Finalrentals

Finalrentals Blog

How Australians Can Create Unforgettable Memories in Fiji in Just 7 Days
All images used in this website, including all the blogs and blog section are created and obtained from a paid Canva Pro subscription. We do not intend to use any of this information commercially and it is solely for the purpose of knowledge and education of our visitors.

Published in Trips Category.

Discover Fiji Your Way in Just 7 Days

Fiji is famous for its sunny beaches and colourful coral reefs, but there's much more to see. Away from the coast, Australian travellers can explore lush rainforests, peaceful village life, and scenic coastal roads with stunning views. Travelling by car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop when something catches your eye, and experience parts of Fiji that many visitors miss. With the proper planning, a one-week road trip offers a rewarding and flexible way to see the islands. Here’s what comes next as you begin to shape your adventure!

Why a Seven-Day Self-Drive Holiday Works for Australians

Driving in Fiji is straightforward, especially on the main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Roads are sealed between towns; left-hand driving feels familiar; signage is clear, and the pace is unhurried. If you love unplanned stops, beach-hopping, or late-afternoon explorations, renting a car is ideal. Rather than relying on scheduled public transport, you’ll be in control, stopping for a coconut juice at a roadside stall, visiting village markets, or pausing whenever the light is perfect for photos.

Day 1: Welcome to Nadi and the First Island Drive

Your journey begins with your arrival in Nadi, Fiji’s primary entry point. Once through immigration and baggage claim, head to your rental car provider. Many local rentals are just minutes from the airport, making pickup easy and fast. Drive down Denarau Island Road and immediately see why Fiji’s resorts are world-famous. Palm-lined boulevards, calm lagoons, and luxury resorts sit alongside islands you can reach by boat.

Take your car to Port Denarau Marina for an early dinner at boardwalk restaurants or a beachfront café. Arrive early enough for a sunset stroll, and rest well—tomorrow starts your coastal adventure. Return to the marina area, or choose accommodation in Nadi town if you prefer budget-friendly guesthouses. If you arrive late, a short drive to the Coral Coast is still manageable.

Day 2: Natadola Beach and Sigatoka Valley

Wake up early for your first full drive along the Coral Coast. The first stop is Natadola Beach, often listed among Fiji’s best. This long, curved bay offers turquoise water, gentle surf, and few crowds. It’s perfect for a relaxed morning swim, and there are small kiosks for coconut water or lunch. Continue east to Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, where you can explore ancient archaeological middens or walk along sandy ridges overlooking the sea. Nearby Steam Paddy shops offer freshly cooked bread and local sweets.

In the late afternoon, join a Sigatoka River Safari. Drift along the wide river, visit traditional villages, ride on rafts, and stop at small farms. Your guide will explain Fijian customs and local stories—an excellent introduction to island culture. Spend the night in a Sigatoka boutique hotel or eco-lodge. Enjoy dosa, roti shops, or local Fijian delicacies before turning in early.

Day 3: Lautoka, Sabeto Valley and Orchid Gardens

Head northwest toward Lautoka, Fiji’s “Sugar City” and stop at the Lautoka market for fresh fruit and snacks. A short drive away, the Sabeto Valley Hot Springs and Mud Pool offers an earthy and fun experience where locals and tourists bathe in mineral-rich mud before rinsing off in natural springs.

After a relaxing morning, travel north to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, near Nadi. This orchid sanctuary was originally the private collection of actor Raymond Burr. Now it spans 20 hectares with walking trails, ponds, and thousands of orchids. Pause for a snack in the garden café. Drive up to the highland town of Nadi Highlands, where the evenings are cooler. Choose a forest lodge or mountain bungalow and experience a quieter, more peaceful side of Fiji.

Day 4: Suva and Colo‑i‑Suva Forest Park

Return to Nadi and take the Suva Highway towards the capital. Your destination is Suva, Fiji’s lively city. On arrival, visit the Fiji Museum in Thurston Gardens for a brief history lesson about cannibal chiefs, colonialism, and independence. Wander the colonial-era architecture along Fergusson Street.

For lunch, try kokoda, Fijian ceviche made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and lime, served with cassava chips in a local café. Next, drive to Colo‑i‑Suva Forest Park situated just outside Suva. There, you can hike to hidden waterfalls, bathe in pools, and enjoy a jungle picnic on leafy forest trails. Stay in Suva or nearby to sample city life and Tongan-Fijian snack bars. Tomorrow is back to beaches.

Day 5: Pacific Harbour Adventure

Travel south to Pacific Harbour, known as Fiji’s adventure capital. Nestled between hills and sea, it offers river rafting, zip lines, and shark-watching boat trips. Begin your morning with a calm rafting experience on the Navua River, with views of rainforest canopies and small waterfalls.

In the afternoon, head to Kula Wild Adventure Park, a wildlife sanctuary home to iguanas, tropical birds, and koi ponds. You can feed the iguanas, interact with friendly birds, and learn about efforts to protect endangered pirate parrots. There's also a swimming pool where you can cool off and relax. In the evening, enjoy dinner by the harbour with views of the boats. Pacific Harbour offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to family-friendly stays, making it a comfortable place to rest before the next day’s adventures.

Day 6: Mamanuca Islands

Drive toward Nadi again with a midday stop. Later in the day, take a short boat trip to the Mamanuca Islands. Popular spots like Castaway Island or Malolo Lailai are ideal for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours. After a day on the road, a few relaxing hours on white sandy beaches with vibrant reef views are well worth it. In the late afternoon, return to the mainland near Nadi and enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant.

Day 7: Taveuni or Coral Coast Revisited

On your final day, choose the pace. You can either revisit the Coral Coast—going back to Natadola or Paia—and relax on the beach or if your schedule allows, drive north to Ba and take a short flight or ferry to Taveuni (‘Garden Island’) to complete Fiji with waterfalls and volcanic hiking, before flying out via an internal flight to Nadi. If time is tight, stay on the Coral Coast, enjoy one more swim, and slowly drive to Nadi. Return your rental car by early evening, allowing time for a final dinner in town or the airport area.

Rent a Car in Fiji

Renting a car is a simple and flexible way to explore the islands at your own pace. With services like Finalrentals, travellers can enjoy a smooth start to their journey—whether you're planning coastal drives, forest adventures, or mountain routes. Here's what to expect when you booking a car in Fiji:

  1. Convenient pickup locations: Choose your rental car in Nadi or Pacific Harbour. Options include compact sedans for the coast and rugged 4×4 SUVs for forest trails.
  2. Inclusive daily rates: Finalrentals provides basic insurance and roadside assistance. Booking is instant, with free cancellation up to 48 hours before collection.
  3. Easy requirements for Australians: Rent a car using your Australian licence and passport. The process is straightforward, and support is available throughout your trip.
  4. Well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles: Cars are clean, reliable, and fuelled fairly at pickup. Return them with the same fuel level to avoid extra charges.
  5. Helpful driving guides and support: Finalrentals offers English-language support and driving tips. Get updates on weather, potholes, and wildlife crossings.
  6. Roomier vehicle upgrades: Larger SUVs and hybrids give you space for snorkelling gear or beach bags. All vehicles are suited to Fiji’s road conditions.
  7. Freedom to explore your way: Renting a car means no timetables or crowded buses. Stop when you want, go where you like, and enjoy a trip tailored to your pace.

When you’re ready, rent a car with Finalrentals and begin your journey on your own terms.

Smart Tips for the Road

Road Safety and Driving Advice

Driving in Fiji is generally straightforward, especially on main roads, but it’s important to stay alert and follow local norms—especially when venturing into rural areas. Here are key road safety tips to help you travel with confidence:

  • Watch for narrow or uneven roads: Some rural roads have potholes or one-lane bridges. Drive slowly and be alert for mopeds, animals, and villagers along the way.
  • Stick to safe speeds: Travel below the posted limit on unfamiliar roads. Drive at a speed that lets you respond to unexpected conditions comfortably.
  • Always buckle up: Seatbelts are a must for everyone in the vehicle. Make sure all passengers are securely strapped in before setting off.
  • Keep your tank topped up: Petrol is easy to find in towns, but stations are rare in remote areas. Refill often to avoid running low on long drives.
  • Avoid night driving in remote areas: Rural roads may not be lit, and animals often cross at night. Stick to daylight hours when driving outside major towns.
  • Local driving habits are relaxed: Fijian drivers are courteous. Honking is friendly, not aggressive, and signalling is important before overtaking or turning.
  • Stay informed during wet season: Rain can cause delays or landslides. Community bulletins often post updates, so check before heading out in bad weather.
  • Enjoy peace of mind with support: Finalrentals includes 24-hour breakdown cover and roadside assistance. If you rent a car in Fiji, help is always close by.

Best Time to Travel in Fiji

Fiji enjoys a tropical climate with clear seasons. The most pleasant travel window is between May and October when skies are clear, humidity is lower and rain is minimal. This is also when surf breaks and snorkelling conditions are ideal. From November to April, Fiji experiences hotter temperatures and more frequent rainfall.

Cyclone season is at its peak between January and March, so if you're planning to drive along the coast during this time, be sure to check weather updates regularly. March and April tend to be less busy with tourists, making it a good time to find better deals on accommodation. Regardless of when you visit, always pack insect repellent and sunblock to stay safe and comfortable.

Packing Tips for a Fiji Road Trip

Packing for a road trip in Fiji means preparing for both tropical heat and the occasional cool evening. Whether you’re staying by the beach or heading into the highlands, here’s what to bring to stay comfortable, respectful, and ready for adventure:

  • Pack lightweight clothing for warm days: Cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses will keep you cool. The climate is humid, so breathable fabrics are ideal.
  • Include layers for cooler evenings: Rainforest and highland areas can cool off at night. A fleece or light jumper will keep you comfortable.
  • Bring a rain jacket during the wet season: Showers can be sudden and heavy. A compact waterproof layer is useful even on short drives.
  • Add essentials for sun and walking: Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sturdy shoes for hikes, and flip-flops for the beach. You’ll likely need all three.
  • Choose reef-safe sun cream and insect repellent: These protect the environment and your skin. Offering them to local hosts is a thoughtful gesture.
  • Bring your own snorkelling gear if preferred: You can hire equipment locally, but your own set ensures comfort and hygiene.
  • Stay connected and carry cash: Fully charged phones with offline maps help in rural areas. Carry some Fiji dollars, as card machines can be scarce.

Ready to Begin?

Adventure awaits. With easy online booking, reliable vehicles, and friendly local support, renting a car in Fiji through Finalrentals ensures a smooth and unforgettable trip. So, start packing and make every day of your holiday truly your own. If you’d like printable maps or detailed cultural tips for any part of your journey, I’m here to help personalise your experience.