‘Bula’ means hello, goodbye, welcome and all things nice, in the South Pacific paradise of Fiji. You’ll hear it a lot on Fiji family holidays, as the locals are among the friendliest you’re ever likely to meet. There’s a little something for everyone to do here, from toddlers to teens and grandparents – all on a backdrop of breathtaking, tropical scenery.
Fiji Family Resorts
Fiji family resorts are world-famous for providing everything you need to relax and enjoy your holiday – plus more. All-inclusive packages allow you to eat, drink and be merry, without having to think of anything other than which cocktail to sip by the pool. No need to worry about the kids while you choose, with childminding, swimming pools galore, sports, entertainment and local staff who’ll cherish your little ones.
The Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort offers luxury with tradition, via bure bungalows, nannies, a spa, Fijian activities for all ages and sports. If you’re looking for something a little different with an intimate vibe, Crusoe’s Retreat features a fresh water pool – in the shape of a foot – and it’s right next door to a traditional village.
Sabeto Mud Baths
Launch straight into your Fiji family holidays, at the Sabeto Mud Baths. Located on the main island of Viti Levu, the volcanic, geothermal springs are thought to have therapeutic properties. The kids will love hoping into thick, muddy pools and letting it dry in the sun, without getting into trouble for being dirty! Afterwards a clear spring allows you to clean up and enjoy the revitalising benefits.
Traditional Dance Shows
Music is a way of life in Fiji and, no matter where you stay, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Meke. Traditional song and dance conveys legends, history, love stories and more, from gentle fan dances to fierce re-enactments with spears. Instruments used include bamboo tubes and hardwood gongs.
Generally, men wear full warrior costumes and women are adorned with garlands of flowers, providing a colourful and immersive experience. Visit a traditional village to watch a show or join in with the fun at Fiji family resorts offering entertainment.
Island Hopping
Fiji with kids is best explored on the water. With 333 islands, hopping to as many as you can is the way to do it! The Mananuca Islands are easily accessible from Viti Levu, with crystal-clear atolls to fish, snorkel and parasail on. The volcanic Yasawa Islands offer seclusion among palm-fringed beaches, traditional villages and soaring mountain peaks.
Vanua Levu is the second largest Fijian island, with rainforests and peaceful bays. Diving is one of the most popular activities, but you can also fish, hike and try exotic bird watching. A Bula Pass gives you unlimited island hopping throughout the Yasawas, for 5 to 21 days.
Traditional Village Trips
The spirit of Fiji resides in the warmth and traditions of local villages. Take a step into the past, where locals still live in thatched roof bures and nature is the main source of survival. Located along river banks, in the rainforest or nestled beneath towering mountains, organised tours give you fascinating insight into Fijian culture.
Most trips allow you to take part in a kava ceremony, watch a Meke performance, see locals making handicrafts and chat with kids at a primary school. The Navala Authentic Village Tour includes a traditional lunch of vegetables in coconut milk, stir-fries, yam, dalo and seasonal fruit.
Sigatoka Sand Dunes
One of Fiji’s most unique natural wonders, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park offers windswept vistas and archaeological history. Located at the mouth of the Sigatoka River on Viti Levu, the park brims with wildlife, including birds, skinks, lizards, geckos and fruit bats. Take a one or two hour walk to explore the ecosystem and see ancient Lapita artefacts.
Water Sports
Fiji holidays with kids are all about water sports and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to dive right in! Most Fiji family resorts offer a range of activities, including windsurfing, banana boat rides, parasailing, kayaking, catamaran sailing and paddle boarding.
The biggest drawcard, however, is the magical underwater world. Home to the Great Astrolabe Reef, about 1000 species of fish and the famous Shark Reef Marine Reserve, snorkelling and diving are an absolute must. Swim with Manta Rays, see the protected Hawksbill Turtle, come face to face with a Hammerhead and explore vertical drop-offs of 1000-feet.
Tavuni Hill Fort
Built in the 18th century by a Tongan chief, Tavuni Hill Fort is located on a 90 metre-high limestone ridge, with spectacular views over the Sigatoka River. The National Archaeological Site, near its guardians in Naroro Village, contains a ceremonial ground and interesting relics. You can hire a guide to teach you about tribal warfare and, for a touch of historic horror, even cannibalism.
Kula Wild Adventure Park
Fancy plunging through the forest on a slide, twisting and turning your way over a river, on a wall of rushing water? The Splash Mountain Jungle Slide is just one of the adrenalin-inducing activities, at Kula Wild Adventure Park. Here, you can hand-feed sea turtles, meet an iguana and hold a snake while park rangers offer environmental education.
Then, jump back into action on the Kula Krazy Canopy Flier, to zip line through the forest to a river bed. The eco-friendly park is located on a 28 acre property, with coastal forests, wooden walkways and dining outlets, at Sigatoka.
River Safari
For the ultimate all in one adventure, jump on board a jet-boat on a Sigatoka River Safari. In a region known as the ‘salad bowl of Fiji’, the river is the longest on Viti Levu and feeds locals with mussels, fish, prawns and drinking water. Along with the breeze in your hair and fertile valley views, you’ll visit villages far off the beaten track, to experience authentic lifestyle on your Fiji family holiday. Many operators give back to the villages, as part of the ticket price, so you’ll also help with the sustainability and development of Fiji – a place you’ll likely wish to return to, again and again.
