14 Things to Do in Fiji on a Budget

1. Chase Waterfalls

 

Exploring Fiji’s spectacular waterfalls is an ideal way to spend a low-cost travel day. Most waterfalls are community-run and require a small entry fee. Check with your resort if they run regular waterfall tours otherwise the local bus and taxis are an affordable option if you’re splitting the ride between a few people. If you plan ahead, you should also pack a picnic lunch with snacks from a nearby supermarket (just be sure to take all rubbish back out with you). Consult this guide to Fiji’s best waterfalls for more information on a swimming hole near your resort.

 

2. Shop the Community Markets

 

Fiji’s colourful community markets are an absolute must-do for any budget travel itinerary if the timing aligns with your trip. Suva’s ROC Market comes to life on the 3rd Sunday of every month and the Vuda Beach Market at the First Landing Resort near Nadi is held on the 2nd Saturday each month. Both markets showcase a diverse array of local vendors selling handmade goods, delicious street food, fresh produce and more. Whether you want to window shop or treat yourself to something small to take home, these markets are an enjoyable way to spend a few hours.
 

3. Visit a Heritage Site

 

Heritage sites and National Parks are an inexpensive excursion that’ll introduce you to Fiji beyond the beautiful beaches. The Fiji Museum in Suva is a treasure trove of the nation’s past, offering low-cost admission and an impressive collection of archaeological artefacts. Alternatively, take a trip back in time with a visit to the best historical sites in Levuka, Fjii’s first capital and only UNESCO World Heritage site. And, if you’re staying along the Coral Coast, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes are well worth a visit for their natural beauty and ancient settlements, while the Momi Bay Historical Park offers history buffs an insight into Fiji’s WWII history.
 

4. Take a Hike

 

Hiking is one of the best activities for travellers trying to keep costs down. Many island resorts have a favourite (and free) peak hike nearby where their guests can go for the best sunrise and sunset pics. Otherwise, popular walks like the Colo-I-Suva Forest Park or Lavena Coastal Walk have a small entry fee that covers the upkeep of the trails and facilities and/or goes to the nearby villages, and you can sometimes pay a bit more for a local guide. Find out more about Fiji’s best walks and hikes in this helpful guide.
 

5. Get Amongst the Underwater World

 

Water babies will love the many mind-blowing snorkelling spots scattered throughout Fiji’s islands. You can snorkel right off the beach in regions like the Coral Coast on Viti Levu, Mamanuca and Yasawa islands or take a short boat ride to the rich, colourful outer reefs in other regions. Bring your own snorkelling gear from home to keep costs down or rent some from your hotel and spend your time discovering the vibrant marine life that lives just below the surface.
 

6. Taste Test Tropical Fruit

 

Do you know your soursop from your breadfruit? Introduce your palate to fresh tropical delights at a local produce market, the best ones are on Saturdays where you’ll find loads of variety and a buzzing atmosphere. And fruit isn’t the only thing on offer, you can also find unusual local foods like root crops, local spices and substantial cooked seafood packs full of fresh ocean-to-market delicacies.
 

7. Explore Urban Flavours

 

Consider yourself a foodie? There’s a whole world of Fijian cuisine to dive into if you know where to go. The urban areas of Suva, Nadi, Lautoka, Labasa, Savusavu and Sigatoka boast a melting pot of restaurants serving up dishes influenced by indigenous Fijian, Indian, Chinese and European flavours. One of the delights of eating at local restaurants is the affordability, you can get a hearty meal from as little as $10-20FJD, and even at fancier restaurants you’ll pay reasonable prices compared to tourist-heavy areas or resorts.
 

8. Soak in the Mud Pools

 

Pampering yourself is possible too if you unwind at the geothermal mud pools in Sabeto near Nadi. The Sabeto and Tifajek mud pools are usually included in Nadi sightseeing tours if you want to tack on other activities like the Garden of the Sleeping Giant or a village tour too, otherwise you can easily reach them by local bus or taxi.
 

9. Find a Local Event to Go

 

From sporting competitions to music festivals and cultural exhibits, Fiji’s got loads going on! Catch a rugby game, get amongst vibrant street parades or attend a local art show. Many local events offer entertainment for no or low cost. Check if your trip coincides with any big events on the Tourism Fiji website.
 

10. Hit the Beach

 

You can sunbathe on the golden sands of Fiji’s beaches without spending a cent. Most coastal resorts have their own beach access, but you’ll also find popular public beaches in Pacific Harbour and the Coral Coast. Keep costs low by bringing your own snorkelling gear, reef-safe sunblock from home, and some snacks for a DIY picnic lunch.

 

11. Take a Temple Tour

 

The colourful Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple in Nadi town is another must do. For a small entry fee, you can admire the intricate carvings, vivid colours and the monumental gopuram (entrance tower) on a self-guided tour or spend a bit more to get a local guide and learn about how Indian heritage has influenced modern-day Fiji. After the temple visit be sure to pop into Saravana Bhavan next door, a top-rated vegetarian restaurant serving up dosas, curries and vadas. Yum!
 

12. Mini Golf at Denarau

 

Whether you’re travelling with kiddos or just love some good ‘ole competition, mini golf is always great value and fun. Nestled luxury between the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club, and the Big Bula Waterpark, the Denarau Golf Centre & Mini Golf has an 18-hole course fit for all ages. Grab your club and pair up in a family group or channel your inner Tiger Woods and challenge your friends to a little playtime. Open daily.
 

13. Go Horseriding

 

Experience Fiji's beauty with a leisurely horseback ride along the beach. The best places to go horseback riding in Fiji are all Viti Levu and run by small community-based operators. Natadola is your go-to spot for beautiful beach views while Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi boasts amazing sunsets. And at Biausevu village on the Coral Coast, you can opt to ride a horse to the waterfall instead of walking the track. Affordable and memorable, these rustic horse rides are an excellent way to soak in Fiji's coastal charm.
 

14. Get Out on the Water

 

Soak up the sun, sea and a healthy dose of exercise when you explore the ocean and waterways by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Most coastal resorts offer these non- motorised water sports as a complimentary activity for their guests. The joy of exploration and the soothing, rhythmic paddling will also work wonders for your mental well-being. Plan these activities in the morning, before the wind, sun and waves pick up.