Getting around Fiji: Transport options and travel tips

Home to over 300 islands scattered across the South Pacific, Fiji offers a wide variety of landscapes and experiences. Because the islands are spread across a large area, how you get around will depend on where you’re staying, with transport options varying by region.

Most travellers arrive at Nadi International Airport, then continue to their resort by shuttle, taxi or private transfer, or by ferry from Port Denarau Marina to island destinations like the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.

Travel between islands is typically by ferry, private boat or domestic flight, while buses, taxis, organised transfers and rideshares are common on Viti Levu, the main island. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the main transport options across Fiji, including how to get from the airport to key areas and how to get around popular regions like Nadi, Denarau, the Coral Coast, and the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.

Getting around Fiji: transport overview

Visitors get around Fiji using a mix of road, sea and air transport, depending on where they’re staying. On the main islands, taxis, buses and private transfers make it easy to move between towns, resorts and attractions. 

For travel between islands, ferries, water taxis and private boat charters depart from hubs such as Port Denarau Marina, while speedboats and domestic flights connect more distant island destinations. 

Airport transfers

Most international travellers arrive at Nadi International Airport, Fiji’s main gateway on the western side of Viti Levu, and continue to their resort by road transfer, ferry, or connecting flight. 

Nearby popular tourist areas like Denarau Island are only around 20 minutes by car from the airport, while the Coral Coast is roughly 2-2.5 hours away, depending on traffic. Travellers heading to the capital, Suva, should allow between 3 and 4 hours by road. 

Many hotels and resorts offer guests pre-booked airport transfers, which is often the easiest option after arrival. Taxis are also readily available outside the terminal, while shared shuttles provide a more budget-friendly alternative to reach popular resort areas. Shared shuttle prices typically range from FJ$11 (approx. AUD 7) for a one-way ticket per person to a nearby resort, up to FJ$48 (approx. AUD 35) depending on distance from the airport. 

Ferries, water taxis and private charters between islands

Travelling by boat is one of the main ways to reach Fiji’s outer islands and island resorts. Most ferries, water taxis and private charter boats depart from Port Denarau Marina, which is easily reached from Nadi Airport by taxi, shuttle or hotel transfer. 

Ferry operators such as South Sea Cruises run regular services to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands from Port Denarau Marina. Travel times vary by route, number of stops and destination, with journeys to the Mamanucas taking around 30 minutes to 2 hours, and trips to the Yasawas taking between 2 and 5 hours.  

Water taxis and private charter boats offer a faster, more flexible option, particularly for direct resort transfers. Ferries and water taxis can be booked online in advance or at the marina, and many resorts assist with organising transfers. Many resorts also assist with arranging transfers directly from Port Denarau or other departure points. 

Domestic flights

Domestic flights are the fastest and most convenient way to reach Fiji’s more remote islands and outer regions, including Taveuni, Kadavu and Vanua Levu. Flights operate mainly from Nadi International Airport and Nausori Airport near Suva. 

Flight times are generally short but vary depending on the destination: 

• Nadi to Taveuni: approximately 1 hour and 20  minutes 
• Nadi to Kadavu: around 40–50 minutes 
• Seaplane transfers from Nadi to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands: between 20 and 40 minutes, though schedules are often limited and require booking in advance. 

Some routes operate only a few times per week, so it’s important to plan ahead, especially when coordinating times with ferry transfers or resort check-in times. 

Most airlines offer online booking, and resorts can often assist with arranging flights directly from Nadi or Nausori. 

Buses

Buses are a budget-friendly way to get around Fiji’s main islands, particularly Viti Levu. Routes connect major towns such as Nadi, Lautoka and Suva, as well as smaller communities and villages along the way. 

Fares are inexpensive, starting from around FJ$1 (approx. AUD 0.60) for short trips and rising to about FJ$7 (approx. AUD 4.50) for longer journeys. Tickets are usually purchased on board. 

While buses are cost-effective, services can be slower and less predictable due to frequent stops in smaller villages. They’re best suited to flexible itineraries or shorter trips rather than time-sensitive transfers between resorts. 

Taxis and rideshare

Taxis are widely available in Fiji’s main towns and tourist areas, including Nadi, Lautoka, and Suva, and are the most reliable option for on-demand travel.  

Most taxis operate on a metered fare, though some drivers may agree on a fixed price for longer trips or transfers to resorts. It’s always a good idea to confirm the price before starting your journey if a meter isn’t used. 

Taxis are generally safe and convenient, and many hotels can arrange trusted drivers or private transfers for guests. Payment is usually by cash (Fijian dollars), though some operators may accept card payments. Make sure to confirm in advance. 

Rideshare services are limited in Fiji, and there is no widely used service like Uber, so taxis and hotel-arranged transfers remain the main options. 

Nadi transport

Nadi is a major hub for visitors arriving in Fiji, located around 10 kilometres (about 20 minutes by car) from Nadi International Airport. The town serves as a gateway to nearby resorts, beaches, and attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the western side of Viti Levu.

Travelling around Nadi is straightforward, with taxis, buses, rental cars and hotel-organised transfers all widely available. For travel to island resorts, ferries and water taxis depart from Port Denarau Marina, about 15 minutes from the town centre. 

Getting to Nadi

Nadi is around 10 kilometres from Nadi International Airport, so most travellers reach the town within 20 minutes of arrival.

Common transport options include:

• Taxis: Widely available outside the airport terminal, with fares typically around FJ$20–25 (approx. AUD 12-16) depending on traffic
• Hotel or resort transfers: Often pre-booked and sometimes included in accommodation 
• Shuttle services: A budget-friendly option, with shared transfers ranging from around FJ$11 to FJ$48 (approx. AUD 7-35) depending on distance.
• Rental cars: Available at the airport for travellers who want flexibility to explore the wider region 

Getting around Nadi

Once in Nadi, it’s easy to get around using a mix of transport options, depending on how far you plan to travel.

• Taxis: Widely available and reliable for short trips to beaches, restaurants and attractions. Most use meters, though it’s worth confirming the fare for longer journeys, and always agree on the fare beforehand
• Hotel transfers: Many hotels and resorts offer transfers to popular spots, which is especially convenient for day trips or organised activities 
• Buses and minibuses: A low-cost way to travel between Nadi and nearby towns and villages, though services can be irregular and less predictable
• Walking: Central Nadi is relatively compact, with shops, markets and sights like the Sri Subramaniya Temple within walking distance.  
• Rental cars: Useful if you plan to explore beyond Nadi, including nearby beaches or the Coral Coast

Denarau transport

Denarau Island is a popular resort area located around 14 kilometres (20–30 minutes by car) from Nadi International Airport. Known for its luxury resorts, marina, and golf course, Denarau is a convenient base for accessing nearby beaches and taking ferries to the Mamanuca Islands.

Getting to Denarau

Travellers can reach Denarau quickly from the airport using several options:

• Taxis: Fares are typically FJ$20–25 (approx. AUD 12-16) for the short trip
• Hotel or resort transfers: Often pre-booked and sometimes included with your stay 
• Buses: A cheaper option at around FJ$5 (approx. AUD 3), though not direct. Travellers usually need to change buses, and the journey can take up to 50 minutes or longer
• Rental cars: Available at the airport for those planning to explore beyond Denarau 

Getting around Denarau

Denarau is compact and easy to navigate, with most resorts and attractions located close together.

• Walking: The marina, resorts, restaurants and shops are all within easy walking distance 
• Golf carts or bicycles: Available to rent through some resorts as a relaxed way to get around
• Taxis: Readily available for trips to Nadi or surrounding areas 
• Bula Bus: A hop-on, hop-off bus service connecting resorts, the marina, waterpark and golf course. Day passes cost around FJ$12 (approx. AUD 7-8) per adult

Coral Coast transport

The Coral Coast is a scenic stretch of beaches and resorts along the southern coast of Viti Levu, around 100 kilometres (2 to 2.5 hours by car) from Nadi International Airport. Known for its reefs, relaxed pace and easy access to local villages, the region is more spread out than Nadi or Denarau, so getting around often requires a bit more planning.

Getting to Coral Coast

• Taxis or private transfers: A direct and convenient option, with fares typically around FJ$100–120 (approx. AUD 60-75), depending on your resort
• Bus: Services run between Nadi and Suva along the Coral Coast, offering a budget-friendly option. Fares are around FJ$12 (approx. AUD 7–8) and bus cards can be bought at the airport, though journeys are slower and less direct 
• Rental cars: A good option for families or travellers who want flexibility to stop along the coast and explore at their own pace

Getting around Coral Coast

The Coral Coast is relatively spread out, so your choice of transport will depend on how much you plan to explore.

• Hotel shuttles: Many resorts offer transfers to nearby beaches and attractions
• Rental cars: The most flexible option for visiting villages, markets and different beaches along the coast at your own pace. 
• Taxis: Available for shorter trips or day excursions between resorts and nearby towns
• Walking: Suitable within resort areas, but not for travelling between towns or beaches

Mamanuca Islands transport

The Mamanuca Islands are a group of small islands west of Denarau, famous for their white sand beaches, clear waters, reef activities and resort accommodation.

Getting to Mamanuca Islands

Most travellers reach the Mamanuca Islands by ferry from Port Denarau Marina, around 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport, but water transport and seaplanes are also options.

• Ferries: Depart from Port Denarau Marina, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the island
• Private water taxis or charters: A faster, more flexible option with direct transfers to your resort
• Seaplanes: The quickest option, flying from Nadi to selected resorts in around 20-40 minutes, though typically more expensive and with limited schedules

Getting around Mamanuca Islands

Transport within the Mamanuca Islands is usually arranged through your resort, as most islands are small and self-contained.

• Walking: The easiest way to get around, with most resorts and beaches within short distances
• Resort transfers: Some resorts offer golf carts or boat transfers for moving around the island or nearby areas 
• Water taxis: Used for inter-island transfers or day trips between nearby islands.

Yasawa Islands transport

The Yasawa Islands are a remote island chain northwest of Viti Levu, known for their rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and secluded resorts.

Getting to Yasawa Islands

Most travellers reach the Yasawa Islands by ferry from Port Denarau Marina, around 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport, but water transport and seaplanes are also popular options. 

• Ferries: Regular departures from Port Denarau Marin, with travel times ranging from 2-5 hours depending on the island and number of stops
• Private charters or speedboats: A faster, more direct option for reaching specific resorts or beaches 
• Seaplanes: The quickest way to reach more remote islands, with flight times of around 30–60 minutes, though typically more expensive and less frequent

Getting around Yasawa Islands

Transport within the Yasawa Islands is usually arranged through your resort, as most islands are small and self-contained. 

• Walking: The easiest way to get around, with most beaches and accommodation within short distances
• Resort shuttles: Some resorts offer golf carts or small vehicles for guest use where needed 
• Water taxis: Used for short inter-island trips or organised excursions.

Do you need a car in Fiji?

For most visitors, you don’t need a car in Fiji, especially when staying in resort areas such as Denarau, the Coral Coast, or the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Hotels often provide transfers, and taxis, shuttles and ferries are readily available and make it easy to get around without driving. In many cases, walking and local transport are enough for exploring nearby areas.

However, a rental car can be useful if you want to explore more of Viti Levu beyond the main tourist areas, such as visiting Coral Coast villages, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, or inland towns. Driving gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and discover beaches, markets and cultural sites at your own pace.

Traffic in towns is generally light, but roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding. Visitors can usually drive with a valid overseas driver licence, though requirements may vary, and driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

In short, a car isn’t necessary for island stays or resort areas. For broader exploration of Viti Levu or independent day trips, renting a car can be a convenient option.

Flights to Fiji

Virgin Australia offers direct flights to Fiji from major Australian cities, including:

• Sydney to Fiji
• Brisbane to Fiji