Situated on the west coast of Fiji’s main island Viti Levu, Nadi is the country’s third-biggest city. It is very easy to get to, with the country’s largest airport, Nadi International Airport, located less than 10 kilometres away, meaning that it serves as a transfer hub for tourists travelling to other islands in the Fijian archipelago. However, Nadi is much more than just a place to pass through en route – there are plenty of things to see and do in this bustling city.
Shopaholics will delight in Port Denarau Shopping Centre, which offers the largest retail shopping and dining experience anywhere in Fiji. The centre also boasts seven world-class restaurants, including Fiji’s one and only Hard Rock Café. Visitors can browse the shops to find something special to buy or dine in one of the excellent restaurants while gazing out over the ocean.
The busy central area of the city is also a great place to find somewhere to eat, with a wide range of different cuisines on offer, including traditional Fijian, Indian, Chinese and Western. There are plenty of shops in this area, too.
To experience an example of Fiji’s architectural and cultural diversity, make sure you pay a visit to the impressive Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple. The architectural magnificence of this place of worship will take your breath away. It is a vibrant and colourful showcase of Dravidian architecture, an architectural style which is rarely seen outside India.
It’s also worthwhile visiting the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. Covering 20 hectares, this garden features a native forest, a serene lily pond and an impressive collection of over 2,000 different species of orchid.
There are plenty of options for relaxation after a tiring few hours of shopping and sightseeing. Bask in the sunshine at Wailoaloa Beach, Newtown Beach or Denarau Island. Indulge yourself in the therapeutic Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, which are believed by locals to have healing properties due to their high sulphur content. Or head to Nadi Airport Golf Club to tee off and play a relaxing, yet challenging, round of golf.
