9 Off-the-Beaten-Track Islands & Regions in Fiji

Viti Levu (Mainland)

1. Suva & Surrounds  

Suva – Fiji’s lively capital and the Pacific’s largest city – is the heartbeat of island life. More than just the hub of government and diplomatic agencies, it’s the perfect place to soak up local life. Wander bustling markets, sip coffee in a cosy café, catch a local fashion show or learn about Fiji’s fascinating history at the Fiji Museum. When you need a dose of nature, explore the rainforest trails and refreshing swimming holes at Colo-i-Suva Forest Park or take the 45-minute drive to Pacific Harbour for beaches and more adventures. Don’t forget to pick up some handmade Fijian crafts in the local markets before you leave the city. 

Why go? To soak up local life at local prices, shop markets, diverse cafes and restaurants, Fiji’s arts scene, museum and heritage sites. 
 

2. Suncoast  

Spanning Viti Levu’s western and northern coasts, the Suncoast’s rugged mountains, sugarcane fields and small towns and villages make life feel spacious and wonderfully laid back.  Lautoka City boasts a few business-friendly stays, restaurants and souvenir shops but most travellers head north to resorts in Rakiraki or out to Nananu-i-Ra and Dolphin Island for a more off-grid escape. The leisurely 2.5 hour drive north becomes part of the adventure with plenty of roadside snacks, delicious curry joints and scenic spots to pullover. And if you dive, the Bligh Water is one of the best dive regions in Fiji for soft corals and marine life. 

Why go? For gorgeous roadtrip views of moutains, farmland and coastal reefs, cultural connections, hiking, waterfalls and world-class diving in the Bligh Water off Rakiraki. 
 

3. Beqa  

Beqa island sits just off Pacific Harbour in southern Viti Levu with a handful of boutique resorts that cater to divers and romantics. It’s famous as the home of Fiji’s fire-walkers but there are also quiet beaches to picnic on, coral gardens to snorkle and some of Fiji’s best dive sites, including world-class shark dives if you’re feeling brave. Day-trippers can explore with Tropic Magic from Pacific Harbour or head out to the sandbank and nearby Yanuca Island.   

Why go? Cultural heritage, quiet island life, a must-dive Fiji region including world-class shark dives. 
 

Vanua Levu

5. Savusavu  

Savusavu is Vanua Levu’s hidden gem. Tucked into a natural harbour on the island’s southeast coast, it’s known for volcanic hot springs, boutique eco-resorts, and a thriving creative community. Snorkelling, diving, and sailing come naturally here, but the regions charm runs deeper. Expect rainforest walks, waterfall dips, small local markets, and a community of makers producing everything from traditonal handicraft to artisan chocolate and luminous pearl jewellery. 

Why go? Hot springs, snorkelling and diving, eco-resorts, waterfalls, the Salt Lake and creative community. 
 

6. Macuata  

Most travellers who visit Vanua Levu fly into Labasa on the island’s north coast, but many overlook the area’s hidden gems. The sugarcane town itself has a relaxed charm, with small hotels, restaurants renowned for their curries (try the crab or duck), the Damodar cinema and shopping hub with an excellent supermarket that’s an ideal spot to pick up supplies. Just offshore, the Great Sea Reef - one of the world’s longest - offers uncrowded snorkelling and diving which you can explore from Nukubati Island Resort.  Savusavu is a scenic two-hour drive through the mountains and is a great way to see more of Fiji’s second largest island. 

Why go? Diving the Great Sea Reef, local restaurants, cultural sites and rural landscapes. 
 

7. Taveuni  

Known as the “Garden Island,” Taveuni is a lush haven of rainforest, waterfalls, exotic birdlife, and hiking trails. The best of these are Waitavala, the Bouma Waterfalls or the Lavena Coastal Walk for a mix of jungle paths and picture perfect cascades. Offshore, the Rainbow Reef and Great White Wall offer snorkelling sites and soft-coral diving, making it one of Fiji’s premier dive destinations. Nearby, the islands of Qamea, Matagi, and Laucala entice with their pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and even a secret wave break for adventurous surfers. It’s an island escape that perfectly blends wild beauty, adventure and relaxation. 

Why go? Waterfalls, rainforest trails, soft-coral diving, blowholes, surfing, pearl farming and nearby island escapes. Resorts that cater to divers and luxury travellers. 
 

4. Kadavu  

This island in Fiji’s extreme south has almost no roads and is for travellers who really want to switch off. Its coastline is wrapped by the Great Astrolabe Reef, where dramatic drop-offs and pristine coral walls make snorkelling and diving unforgettable.  Inland, rainforest trails lead to hidden waterfalls, while birdwatchers can spot rare species. Surfers will love the uncrowded waves known only to local resorts.  Add deep-sea fishing and sea kayaking safaris and Kadavu becomes one of Fiji’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-path escapes in Fiji. 

Why go? Great Astrolabe Reef snorkelling, diving, fishing and surfing, sea-kayaking safaris, birdwathcing boutique dive resorts and authentic village life. 
 

8. Lomaiviti & Ovalau (Levuka)  

Located in central Fiji, Ovalau is home to Levuka, the country’s first British colonial capital. This UNESCO World Heritage town still wears its history with pride with wooden shopfronts, quaint stays, a quiet waterfront, and a laid-back vibe.  Explore historic buildings, visit small villages or hike ridges for sweeping views out to nearby islands. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, hop over to the islands like Leleuvia and Toberua, where boutique resorts and pristine reefs await. The region is a perfect detour for anyone who loves a mix of history, culture, and unhurried island life. 

Why go? UNESCO heritage town, colonial architecture, quiet coastal exploration, and cultural experiences. 
 

9. Lau Islands  

The Lau Group is Fiji at its most remote; a stunning chain of around 60 islands divided into northern and southern clusters. Beyond the luxe Kaibu Fiji Private Island, the best way to take it all in is by private yacht. Each island is a picture-perfect escape, but don’t miss Fulaga Lagoon or the Bay of Islands near Vanua Balavu; they’re straight out of a postcard.  The region is filled with limestone cliffs that tumble into turquoise lagoons and stunning beaches, deeply traditional villages and endless spots to snorkel, dive or fish. Like everywhere else in Fiji, you’ll need to pay your respects with a sevusevu ceremony to the local land-owning village before you explore this remote corner of Fiji. 

Why go? For true isolation, traditional culture, Fulaga Lagoon, Bay of Islands, private and superyacht charter haven.