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