Surfing in Fiji: Surf’s Always Up!
Surfing in Fiji is an unforgettable experience. Fiji is one of the world’s best surfing destinations and has waves for all levels.
There is a multitude of fantastic spots for all levels, all year round. Beginners can take advantage of some beautiful beach breaks while more experienced surfers will relish Fiji’s reef breaks.
When to go?
Well, anytime.
April to November is the Southern Hemisphere winter, which means bigger swells and less rain. By “winter”, we mean maximum temperatures of around 28°C.
When surfing in Fiji, pretty much all year round is good. Late November to March is summer in Fiji. This can sometimes bring flatter breaks which is perfect for beginners, but no matter when you go, great waves are waiting.
Where to go?
Whether you’re keen to take on the world famous Cloudbreak and Frigates or just want to get started, Fiji caters to all.
Best of all they’re super easy to get to. You can stay on the mainland or jump on a boat and quickly get to an island. It’s up to you!
Here are some of the best spots for surfing in Fiji.
Tavarua Island
Tavarua has it all. The world famous Cloudbreak and Restaurants breaks are here. Cloudbreak is a left break on the reef and is recommended for advanced surfers. On a big day Cloudbreak has been known to serve up 4 – 5 meter monster waves.
Restaurants is another left break spot with smaller waves on average but it’s still fast and best suited to at least intermediate surfers.
If you’re surfing in Fiji and are just starting out, no problem! Just inside Restaurants is a smaller break, nicknamed “Kiddieland”. You’ll find plenty of kids and adults learning their craft around here.
How to get there?
Tavarua is just off the coast near Nadi. From Nadi airport you simply jump on a bus to the boat launch. A boat will take you to the island. Simple!
Namotu Island
Namotu Island is located a little further out than Tavarua and has a wide range of choices.
The closest are Namotu Lefts and a right break Swimming Pool, so called because its pristine water resembles an aquatic pool.
Swimming Pool is a fun break, suitable for all levels. Namotu Lefts offers a slightly more challenging ride.
When you’ve conquered these you can just get a boat to the nearby breaks at Tavarua, such as Cloudbreak and Restaurants.
Desperations is also accessible from Namotu and offers both left and right breaks. Best of all, Desperations has great consistent waves, making it a go-to if other spots are too crowded or not happening.
How to get there?
Just like Tavarua, you get a bus from Nadi or Nadi Airport to the boat launch. From Namotu Island you can get a boat to any spot you like.
Coral Coast
If you feel like sticking to the mainland, the Coral Coast has plenty of beach break surfing. They’re mainly beach breaks, so they’re ideal for those just getting started.
You can make surfing tour out of it. Start off at Natadola and work your way down the coast, stopping off at Sigatoka and Mango Bay. You’ll find a wide variety of places to stay as well as some excellent surf schools.
Further down the Coral Coast at Waidroka Bay you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Kids and beginners can throw themselves into the beach breaks. More advanced surfers will quickly head out to the famous Frigates. Frigates is a left reef break with fast moving barrels and one of Fiji’s most popular big wave locations.
How to get there?
Why not drive? The Coral Coast links the two major cities Nadi and Suva so there are plenty of rental options.
Classic Rental & Hire Fiji has everything you’ll need.
Taveuni Island
If you feel like getting away from it all and want to try something a bit different then – hello Taveuni Island! Not only is it a majestic location but it has some phenomenal reef breaks at nearby Qamea Island.
You’ll find less crowds and more locals at Taveuni. If you really want to spoil yourself, book into the resort on Qamea for some luxury surfing.
How to get there?
Taveuni is located in North Fiji so you can fly from Nadi to Taveuni Airport in just over 2 hours. If you want to check out Qamea, it’s a short boat ride from Taveuni.
These are just some of the incredible spots we recommend when surfing in Fiji. Wherever you go, you’ll meet friendly locals, ride world-class waves and have a truly unique experience.
Surf’s up people!