Fiji beyond the resorts: 6 authentic experiences you’ll treasure

A Fiji holiday is synonymous with sun, sand, crystal clear ocean and cocktails. But there is more to this Pacific Island paradise than meets the eye – and you don’t have to look too far to find it.

Encompassing more than 330 islands and 500 islets, Fiji offers an eclectic mix of experiences to satisfy every traveller – from luxurious resorts in Denarau to traditional Fijian homestays in the Yasawas, the lush forests of Taveuni to sparkling waters of the Mamanucas.

The heart of Fiji, though, lies in its rich traditions and culture which make your experience truly unforgettable. And you don’t have to venture far from your resort to find authentic Fijian experiences that will stay in your heart long after you leave.

Markets

The markets in Nadi are vibrant hubs of culture where Fiji’s traditions, flavours and artistry come alive. Visiting these markets isn’t just about shopping – it’s about connecting with the people, stories and traditions that shape daily life in Fiji.

In the heart of town, the Nadi Municipal Market is the largest and liveliest. Here you’ll find an abundance of tropical fruit – papayas, pineapples, mangoes and bananas – alongside more unusual offerings like breadfruit, jackfruit and taro leaves. For a quick taste of local flavour, snack on handmade cassava chips, tropical fruit bowls or sweet coconut candy as you wander the aisles.

A short walk away, the Nadi Handicraft Market offers a slower pace and a chance to take home a piece of Fiji’s artistic heritage. This is the place for handwoven mats and baskets, carved wooden bowls, traditional masi (tapa cloth), and delicate shell or coconut jewellery. Many vendors take pride in explaining the cultural significance behind their work – from the stories depicted in masi patterns to the symbolism carved into wooden pieces – adding meaning to every souvenir.

For those seeking a quieter, more local experience, Namaka Market near the airport provides an authentic snapshot of everyday life. Smaller and less touristy, it’s where farmers and families from nearby villages come to sell their seasonal produce. Expect to see piles of guavas, watermelons, passionfruit, herbs and leafy greens. A few small stalls serve simple Fijian snacks and fresh coconut water.

Kava ceremony

Kava holds a special place in Fijian culture, woven into ceremonies, celebrations and everyday social life – at some point during your stay, you’ll likely be invited to share a bowl.

This earthy drink is made from the dried roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), which are sun-dried, ground into powder and mixed with cold water in a straining cloth. The resulting liquid is poured into a wooden tanoa (kava bowl) and shared among participants. While its taste can be bitter, kava is deeply cherished across the Pacific. It’s mildly sedative, creating a relaxed atmosphere that encourages easy conversation and laughter. The tingling or slight numbness you’ll feel around your mouth is perfectly normal (and part of the charm).

The most traditional way to experience kava is during an i-sevusevu ceremony in a village. Guests present a small bundle of kava root to the village chief as a gesture of respect and to seek permission to enter communal lands. Travellers visiting with organised tours will usually have this custom arranged on their behalf.

Meke performance

Rhythmic percussion, traditional dress, melodic storytelling and dance combine to create the mesmerising meke. A traditional dance of the Indigenous people of Fiji, the Meke is performed by men, women and children and is a must-see cultural experience.

Meke is a practice of documenting and sharing stories through dance, vocal chants and percussion and originated from deep-rooted spiritual traditions where it was considered a divine gift from the gods. According to tradition, the gods themselves taught the first meke to chosen individuals and today it continues to be an indispensable part of any truly local celebratory occasion.

There are three types of meke – vakamalolo, a seated dance; seasea, a women’s fan dance; and Meke I Wau, a men’s dance showcasing strength and virility. They are performed at most resorts and during local festivals and celebrations.

Firewalking ceremony

Firewalking is a Fijian tradition that began around 500 years ago on Beqa Island, about 10km from the southern coast of Viti Levu. The island is home of Fiji’s legendary firewalkers – a tiny group of islanders blessed with a special gift that seemingly protects them from fire.

Although Beqa is the ideal place to view this ceremony in its most authentic form, you can also see it being performed on Viti Levu. Some descendants of Tuinavilaqata – the original firewalker – perform the ceremony at resorts as part of the entertainment program.

Several hours before the ceremony begins, the performers build a deep pit and fill it with river stones. A large bonfire is piled above the pit to heat the stones until they are white hot. When the fire dies down, a few chosen men stab at the stones with long poles to stabilise them. Finally leaves are placed across the pit to bless it before the excess ash and charcoal is removed.

At the signal of the ceremonial priest – usually a direct descendant – a troupe of firewalkers enter the arena chanting and step gingerly across the heated stones one by one.

When each man has conquered the fiery pit, they end the ceremony with more chanting and the sacrifice of their fern anklets to the pit. Days later, the anklets are recovered, ground and mixed into a tonic that is consumed by the firewalkers to complete the ritual.

Coral planting workshops

Fiji’s underwater world is famous for its vibrant reefs, and locals are passionate about protecting these fragile ecosystems – inviting visitors to do the same. For a meaningful twist to your Fijian holiday, consider joining a coral planting workshop around Nadi or the nearby Mamanuca Islands.

In partnership with local NGOs and dive centres, these programs give you an inside look at coral restoration – how it works, why it matters, and how you can play a role in bringing damaged reefs back to life.

Your day typically begins with an engaging session on coral biology, climate change, and the challenges Pacific reefs face. Then, you’ll don reef-safe snorkelling or diving gear and help transplant coral fragments onto purpose-built frames or natural reef structures, guided by experienced marine biologists.

It’s a hands-on, heart warming way to give back to the ocean while discovering Fiji’s underwater beauty. Many workshops also include time to spot colourful reef fish and even sea turtles – combining learning, conservation, and adventure in one unforgettable experience.

Yasawa Islands Marine Reserve

For another eco-conscious adventure, head to the Yasawa Islands Marine Reserve, one of the Pacific’s most successful community-led conservation projects. Spanning over 267 square kilometres of coral reefs, seagrass beds and vibrant marine habitats, the sanctuary is easily accessible via scenic flights and boat transfers from Nadi.

The reserve highlights how traditional Fijian village management blends with modern marine science to create an underwater paradise that benefits both marine life and local communities.

Visitors can enjoy world-class snorkelling and diving while directly contributing to ongoing conservation. Guided snorkel tours, scuba expeditions and cultural exchanges with nearby villages offer a truly immersive experience – one that celebrates Fiji’s rich marine biodiversity and deep-rooted cultural connection to the ocean.

A Fiji holiday is more than a getaway – it’s an immersion into a place of rich culture, natural beauty and heartfelt hospitality. With Spacifica Travel, your journey will be thoughtfully tailored to capture the true spirit of the islands, creating memories you’ll treasure for years to come. Discover your perfect Fijian escape today.