Two days in paradise: why Fiji is a perfect stopover destination

Fourteen hours is roughly how long it takes to jet across the Pacific between Sydney and LA. It’s a long stint on a plane and by the time you’re onto the third scroll of the movies, can feel like a flight that'll never end. But there is another option – a better one.

A stopover in Fiji is the perfect way to break up a trans-Pacific crossing, swapping recirculated air for the warm embrace of a tropical breeze and plating up more luxury and relaxation than any airline seat ever could (no matter how comfy it may be). 

Set your watch to 'Island Time'.
Likuliku Lagoon Resort

With 333 islands to be explored, most fringed by pristine beaches and bountiful coral reefs, and many even home to exclusive luxury resorts, there’s also no shortage of things to see and do. Getting there is near-effortless as well.

Fiji Airways offers direct flights between Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra and its Nadi hub. The airline’s Airbus A350 is arguably the finest way to make the trip, though the Boeing 737 is certainly worth considering.

Qantas and Virgin Australia have regular departures too.

Dive into relaxation with a stopover in paradise.
Six Senses Fiji

Add in non-stop connections to Los Angeles, Vancouver, and San Francisco, not to mention Hong Kong and Japan, and you have a stopover that’s both convenient and brimming with opportunities for adventure.

The locals are also among the most genuine people you’ll ever meet, with their infectious smiles and the warm ‘Bula!’ greeting echoing wherever you go. And the resorts? Just wait and see.

Island vibes in no time

Whether bound for the US or jetting back to Australia, a Fiji stopover just makes sense. After all, who doesn’t want to break up a flight by relaxing poolside with a cocktail in hand or feasting on fragrant kokoda ceviche?

Kokoda is made of deliciously fresh seafood cooked in lime juice and coconut milk.

The best part is it doesn’t take long for the island vibe – or ‘Fiji Time’, as they call it – to take hold. In fact, it begins only minutes after stepping off the plane, when the soothing sounds of Fijian singers and gently strummed guitars filter through the arrivals hall. 

Relaxation only amps up from there – or, rather, winds down.

Welcome drinks at Malamala Beach Club, just a short boat ride from Denarau.
Malamala Beach Club

Getting around Fiji is also a breeze. Once you’ve collected your bags, taxis are plentiful, hire cars readily available, and numerous resorts located within easy reach of the airport.

Where to stay in Fiji

For a two-day stopover it makes sense to base yourself near Nadi, rather than venturing further to the likes of the Mamanuca and Yasawa island chains, where you’d eat up most of your visit simply travelling to or from a resort.

Overwater indulgence awaits at the Marriott.
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay

Conveniently, there are some fabulous five star options in Denarau, only half an hour from the airport. Each is a complete hideaway brimming with locally-infused restaurants and bars, not to mention palm-fringed pools tailor-made for soaking up the sun.

Among them is Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, which sports a light and fresher aesthetic following a refurb early last year. It’s home to three great restaurants, along with a five-acre farm, championship golf course and a handy day spa for well-earned pampering.

Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is also a great option just down the road. A standout feature is the adults-only Waitui wing, which also encompasses a poolside restaurant and beach club. Sunset drinks at Suka Bar are essential too.

Private beach bure dining can also be arranged at the Sofitel.
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa

Guests at the Sofitel and Sheraton can also take advantage of Fiji Airways’ Resort Check-In, allowing you to drop bags and collect boarding passes for your flight (excluding the US).

Another Denarau favourite is the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji – built around a gorgeous central pool and home to six multicultural restaurants. Lomani Wai is arguably the most memorable of the bunch; its three-course menu served with water around your toes in the lagoon pool.

Further afield are the overwater bungalows of Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, about 50 minutes from Nadi, and the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort, roughly an hour away. The latter is set within 35 beautiful acres alongside the lapping waves of Natadola Beach.

Guests checked into a Club room also have access to the exclusive Club InterContinental.
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort

If you have your heart set on an island escape, the exquisite Likuliku Lagoon Resort – a short hop by air or sea – allows one night stays. Its overwater bures are divine, and sunset at its Fijiana restaurant is unforgettable. Nearby Six Senses Fiji has a two night minimum.

Whichever you choose, you’re in for a tropical treat – and you don’t even have to leave the resort. That said, you would be missing out if you didn’t.

Things to do in Fiji

When your fingers are pruned from the pool, muscles turned to jelly from massages, or you’re just in the mood for a little sightseeing, there’s plenty to see and do only a short distance from Denarau, both on land and at sea.

Find your slice of paradise at Tivua Island.
Captain Cook Cruises

Add in a splash of snorkelling or paddle boarding, maybe a little island hopping, plus some time getting to know the locals, and you have exactly what the doctor ordered.

Malamala Beach Club, perched on its own island some 25 minutes off the coast, delivers all of this and more. Fringed by reef, the circular island boasts a bar and restaurant plating up fresh island fare, along with an infinity pool and beach massage.

Alternate between the infinity pool and the warm waters surrounding the island.
Malamala Beach Club

Captain Cook Cruises’ day trip to Tivua is another fine choice, especially if you have limited time.

Departing Denarau on a tall ship or luxury cat, it skirts the coast and cuts through the sea to the nearby island, where beach hammocks, private cabanas and a myriad of water activities await. 

Those who want a taste of Fijian culture can also enjoy a host of activities on-island including weaving coconut fibres – the resulting ‘magimagi’ rope is regularly seen in traditional buildings – and a quintessential kava ceremony.

The kava ceremony is an integral part of Fijian culture; a way to build connection.
Tourism Fiji

Raising the stakes even higher, Island Hoppers offers a bird’s eye view of the jewel-like islands and crystal clear waters, with helicopter day trips to the likes of Castaway and Beachcomber, as well as romantic Tokoriki. 

Inclusive of transfers to and from Nadi International Airport, Hoppers’ packages range from private lunches beneath swaying palms through to your very own private island for a day. Short 20-30 minute scenic flights are also available.

Helicopter flights are a great way to cover more ground in a limited time.
Island Hoppers

Want more? A guided tour could be a good option, giving you a chance to kick back and soak up the view as you connect from one stellar experience to another. White water rafting, hiking and visits to local villages are just the start.

Where happiness comes naturally

No matter if it’s a quick trip or extended stay, Fiji is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. And how could it not? It’s not everyday you encounter a place where laughter, connection and contentment are more important than money and fame.

Fiji, where a stopover becomes the destination.
Six Senses Fiji

Add in an intricate tapestry of deep-rooted traditions and culture, including native Fijian, Indian and Polynesian, together with some genuinely breathtaking scenery to boot, and you really do have the perfect South Pacific stopover.

For more info or to start planning your trip, visit fiji.travel

This article was produced in collaboration with Tourism Fiji.