So you’ve booked a trip to Fiji (or you’re about to). Exciting! But before the beach towels and sunset cocktails come all the important details you need to organise — flights, airports, and where to stay when you land.
This guide has you covered. From finding the best flights to Fiji, choosing when to go, and knowing your airline options, to the smart hack of staying near Nadi Airport — we’ll walk you through it all. Think of it as insider advice from a friendly Fijian concierge, with a few straight-talking tips to make life easier.
When & how to book the best flights to Fiji
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to flights. Here’s how to lock in a good deal:
- Book early — ideally three to six months in advance.
- Set price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner and let the deals come to you.
- Fly midweek if you can — it’s usually cheaper than weekends.
- Look out for specials from Fiji Airways, Qantas, Virgin, Air New Zealand and Jetstar (depending on where you’re coming from)..
Insider Tip: What is the cheapest time to fly to Fiji?
Generally, February, March, May and November are the best months for lower fares, as they sit outside school holidays and the peak dry season.
Best times to travel to Fiji
Flights matter, but so does the weather (and avoiding crowds). Here’s a breakdown of the peak and shoulder seasons to help you plan.
- High season (June–mid October, late December–mid January): Mid year until after the October school holidays, Fiji is generally dry, sunny, and popular. But also busy and more expensive. There is another peak around December, aligning with the Christmas and New Year holidays and the Southern Hemisphere summer break.
- Shoulder season (March–May, mid October–November): Expect warm weather, great value, fewer crowds. Accommodation and flight prices are often lower during the shoulder season, providing excellent value for money. The ideal choice if you can swing it.
- Wet season (November–April): It’s going to be hot and humid, with tropical showers (short, intense downpours mainly in the afternoons) — but the upside is fewer tourists and more deals. Some parts of Fiji, like the Mamanuca Islands, are in a drier “rain shadow” region and receive less rain than the mainland during this period.
Insider Tip: When is the best time to visit Fiji for good weather and value?
The shoulder seasons of March–May and October–November hit the sweet spot. Sunshine, better value, and space to breathe.
Airlines & direct routes to Fiji
Getting to Fiji is easier than you think. Nadi International Airport is the hub for Fiji Airways, with direct flights from Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada (Vancouver), Singapore and even China via Hong Kong.
From Australia
- Fiji Airways, Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar all fly direct from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra.
- Flight times: Brisbane is less than 3 hours, Sydney is just over 4 hours and Melbourne closer to 5.
From New Zealand
- Fiji Airways and Air New Zealand operate direct routes from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
- How long is a flight to Fiji from NZ? Short enough that you’ll barely finish a movie! Auckland is 3 hours; Wellington and Christchurch are around 4.
From the USA and Canada
- Can you fly direct to Fiji from the USA or Canada? Absolutely. Fiji Airways operate non-stop flights.
- What US cities have direct flights to Fiji? Los Angeles (LAX is a daily service) and San Francisco (several times a week). It’s easy to connect to these airports from any number of locations across the United States. A new direct service has also launched from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport direct to Nadi International Airport.
- A twice weekly direct flight is available on Fiji Airways from Vancouver.
Other connections
- Fiji Airways links via Hong Kong and Singapore, perfect for guests travelling from Asia and India or connecting from the UK and Europe.
- Fiji is also well connected to its Pacific neighbours, with direct flights from Honolulu, Samoa, and Tonga.
Why we love our national carrier, Fiji Airways: It’s a full-service airline. Meals, drinks, entertainment, and dedicated kids’ meals are included. The best part? The holiday feeling starts the moment you board thanks to the friendly Fijian team welcoming you onboard.
Why stay near Nadi Airport?
Here’s something seasoned travellers know: if your flight lands late or departs early, staying near the airport is a game-changer.
Fiji Gateway Hotel is right across the road from Nadi International Airport — literally a 6-minute walk, or you can take the free 24-hour shuttle.
Why it makes sense:
- There are no long transfers to your hotel after a long flight.
- Breakfast from 5.30am — perfect for early departures or flights early arriving.
- Enjoy two outdoor swimming pools, including a waterslide, plus a gym and tennis courts.
- Comfy rooms, and onsite dining (including a handy room service option) are available.
- Nama Day Spa is a perfect option for those who want a quick massage to relax into island time.
- Easy access to great local experiences, island ferries and domestic flights via the hotel’s shuttle bus and taxi rank located at the hotel.
It’s practical, but it also means you start (or end) your Fiji holiday in a relaxed frame of mind.
Fiji Gateway’s added touches
It’s not just about the location. The hotel’s team is there to make your trip easier.
- Transfers sorted: Staff can help with ferries, taxis, or domestic flights to the islands.
- Local know-how: Ask for tips on where to eat or how to fill a spare afternoon. Although, it’s hard to beat the hotel’s own bar and restaurant for great eats by the pool.
Smart Packing Tips for Fiji
Plenty of travellers say, “I wish I’d known this before going to Fiji.” Save yourself the stress with these packing wins:
- Light layers: Great for cooler evenings and chilly flights.
- Swimwear in your carry-on: So you can jump in the hotel pool even if your bags are delayed.
- A sulu (sarong): Versatile for beach cover-ups and respectful village visits.
- Reef shoes: Protect your feet when snorkelling or exploring coral shallows.
- Bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen: Tropical essentials—cheaper to pack than to buy locally.
- Reusable water bottle: Eco-friendly and easy to refill at the hotel. It’s best to use bottled water for hygiene when out and about.
- Pack sealed snacks from home — imported treats are expensive in Fiji.
- Travelling with kids? Slip a surprise toy or colouring book into your bag. It’ll keep them busy, and you won’t stress if it gets lost.
- Chargers and adaptors: Fiji uses Type I plugs (the same as Australia and NZ).
It’s also a good idea to withdraw cash at ANZ or Westpac ATMs at the airport, and perhaps grab a local Vodafone Tourist SIM at the airport for cheap data.
Medication is also best packed in your hand luggage. Just in case! There are of course pharmacies in Fiji, and a convenient on-site boutique shop with some supplies at the Fiji Gateway Hotel, but for medication and other personal necessities having it with you provides peace of mind.
Last but never least, learning a few Fijian words like “Bula” (hello) and “Vinaka” (thank you) goes a long way, as does a respect for ‘Fiji’ time. Before you know it, you’ll have slipped into relaxation mode and be running on island time too…
Explore Fiji from Fiji Gateway Hotel
You don’t need to be on an island to start exploring. The Reception team at Fiji Gateway Hotel can organise tours, day trips, and transfers, making it easy to experience Fiji before heading off.
- Garden of the Sleeping Giant: Stunning orchids and rainforest walks.
- Sabeto Hot Springs & Mud Pool: A local favourite—muddy fun and a natural spa.
- Nadi Handicraft Market: Perfect for souvenirs and people-watching.
- Cultural villages: Learn about Fijian traditions, kava ceremonies, and music.
- Island day cruises: Reception can arrange transfers to Denarau Marina, the starting point for boat trips to the Mamanuca Islands.
Fiji Gateway makes it simple: just ask at the desk, and they’ll handle the details.
FAQs: Flights to Fiji & Nadi Airport Stays
Do I need a visa for Fiji and how long can I stay?
Australians, New Zealanders, Americans, and many Europeans don’t need a visa to visit Fiji for up to four months. Just check that your passport is valid for six months after your trip. If you’re travelling from elsewhere, we recommend confirming entry requirements with your local consulate before locking in your holiday
Are there car hire options at Nadi Airport? Do I need an international licence?
Yes, with major providers like Avis, Hertz, and Budget. Aussies, Kiwis, and Americans usually don’t need an international licence. If your license is from an English-speaking country (like Australia), your original license is generally sufficient for the first six months of your stay. However, if your license is not in English, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your original license to drive.
Is it worth staying near the airport for a late arrival or early departure?
Definitely. It saves time, reduces stress and having to get up before dawn for an early flight, and lets you focus on enjoying your holiday. Fiji Gateway Hotel is the closest and easiest option.
What I wish I knew before going to Fiji?
- Book flights early — they sell out faster than you think.
- The shoulder season is your best friend.
- Bring a few snacks from home, especially for little hungry tummies.
- Staying near the airport for your first or last night makes life easier.
The smartest way to begin (and end) your trip
Flights to Fiji don’t need to be complicated. Book early, travel in shoulder season if you can, and choose an airline that suits your style and budget.
And when you land? Make it simple. Fiji Gateway Hotel is right there by Nadi Airport, with a free shuttle, early breakfasts, and friendly staff to help with transfers. It’s the perfect start — or finish — to your Fijian journey.
After all, it’s not just a hotel. It’s your gateway to Fiji.
