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If you’ve just landed at Nadi International Airport, or you’re planning to, it’s likely your Fijian adventure begins right here in beautiful Nadi. 

Our tropical Fijian hideaway is home to some of the most sought-after cultural treasures and tourist attractions in the archipelago. Whether you’re here for a one-night layover or a few days of adventure, you’re sure to find some incredible gems within arm’s reach.

As your trusted and convenient Nadi hotel (just across the road from the airport!), we’re here to be more than just your bed for the night. We’re your gateway to Fiji. 

So, what are the best things to do in Nadi, Fiji, while you’re here? Let’s take a look.

What Makes the Nadi Region a Must-Visit Destination?

Nadi is so much more than just a stopover town. It’s a lively, laid-back hub that captures the colourful spirit of Fiji in a way that’s both accessible and authentic. It’s where cultures blend, where adventure begins, and where jet lag fades fast thanks to a refreshing dip in a tropical pool or a fresh-off-the-tree papaya.

The Nadi region is a launch pad for both local exploration and island-hopping escapes. Fiji Gateway Hotel is just 8km away from the thriving centre of Nadi, around a 15-20 minute drive via taxi. And because the region is easy to navigate, there are plenty of Nadi tourist attractions within this short drive of our hotel.

But enough of the ‘why’; let’s dive into all of the wonderful Nadi tourist attractions for you to enjoy while you stay.

What Are the Best Things to Do in the Nadi Region of Fiji?

We’ve carefully curated these must-do activities specifically for our valued guests, because they’re all easily and quickly accessible from your Fiji Gateway Hotel home base. They’re perfect for filling in a free morning or afternoon, or you can spend a full day hopping between a few attractions.

Garden of the Sleeping Giant

Credit: Garden of the Sleeping Giant

Step into the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and you’ll instantly feel like you’re inside a cinematic Fijian paradise. Home to more than 2,000 varieties of orchids and native plants, this sprawling oasis is everything you picture when you think of ‘Fiji’: tropical palms and colourful flowers, winding wooden bridges and paths, jungle canopies and lily ponds.

One of the most popular Nadi tourist attractions, The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is located in the foothills of the Sabeto Mountains. It’s just a 10-13 minute drive from our hotel, making it perfect for a day trip or a few hours of tranquil exploration.

Ziplining in the Sabeto Valley

Tucked deep within the lush rainforest of the Sabeto Valley lies one of Fiji’s most thrilling hidden gems: the Sleeping Giant Zip Line. This 35-acre eco-adventure park is the perfect blend of adrenaline and natural beauty.

The course features seven exhilarating zip lines that span more than 700 metres in total, ranging from 80 to 160 metres long. You’ll soar above rivers, glide through treetops, and zip past waterfalls at speeds of up to 40 km/h—all set against the backdrop of a stunning tropical jungle.

But it’s not just the flying foxes that make this place special. The experience also includes a guided jungle safari and the chance to explore two peaceful waterfalls nestled within the property. 

Professional guides are with you every step of the way, and the entire course is designed to meet the highest safety standards. 

Just a 24-minute drive from our hotel, this will be one of the most memorable things to do in Nadi, Fiji, for the entire family.

Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple

Right at the southern end of Nadi town stands one of Fiji’s most striking landmarks, the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple. With its brightly coloured towers and intricately carved façades, this Hindu temple is a true feast for the eyes and a beautiful reflection of Fiji’s rich cultural blend.

The temple is built in the Dravidian architectural style, with pyramid-shaped towers adorned in elaborate depictions of warriors, gods, and celestial beings. Even from the outside, it’s a mesmerising sight. But for just a small entry fee, you can take a guided tour that runs every half hour during the day and learn more about the history, symbolism and spiritual significance of the space.

Like many sacred sites, there are a few simple guidelines to follow:

• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees must be covered)
• Take off your shoes before entering
• Keep voices quiet and minimise noise while inside
• Save your photos for the temple’s exterior 

It’s only around a 15-minute drive from our hotel, making it one of the perfect things to do near Nadi, Fiji to pass the time between flights.

Sabeto Hot Springs & Mud Pool

Fancy covering yourself in warm, squishy volcanic mud? You should—it’s ridiculously fun and surprisingly soothing. The Sabeto Hot Springs & Mud Pool provides one of the best and most unique Nadi tourist attractions: you’ll slather yourself in mineral-rich mud before rinsing off in the nearby hot springs. 

The experience is simple and fun:

• Slip into your swimmers
• Slather yourself in mineral-rich mud from head to toe
• Let it dry in the sun while the natural minerals work their magic (about 15mins)

Once the mud sets, you’ll rinse off in the warm, squishy mud pool before soaking your way through a series of natural hot spring baths. It’s a little messy, very relaxing, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Fijian culture.

Fiji Culture Village

Credit: Fiji Culture Village

One of our favourite things to do near Nadi, Fiji is the Fiji Culture Village, an immersive cultural hub that offers a window into traditional Fijian life. You’ll experience the rich heritage of Fijian arts, music, dance, and oral history through day or night tours, all less than a 20-minute drive from our hotel.

Day and night tours include a guided walk through a model village, demonstrations of traditional crafts and cooking, a kava ceremony, and a powerful Meke dance performance. It’s a fantastic way to experience the heart and soul of Fiji in just a few hours (and dinner is usually included!).

South Sea Orchids

Looking for something to pass the time between flights? This natural paradise is calling your name. Part tropical garden tour, part living museum, South Sea Orchids is Fiji’s largest orchid farm that includes a private collection of heirlooms and antiques spanning generations.

You can visit on a self-led experience, or, if you have a little more time, take a guided tour. You’ll start inside the Burness family’s heritage home (the property founders), where your guide will walk you through a fascinating collection of antiques, musical instruments and historical treasures, some dating back hundreds of years.

From there, you’ll explore the nursery, home to more than 60,000 tropical plants, including delicate orchids and vibrant anthuriums. Along the way, you’ll learn about Fiji’s horticultural history and get a firsthand look at how these stunning plants are grown.

It’s just a 10-15 minute drive from Fiji Gateway Hotel, making it one of the easiest activities during shorter stays.

Swimming, Tennis, Live Music & Traditional Dining

Short on time or prefer to stay close for some extra relaxation? We have plenty of fun and restorative activities ready to go for guests right here at Fiji Gateway Hotel. You can easily spend a full day or two here simply taking advantage of all our first-class on-site amenities:

• Pools and Hot Tub: Start your day with a dip in the tropical pool area. Make a splash in the larger Resort Pool (perfect for kids and families with its water slide and shaded loungers), or retreat for some peace and quiet to the smaller Quiet Pool and hot tub. 
• Tennis Courts: Rejuvenate your energy and enjoy time in the sun on our tennis court. The court is flood-lit, so you can play during the day or night. You’ll also have access to complimentary tennis rackets and balls.
  
• Day Spa R&R: Sink into paradise at Nama Fiji Day Spa, your gateway to much-needed relaxation after all that travel. Enjoy therapeutic massages and restorative facials by our skilled therapists, who use a selection of premium Nama Fiji skincare products to elevate your pamper session.
• Resort Dining: Enjoy coffee and fresh pastries from our on-site café, or sit down to a delicious breakfast at Palm Court Restaurant, our full-service, all-day dining hotspot. 

Return here for lunch and dinner to enjoy our famous Fijian-Indian curries, alongside traditional dishes like Rou Rou Balls and our Nadi Bay Salad. You’ll also find international foods like burgers, rib-eye steaks and tempura fish and chips to please every palate.

• Entertainment: Dinner at Palm Court Restaurant is served with a side of stunning live music by local Fijian Serenaders. Enjoy local music and international pop songs as you eat and enjoy the lively tropical atmosphere.

Getting Around Nadi: Travel Tips

Getting around Nadi is pretty straightforward, and we’re always happy to help you plan your route at the Fiji Gateway Hotel reception. Don’t hesitate to speak to our friendly reception team before or upon your arrival, and we’ll help you arrange transport.

Taxis, Private Transfers & Tours

If you’re tight on time or prefer a seamless done-for-you experience, private transfers or organised day tours are your best bet. 

You can book transfers and tours via third-party companies, many of which include hotel pick-up, guided experiences and transport to multiple locations in one day. Alternatively, allow our front desk staff to call a local taxi service to collect you straight from the lobby.

Airport Shuttle & Local Buses

Our courtesy airport shuttle can take you to and from Nadi International Airport, ensuring you get to your plane on time with zero stress.

And while you’re here, local buses run regularly between the airport, Nadi town and neighbouring suburbs. They’re cheap, cheerful, and a great way to soak up the local vibe.

Ready to Create Your Own Nadi Memories?

Plan your epic Fijian holiday or simply book ahead to spend a relaxing night with us before catching the boat or a flight to your next destination. However long you’ll be in Nadi, Fiji Gateway Hotel is your perfect launchpad to enjoy all the fantastic things to do in Nadi, Fiji.

We’re located directly across the road from Nadi International Airport, so there’s no need to stress about getting to and from the airport on time. From our central location, you can easily reach all the best things to do in Nadi, Fiji, and return home to air-conditioned comfort, great food and good vibes.

Ready to relax and stay? Book your stay today and make Fiji Gateway Hotel your Gateway to Fiji.

Want to explore more? Check out these must-visit nearby Fiji cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best times to visit Nadi?

Fiji enjoys warm weather year-round, but the dry season (May to October) is especially popular for travellers. You’ll enjoy sunny skies, lower humidity, and plenty of outdoor adventure.

Are there family-friendly activities in Nadi?

Absolutely. Ziplining, the Sabeto Mud Pool, Garden of the Sleeping Giant, and Fiji Culture Village are all kid-friendly (with supervision). Plus, many tours offer family packages and hotel pick-ups.

Is Nadi worth visiting?

Absolutely! Nadi offers a fantastic mix of culture, convenience, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for travellers looking to explore Fiji without needing to venture too far afield.

What can you do in Nadi for a day?

You could visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, enjoy a soak in the mud pools, zipline through the jungle, and catch a cultural show at Fiji Culture Village—all in one day from your hotel base.

What to do around Nadi airport?

You’re in luck, because Fiji Gateway Hotel is just across the road. Stay with us while you wait for your next flight to enjoy a swim in our pool, play a few rounds of tennis, grab a meal at Palm Court Restaurant, or take a short taxi to nearby attractions like the Garden of the Sleeping Giant or Sabeto Mud Pools.

Discover Fiji’s urban landscapes

When you think of Fiji, you likely think of sun, surf, and sand – sugar-white beaches, pure blue ocean, and the many and varied bright cocktails that are the staple of any tropical holiday. But beyond the beaches and dotted amongst Fiji’s lush tropical jungles and plantations lie Fiji’s urban centres, cities filled with culture and adventure, just waiting to be discovered.

Nadi

The multi-cultural city of Nadi is a great introduction to Fiji, especially for its cultural side with the sounds, tastes and smells of the city centre with a bustling shopping and foodie scene.

95% of Fiji’s tourists begin their journey by travelling to or through Nadi, the home of Nadi International Airport, Fiji’s main international hub. In proximity to the city are lush tropical gardens, adventure activities such as ziplining and quad biking, Fijian villages and much more.

The city is spread across several different urban areas along the Queens Road, where there’s a mix of shops, temples, markets, eateries and nightlife to experience.

Suva

Suva is Fiji’s largest city, as well as its capital. It’s located on the opposite side of Viti Levu, and while you can get a flight there from Nadi International Airport, it’s far less expensive to take a scenic express bus trip and see some of Fiji along the way.

Suva has been Fiji’s capital since 1882, and in that time has become a melting pot of history, culture, and modern life. The city boasts beautiful colonial architecture, Fiji’s national museum and is in close proximity to the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park. It also has a thriving performance scene, and a growing reputation as the fashion capital of the South Pacific.

Lautoka

Head north from Nadi and you’ll soon be in Lautoka, Fiji’s second-largest city. Also known as the Sugar City, Lautoka is located right in the heart of Fiji’s sugar cane-growing region.

Lautoka is a major centre for Hare Krishna worldwide,Featuring the Sri Krishna Kaliya Temple, the foremost International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple in the South Pacific. Visitors are welcome anytime, but the noon puja (prayer) is not to be missed.

Sigatoka

Last but not least, Sigatoka the largest town on Fiji’s Coral Coast, and is a centre for tourism and culture in the south of Viti Levu.

Accessible from Nadi by bus, the Sigatoka skyline is dominated by an ornate Hindu temple, built by Hare Krishna devotees. There is a bustling produce market in the heart of town, a few souvenir shops, a large mosque and a fantasy-style, privately owned mansion overlooking the lot. The Sigatoka River, the second largest in Fiji, flows along the eastern edge of town.

The last few hours of an international trip are often not the most relaxing. Between packing your bags, checking out of your hotel, and rushing to make sure you make your flight on time, the restful feeling you’ve just spent your whole trip cultivating can easily be left behind, forgotten amidst the rush of bag check and airport security.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

With free airport transfers, wifi, happy hour, a free gym, tennis courts and a swimming pool, you can reclaim your sense of serenity and relaxation by spending your final few holiday hours at Fiji Gateway Hotel.

Check in for your flight, ditch your suitcase, and then spend an hour relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand. Free airport transfers will ensure you make it to your flight on time, so you can keep living on Fiji Time for those vital remaining holiday hours.

Touch base with reality while remaining far removed from its stresses with free wifi. Check you emails and get up-to-date with what’s happened in your absence while you’re still relaxing at the bar. No-one likes being brought back to reality, so do it slowly at Fiji Gateway Hotel.

Preserve your sense of equilibrium and get those endorphins flowing with a workout at the gym or a quick game of tennis before you board. Complimentary tennis rackets and balls are provided, and the gym features all your favourite equipment, so you can get back into the swing of things before you even lift off.

All this and more is included when you spend a few hours at Fiji Gateway Hotel. Keep your post-holiday stress to a minimum with amenities designed to keep you relaxed and on Fiji Time, at least for a little while longer.

Why you should follow your resort on social media

1. Travel advice from people who have been there

A business’ Facebook page is about more than just happy customers gushing about their products or services – it’s about people coming together to share in a business they believe in, and swapping tips and tricks that made their stay easier and more pleasant. Everyone who leaves a review on a Facebook page has actually used the product or service – and can give the best advice as to how to make your dream Fiji vacay even better.

2. Deals and giveaways

Some of the best last-minute deals and giveaways are announced first on social media, and some businesses even offer specials to those who get involved online. Liking and following a business’ Facebook page can be a gateway to deals you never even knew you wanted – saving you money and effort along the way.

3. Fuss-free planning

The easiest way to get information about a holiday is to ask those who have already been there. Fiji Gateway’s Facebook page is a community of holidaymakers and business people who can give you advice on how much you can squeeze into your 12-hour layover, where the best snorkelling tours set off from, and more. And Fiji Gateway staff are constantly monitoring the page, so you can ask them any questions that our website doesn’t answer and get a response straight away.

We’d love to celebrate 2019 with 10,000 Facebook likes – and we need your help. Pop over to our Facebook page and like us, or share our stories with your friends. Everyone needs a little bit of paradise in their lives, and you can share the sunshine every day with the Fiji Gateway Facebook page.

When planning your tropical getaway, the first thing you need to decide is what kind of holiday you’re after. Are you keen for the full resort experience, relaxing day after day with a cocktail in one hand and a book in the other? Are you keen for an adventure, days hurtling from one adrenaline-fueled experience to the next? Or are you up for a bit of both – a bit of adventure, a few chill cocktails, and very little time in your room?

If you’re a choose-your-own-adventure traveller, you don’t want to be using your whole budget on a giant resort room with all the trimmings. You want a cosy little room with somewhere to hang your hat, somewhere to rest your head, relax watching TV with internet connection so you don’t fall out of touch. Situated across the road from Nadi International Airport, with a free shuttle connection and a poolside lounge, Fiji Gateway Hotel has exactly the kind of room for you.

Spend your days adventuring throughout Fiji’s glorious environment. Hike through its vastly underrated national parks, tour local villages and markets, and then spend your afternoon unwinding by the pool. Our tour desk can organise day trips and tours that could include snorkelling or scuba diving through one of Fiji’s hundreds of miles of protected reefs, surf one – or ten! – of it’s world-ranked breaks, dine in style at a local restaurant, and then head back to your air-conditioned room with ensuite bathroom to refresh, hit the hay and sleep like an angel.

Cosy, affordable, and right next to the airport, Fiji Gateway Hotel’s budget rooms are the perfect option for cash-conscious travellers on the lookout for their next tropical adventure.

Travelling overseas is often touted as a huge deal, full of making the most of every day and taking enough time away from your everyday life that you forget what it’s like to have a routine. But you don’t have to have two weeks in paradise to make the most of your time off. Maybe you just have a week. Or five days. Or one long weekend. You can still enjoy the beauty and relaxation of Fiji even if you’ve only got twenty-four hours in which to do so. Here’s how.

First, of course, you have to get here. Flights from Melbourne are around four and a half hours, down to three and a half from Brisbane. Flights from Asia are of course going to be pretty short as well, but for a shorter holiday from the UK or US you’ll want to be doing something else on the way, since from LA to Nadi takes over 10 hours and it’s a whopping 23 hours from London. But don’t stress – we’re here for all of you business travellers as well. Why not extend your layover for a night and stay with us, for one lovely day of freedom before getting back to the grind?

Next, where to stay. Fiji of course is famous for its resorts and island getaways, but for a shorter holiday, why not stay at an airport hotel? You can relax almost the instant you get off the plane and it saves more time for whatever you want to do while you’re here.

Which begs the question – what can you do in Fiji if you’re only here for a day or two? You can lounge by the pool, revelling in not having to answer emails, phone calls or family matters. You can stroll down to Nadi Bay, scrunching your feet in the white sand, snorkeling in the clear waters or taking a cruise around the beautiful coastline. You can even take a hike in one of our tropical rainforests and appreciate the diversity and beauty of Fiji’s flora and fauna.

Come visit Fiji, even if only for a day. You won’t regret it.

There are so many hotels in Nadi, how are you going to choose among them all? The choice means competition is fierce, so it’s up to you what conveniences and luxuries you want to pay for, and what you’re willing to give up in the name of cost.

Location, location, location

You want to think about where you’ll be staying and what amenities are close by your hotel. The airport is a useful starting point, as you’ll be arriving and departing via plane. There are a host of hotels close to both the airport and the beach, which will guarantee the best views. The airport is connected to all the major localities of Fiji, as well.

A room with a view

A subset of location, views are important for some but not for others. Fiji is one of the most beautiful places on earth, but there are still windows that look out on carparks or other hotels. Make sure you know what view you’re going to be waking up to every morning.

A host of facilities

Are you interested in all the modern conveniences, or will you sacrifice some facilities for a cheaper room? Are you happy to enjoy the natural beauty of Fiji or would you prefer sitting by the pool to the beach?

Be our guest – what’s the service like?

All Fijians are friendly – it’s a part of the culture. You don’t have to worry about service in any hotel in Fiji, that’s for sure. You will, however, want to figure out if you want any extras provided by the service staff.

Rooms and furniture

Like with facilities, you can choose to sacrifice a beautiful room and extra soft bed for a better price or location. You just have to choose before you book what you’re willing to give up for convenience.

Everyone has certain expectations when it comes to hotels, but business guests have higher expectations. Clean rooms and good location is just not enough – business travellers want a hotel that facilitates their business trip with star services.

Recent research out of the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) emphasises business travellers’ desire for speed, efficiency, and the comforts of home when travelling. The GBTA research focussed primarily on the technology needs of business travellers, finding that apps, chargers, and high-speed Wi-Fi were among the services that made a hotel worth returning to.

Speed

Whether it’s an easy transfer from hotel to boardroom or room service within 30 minutes, business travellers desire speed in their transactions. Tight schedules and foreign destinations mean added stress for business situations in ways that travellers can’t control and can’t always prepare for, so it’s important to know that they can get something when they need it. This includes swift check-in and checkout times, managing loyalty cards and services, and garment pressing.

Efficiency

Similar to speed, business travellers want efficiency in all their dealings with their hotel. Being able to find and access hotel services, whether they be the gym, the pool, or the laundry service, makes a real difference in traveller productivity and enjoyment, and helps to preserve that much-needed routine when a business traveller spends long nights away.

The comforts of home

A tourist needs a home away from home – a business traveller needs an office away from the office. A comfortable and well-lit workspace, fast Wi-Fi, well-placed power outlets and adequate chargers for phones, laptops and tablets are just a few things that make all the difference when a business traveller sits down to work in between meetings.

The needs of business travellers are easy to pinpoint. They travel for a specific purpose, and what they need is services and amenities that make their travel and business easier. Speedy services, efficiency in dealing with their chosen hotel, and a few of the comforts of home are all that’s needed to create a world-class business travel destination.

Reasons to embrace the airport hotel

Airport hotels have gotten a bad rap in the past, but they’re so much more than just a convenient place to lay your head between flights. Embracing airport hotels will give you a whole new outlook on travel, airports, and the dreaded waiting time.

Create the perfect refuge

Let’s face it; airports are nobody’s favourite place to be. The fluorescents, the crowds, the endless hallways of Duty Free and fast food – it’s impossible to relax! Get away from the bustle and bright lights by taking advantage of all the services an airport hotel can offer. Whether it’s a quick nap, a massage, or just a quiet place to have a coffee, an airport hotel can be the perfect refuge after long hours of travel.

Sleep easy

Early morning flights always seem like a good idea at the time, but when you’re faced with the prospect of starting your day before the cock crows, you know it’s going to be a rough day of travel. Get your beauty sleep and make your flight on time by booking an airport hotel for the night before. You’ll be awake and alert when parking your car at the airport, and you’ll have plenty of rest for your day of travel.

Connect with like-minded travellers

Travelling can be lonely, but it’s difficult to meet people when you’re always on the way to the next stop on your itinerary. Take advantage of your masses of airport waiting time to sit, have a drink, and introduce yourself to a friendly face. If you’ve been at a conference, you may even spot someone you know. You can regale them with your travel stories, and maybe they’ll thrill you with yours. Even if you don’t make a friend for life, you’ll probably get some great tips for the next trip!

Airport hotels can be so much more than what is on the surface, and there are so many great ones around the world. Try one out – you’ll never look at flying the same way again.

Fiji. The jewel of the Pacific. A one-stop holiday destination for lovers of sea, sand, and sunsets. The perfect stopover point for flights between Australia and New Zealand in the Southern Hemisphere, and the US and the UK in the Northern.

If you’re flying through Fiji, you’re probably wishing you didn’t have to get back on the plane. You’re probably wishing you had more than the terribly-calculated 6 hours between flights, so you could actually get out and feel the sun on your face after hours marinating in a glorified tin can. You’re probably wishing that that perfect Pacific day wasn’t just beyond your fingertips.

Wish no more. Airport hotels are here to rescue you from long-haul ennui.

(Don’t laugh. Keep reading.)

Airport hotels have gotten a pretty bad rap in the past. Corporate, soulless, expensive, identical no matter where you are in the world – right?

Wrong.

More and more, airport hotels are striving to service a different kind of traveller. The kind that just wants to spend their 6-hour layover lounging by a pool, getting a massage, eating local food cooked by a local chef using local ingredients. The kind of traveller who’d rather spend conference downtime chatting business while immersed in the local culture. The kind of traveller that wants to spend their time on holiday actually being on holiday, not trapped in a soulless, fluorescent maze of McDonald’s and Duty Free.

This is the new kind of airport hotel. The kind where the food is local, the bar is cozy, and there isn’t a generic landscape painting in sight. The kind that feels like where you are – where you can bask in that Pacific lifestyle while staying refreshed and focused on where you’ll next be.

This is what Fiji Gateway strives to be.