Nearly all international flights arrive at Nadi International Airport (NAN) on the main island, Viti Levu. One of the first things you’ll have to decide when you’re making your hotel booking is how you are going to get from point A to B, and if you do it at the last minute, you can end up paying too much. Here are the major options available for transferring to and from this Fiji airport, with prices and tips on choosing an airport transfer to and from Fiji.
Prices in all cases are in Fijian dollars (FJD) and are subject to change. Fares may vary; please check with your provider before travelling.
Your Fiji Airport Transfer Options
Airport Taxi
A taxi rank is located just outside the arrivals hall where licensed taxis are waiting. They’re metered, which means that the cost depends on the distance and time. Expect roughly:
- Nadi town: FJD 15 to 25
- The average price of Denarau Island is FJD 35 to 50.
- Coral Coast: FJD 80-250 (Depending on your location along the coast)
That range for the Coral Coast is wide due to the variability in quotes. There is also a night charge (around 9 pm until 6 am). Taxis are appropriate for short-distance trips, such as Nadi or Denarau. If traveling a long distance, agree to a set price before you get in, or hire a car-rental service.
Pre-booked private transfer
A driver awaits you at the arrival area and drives you directly to your hotel (typically with a sign). Fees are per vehicle, not per person. Typical prices:
- Denarau: FJD 45 to 70
- Coral Coast: FJD 160 to 220
- Resorts located from Nadi to the Coral Coast: FJD 120 – 280 (depends on distance)
If you’re traveling with a family or group of three or more, it might be a better deal to rent a private van than to purchase individual shuttle tickets. It is also the safest option if you are coming in late at night or require a child seat.
Shared shuttle
Shuttles are available for shared rides, and they make stops at multiple hotels. Approximately FJD 25-35 per adult to Denarau, and FJD 50-80 per adult to the Coral Coast.
The catch is time. The journey with a private car to the Coral Coast is 60 to 120 minutes. That time can be extended to almost three hours if a shared shuttle is used to pick up and drop off passengers on Queens Road. That takes a lot of flying. If you’re a couple, and you include the additional time, the savings may be minimal for a private car.
Resort shuttle
Please read this before booking other accommodations. Most larger resorts, particularly on Denarau Island and the Coral Coast, offer their own airport shuttles. Some room rates include it, while others charge extra. In either case, it’s often the least stressful since there’s someone from your hotel waiting for you.
Local bus
The bus is the most economical means of transport – from the airport to Denarau, it costs FJD 3 per person from Nadi bus stand. It’s also the slowest, and it’s a change. It is suitable for backpackers who do not have heavy luggage and have enough time. It’s a poor choice with kids, big suitcases, or a tight schedule.
Rental car
Rental desks are near the airport, and some travellers hire a car here. In Fiji, driving is done on the left. Think about whether or not you need a car for the entire trip, or just a day or two. This is probably not so if you are staying at Denarau resorts.
Average Prices For The Round Trip – Not Exact Prices.
| Destination | Taxi | Private transfer (per vehicle) | Shared shuttle (per person) |
| Nadi town | 15-25 | Varies | n/a |
| Denarau Island | 35–50 | 45–70 | 25–35 |
| Coral Coast | 80–250 | 160–220 | 50–80 |
Use this table as a guideline, not a quote! The wide ranges are attributed to changes in providers, vehicle size, and seasons.
Getting To The Islands
When going to the Mamanuca or Yasawa Islands, the airport transfer is just the beginning. Most visitors arrive by taxi and/or catamaran to Port Denarau (20-30 minutes), and then board a catamaran for their island. Some resorts provide a seaplane or helicopter transfer in lieu of the boat transfer, which is much more time-consuming and expensive.
Please refer to the ferry schedule when making your travel plans. Boats are on a timetable, and it is possible that you may have to land on the mainland for the night if sailing into the afternoon. Some resorts may be able to coordinate the entire trip, so inquire about their recommendations.
For a smoother arrival, here are some tips:
If you are late and/or a family, pre-book. There are taxis, but if you book one, you don’t get to discuss the price after arriving after a long flight.
- Confirm what’s included. Inquire if they include luggage, child seats, and waiting time in case of a flight delay. A good provider monitors which flight you are on.
- Use official taxis. Yellow airport taxis operate at the airport. Anyone who approaches you at the terminal, offering a ride, is not to be trusted.
- Bring some Fijian dollars. Pay taxis in FJD. If you are asked to be charged for using the ATM/card terminal in your home currency, refuse and select FJD.
- Check with your hotel first. If you send an email before you go on your trip, you can save some money, and you don’t need to book a separate trip.
- Allow buffer time. Be aware that immigration and baggage may be lengthy. If you are travelling on to another boat or flight, avoid making your travel time too soon after your arrival.
- Make plans to make the trip home as well. Make your departure transfer when you make your arrival booking. Arrive back at the beach early, particularly for the Coral Coast, as traffic can slow you down near Nadi.
FAQs
How far is Nadi Airport from Denarau Island?
Approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic.
What time will it take to get to the Coral Coast?
One to two hours drive is required, depending on resort, depending on your resort. Because of the stops, a shared shuttle can take almost three hours.
Which is cheaper, a taxi or a pre-booked one?
If you are traveling within Nadi town or Denarau, a metered taxi will be the more economical option for the short distance. If it’s a longer journey or a bigger group, it is better to take a pre-booked private transfer, which is fixed-price.
Is it necessary to make an advance booking for my airport transfer?
Not required, as taxis are always available, but it is recommended if arriving at night, travelling with children, or a long drive afterward.
Are there any free airport transfers at Fiji resorts?
Not all of them do, but most places have to pay a fee, particularly larger resorts. Please check at the time of booking.
Are taxis at Nadi airport safe?
Yes, it is possible to use the official licensed taxis in the rank outside arrivals. Make sure to agree on the fare before leaving, or ensure that the meter is running.
Is it possible to take the bus from the airport?
Yes. It is inexpensive but slow and often requires a change at Nadi bus stand. This is not feasible with bulky bags.
What is the best way to travel from the airport to the outer islands?
The majority of people change to Port Denarau and hire a catamaran. A few resorts may also provide seaplane or helicopter transportation.
Final Thoughts
This will depend on the location, number of people landing, and time of arrival. Short hop to Denarau? Taxi or resort shuttle will do. Family vacation down the Coral Coast? Pre-book a private transfer. No matter what you decide to do, arrange it in advance before you travel so you can go straight to the hotel. Take this Fiji airport transfer guide as an indicator, but consult your hotel or transfer provider for up-to-date rates.
