How to get to Nadi

Nadi is a vibrant tourist hub and the main aerial gateway to Fiji, located on the sunny western coast of Viti Levu island. When planning a trip to Nadi, it is important to study the logistics in advance: most travellers arrive here via international flights, but from neighbouring regions of the island, you can arrive by bus or car. We have gathered current information on how to get to Nadi as quickly and comfortably as possible so that your holiday begins without any hassle.

The primary way to reach the resort is by air: Nadi International Airport (NAN) serves as the country's main air gateway. It is here that the vast majority of international flights arrive, bringing travellers to Fiji from all over the world.

The airport receives direct scheduled flights from major cities in Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane), New Zealand (Auckland), as well as the USA (Los Angeles, San Francisco), Hong Kong, and Singapore. Thanks to an extensive route network, the flight to the island is as comfortable as possible, and connections for travellers from the Gulf and Europe are usually made through major Asian hubs.

The terminal is located just 10 kilometres from the city centre and in close proximity to the popular Denarau resort area. This convenience allows guests to be at their hotel or on the beach literally 15–20 minutes after leaving the arrival zone by taking a taxi or transfer.

Travellers should note that classic railway services are not developed in Fiji, so it is not possible to reach Nadi by train. There are no passenger stations in the city or its surroundings, and the existing narrow-gauge tracks on the island are historically used primarily for industrial purposes to transport sugar cane.

Even from the capital, Suva, or other settlements on Viti Levu, it is impossible to travel here by rail. To move between regions, tourists are recommended to use the developed network of intercity buses or rent a car, which will allow you to comfortably cover the distance along the scenic coastal highways.

Bus services on Viti Levu island are a reliable and affordable mode of transport, and the most popular route connects Nadi with the capital, Suva. The journey along the scenic Queen's Road takes about 4 hours, during which you will cover approximately 190 kilometres, enjoying views of the Coral Coast from the window of a comfortable express bus.

If you plan to arrive from more remote locations, for example, from the town of Savusavu or Kadavu Island, the logistics will be more complex and will necessarily include a ferry crossing to the main island followed by a transfer to a bus. Such combined routes often take the entire daylight day, so experienced tourists recommend allocating enough time for the journey and checking the maritime transport schedule in advance.

The most picturesque and popular driving route to Nadi leads from the capital, Suva: the drive along the famous Queen's Road, spanning about 190 kilometres, takes approximately 3.5–4 hours. The road hugs the southern coast of Viti Levu, allowing travellers to enjoy views of turquoise lagoons and green hills right from the car window.

If you plan to drive, be sure to keep in mind that traffic in Fiji is on the left-hand side. Renting a car is most convenient immediately upon arrival: offices of international rental companies are present at the airport. The island's main highways have high-quality asphalt surfacing; however, unpaved roads are often found on secondary routes, so drivers should be attentive and cautious.

To ensure your trip to Nadi is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth noting a few local features in advance. We have gathered practical recommendations to help you quickly adapt to the rhythm of this hospitable city and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Clothing and Climate: In conditions of tropical heat and humidity, the best choice is loose clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a head covering and sunglasses. If you plan to visit traditional villages outside the resort zones, modest dress is required; please bring clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (such as a sarong or "sulu") to show respect for local traditions.
2. Transport: For moving around the city, it is most convenient to use taxis, which are easily recognised by their yellow number plates. Before the trip, ensure the driver has switched on the meter, or agree on a fixed price in advance. You can also use open-air buses without glass windows—this is a cost-effective and colourful way to experience the local atmosphere.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or exchange bureaus in the city centre. Although cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets, you will need cash to pay for taxi fares, purchases at markets, and in small souvenir shops.
4. Health and Safety: Tap water in Nadi hotels is usually chlorinated, but tourists are recommended to drink only bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. The sun here is very strong, so the use of high SPF cream is mandatory. The city is generally safe, but as with anywhere, do not leave your belongings unattended in crowded places.
5. Communication: English is an official language in Fiji, and practically the entire population speaks it. You will easily be able to make yourself understood in a hotel, shop, or on the street. Knowing a few words in Fijian will be received by locals with great enthusiasm.
6. Local Etiquette: The main word you will hear everywhere is "Bula!" (Hello!). Respond to the greeting with a smile. Fijians are very friendly, but remember an important rule: touching another person's head (even a child's) is considered taboo and a sign of disrespect. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a residential home.
7. What to Avoid: Do not walk around the city centre or enter shops in swimwear—this is acceptable only on the beach or by the hotel pool. Also, refrain from walking alone in unlit and remote areas of the city after dark.
8. Remember "Fiji Time": Life here flows at a relaxed rhythm, and punctuality is not the primary virtue. Service in cafes or waiting for transport may take a little longer than you are used to. Treat this philosophically and simply enjoy your holiday without glancing at your watch.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel confident and enjoy every moment of your stay on the island. Nadi is a place where the genuine friendliness of the locals and the right mindset of the tourist create ideal conditions for an unforgettable holiday.