Best Known Regions

7
min
Best Known Regions: Denarau - Nadi - Wailoaloa

Introduction

Denarau 

From a day on the green, blissful spa body wraps and wild water park rides, Denarau Island truly has something for everyone.

Located on the water’s edge, Port Denarau is the bustling heartbeat of this tiny island. A quick trip aboard the Bula Bus gets you there fast leaving loads of time to track down a cute kaftan (and other holiday essentials) in the shops or indulge in a decadent spa facial. There’s also a great selection of restaurants offering tempting eats like sushi, burgers, spicy curries and succulent seafood platters.

Port Denarau Marina is also your gateway to the fabulous Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands and you’ll find ferries, water taxis, boat charters and cruise ships waiting to whisk you away to chill out at an island beach club, visit a floating bar or snorkel off secluded sandbars.

Denarau Must Do's

Wailoaloa

If you want to enjoy a coastal experience, a 10- minute taxi ride will take you to Wailoaloa beach which has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. If you do not plan to stay, you can still enjoy a meal or cold drink at any of the many eateries. In the late afternoon, enjoy a cocktail beachside while you take in a spectacular sunset. For a rush of adrenaline, a quick paddle on the SUP board or kayak is recommended.  

Nadi Town

If you’re heading to Fiji, it’s likely that Nadi will be your first (and last) stop. As the home of Fiji’s international airport, this multicultural town links Fiji to the world. It is also your transition port to other parts of Fiji. Whether you’re stopping off here at the start or end of your journey or staying nearby - there’s lots to explore in Nadi. The diverse range of accommodation options allows travellers numerous alternatives depending on budget and location required. Airport hotels are within walking distance. There are also self-contained hotel/apartment options for longer stays. Downtown Nadi, is your best bet for picking up local handicraft and holiday trinkets to haul home. Stop by the food market while you’re there fill up on fresh fruit at bargain prices. There are numerous authentic food joints along the Martintar and Namaka corridors to tantalize your appetite. You’ll discover that Nadi is the perfect place to start your holiday in Fiji.

Where?

There’s no boat ride necessary to get to this tiny island just outside Nadi town. Attached to the mainland by a short causeway, Denarau is a short 25-minute drive from Nadi Airport. Wailoaloa is only a 10-minute taxi ride from the international airport. Nadi town about a 20-minute taxi ride.

Location in Google Maps

How to get there?

  • Taxi
  • Rental Car
  • Public Bus
  • Private or Seat in Coach Transfer

Most resorts make airport pick-ups but public buses also run multiple times a day between the Airport and Denarau, Wailoaloa and Nadi town. Alternatively, you can also get taxis and hire car rentals at the airport or arrange a “Meet & Greet transfer” for your guests through your inbound tour operator. The trip will take approximately 20-25 minutes by car or taxi.

What?

What are the Top 5 “Things To Do” in the region? 

1. Visit Port Denarau 

You already know Port Denarau is the hearbeat of this tiny island.  Make sure you discover the restaurants, the shopping and the vibe of "The Port". There is even a nightly cultural perfomance, live bands and dining under the stars.  All easily accessible on the Bula Bus.

2. Play a round of golf

If golf’s your game, then Denarau’s palm-lined 18-hole course is a pretty great way to spend an afternoon. Designed by Eiichi Motobashi, the lush course boasts brilliant tropical views and resort style play ideal for all handicaps. Hire some clubs and hit the greens, tee off in the driving range or take advantage of the Club’s professional lessons to improve your swing. Afterwards, kick back with some mouth-watering woodfire pizza and chilled drinks at the Clubhouse.

3. Book a Daytrip to the Islands

Change up the scene with a day trip to the fabulous Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Port Denarau teems with daytrip options to these dreamy islands where white-sand beaches, crystal clear water and incredible snorkelling awaits. Bliss out at Cloud 9; sip curated cocktails at Malamala Beach Club or find bliss snorkelling off remote island beaches.

4. Visit Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple

This brightly coloured Hindu temple at the southern end of Nadi town is hard to miss. The pyramid shaped towers (typical of Dravidian architecture) are covered in elaborate carvings of warriors, kings and gods. For a small entry fee, you can join the guided tour which runs every 1/2hour between 8.30am – 3.00pm. It's holy ground so you’ll need to observe a few rules like dressing modestly and removing your shoes at the entrance. Please be aware that it is forbidden to take photos inside the temple.   Take as many photos of the exterior to remember this extraordinary site.

5. Vou Hub for Arts, Culture & Activities

Performed live in a big tent just outside Denarau, the Broadway style show ‘Fiji Untold’ is the beautiful portrayal of a little-known Fijian legend through contemporary dance.  ‘Fiji Untold’ traces the origins of the Fijian stick dance through a young noblewoman’s encounters with fantastical giants, octopus gods and shape-shifting iguanas.  The evening shows run 3 times a week from 8pm – 10pm so it’s the perfect fit for an after-dinner lull.  Resort transfers, light snacks and soft-drinks are included in the ticket cost.  Just ask about the transfer time when you book your tickets with your resort tour desk or with VOU Hub online.

Find out more things to do in Denarau here!

Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple

Did you know?

  • Several Denarau properties offer adults only ares for those not travelling with children.  Experience Sofitel Fiji's Waitui Beach Club, or Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa's Koro
  • Denarau is home to The Westin Denarau which was opened as The Regent of Fiji in 1975.  Currently being rebuilt, The Westin will re-open in 2026.
  • Wailoaloa Beach, once famous for backpacker accommodation, is emerging as the mainlands' newset spot to be - with Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa almost at completion, Ramada Suites, and more new resorts to come. A hot spot for local eateries too!
  • Vuda Marina is home to an exact replica of Fiji's last war canoe - known at Drua.  Sail on the iVola Sigavou - built to revive an almost forgotten tradition.

Why?

What are the Top 4 selling points for this region? 

  • Fiji’s one stop for integrated resort experiences. Home to global branded hotel chains including the Hilton, Sofitel, Westin, Sheraton and Radisson.
  • Port Denarau Marina complex offers great shopping, restaurants, entertainment and nightlife.
  • When staying at Denarau, change up the scene with a day trip to the fabulous Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Port Denarau teems with daytrip options to these dreamy islands where white-sand beaches, crystal clear water and incredible snorkelling awaits
  • The International Convention and Conference is located on Denarau so it’s a great location for any large-scale conference and events
  • If you want to mingle with the locals - Wailoaloa is your choice. 

More information here.

Denarau Must Do's

Who? 

  • Couples
  • Divers
  • Family
  • Golfers
  • Weddings
  • Cruise