Fiji: Nadi

Nadi (pronounced “Nandi“) is on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, the main and largest island in Fiji.

Nadi is a transit point for other destinations in Fiji. It may not be such a great place to spend any time but you may find yourself here whilst awaiting ferries, boats to outer islands or planes to and from home.

If you do decide to stay in or around Nadi, make sure you are prepared to be approached by people trying to get you into their shop as you walk down the main street. These people aren’t threatening, but you do need to watch your valuables.

How To Get Around

There is a great local bus service at your disposal. Travel with the locals in open-air comfort for a fraction of the price of a hire car. All buses are marked on the front with the names of the two towns they travel between. If unsure, ask the driver.

If you are staying at the Nadi Bay Hotel, simply walk to the end of that road and catch the local bus heading right (towards Nadi Town). The buses run every 20 minutes or so, and are just 50 cents FJD one-way to town.

Taxis have their hometown printed on the front bumper, if they are travelling back home they are not allowed to charge more than the busfare.

You are able to barter with the taxi driver prior to the trip in order to get the price of your trip down before you leave to your destination, ask your hotel or research reasonable prices prior to your ride. The taxis can be flagged down, or found at taxi stands

It is recommended that you do not hire a personal car to take you around, simply for safety reasons.

Rental Cars are available through many known names such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Budget, etc. many can be found in the airport. You muust have a valid drivers license and be above the age of 25 (or 21 depending on the company) in order to rent a car. The average price is around F$100 per day.

What To See

Visit the Hindu Temple at the southern end of the main street of Nadi. It is the largest in the Pacific and is very colourful.

Visit the Wailoaloa Beach, at a 1/2 mile long the beach located in the northern area of Nadi. There are multiple beach clubs and resorts located on this stretch.

The Newtown Beach has public access as well, it is located about 10 minutes away from Nadi town by bus.

Visit the Nadi Garden of the Sleeping Giant. Originally started to make a place for the private collection of tropical orchids of Canadian actor Raymond Burr, this garden now houses many beautiful plants and trails for walking. It is open Monday-Saturday, entrance fee is F$10.

Things To Do

Hop on a local bus (FJD$2) to Lautoka and visit a real Fijian city away from the tourist eye. The bus terminates at the local markets, where you can buy tonnes of fresh produce.

From Thursday to Sunday, drop in to the Capricorn Hotel between Nadi airport and Nadi town at around 8pm. You can sit under the bungalow and listen to a wonderful group of Fijians playing traditional and modern songs on guitar, ukulele and keyboard. You may even be invited to try some of their kava drink (an experience in itself)! The Hotel also serves meals and there is a bar.

Hop on a ferry at Denarau Port and visit the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands right off the coast.

Visit the Nadi Town market, there are hand crafts, fruits, other produce, music, and much more!