Vacation Rentals in Fiji

Comprising 333 islands, the tropical island nation of Fiji packs a punch with its white sand beaches, blue lagoons, and verdant landscapes. Year-round warmth makes it an ideal destination for honeymooners, solo travelers, and families looking for an exotic escape. World-class dive sites and lush jungles will keep adventure seekers and photographers happy. But there’s museums, architecture, and culture too particularly in Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island that is home to the capital Suva and the port town of Nadi where the international airport lies. Vacation rentals on Holidu are the best way to discover Fiji

With over 300 islands, choosing accommodation in Fiji might seem daunting but Holidu’s selection of vacation rentals have you covered. Most properties come with high-speed Wi-Fi, heating, and air-conditioning, while others have outdoor pools and sunny terraces with sweeping ocean vistas. Vacation rentals with direct beach access are aplenty. Where you choose to stay depends on your taste and budget. For a taste of Fiji’s pulsating nightlife, spend a night or two at the capital city Suva. Affordable rentals can be found in the town of Nadi which is a good base for island-hopping. Families with kids prefer the man-made island of Denarau that has plenty of kid-friendly attractions and big-city creature comforts. Those looking to unplug from the urban rush should head to the Yasawa Islands (a group of 20 odd islands) renowned for their astounding natural beauty

A good starting point to understanding the island’s eventful history is at the Fiji Museum in Suva – it is the oldest museum in the South Pacific. Located inside Suva’s botanical gardens, the museum showcases artifacts dating back 3700 years. Also in Suva is the Sacred Heart Cathedral built in the 1800s by French missionaries. Check out the stained glass windows and crypt while here. The port town of Nadi boasts the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, a riot of colors in original Dravidian architecture. The intricate ceiling frescoes and wooden carvings of deities will please art and culture fiends. For something offbeat, consider the Wasavula Ceremonial Site on Vanua Levu island which has a bit of a cannibalistic history. Once there, look out for the sacred monolith, a cemetery, and the space once used for the rituals.

Fiji is a truly a slice of paradise as you’ll discover. A top attraction is the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a plantation that boasts over 2000 species of orchards and other tropical trees. South of Viti Levu is the serene island of Kadavu where you can dive off the Great Astrolabe barrier reef, hike through the Naikorokoro Cascades, and spot beautiful local birds such as the Shining Parrot. The dream-like Mamanuca Islands merit mention for its calm lagoons - perfect for jet skiing, and the world-famous Cloudbreak dive site – remember, Fiji is called the “Soft Coral Capital of the World." Finally, leave time for a jaunt to the Yasawa Islands whose biggest draw is the otherworldly saltwater caves at Sawa-i-Lau. The caves featured in the Hollywood cult classic, Blue Lagoon.

Fiji’s rich culinary heritage demands that you ditch the burgers and pizza while here. No meal is complete without the Fiji fish salad (kokoda) made from raw fish marinated in lime juices. Nama (also known as sea grapes) is a beautiful translucent green seaweed used in soups and stews, while the humble roti (flatbread) is usually eaten with vegetable or meat curries. The spicy fish suruwa curry is testament to the overarching Indo-Fijian influence on the island’s cuisine – it is best eaten with rice. The Chinese community has left its mark too going by the popularity of Fiji chop suey served at food courts and wayside stalls. For dessert, indulge in the decadent Cassava cake made from tapioca, and topped with butter and fruits.

Fiji’s festivals are second-to-none, and there’s something going on all year round. A top-rated event is the three-day Fiji International Jazz & Blues Festival that takes place each May in Port Denarau. July’s Bula Festival honors the island’s sacred traditions through a culmination of dance, music, art and local food. Celebrations go on until the early hours, and vacation rentals will need to be booked early. Fiji Day on October 10th marks the island’s independence from the British Empire, and colorful parades and parties are attended by locals and visitors alike. Next is Diwali, the Festival of Lights celebrated not just by the Indian diaspora but other communities as well. Traditional lamps are lit outside homes as friends and neighbors light fireworks and exchange sweets. Finally, don’t miss the unique Rising of the Balolo Festival where locals set out to fish for sea-worms (balolo) that are later cooked and shared with friends.

Hit the skies with a scenic helicopter flight particularly one that flies over the Mamanuca Group of Islands, and the Sleeping Giant Mountain Range. Expansive birds eye views of crystal blue waters, coral reefs, and powdery white beaches await along Fiji’s stunning archipelago.

Fiji’s surfing academies boast experienced instructors who offer both guided surfs and lessons to beginners eager to take on a new hobby. Small swells and long waves at Tavy Rights and Swimming Pools make them ideal for newbies.

A side trip from Nadi is the wonderfully relaxing Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool. The soft and slippery volcanic mud and mineral-laden thermal waters will do your skin wonders. Kids love it; and it makes for a fun photo op too!

Come watch these gentle giants play hide-and-seek in Fiji’s clear waters. The mantas are regularly spotted at Manta Reef at Kadavu, Somosomo Strait, and the Namena Marine Reserve. Consider a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the mantas with experienced guides.

Close your Fiji sojourn with a scenic cruise that sails past numerous islands and lagoons. Capture the sun going down in a blaze of glory, and then enjoy a lobster dinner as local entertainers bring Fiji’s oldest traditions to life with song and dance.