Hey there, my name is John and let me tell you about the vibrant and bustling city of Suva in Fiji.
This place is not only a major city, but it’s also the largest in the South Pacific region – and boy, does it have a lot to offer.
Suva is like a gem in the heart of Fiji, with Laucala Bay to the east and Suva Harbor to the west.
It sits on a promontory that measures around 3km wide by 5km long – big enough to house a large chunk of the nation’s urban population.
This area is known for its lush natural resources and tourism, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Now, let’s talk about the main town, the Victoria Pde – it’s where the action is.
It’s where you can find a plethora of amazing restaurants, shopping centers, parks, gardens, clubs, wharves and a lively market.
The hustle and bustle of this area are unlike anything I’ve ever seen before.
Speaking of which, I have a personal story related to Suva.
During my visit, I stumbled upon a small restaurant that looked pretty run-down, but the aroma of their food was too tantalizing to ignore.
I decided to give it a shot and, boy, was I in for a treat!
The food was so delicious that I ended up eating there every day of my stay in Suva.
What is the Best Time to Visit Suva?
If you’re planning to visit Suva, the best time is during the top dry season from July through September when the weather is just perfect.
It’s the coolest time of the year, making it the ideal time for mountain climbing.
The reef waters are also perfect for swimming and exploring, even making it the best option for a scuba diving adventure.
But don’t worry if you can’t make it during the peak season.
Suva has a South Sea tropical climate, and you can visit anytime throughout the year.
Even during the low and shoulder seasons, Suva still has so much to offer.
Plus, you’ll get the added bonus of lower costs on hotel accommodations and flight deals.
Just keep in mind that Suva’s wet season runs from November to April, and it can get pretty hot and humid.
But hey, if you can handle the heat, you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant city that’s full of life.
Best things to do in Suva, Fiji
Here are my favorite places to see and things to do when in the city of Suva, Fiji.
Colo-I-Suva Forest Park
The Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is an exquisite spot where you can spend several hours meandering through the thick rainforest.
If you are on a package tour, choose the waterfall trail, forest hike or a visit to the top and bottom pools.
There are several trails that are a bit adventurous and challenging enough.
Explore the beautiful forest that has several small to large waterfalls where you can swim and enjoy the cold water pouring from above.
Overall, it is a worthwhile detour if you’re looking for a little variety from touring the beaches around Suva.
The tour of the falls is a bit dangerous, so it is advisable to do the walk with a knowledgeable guide who knows where the less risky access ways are.
The tour finishes with a rope swing adventure at the lower pool.
From this point you get to swing from a rope and take the straight plunge into the crisp and cold water of the pool.
This park is sheltered but filled with signposts making it impossible for anyone to get lost.
It is also equipped with forest park rangers that keep the area secured and safe.
Upon entrance you will be given a passage card which includes the help of a tour guide from the recreation center.
You also get a short briefing about what to expect from the trails located inside this natural reserve.
Ready yourself with a good footwear, warm clothes, drinking water, and snacks.
There are no establishments inside the forest so better pack your trip with your own provisions.
Once you arrive at the falls area, you will get soaked to the bone with no choice left but to swim along with the many tourists who enjoy the secluded falls adventure.
Nevertheless, the cost of the tour is quite high, but the scenic views, the thrill you get, and the fun hike along the mountain trail is all worth it.
It is truly an enchanting experience that must not be missed when in Suva.
My favorite activities in Suva
Fiji Museum
The Fiji Museum is located in a mall 2-storey house in a park near the center of the city.
The artifacts and collections presented here are not very huge and overwhelming, but they are all interesting and has played a significant part in the rich culture of Suva.
Inside, there are lots of material on the history and ethnography of a true Fijian, and immigrants from the former British India – Indians, who share more than one third of the country’s population.
Despite its sheer size, the museum has successfully shown the pros and cons of British rule on the island.
As for the cons, there are only a few rooms that have enough air conditioning.
In one of the rooms there is a small shop that sells a minimum number of different souvenirs – postcards, beads, handicrafts, and so on.
Some of the crafts are made of local products and some Chinese.
In the first stage, you will be welcomed by a huge carved boat built since the 19th century.
It is a good place to discover the history of Fiji and its sailors.
The museum is located in the center of the city and occupies one side of the Albert Park, the entrance fee is minimal and with the things you can find inside and learn about the Fijians inside this museum, it is worth all the time and money.
What else to do in Suva?
Albert Park
The Albert Park is a famous place where large gatherings or parties of Fiji are mostly held.
If you like to watch a good game of local rugby, football, and tennis, this is the place to be.
You will always be invited by Fijians to join the game, especially on weekends where most people gather and cheer for their favorite team.
There are more crowds here, especially during the Hibiscus celebration season.
At these times, this park gets filled with food kiosks, souvenir stalls, and other sports activities.
There is always something going on and the place exudes a festive atmosphere.
It is quite amusing to see the park being used for numerous types of sports and diversions by its dynamic populace.
You can hear the euphoric laughter and joy of people watching games of soccer, cricket, or marathon running.
For its historic significance, this exact spot is where Charles Kingsford-Smith arrived aboard his Southern Cross when he made his exploration tour over the South Pacific Ocean in 1928.
National events and New Year festivities are also held in this well maintained park in the heart of Suva.
Top Suva tourist attractions
Orchid Island
The Orchid Island is about 1 kilometer away from the center of the city, but it is still worth a visit when in Suva.
This is one of the existing (there are two others on the island of Fiji) traditional Fijian temples that are still in use and preserved on its original grounds.
Upon entrance, you will be welcomed by its resident caretaker (A Britain educated local) whose happy and positive outlook in life became one of the reasons why this site must be visited.
What makes the tour special is that he can explain every detail of the temple and inject fun and humor on every narration.
This temple has an adjacent museum that is a couple of meters away and it houses old weapons, tribal relics, Fiji vestments, dishes, and old artworks.
The garden sets the perfect mood for contemplation with the presence of its lovely orchids, exotic plants, heliconias, fruit trees and the rich vegetation that surround this small complex.
The site is currently maintained by the ruling tribes and they only allow entrance if endorsed by their authentic guide.
In addition, the entrance is totally free, but a humble donation is simply required upon entrance.
Fun things to do in Suva
Old Parliament House of Fiji
The Old Parliament House of Fiji is a bit unnoticed by most tourists, but still holds its ordinary charm up to this modern day.
It has the Statue of the late Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna , one of the popular and revered Statesman of Fiji.
He was the longest serving leader of Fiji (1888 – 1858) dedicating his life to the people, legend, leader, and chief of its army.
Every last Monday of May is when the locals honor and remember him by way of celebrating long week festivals.
It is on this building when he first fought for Fiji’s independence from British rule in the year 1970.
But nowadays, this building offers a glimpse of the past and the colonial days and influence has been given up.
Purposely designed to resemble the image of a traditional Fijian hut, this important complex is perfect for history lovers as it now serves as a political museum.
The surroundings look average, the grounds are well kept, and the structure is still amazing despite many years of existence.
Famous stuff to do in Suva
Municipal Handicraft Center
The Municipal Handicraft Center is situated on the parking lot that can be found at the corner of Stinson Parade and within the premises of Central Street .
It offers Fijian handicrafts that are meticulously prepared by the local tribes and like most places and attractions of the city it is always frequented by tourists who wants to bring gifts and goodies back home.
Each stall tries to be different from the other giving the prospective buyer more option to choose from.
If you know how to haggle with the seller, you can grab some great deals and discounts on some items that are authentic and proudly Fijian made.
You will find hidden gems that are artistically made like; jewelries, beads, home decors, wooden bangles, earrings, snacks, delicacies, biscuits, and sweets all homemade and hard to pass up.
The wooden wares are very exceptional and one of the best memories you can bring home from the city of Suva.
My adventures in Suva
Suva Municipal Market
The country of Fiji is composed of almost 330 islands, but only 100 of it are inhabited. Suva is the capital and also the most important port.
This is where most of the fresh produce are delivered and sold. At the Suva Municipal Market , a typical day begins with busy sellers stacking their shops with fresh vegetables, fruits, seafood, and meat.
There are also local restaurants here where you can taste a good Fijian meal at an affordable price.
You can also visit the botanical garden that holds a variety of tropical plants.
Take a look and reflect at the colorful changing of the guard at the gate of the governor’s residence which is located within its premises too.
This lively street market is filled with friendly sellers of fresh fruits and vegetables that can only be found in Fiji.
A tour is a must if you want to immerse yourself with the local scene and interact with their amiable shop owners who always have a ready smile and a piece of fruit for you to sample.
Interesting things to see in Suva Fiji
Tappoo City
Tappoo City is likely a standout amongst the most cutting edge structure you will ever see in the island of Fiji.
The shopping, dining options, and amusement features are simply awesome.
You can spend half of your day here and purchase what you need or discover some astounding gems.
Above all else, it is great to discover a cool spot to stop in the busy downtown center of the city.
It is a small but fully-air conditioned shopping center that is located right next to the seaport and the municipal market.
Tappoo is an ideal place to visit after going around the tourist spots and points of interest in Suva.
The pleasant thing about the costs of the handicrafts sold here is they are offered at fixed prices and at a much lower price.
Aside from local products there are also products imported from China like;
kitchenware, house decors, and electronics.
Pure Fiji Spa
It’s a world class spa that is located right in the capital with first class amenities and well trained masseurs and reflexologists.
The staffs are amiable and are always constantly prepared to aid you. It’s an absolute necessity to visit the Pure Fiji Spa when in Suva.
It has a very relaxing ambience and serene atmosphere that will make you feel comfortable and at peace while being pampered.
Try the relaxing sugar rub and their own mix of lemon tea given after treatment, it is so delightful and makes the visit truly worthwhile.
Things to do in suva with Kids
Thurston Gardens
Consider adding the Thurston Gardens to your Suva travel itinerary and you will have the best time as you meander along its small yet wonderful setting.
The dense aggregation of local vegetation and its encompassing yards are less manicured and more scattered, but the play of colors from its blooms are more than enough to make this place indeed special.
Learn or see how rich the country’s natural flora and fauna is as you explore this fair sized horticultural attraction.
Schedule your visit on a weekend and you will see many couples, families, who enjoy a quiet time, or camped under its huge fig trees while spending precious moments to rest and unwind in this natural gem located in the heart of Suva.
