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Captain Cook Cruises Fiji | Blog
With so much to discover, Fiji truly is a place for all ages. It’s a lush paradise with friendly locals, adventure, history, and tranquility.
A bucket list of things to do while you are there could quickly get out of hand. So to help you out, we’ve whittled it down to ten. If you have time for more – great! But if not, you can be assured a great Fiji experience with these ten must-do activities…
1. Hit the Beach
Let’s face it, a trip to Fiji wouldn’t be complete without lots of time spent at the beach. And with Fiji being made up of no less than 332 islands, there’s a lot of beach to discover.
The beaches of Fiji are spectacular and no matter which one you choose, expect a picture-perfect experience. Many beaches offer a range of activities, from windsurfing and dolphin watching to surfing and parasailing.
Some of Fiji’s most popular beaches include Natadola, Nanuya Lailai and Long Beach.
2. Chase Waterfalls
Nestled within some of the Fiji islands are some staggeringly beautiful waterfalls. Visit the wild and picturesque Tavoro Falls on Taveuni Island or be amazed by the spectacular set of waterfalls deep within the Bouma National Heritage Park. With the dense foliage serving as a backdrop, they create a serene setting, perfect for a secluded swim.
Wainibau Falls, also on Taveuni Island, lies at the end of the scenic 5km Lavena Coastal Walk. It doesn’t boast a tall drop, but what it lacks in height is made up in raw beauty.
Biausevu Falls on Viti Levu Island is easily accessible and while popular, the 20m waterfall slides down in two tiers providing viewers a number of great vantage points.
3. Visit Fiji Museum
The Fiji Museum is gives its visitors an in depth look into the country’s history and culture. A popular exhibit is the Ratu Finau (1913), a double hulled war canoe. Other attractions include an array of war clubs, rudders and even a display on former traditions of cannibalism.
After the museum, take a leisurely stroll around the green lawns of Thurston Gardens. This botanical garden is well maintained and you can relax under the shade of its many fig trees. It is here where the original village of Suva once stood.
4. Enjoy a Kava Ceremony
Usually consumed at ceremonies and auspicious gatherings, kava is a mildly narcotic drink made from mixing the powdered root of the pepper plant with water. The effect is a numb feeling around the mouth, lips and tongue, as well as a relaxed sensation.
For many Fijians, kava is a link to their ancestral past, so it is important to take the ceremony seriously. You’ll be invited to sit within a circle on the floor while a large bowl is placed in front of the leader. The plant is pounded, the pulp placed in a cloth sack and mixed with water in a tanoa bowl where it will turn brown. Although drinking Kava requires an acquired taste, it’s definitely worth experiencing this local tradition.
5. Visit a Village
Visiting a traditional Fijian village should be a top priority when you’re in the islands. As soon as you arrive at a village you will be greeted by excited little children. Village elders will also take the time to shake your hand and you’ll invariably receive offers of a meal or a longer stay.
You should understand and practice the local etiquette. Both men and women should dress conservatively and hats and sunglasses should be removed. Avoid visiting a village on a Sunday for religious reasons and on arrival, ask to see the Turanga Ni Koro or village headman and present him with a small gift. Other appreciated gifts include goods for the village school, books or toys.
6. Sip a Beer at Savusavu
Savusavu is a throwback town that highlights its past and importance to the country’s nautical history. Savusavu’s main drag is a shabby chic mix of cosmopolitan restaurants, second-hand shops, eclectic watering holes and bush markets. Home to two excellent marinas, the view from above is spectacular and is the perfect place to enjoy an ice cold beer.
7. Go Snorkelling or Diving
Fiji is known as the “soft coral capital of the world” and is home to the Great Astrolabe Reef – a network of brilliant coral reefs surrounding the 333 islands and atolls. Whether snorkelling or diving, Fiji offers a unique underwater experience.
Fiji’s coral reef expands more than 4,000 square miles and is home to over 1000 species of fish. Beyond the reef you can come face-to-face with grey reef sharks, hammerheads, silvertips and white tips. Go shark diving for an upclose look at these magnificent creatures or even go swimming with large Manta Rays around May to October.
8. Hop From One Island to the Next
Island hopping is what Fiji is all about and with around 13 of the 20 Yasawa Islands offering accommodation, each resort is different from the next. Visit several in a single day or scout through them at your own convenience.
9. Visit Levuka
The port town of Levuka was Fiji’s first colonial capital formed in 1874. Characteristically known for it’s small buildings set among fruit trees, it showcases influences from its indigenous population and its colonial past.
10. Go Hiking
The hilly terrain and lovely tropical scenery of Fiji provides excellent hiking for those wanting to discover the islands on foot. Make your way through diverse trails consisting of lush tropical rainforest, amazing mountains, unpolluted clear blue waters and incredible waterfalls. Explore Fijian flora and fauna up close, get to know the locals of the villages you cross and experience the wonder of Fiji’s national parks.
