Fiji guide · Where to stay
Nadi vs Denarau vs the Coral Coast: where should you stay?
Most visitors land at Nadi International Airport and stay on the west side of Viti Levu or out on the islands. Here is how the main areas compare.
| Nadi & Wailoaloa | Denarau Island | Coral Coast | Islands | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| From the airport | 5–15 min | 20–25 min | 45 min – 1.5 hrs | Boat or helicopter |
| Airport transfer | from FJ$35 | from FJ$45 | from FJ$154 | from about FJ$137 |
| Beaches | Wailoaloa beach, not for snorkelling | Resort beaches, darker sand | Lagoons and reefs | White sand, clear water |
| Best for | Short stays, budgets, first or last night | Families, restaurants, island day trips | Big resorts, culture, waterfalls | The classic Fiji island holiday |
Nadi and Wailoaloa
The cheapest and most convenient base, close to the airport, markets and Nadi town. Ideal before or after a flight. Try Nalagi Hotel or Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay. Transfers from FJ$35.
Denarau Island
Fiji’s resort hub, with large hotels, a golf course and Port Denarau Marina, where most island day cruises leave. Great if you want lots of day trips. Transfers from FJ$45.
The Coral Coast
The south coast of Viti Levu, with resorts on lagoons, waterfalls, villages and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. Further from the airport, but you never need a boat. Transfers from FJ$198.
The islands
The Mamanuca and Yasawa islands are the postcard Fiji: small islands, white sand and snorkelling off the beach. See our Yasawa guide and Mamanuca vs Yasawa.
Our suggestion
For a week, many guests do two or three nights in Denarau or Nadi for day trips, then four or five nights on an island or the Coral Coast to relax.
Our local team in Nadi confirms everything with the hotels and operators before you pay.
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