As your plane descends into Fiji, you look out the window and are met by the most beautiful blue waters you can imagine. Fiji is known as the Soft Coral Capital of the world. This is due to its exceptional biodiversity and optimal conditions for coral growth. As you can imagine, this offers some of the best diving in the world. In addition to its stunning soft corals, Fiji provides exciting dive encounters with bull and tiger sharks, but only if you want to – you will only find them if you go looking for them!
Fiji is all about Soft Coral and Sharks
Fiji’s soft corals are known for their brilliant colors and variation, particularly at the Rainbow Reef in the Somosomo Strait. These corals thrive in nutrient-rich currents, resulting in stunning underwater landscapes that draw divers from all over the world.
White Wall is a popular dive site on the Rainbow Reef. The White Wall is famous for its dramatic vertical drop-off covered with white soft corals. The dive starts in a small coral garden and continues down the wall, which is overgrown with soft corals that appear white in natural light. The area is filled with marine life, including reef fish, nudibranchs, and sometimes unusual pelagic species. Strong currents in the region stimulate coral blooms and provide an interesting drift diving experience.
Shark diving in Beqa Lagoon or in the Yasawa Islands is another highlight of Fiji. Divers can encounter species such as bull sharks and tiger sharks during baited dives, providing a thrilling but also safe experience.
Is Fiji Good for Beginners?
Whilst some of the dives in Fiji can be challenging, the country also offers plenty of easy diving in calm, clear water with no currents. This makes Fiji a great place for beginning divers. It’s also a great place to learn how to dive. There are many professional dive schools in Fiji with instructors ready to teach you how to dive. Having said that, dive sites such as White Wall are only accessible to divers who hold an advanced certification. This is due to the depth of the dive and the current that’s present almost all the time.
Accommodation on Fiji
There are many different resorts in Fiji, spread all over the islands. From luxury, high-end, five-star resorts to cozy homestays, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options. If you’re keen to dive the Rainbow Reef, then Sau Bay Resort is a great choice. This secluded paradise offers easy access to world-renowned dive sites, including the spectacular White Wall. Here you can stay in a bure, a traditional Fijian house, whilst enjoying great meals. The resort is located directly at the beach, and besides diving, you can go stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, and much more.
Best Time to Visit and Dive in Fiji
The best diving conditions in Fiji normally happen between April and the end of October. During this time, water temperatures range from 78°F to 83°F, making diving conditions pleasant. Visibility is superb, typically above 100 feet. The weather is often dry and steady, with gentle breezes and quiet seas, making it a great time for both expert and novice divers to visit Fiji’s famed diving spots.
Exploring Fiji Further
In addition to world-class diving, Fiji provides plenty of activities for visitors. You can go on fishing trips that guarantee amazing catches. Hiking paths through lush rainforests and sturdy terrains provide incredible views as well as chances to connect with nature. Visiting a pearl farm allows you to learn about the delicate process of pearl production while also purchasing some magnificent pearls. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs provides a breathtaking glimpse of marine life for those who like to stay near the surface. Sailing cruises are a wonderful way to discover the islands and their pristine surroundings. If you’re interested in Fijian cuisine, you can take cooking lessons and learn how to produce traditional Fijian delicacies. Finally, cultural tours to nearby villages provide valuable insights into Fijian customs and traditions, with a chance to connect to the locals.
Travelling to Fiji
The easiest way to go to Fiji from the United States is to fly nonstop. Fiji Airways offers direct flights to Fiji from both Los Angeles and San Francisco to Nadi, the capital of Fiji. These flights often last 10 to 11 hours. Depending on where you go, you might have to catch a small local plane once you’ve landed to arrive at your final destination
Join Scuba.Com on a Trip to Fiji
Come and join Scuba.com for a dive trip to Fiji from October 6th to 13th, 2024. Discover the soft corals of Rainbow Reef, relax at the beautiful Sau Bay Resort, and make memories that will last a lifetime. You will enjoy 5 days of valet boat diving with up to 3 tanks a day and 1 shore night dive with Sau Bay’s expert dive guides and a Scuba.com Instructor who will guide the entire trip.
