ABOUT THE CORAL COAST
Fiji’s Coral Coast is the sort of place you see pictures of and think that they must be photoshopped. But you’d be wrong – it’s just as beautiful in real life. Located just one or two hours’ drive from Nadi along Queens Road (depending on which Coral Coast resort you stay at), it’s a stretch of pristine beaches, open bays and crystal clear shoals between Nadi and Pacific Harbour.
Finding ways to spend your time along the Coral Coast isn’t difficult. There’s an abundance of activities, with everything from watersports, cruises, snorkelling and kayaking, through to jungle treks and river exploration. On top of that, there are heaps of options for accommodation, so no matter what your taste and budget, the Coral Coast is going to provide you with an incredible Fijian holiday.
TOP THINGS TO DO ON THE CORAL COAST
1. Kula Wild Adventure Park
The biggest, most diverse family fun park in Fiji is home to a nature walk through acres of forest with elevated boardwalks allowing exploration, from the valley floor to the forest canopy; Fiji’s only Roller-Coaster Zip Rail and Jungle Waterslide; and spectacular local bird, reptile and marine life. The 28-acre property is set in three valleys, with 12 acres of coastal forest open to visitors. Huge walk-through enclosures help put visitors inside the habitats of the resident parrots, doves, water birds and reptiles. Marine displays of ocean turtles, soft and hard coral and tropical fish provide a glimpse into the sensational marine world that surrounds the more than 300 islands of Fiji.
Location: Coral Coast, Viti Levu. Open seven days a week from 10am. Last entry at 4pm. F$50 (adults) and F$25 (children).
2. Sigatoka Sand Dunes
The Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park highlights Fiji’s natural beauty. The sandy expanse of hills and dips is a spectacular landscape to view, and an awesome place to stretch your legs. You can visit the dunes on your own, or with a walking tour, which will generally take around one hour. Just be sure that if it’s a hot day you visit before 11am or after 3pm.
Location: Coral Coast, Viti Levu.
3. Sigatoka River Safari
The Sigatoka River is the longest river on the main island of Viti Levu, running from the hills of the Navosa Province down to the sand dunes in Kulukulu, on the famous Coral Coast. The river provides locals with fresh water mussels (kai), fish, prawns and eels, and water for agriculture and drinking.
You’ll be collected from your resort in a mini-coach and transferred to Sigatoka Town. From there you’ll enjoy a 17km scenic cruise into the Sigatoka Valley, discovering the fertile area known as the “salad bowl” of Fiji.
After arriving at your departure point, surrounded by Fijian natural beauty, you begin your journey up the river, hearing stories about the history of the region. The water is so clear that the fish and rocks are visible.
A warm welcome from villagers awaits when you reach your destination. Sigatoka River Safari visits a different village every day to minimise the impact of tourism.
You will visit the village Chief’s bure (house) or community hall and take part in a kava ceremony, before a tour of the village and a traditional Fijian lunch, including wonderful fresh tropical fruit.
Location: Coral Coast, Viti Levu; Sigatoka River safari tours depart from about 8.45am. From F$135 (child) and F$269 (adult). Family packages available.
4. Visit a local bar with a view and watch the sunset while sipping an icy cocktail
Nothing says beach holiday like cool, colourful cocktails and a liquid gold sunset. Never will the term “no filter” be more relevant, and let’s be honest, you can’t visit Fiji without at least one Insta shot to make your friends back home turn green with envy. Fiji is home to numerous bars and restaurants and many have signature cocktails made from the finest liquors and fresh, local ingredients.
Location: Wherever the wind takes you.
5. Treat yourself and indulge in a Fijian Bobo massage
The traditional Fijian Bobo massage has been passed down through the generations. It’s a firm massage using a rich coconut oil blend to increase circulation, remove toxins and ease muscular aches and pains. Most Bobo massages apply warm poultices of medicinal herbs (such as Makita and Macou) to your main areas of tension. This powerful massage will put you in a trance and you’ll leave feeling lighter than ever.
Location: For the best, you’ll want a massage from the Bebe Spa at the Outrigger Fiji, Coral Coast.
6. Check the children into a kids’ club and savour some adult time
We know you love your kids, but we also know you love some downtime. Most resorts in Fiji offer a kids’ club providing fun Fiji facts and endless entertainment for your young ones. They’ll be in good hands, and it’ll provide you with the perfect opportunity to do a little bit of exploring on your own, or with that special someone. Just because you’re travelling with your family doesn’t mean romance goes totally out the door.
Location: Most Fijian resorts. Let us know if the kids’ club option is a priority when you’re booking accommodation.
7. Jump on a quad bike for a Go Dirty Tour
If you’re looking for an inland excursion, we recommend the Off-Road Cave Safari. During this half-day adventure you’ll cross the Sigatoka River and explore The Naihehe Caves, Fiji’s largest cave system. You’ll learn about the caves’ fascinating history and enjoy a Fijian barbecue. There’s even a wonderful swimming hole so you can take a dip. The very definition of the road less travelled and a true journey of discovery, a quad bike tour is one of the coolest ways to explore Fiji.
Location: Get transferred from a Coral Coast hotel. Quad bike tours start at F$149 (kids) and F$299 (adults).
8. Get spiritual
Depending on the island you decide to visit, many different retreats are available. The majority are designed to increase energy levels by improving mental and physical clarity. Such retreats are led by skilled yogis and natural health practitioners, and they’re a great way to relax and unwind, or do some soul searching. Alternately, visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami, the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of the few Hindu temples outside India to feature ancient Dravidian architecture. It’s a vibrant and intricately decorated place of worship, and is a great spot for photos, but just make sure you’re respectful — you can take pictures on the grounds, but refrain from taking them inside.
Location: The Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami is in Nadi, while yoga options are available across the islands.
9. Find yourself a quiet place with a hammock and get lost in a good book
For all the adventure and activities, the culture and cuisine, and the flora and fauna, sometimes nothing compares to kicking back. It’s your holiday, and putting your feet up and getting lost in a world of fact or fiction is just as valid a way to enjoy Fiji as any other. If escaping the grind of daily life is what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at one of the many beautiful beaches or luxury resorts of this island nation.
Location: Anywhere you drop your towel.
10. Food glorious food
Eat the seafood, the fruit, and virtually anything else that can or will be put on a plate. Fijian cuisine is an experience unto itself so try as much as you can!
Location: When it comes to food, Fiji is your oyster. Speaking of oysters, eat them too. From the markets to the fanciest restaurants on the island, culinary sensations are everywhere.