When most people think of Fiji, they immediately picture the stunning, crystal clear lagoons, beautiful resorts, and palm-laden, sandy beaches. However, if you’re looking for something beyond the mainstream experience, a truly spectacular way to discover the authentic heart of this tropical paradise is on a road trip across Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island.
Once you rent your car and start exploring at your leisure, you’ll stumble upon hidden villages, cultural sites, waterfalls, beaches, and warm welcomes that travel, coaching, and other typical packaged resort outposts won’t deliver on.
Why Take a Road Trip on Viti Levu?
Viti Levu is packed with experiences. The island is over 10,000 square kilometers and is roughly circular allowing it to be circumnavigated by Queens Road and Kings Road forming a loop.
It also has the capital city Suva, as well as the future international gateway city of Nadi. On top of that, it has coastal plains, sugarcane fields, volcanic mountains, and rainforests.
Driving around Viti Levu means you can:
- Explore and move at your own pace.
- Check out destinations that are off the beaten track.
- Interact with communities.
- Experience scenic drives through diverse landscapes.
Okay, let’s go!!
Day 1-2: Nadi to Coral Coast
You’ll start your route in Nadi, also the location of Fiji’s only international airport. Spend some time in Nadi Town (a few hours, or even a night) and visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, or check out the Nadi Handicraft Market to look for local crafts.
Once you’re ready, please head south on Queens Road through to the Coral Coast, a dreamy, reasonably laid-back stretch of coastal resorts, wonderful beaches, and cultural opportunities.
Highlights:
- Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its significant archaeological value and beautiful scenery.
- Kula Eco Park: Fiji’s only wildlife sanctuary where you can see native birds, reptiles, and plants. “Kula” is the Fijian word for “living.”
- Local Villages: Visit a traditional Fijian village and experience a meke dance and kava ceremony.
Spend one night at a Coral Coast resort or beachside guesthouse and be calmly surprised by this picturesque area.
Day 3-4: Coral Coast to Pacific Harbour and Suva
From the Coral Coast, travel Ques Road via Pacific Harbour, Fiji’s adventure capital – this is the land of the ill-priced, swim with sharks, whitewater raft on the Navua River, and experience a Zipline and more through a rainforest.
Pacific Harbour Must-Dos:
- Arts Village: An interactive cultural center where you can experience Fijian traditions and view live performances.
- Beqa Lagoon: A world-renowned diving destination.
After you are satisfied with your adrenaline rush, head to Suva the capital city of Fiji, where a colonial old-world feel meets modern city life. Stroll through the downtown historic district, visit the Fiji Museum, and indulge in a fantastic food scene with options for Indian curries, seafood, and fresh tropical fruit.
Pro-tip: Stay the night in Suva in order the enjoy the local nightlife and cultural vibe firsthand.
Day 5: Suva to Rakiraki (via Kings Road)
Depart Suva and take the less-frequented Kings Road north-westward. This segment of the journey will take you through the rural, undeveloped part of Fiji with sugarcane and river villages, and mountain passes.
You’re going to Rakiraki, a quiet town on the northern coast (also referred to as the gateway to the Suncoast), where you will find some of the best, uncrowded snorkeling and diving in Fiji.
Things to stop at in Rakiraki:
- Volivoli Beach – A relaxing and pleasant resort area with stunning reef systems.
- Nabalasere Waterfalls – A little off the main course, but highly suggest it at some point for a refreshing swim.
- Tavua Hills – An incredible hike with lots of views.
Stay the night in Rakiraki or the area of Volivoli Beach, so you can slow down and take in what’s going on around you, with local hospitality along the way.
Day 6-7: Rakiraki to Ba and Lautoka, Return to Nadi
In Ba:
- Ba is renowned for its strong Indo-Fijian community and sugar cane culture.
- Additionally, grab a cheap but tasty (and probably spicy) lunch at a local curry shop.
- You should then head to Ba Market for handicrafts or fresh produce if you have the urge to shop.
In Lautoka:
- Also in Lautoka, you can visit the Botanical Gardens and the Sugar Mill (the outside of it).
- If you have time, check out Vuda Marina, a really easy place to sit down and appreciate a drink whilst watching another sunset.
- Finally, kick back at First Landing Resort, where some believe the first Fijians set foot on these promising shores.
Are you ready to go?
Make AAAK Rentals your trusted partner for the journey. AAAK Rentals can ease your travels around Viti Levu, with reliable, well-kept operational vehicles and local knowledge.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you’re exploring the waters of Rakiraki snorkeling, imbibed in the hills of a village drinking kava, or capturing the first light bursting on the Coral Coast – there are rare moments of genuine connection and unintentional moments of discovery throughout Fiji on the drive to your destination.
