Fiji accommodation. This hotel is the perfect base for sightseeing, diving, exploring or snorkelling. The resort has three rooms with a range of amenities. It also offers a sun deck, free wifi and room service.
Best Hotel in the Yasawa Islands: Blue Lagoon Beach Resort Nacula Island
This exceptional resort is the best hotel in Fiji. It is situated on Nacula Island and offers four-star accommodation, a private beach, an outdoor pool, and other great amenities. Rooms all have air-conditioning, seating areas and comfortable beds. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant.
Things to Do in the Yasawa Islands
- Delve deep into history and tradition by visiting the village of Bukama.
- Explore the spectacular Sawa-I-Lau Caves.
- Go snorkelling or scuba diving and explore the wonderful world beneath the waves.
- Head out on a day trip to the nearby Mamanuca Islands.
- Lace-up your boots and hike from one end of the island to the other.
- Lounge on the golden sands of pristine Champagne Beach.
- Sample fresh fruits and produce by visiting a Yasawa Island plantation.
- Take part in a Fijian kava ceremony.
- Visit Drawaqa Island, a beautiful paradise with coral gardens.
#2 Nadi – Where to Stay in Fiji on a Budget
Located on the main island of Viti Levu, Nadi is one of the busiest towns in Fiji. Home to the country’s international airport, Nadi is where most visitors will start or end their journeys.
Nadi is great for finding cheap accommodation. Dotted throughout the city are a high concentration of budget backpacker hostels, affordable hotels, and great-value home stays and rentals.
Best Airbnb in Nadi: Cosy Luxury Apartment
Taking Airbnb to an extra level of style and class is this fantastic Nadi apartment. Newly built, there are super modern facilities including pool and gym access. With room for up to 6 guests, it isn’t too expensive (per person), and there is a fantastic kitchen space.
Best Hostel in Nadi: Bluewater Lodge
Staying in Nadi is a great idea to get your bearings, and the Bluewater lodge has everything you could need to get off to a flying start! Only 10 minutes from the airport, and 2 minutes from the beach, this pool-boasting hostel will show you a wicked time!
Best Hotel in Nadi: Fiji Gateway Hotel
The Fiji Gateway Hotel offers relaxing four-star accommodation at an affordable price. It is situated in Nadi, the best neighbourhood in Fiji to stay in if you’re on a budget, and it is close to shops, cafes, the beach and bars. This hotel has tennis courts and a Jacuzzi, as well as a café and restaurant.
Best Hotel in Nadi: Aquarius On The Beach Nadi
This charming hotel is conveniently located in Nadi. It provides easy access throughout the island and is close to a myriad of activities and attractions. Rooms come complete with air conditioning and wireless internet. There’s also a coffee bar, restaurant and sun-deck.
Things to Do in Nadi
- Get ahold of your adventurous spirit and snorkel with sharks! This activity will have you truly buzzing, and comes with a safety briefing.
- Head to Tu’s Place to eat the best Kokoda in Fiji.
- Hike the Nausori Highlands and enjoy the views.
- Check out Tivua island by boat, and enjoy a BBQ lunch and hotel pick-up!
- Marvel at the unique and colourful Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple.
- Pick up fresh local fruits and veg at the Nadi Produce Market.
- Shop for souvenirs at the Nadi Handicraft Market.
- Soak in the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pools.
- Visit Navala, one of the most picturesque villages in Fiji.
- Wander through the lush Garden of the Sleeping Giant.
We’ve tested countless packs over the years, and now we’ve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag.
Want more deetz on why we love it so damn much? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
Learn More Now!#3 Suva – Where to Stay in Fiji for Nightlife
Suva is the capital and largest city in Fiji. It is located on the southeastern coast of Viti Levu and is a hub for tourism, politics and commerce. The city is also home to the tallest building in Fiji and you’ll find a variety of landmarks, museums, markets and shops.
It has a large number of bars, clubs and pubs, so is fantastic for night-life. From five-floor bars to cosy hidden gardens, you’ll be spoiled for choice in lively Suva.
Best Airbnb in Suva: Little studio all to yourself
Having a small home all to yourself after a night out can sometimes be a lifesaver. This tiny studio is in a quiet location, but the main area is close and in walking distance. You’ve got a kitchen, a nice outside area and an incredibly helpful and welcoming host. Previous guests absolutely loved this Airbnb and would highly recommend it.
Best Hostel in Suva: Rainforest Eco Lodge
The best thing about this stay is undoubtedly its location, in the middle of luscious rainforest! While facilities aren’t super modern, they are comfortable enough that you can really enjoy your surroundings, and there is still a pool to burn off the heat. It is one of the best eco resorts on Viti Levu.
Best Hotel in Suva: Quest Suva
A great location and spacious apartments – it’s no wonder we love this property. Situated in Suva, it allows for easy access to a range of popular attractions as well as bars and restaurants. Guests can enjoy amenities, including a fitness centre and laundry facilities.
Things to Do in Suva
- Drink, dance and enjoy a floating paradise at Cloud 9.
- Dance the night away at Traps Bar.
- Go for a swim in one of the natural pools in Colo-I-Suva.
- Grab a pint at O’Reilly’s Bar.
- Marvel the massive Sacred Heart Cathedral.
- Eat fresh and delicious seafood at Tiko’s Floating Restaurant.
- Dine on exquisite sushi at Daikoku Suva.
- Indulge in flavourful local cuisine at Governors.
- Shop for tropical fruits and vegetables at the Suva Municipal Market.
- Feast on mouthwatering lobster at Eden Bistro & Bar.
- Sip cocktails at the Down Under Pub Fiji.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Buy an eSIM!#4 Coral Coast- Coolest Place to Stay in Fiji
Fiji’s Coral Coast is home to many resorts and high-end hotels. Since the coast is so pristine, and lengthy, there are an unbelievable number of great spots to hang out in. Think R&R, but wayyy nicer.
Coral Coast is located between Nadi and Suva, so it can be an excellent base for splitting up the journey. If you’re journeying southwards, there is no cooler place to spend a few days.
Best Airbnb in Coral Coast: Villa Belo
This absolute style of a find is bound to impress. With fantastically friendly hosts, you have the run of your own spacious villa, and the option to get involved with local experiences. There is pool for you to enjoy, and you can even hire a boat to take you on fishing or snorkelling!
Best Hostel in Coral Coast: The Beachouse
With a free continental breakfast and use of sea kayaks, this resort/ hostel thing is an awesome place to spend a few nights. Dorms are relatively small at 6 beds, there is free wifi, and the menu is centred around locally sauced fruits and vegetables to give you a more authentic vibe. It’s also awesomely placed to help you explore the astounding surrounding nature!
Best Hotel in Coral Coast: Mango Bay Resort
Offering a lagoon shaped pool and massage services, if you fancy a place to relax, the Mango Bay Resort is it. This beautiful resort has a restaurant on site, and isn’t too far from pacific harbour, if you fancy a nosey round there. A mix of modern facilities and traditional decor give this resort the edge.
Things to Do in Coral Coast
- Get involved with river tubing Fiji, down the Navua river’s gentle rapids.
- Head out fishing by booking a fishing tour! There are plenty of companies out there that will support this venture all too keenly.
- Get your hiking boots out at Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, or maybe a sandboard would be better…
- See the fantastic Natadola beach, and relax on the glowing sands.
- The Naihehe Caves are a superb option for an explore, so get stuck in!
- Try glassblowing. Yes, you heard me, try and make some cool glass things! Can’t be that difficult, can it?
- Go surfing. There are some awesome waves on this side of the island, so get stuck into that if you can.
- Go on a Fijian cooking course, there are plenty available and you’ll learn a valuable set of skills!
Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the market’s leading filtered water bottle protecting your tum from all the waterborne nasties. PLUS, you save money and the environment!
Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle.
We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Cuba, and the results are in: it WORKS. Buy a Geopress: it’s the last water bottle you’ll ever buy.
Buy a Geopress! Read the Review#5 Denarau – Where to Stay in Fiji for Families
Denarau is a man-made island situated just five kilometres from bustling Nadi. It’s the perfect destination for travellers keen to sit back, relax and enjoy the view.
This neighbourhood is home to a high concentration of luxury resorts and hotels. It’s our top choice for families because it has excellent facilities and offers so many exciting and entertaining things to do. From water slides to zip lines, there’s lots of fun to be had in Denarau.
Want to explore more of Fiji? Well, you’re in luck! Denarau is an excellent jumping off point for exploring the outer islands, beaches and forests.
Best Airbnb in Denarau: Big family apartment
Visiting Fiji Islands with your family? Then your best choice for accommodation is this family Airbnb. The apartment can fit 4 people, is located in one of the friendliest and calmest areas, and has a lot of shops, activity options and restaurants around. You can enjoy the daily room service, beautiful outdoor area and a massive balcony. All in all, a great place for a family holiday!
Best Resort in Denarau: Radisson Blu Resort Fiji
This hotel is centrally located in Denarau, one of the best areas to stay in Fiji for families. It has modern rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms, and it’s in close proximity to the beach, bars and restaurants. This hotel has a variety of fun amenities, including water slides and an outdoor pool.
Best Hotel in Denarau: Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
The Sofitel in Denarau is one of our top picks for where to stay in Fiji with kids. Guests have private beach access and can enjoy the outdoor pool with waterslides, a sauna and a Jacuzzi. Rooms are relaxed and spacious, and each is well-equipped with modern amenities. It’s way better than most resorts.
Best Hotel in Denarau: Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa
This spectacular resort is one of the best places in Fiji to stay for families. It has an array of excellent activities and features, including seven swimming pools and waterslides, plus a kids club and pool. Rooms are stylish and modern with air conditioning, refrigerators and private terraces.
Things to Do in Denarau
- Dine on flavourful, sweet and savour fare at Chantara Thai Restaurant.
- Eat delicious Asian fare as you stare out at the sea at Maravu Restaurant & Bar.
- Feast on authentic Fijian fare at Nadina.
- Fly through the air above the trees on a zip line at Zip Fiji Nadi.
- Hop on a boat and enjoy an awesome Fijian day cruise to the Mamanuca Islands. Only reachable by boat, they offer some outrageous snorkelling and guaranteed adventure!
- Indulge in the delicious crepes at Ports O’ Call restaurant.
- Learn to make local favourites by taking a cooking class with Flavours of Fiji.
- Swim, splash, slide and play at Big Bula Water Park, the world’s largest permanent inflatable waterpark.
- Leave the kids at home and embark on a sunset dinner cruise, with live entertainment and the possibility of a lobster supper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Fiji
World Nomads’ mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently.
They’ve been doing it since 2002 – protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.
Get a quote below or read our in-depth review!
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
FAQs on Where to Stay in Fiji
Here’s what people usually ask us about where to stay in Fiji.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for paradise, Fiji is it! This stunning island nation offers visitors spectacular views, white sand beaches, glistening turquoise waters, and lush jungles.
Add in a lively nightlife, delicious food scene, and diverse culture, and it’s safe to say that Fiji is a world-class destination for travellers of all ages, interests and budgets.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best places to stay in Fiji. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap:
Bluewater Lodge is our favourite hostel because it has a great location, a friendly atmosphere, and its close to restaurants, shops and the beach.
Looking for a hotel? Blue Lagoon Beach Resort in the Yasawa Islands has an outdoor pool and air-conditioning four-star accommodations.
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
