Nadi

The actual town of Nadi, which is the third largest in Fiji, is located 15 minutes south from the airport. The Queens Road/Main Street provides a hectic mélange of tourist emporiums, shops, banks and restaurants. Do wander off the main street and explore the shops, especially the Indo-Fijian fabric stores. Toward the southern part of town is the main market that is open Monday to Saturday, with Saturday morning being prime shopping time.

At the end of town is the colorful Swami Temple, the largest example of Madrasi style architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. You can tour the Temple but modest dress code is required.

Located just to the left of the Temple is Tata’s Restaurant – flavorful Indian food at great prices. And at the north end of town is the off the beaten track Nadi Farmers Club. Located aside the Nadi River on Ashram Rd. and frequented by locals, you forgo fancy décor for simple communal tables and some five-alarm curries. It’s not New York or Chicago style but, back on the main street, Mama’s serves up credible pizza in the middle of the Pacific.

Jack’s Handicrafts and its neighboring Chef’s Restaurant are large establishments catering mainly to the tourist trade. The music store (next to Jack’s) is a great place to sample the latest island DVDs and the staff is very helpful. Other shopping emporiums catering to tourists are Prouds and Sogo (Son-go).

Taxis from area hotels into town can get expensive if not sharing. From Denarau drivers usually charge FJD10-15 one way. Always negotiate and agree on a set price before leaving. If you have the time, take the bus (.60 – 1.00) and travel as the locals do.

About a half hour drive south of Nadi is the turnoff to Natadola, easily the most expansive beach on the island. It is a prime picnic spot and the terminus for the Sugar Cane Train from the Fijian Resort. Plans are in place for resort development and a signature golf course designed by V.J. Singh.

For a great view of the Mamanuca Islands, you can visit the hills overlooking Momi Bay. This is the site of two long range naval guns set up by the Kiwis to defend the southern entrance to Nadi Bay during WW2. It is now managed by the National Trust for Fiji with a small admission price.

A half-hour drive south of Nadi on an isthmus about 300 yards off-shore is Sonaisali Island Resort.