By Denam Moore. This content is sponsored by Tourism Fiji.
Published: Tuesday, August 23, 2022
It’s never been easier to trade a chilly South Aussie winter for the warmth of island paradise, Fiji. In a matter of just five hours, you’ll be basking in sunshine thanks to a direct Fiji Airways flight from Adelaide to Nadi.
Once you’ve landed, there are five things you must experience whether you’re travelling with the family or enjoying a much-needed couples’ getaway.
1. Ride the rails at EcoTrax Fiji
A great way to explore Fiji is by bicycle, but EcoTrax don’t offer your usual pushbikes. Instead, they have a fleet of modified electric bicycle carriages (pictured above) that travel along a network of abandoned railways along Viti Levu’s Coral Coast.
The bikes have an accelerator, meaning pedalling is optional as you follow the track over river crossings and through rainforests and mangroves.
After an hour of exploring, there’s a stop at a secluded beach for a snorkel and swim before you head back to base. It’s a brilliant way for both couples and families to see all the scenery the island has to offer in one afternoon.
2. Explore crystal clear waters with South Sea Sailing
You can depart Port Denarau Marina daily for the Mamanuca Islands on South Sea Sailing’s new 78-foot catamaran, Sabre. If you’re looking for a day of relaxation and exploration, the Sabre is perfect way to do it.
Sink into a beanbag on the back of the boat while listening to good tunes and feel the sun’s rays warm your skin.
Pinch yourself as you sail past palm-tree laden beaches and stop at places like Malolo Sandbar, where you can spend a few hours snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking and soaking up the sunshine.
Selected drinks and a huge lunch spread prepared from fresh produce are also included.
3. Check out the Port Denarau Marina
Denarau – a man-made island described as the beating heart of Fiji tourism – is just 20 minutes from the Nadi International Airport. Here you’ll find Port Denarau Marina, which is the gateway to the outer islands.
Park yourself at one of the local cafés or restaurants and watch the yachts roll in as you contemplate which amazing day trip you want to take. So
ak in the sun, partake in some retail therapy or indulge in some fresh Fijian produce while you’re there.
The Port is also a great night spot for cocktails and food, only a short ride on the bula bus away from all of the Denarau hotels and resorts.
4. Head to Malolo Lailai Island (Musket Cove and Plantation)
While Port Denarau can be a hive of energy and activity, many visitors prefer a slower paced Fijian holiday.
If you really want to pump the brakes, you can take a 40-minute boat transfer to Malolo Lailai Island – home to serene island resorts like Musket Cove (for couples) and Plantation (for families).
Golf buggies are the main mode of transport on the island as you follow snaking paths to your private room or a beachfront restaurant. There’s also Plantation’s fantastic kid’s club where you can leave the little tackers for an hour or two in the care of the qualified hotel team. While the little ones have a blast, you can enjoy the island’s quiet beaches or sneak off for a relaxing couples massage
5. Spend a few hours floating on Cloud 9
One of Fiji’s most iconic bars can be found floating in the middle of the turquoise water just a 40-minute boat ride from Port Denarau.
Cloud 9 is the ultimate chill-out spot for couples or groups. It has a two-level bar where you can swim, snorkel, dance and sip on cocktails to your heart’s content.
Purchase a package which includes a return boat trip, $60 bar tab and six of the best hours of your life.
Take up one of the sun beds, breathe in the salty air and 360-degree views of the ocean. On deck, they also make some of the best woodfired pizza in Fiji. So, sit back, indulge and watch time pass by slowly, almost as slow as Ninja – the local turtle who can be found living his best life with the rest of the partygoers.