Travel tips
Fiji for families: where to stay, what to do and when to go
Denarau, the Coral Coast or the islands? A practical guide for families flying from Australia.
By Traveljin Editorial Team · Updated · 2 min read
Quick answer
- May to October is the best time: drier, sunnier and less humid, with temperatures in the mid to high 20s°C.
- Denarau is easiest for short trips; the Coral Coast has more space and activities; the Mamanuca islands are the classic island-resort experience.
- Flights from Sydney and Brisbane to Nadi take about four hours, and Fiji is only one or two hours ahead of eastern Australia.
| Best months | May–October |
|---|---|
| Wet and cyclone season | November–April |
| Flight from Sydney or Brisbane | About 4 hours |
| Currency | Fijian dollar |
| Language | English widely spoken |
Where to stay
- Denarau Island: about 15–20 minutes from Nadi airport, with big resorts, a marina for island boat trips and restaurants. Great for a short trip or a first visit.
- The Coral Coast: about an hour or more south of Nadi along the Queens Road, with spacious resorts, reef lagoons and day trips such as the Sigatoka Sand Dunes.
- The Mamanuca Islands: reached by boat from Denarau, with small and large island resorts, white sand and snorkelling straight off the beach.
- Pacific Harbour, near Suva: for adventure, with river rafting and shark diving in Beqa Lagoon for older teens and adults.
Things to do with kids
- Snorkelling in resort lagoons, glass-bottom boat trips and island-hopping day cruises.
- The Garden of the Sleeping Giant near Nadi, famous for its orchids.
- Village visits and kava ceremonies, where children are warmly welcomed.
When to go
The dry season, from May to October, is the most comfortable and also busy during Australian school holidays in June to July and September to October. November to April is hotter, more humid and wetter, with a risk of tropical cyclones; prices are lower, but take out travel insurance and book flexible rates.
Practical tips
- Check Smartraveller for the latest advice and entry requirements before you travel.
- Pack reef shoes, rash vests and reef-safe sunscreen; the sun is strong year-round.
- Cover shoulders and knees and remove hats when visiting villages.
- Many resorts offer meal packages and kids' clubs; check the ages and hours before you book.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best part of Fiji for families?
Denarau and the Coral Coast are easiest for families, with big resorts and kids' clubs. Island resorts in the Mamanucas suit families wanting a classic beach-and-lagoon holiday.
When is cyclone season in Fiji?
November to April. Most days are still fine, but cyclones are possible, so choose flexible bookings and travel insurance.
How long is the flight from Australia to Fiji?
About four hours from Sydney or Brisbane to Nadi, and a little under five hours from Melbourne.
