When you’ve had enough lounging about in the sun, Fiji can provide plenty to keep you occupied.
When you think of a holiday in Fiji, what usually comes to mind is an image of relaxation on a beach, or perhaps poolside at a resort, drinking from a coconut while your sunhat gently droops over your eyes.
Bliss, right? However, after a few days, relaxing can get just a little boring. Luckily there's much more to this beautiful group of islands than just sun, sand and coconut drinks. Those who are more keen on action and intrigue than relaxation will find there's plenty to keep them occupied in Fiji - from thrilling ziplines through native forest to incredible big game fishing and much more.
Snorkelling
When you're just starting to tire of lounging around the beach, the best way to ease yourself into some activities is a spot of underwater magic - and Fiji has some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world, so you'll be in for a treat.
Known as the "Soft Coral Capital of the World", Fiji is home to an incredible reef network surrounding its 333 islands and atolls. With 10,000sq km to explore and 1000 species of fish to spot, it'll definitely keep you busy.
Volivoli Island resort is a haven for divers.
Keen divers will be able to see even more down in the reef passages, where grey reef sharks, silvertips, hammerheads and white tips lurk. A shark dive is a slightly scary, but must-do experience - especially when the experienced Fijian divers start feeding them in front of your eyes.
Sailing
With so many islands to choose from, sailing is naturally the best way to get around Fiji. For those who want to stay closer to the mainland Viti Levu, take a sail around the Mamanucas, there's heaps to do for tourists and you can indulge in a bit of "resort-hopping".
However, a cruise is a also great way to see more obscure areas - and those who are itching for something different should check out the Yasawas, which are less developed and home to several villages. Even more off the beaten track are the Lau islands, an glimpse of Fiji seldom seen by tourists - you'll need special permission to visit. Here, locals live like they did before Europeans arrived and only three of the islands offer accommodation. Captain Cook Cruises visits the Laus as part of its Discovery cruise.
Hiking
When you're ready to escape the beach entirely and head to the heart of Fiji,
are happy to guide you along the way. It's Fiji's only hiking company and they "actively try and avoid being overly touristy" with small tour groups and off-the-beaten-track destinations. Talanoa guide you around Fiji's rugged interior - through mountains, lush forests and remote villages - while teaching you more about the history within.
Or you can hike to the heart of Fiji with Talanoa Treks.
Those with stamina can hike to the country's highest peak, Mt Tomaniivi in Northern Viti Levu - or even take on three mountains over a three night trek. If you've only got a day to spare, there's the chance to visit the village of Nabalesere, swim under the beautiful waterfall nearby and explore the historic Wailotua caves. Plus it's an ethical venture working in partnership with the villages it visits, offering a supplementary source of income to help further development.
Zipline
Fiji has joined the adrenaline-rushing zipline trend and it's an excellent way to take in the impressive sights from above. Zip Fiji has rides in two locations, with a spectacular range of scenery on offer. At Pacific Harbour, you can zoom along eight ziplines covering nearly 2km over the Wainadoi River valley - the heart of the tropical rainforest in Zip Fiji's own private eco-reserve.
In Nadi, the 16 giant ziplines running over 5km will put you in the ultimate position to take in spectacular ocean views, as you make your journey over canyons and mountaintops and the old growth vesi trees used to make kava bowls. As a bonus, the tour ends with an on-foot exploration of limestone caves with lunch at the end.
As well as action, there's plenty to learn, with experienced local guides.
Another great way to say "Bula" to the villages of Fiji is on a jet boat tour with Sigatoka River Safaris. This award-winning outfit takes you up the river, which runs through Viti Levu, working with 15 villages. The river is very important to the villages, providing locals with mussels, fish, prawns, eels, and of course, water.
Visitors get to enjoy an authentic Fijian experience, complete with kava ceremony, while learning more about the history, customs and legends of the area. A different village is visited each day to reduce the impact of tourism, and part of the ticket price helps village projects.
Fishing
With warm, tropical waters, Fiji is an excellent place for keen fishermen and the fishing is great all year round. A hot spot for big game fishing, in the south of Viti Levu you'll find find tuna, mahimahi (or 'dolphin fish') and wahoo. The deep channels of Kadavu and Bega are home to huge marlins, as well as spanish mackerel, yellow fin tuna and trevally. The southern Mamanuca Islands and the northern coast of Taveuni are also great for game fishing and a number of fishing charters operate out of the resorts in the area.
Overall, it seems like you can't really go wrong with fishing anywhere in Fiji and the bounties are plentiful. Plus, if you're staying in a resort with fishing on offer, you might even be able to get your catch cooked for your dinner as well - or rent a house and do it yourself.
