Travel
Volunteer and Adventure

Top Things to Do for Adventure and Relaxation on Denarau Island, Fiji

Petrina Darrah

Posted: May 12, 2023

Denarau Island is a popular tourist destination in Fiji known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Denarau Island has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top things to do on Denarau Island and help you plan your dream vacation in this island paradise.

Hit the Beaches

Denarau Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Fiji. The island’s beaches are known for their soft white sand, clear blue waters, and stunning sunsets. Whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just relax in the sun, Denarau Island’s beaches have it all.

One of the most popular beaches on the island is Denarau Beach, which is located in front of the luxury resorts. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the views of the nearby islands. Nadi Bay Beach is another popular beach on the island, known for its calm waters and sandy beaches. This beach is perfect for families with young children who want to swim in the shallow waters.

For those looking for more adventure, Wailoaloa Beach is a great option. This beach is known for its strong winds and is a popular spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing. The beach also has several bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a cold drink or a bite to eat after a long day in the sun.

Explore the Outdoors

Denarau Island is surrounded by natural beauty, from lush vegetation to tropical fauna. There are plenty of outdoor activities to explore the island’s stunning scenery, including hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

One of the must-visit locations on the island is the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, which is home to more than 2,000 varieties of orchids and other tropical plants. The garden also has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of the island. The Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool is another popular outdoor attraction on the island. This natural hot spring is said to have therapeutic properties and is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

If you’re looking for an adventure, you can take a jet ski tour of the island or go on a parasailing excursion to see the island from a different perspective. Fishing charters and island-hopping tours are also available for those looking to explore the waters around the island.

Enjoy Water Sports

Water sports are a big part of the Denarau Island experience, and there are plenty of activities to choose from. Whether you want to surf the waves or take a leisurely boat ride, you’ll find plenty of options on the island.

Jetboards Fiji is a popular provider of water sports on the island. They offer a range of activities, including jet skiing, flyboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Adrenalin Fiji is another popular provider, offering activities such as parasailing, wakeboarding, and banana boat rides.

If you want to explore the waters around the island, SeaFiji offers fishing charters and island-hopping tours. You can also rent a boat or take a sunset cruise to see the island from a different perspective.

Indulge in Spa and Wellness

If you’re looking to relax and unwind, Denarau Island has plenty of luxurious spas and wellness centres to choose from. These spas offer a range of treatments and services to help you de-stress and rejuvenate.

One of the best spas on the island is the Heavenly Spa by Westin. This spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Thespa also has a sauna, steam room, and plunge pool for guests to enjoy.

Another popular wellness centre on the island is the Bebe Spa Sanctuary, located at the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort. This spa offers traditional Fijian treatments, including the Bobo massage and the Fijian sugar glow. The spa also has a beautiful outdoor setting, with private plunge pools and stunning views of the ocean.

Savour the Local Cuisine

Fijian cuisine is a fusion of Polynesian, Indian, and Chinese flavours, making it a unique culinary experience. Denarau Island has plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Fijian dishes, as well as international cuisine.

One of the best places to try local cuisine is the Nadina Authentic Fijian Restaurant, located at the Radisson Blu Resort. This restaurant serves traditional Fijian dishes, such as kokoda (a raw fish dish) and lovo (a traditional Fijian feast cooked in an underground oven).

For those looking for international cuisine, the Fish Bar at the Sheraton Fiji Resort is a great option. This restaurant serves fresh seafood, as well as international dishes such as pizzas and burgers. The restaurant also has stunning views of the ocean, making it the perfect place to enjoy a sunset dinner.

Experience the Fijian Culture

Fijian culture is rich in tradition and history, and Denarau Island offers plenty of opportunities to experience it firsthand. From cultural performances to traditional village visits, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the Fijian way of life.

One of the best ways to experience Fijian culture is through a traditional village visit. The village of Viseisei, located just a short drive from Denarau Island, is one of the oldest settlements in Fiji and offers a glimpse into the traditional Fijian way of life. Visitors can learn about Fijian customs and traditions, participate in traditional ceremonies, and enjoy a Fijian feast.

Another way to experience Fijian culture is through a cultural performance. The Fijian Cultural Centre, located at the Denarau Island Marina, offers daily cultural performances that showcase Fijian dance, music, and traditions.

Ready for More Adventure in Fiji? Try Volunteering with GVI

For those looking for a more adventurous and meaningful experience in Fiji, volunteering with GVI is a great option. GVI is a nonprofit organisation that offers volunteer programs in conservation and community development in Fiji.

Volunteers can choose to work on marine conservation projects, such as monitoring coral reefs and sea turtle populations, or community development projects, such as teaching English and supporting local schools. GVI also offers cultural immersion opportunities, including Fijian language lessons and traditional cooking classes.

Volunteering with GVI is not only a great way to give back to the local community and protect the environment, but it is also a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the Fijian culture and make lasting connections with locals and fellow volunteers from around the world. GVI offers flexible programs ranging from a few weeks to several months, making it accessible to anyone who wants to make a difference and have a memorable experience in Fiji.

In summary, Denarau Island is a true paradise for those looking for adventure and relaxation. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant outdoor activities, there is something for everyone on this island. Whether you want to hit the beach, explore the outdoors, enjoy water sports, indulge in spa and wellness, savour the local cuisine, or experience the Fijian culture, Denarau Island has it all. So pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime to this beautiful island paradise.

By Petrina Darrah

Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.

Speak to us about special offers

Get a grant of up to 80% on conservation programs!

are now available for conservation programs. Apply by 30 Nov to get up to gbp 5000 off.

Apply

what’s up next?

Raja Ampat: Indonesia’s Diving Paradise

Discover Raja Ampat, Indonesia's diving paradise in the Coral Triangle. Explore rich marine life, pristine waters and unique dive sites like Misool and Cape Kri.

GVI

Posted: July 10, 2024

Read the article