Lautoka is the second largest city in Fiji, and a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty and charm of the South Pacific. Lautoka is located on the west coast of Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji, and has a warm and sunny climate all year round. Lautoka is also known as the Sugar City, as it is home to the largest sugar mill in the southern hemisphere, and a major source of income and employment for the locals.
Lautoka has a lot to offer to visitors, from cultural and historical attractions, to natural and adventurous activities. You can explore the Fiji Museum, which showcases the history, culture, and art of Fiji, or enjoy the Vuda Point Marina, which offers boat tours, fishing trips, and water sports. You can also shop at the Lautoka Market, which sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices, as well as handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing, or relax at the Sabeto Hot Springs, which feature hot pools of water with therapeutic and relaxing properties.
Lautoka is also a great base to explore the nearby islands and attractions, such as Denarau Island, a luxury resort island with golf courses, spas, and restaurants, or the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a city park with a collection of orchids and other plants. You can also visit the Fiji Culture Village, a historical and cultural attraction that showcases the traditional Fijian village life, or the Cloud 9 Fiji, a floating platform that offers music, drinks, and stunning views of the ocean.
In this article, you will discover why Lautoka is a perfect destination for your next vacation, and how to make the most of your time in this tropical paradise. You will also learn about the best places to stay, the best ways to get there, and the best time to visit. Whether you are looking for a relaxing and romantic getaway, a fun and adventurous trip, or a cultural and educational experience, Lautoka has something for everyone. Let's start by exploring the top things to do in Lautoka, from cultural and historical attractions to natural and adventurous activities.
Things to Do in Lautoka
Lautoka has a variety of attractions and activities that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top things to do in Lautoka, with details, tips, and insights for each.
Visit the Fiji Museum
The Fiji Museum is a museum that displays the history, culture, and art of Fiji, with exhibits such as pottery, weapons, and canoes. It is a great place to learn more about the rich and diverse heritage of Fiji, and to admire the craftsmanship and creativity of the Fijian people. The museum also hosts events and workshops, such as cultural performances, lectures, and demonstrations, that showcase the Fijian culture and traditions.
The Fiji Museum is located in the heart of Lautoka, near the Lautoka City Park. It is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 4 pm. The admission fee is $5 FJD for adults, and $2 FJD for children. Don't miss the guided tour that is offered every hour, which will give you more information and stories about the exhibits. You can also buy some souvenirs and books at the museum shop, or enjoy a snack at the museum cafe.
Enjoy the Vuda Point Marina
The Vuda Point Marina is a marina that offers boat tours, fishing trips, and water sports, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. It is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty and adventure of Lautoka and Fiji, and to see the marine life and coral reefs. You can also relax at the marina, which has a pool, a bar, and a restaurant, or join the events and activities, such as live music, trivia nights, and yoga classes, that are organized by the marina staff.
The Vuda Point Marina is located in Vuda Point, about 15 minutes away from Lautoka. It is open every day, from 8 am to 10 pm. The prices vary depending on the type and duration of the boat tour, fishing trip, or water sport, but they are generally affordable and reasonable. You can book your activity online, or through the marina office, and choose from different options and packages. You can also rent a boat, a kayak, or a snorkel gear, if you prefer to explore the water on your own.
Shop at the Lautoka Market
The Lautoka Market is a market that sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices, as well as handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing. It is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine, and to interact with the friendly and welcoming vendors. You can also find some unique and exotic products, such as kava, a traditional drink made from the roots of a plant, or masi, a cloth made from the bark of a tree.
The Lautoka Market is located in the center of Lautoka, near the bus station. It is open every day, from 6 am to 6 pm. The prices are negotiable, and you can bargain with the vendors, but be respectful and fair. You can also try some of the local delicacies, such as roti, a flatbread with various fillings, or kokoda, a dish of raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice. You can also enjoy the lively and colorful atmosphere of the market, and the music and entertainment that are often provided by the vendors and the customers.
Relax at the Sabeto Hot Springs
The Sabeto Hot Springs are a natural attraction that feature hot pools of water, with therapeutic and relaxing properties, and a mud bath option. It is a great place to unwind and rejuvenate, and to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. You can also learn about the history and legend of the hot springs, which are believed to have healing and spiritual powers, and to be a gift from the gods.
The Sabeto Hot Springs are located in Sabeto, about 20 minutes away from Lautoka. They are open every day, from 9 am to 5 pm. The admission fee is $15 FJD for adults, and $7 FJD for children, which includes access to the hot pools and the mud bath. You can also get a massage, a facial, or a manicure, for an extra fee, or buy some souvenirs and snacks at the gift shop or the cafe. You can also bring your own towel, swimsuit, and sunscreen, or rent them at the entrance.
Where to Stay in Lautoka
Lautoka has a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, that suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lautoka, with details, reviews, and prices for each.
Anchorage Beach Resort
Anchorage Beach Resort is a 3-star resort, located on a private beach, with a pool, a spa, and a restaurant. It offers spacious and cozy rooms, with balconies, air conditioning, and free Wifi. It also has a stunning view of the ocean and the mountains, and a friendly and helpful staff.
Anchorage Beach Resort is located in Vuda Point, about 15 minutes away from Lautoka. It is available all year round, and the price ranges from $100 FJD to $200 FJD per night, depending on the season and the room type. You can book your room online, or through the resort office, and choose from different options and packages. You can also enjoy the activities and facilities that the resort offers, such as kayaking, fishing, hiking, or golfing.
I stayed at Anchorage Beach Resort for a week, and I loved it. The room was clean and comfortable, the food was delicious, and the staff was friendly and helpful. The beach was beautiful and peaceful, and the pool was refreshing and relaxing. I would definitely recommend this resort to anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing and affordable vacation in Lautoka.
The Fiji Orchid
The Fiji Orchid is a 4-star resort, located in a tropical garden, with spacious and elegant rooms, a pool, a spa, and a restaurant. It also has a close proximity to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a city park with a collection of orchids and other plants.
The Fiji Orchid is located in Sabeto, about 20 minutes away from Lautoka. It is available all year round, and the price ranges from $300 FJD to $500 FJD per night, depending on the season and the room type. You can book your room online, or through the resort office, and choose from different options and packages. You can also enjoy the activities and facilities that the resort offers, such as yoga, meditation, or cooking classes.
I stayed at The Fiji Orchid for a weekend, and I was impressed by the quality and service of the resort. The room was spacious and elegant, with a comfortable bed, a large bathroom, and a private terrace. The food was exquisite, and the staff was attentive and courteous. The garden was stunning, and the pool was inviting and soothing. I also enjoyed the yoga and meditation classes, which were relaxing and inspiring. I would definitely recommend this resort to anyone who wants to enjoy a luxurious and tranquil vacation in Lautoka.
Sapphire Bay Fiji
Sapphire Bay Fiji is a 5-star resort, located on a secluded bay, with luxurious and modern villas, a pool, a gym, and a chef service. It also has a private access to the beach and the marina, and a breathtaking view of Sure, I will continue the article about Lautoka. Here is the rest of the article:
Sapphire Bay Fiji is a 5-star resort, located on a secluded bay, with luxurious and modern villas, a pool, a gym, and a chef service. It also has a private access to the beach and the marina, and a breathtaking view of the ocean and the islands. It is a perfect place for a romantic and exclusive vacation, or a family and friends getaway.
Sapphire Bay Fiji is located in Vuda Point, about 15 minutes away from Lautoka. It is available all year round, and the price ranges from $1000 FJD to $2000 FJD per night, depending on the season and the villa type. You can book your villa online, or through the resort office, and choose from different options and packages. You can also enjoy the activities and facilities that the resort offers, such as sailing, fishing, hiking, or golfing.
I stayed at Sapphire Bay Fiji for a week, and I was amazed by the quality and service of the resort. The villa was luxurious and modern, with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living room, and a private pool. The chef service was excellent, and the staff was friendly and professional. The beach was pristine and private, and the marina was convenient and fun. I also enjoyed the sailing and fishing trips, which were exciting and rewarding. I would definitely recommend this resort to anyone who wants to enjoy a premium and exclusive vacation in Lautoka.
How to Get to Lautoka
Lautoka is easy and convenient to get to, as it is near the Nadi International Airport, the main gateway to Fiji. Here are some of the best ways to travel to Lautoka, from different modes of transportation to different routes and costs.
By Plane
By plane is the easiest and fastest way to get to Lautoka, as the Nadi International Airport is only 25 minutes away from the city, with frequent flights from many countries and cities. You can book your flight online, or through a travel agent, and choose from different airlines and prices. You can also find some cheap and last-minute deals, if you are flexible and lucky.
The flight from Sydney to Nadi takes about 4 hours, and there are several flights per day, depending on the season and the demand. The flight from Nadi to Lautoka takes about 25 minutes, and there are many taxis and buses available at the airport. The cost of the flight from Sydney to Nadi ranges from $500 AUD to $1000 AUD, depending on the airline and the date. The cost of the taxi from Nadi to Lautoka is about $30 FJD, and the cost of the bus is about $5 FJD.
Make sure to check the visa requirements and the health regulations before you travel to Fiji, as some countries may need a visa or a vaccination certificate. You can also exchange your currency at the airport, or use an ATM or a credit card, as the local currency is the Fijian dollar. You can also enjoy the duty-free shopping and the lounge facilities at the airport, or explore the nearby attractions, such as the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, or the Sabeto Hot Springs.
By Bus
By bus is a cheap and convenient way to get to Lautoka, as there are many buses that run from Nadi, Suva, and other towns, with scenic views along the way. You can buy your ticket online, or at the bus station, and choose from different bus companies and schedules. You can also find some discounts and offers, if you book in advance or travel in a group.
The bus from Nadi to Lautoka takes about 45 minutes, and there are several buses per hour, depending on the time and the day. The bus from Suva to Lautoka takes about 4 hours, and there are a few buses per day, depending on the time and the day. The cost of the bus from Nadi to Lautoka is about $5 FJD, and the cost of the bus from Suva to Lautoka is about $20 FJD.
Make sure to check the bus schedule and the bus stop before you travel, as some buses may not stop at your destination, or may have different routes and stops. You can also bring some snacks and drinks, or buy some at the bus station or along the way, as some buses may not have a food or drink service. You can also enjoy the scenery and the culture of Fiji, as you pass by the villages, the farms, and the mountains.
By Car
By car is a flexible and adventurous way to get to Lautoka, as there are many car rental options available, and the roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. You can rent a car online, or at the airport, and choose from different car types and prices. You can also find some deals and discounts, if you rent for a longer period or book in advance.
The drive from Nadi to Lautoka takes about 30 minutes, and the drive from Suva to Lautoka takes about 3 hours, depending on the traffic and the weather. The cost of the car rental ranges from $50 FJD to $100 FJD per day, depending on the car type and the rental company. The cost of the gas is about $2 FJD per liter, and the cost of the tolls is about $1 FJD per toll.
Make sure to check the driving rules and the road conditions before you travel, as some roads may have speed limits, traffic lights, or road signs, and some roads may be narrow, winding, or unpaved. You can also bring a map or a GPS, or ask for directions, as some roads may not have clear markings or signs. You can also enjoy the freedom and the fun of driving in Fiji, as you can stop at any place or time, and discover some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Conclusion
You have now learned everything you need to know about Lautoka, from the top things to do, to the best places to stay, to the best ways to get there. Here are some of the main points to remember, and some of the reasons why you should visit Lautoka as soon as possible.
- Lautoka is a perfect destination for your next vacation, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as museums, marinas, markets, and hot springs. It also has a warm and friendly atmosphere, and a mix of cultures and traditions.
- Lautoka has a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, that suit different needs and preferences. You can choose from resorts, hotels, or villas, and enjoy the comfort and convenience of your stay.
- Lautoka is easy and convenient to get to, as it is near the Nadi International Airport, the main gateway to Fiji. You can choose from different modes of transportation, such as plane, bus, or car, and enjoy the scenic and adventurous journey to Lautoka.
- Lautoka is also a great base to explore the nearby islands and attractions, such as Denarau Island, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, the Fiji Culture Village, or the Cloud 9 Fiji. You can also experience the beauty and charm of the South Pacific, and the culture and hospitality of the Fijian people.
Don't miss this opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of Lautoka, and to experience the tropical paradise of Fiji. Book your flight and your hotel today, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Lautoka.