Destination Overview
The Coral Coast is a well-established tourism destination that is encompassed by an 80-kilometre (50-mile) stretch of pristine beaches and beautiful shallow bays, rocky outcrops, and Mangrove forests, home to a diverse and unique set of flora and fauna and marine ecosystems. The Coral Coast begins 15 kilometres south of Nadi Town, along the Queens Road, where the more cosmopolitan, highly populated urban centre of Nadi Town and its suburbs merge slowly into the sparsely populated surrounding villages, sugarcane fields, pine forests, and unhindered views of the South Pacific Ocean.
Getting Your Bearings
Sigatoka, located in the Sigatoka Valley of Fiji, is known as the “Salad Bowl of Fiji” due to its fertile land, which is ideal for growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The valley produces around 80% of Fiji’s fruits and vegetables, including bananas, guavas, pineapples, and papayas. This agricultural abundance, combined with the valley’s scenic beauty, makes Sigatoka an important region for both agriculture and tourism. Queens Road, which connects Nadi Town and Suva City on the island of Viti Levu, passes through the Sigatoka Valley, offering travelers a chance to explore local villages where fresh produce and seafood are sold by roadside vendors. Sigatoka Town, the central hub on the Coral Coast, features retail outlets and a bustling fruit and vegetable market.
Historically, Sigatoka was established as a township in 1959, though its history dates back much earlier, having been home to indigenous tribal chiefs and later a site of European exploration. Sigatoka gained further significance with the establishment of Fort Carnavon in 1877, which served as the administrative center for the province of Nadroga. The construction of a railway system in the early 1900s connected Sigatoka with other parts of Fiji, supporting the growth of sugarcane farming. Today, Sigatoka thrives as both an agricultural and tourism hub, with attractions like the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park and nearby beaches.
| Month | Min Temp * | Max Temp ** | Water Temp | Precipitation | Rainy Days | Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C (71.6°F) | 31°C (87.8°F) | 28°C (82.4°F) | 300mm (11.8in) | 17 | 214 |
| February | 23°C (73.4°F) | 31°C (87.8°F) | 28°C (82.4°F) | 303mm (11.9in) | 18 | 184 |
| March | 22°C (71.6°F) | 31°C (87.8°F) | 28°C (82.4°F) | 324mm (12.8in) | 19 | 190 |
| April | 21°C (69.8°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 27°C (80.6°F) | 173mm (6.8in) | 14 | 198 |
| May | 20°C (68°F) | 29°C (84.2°F) | 27°C (80.6°F) | 80mm (3.1in) | 9 | 212 |
| June | 19°C (66.2°F) | 29°C (84.2°F) | 26°C (78.8°F) | 62mm (2.4in) | 5 | 206 |
| July | 18°C (64.4°F) | 28°C (82.4°F) | 26°C (78.8°F) | 47mm (1.9in) | 4 | 218 |
| August | 18°C (64.4°F) | 28°C (82.4°F) | 25°C (77°F) | 59mm (2.3in) | 5 | 231 |
| September | 19°C (66.2°F) | 29°C (84.2°F) | 25°C (77°F) | 77mm (3.0in) | 7 | 215 |
| October | 20°C (68°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 26°C (78.8°F) | 103mm (4.1in) | 8 | 227 |
| November | 21°C (69.8°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 27°C (80.6°F) | 139mm (5.5in) | 11 | 222 |
| December | 22°C (71.6°F) | 31°C (87.8°F) | 27°C (80.6°F) | 159mm (6.3in) | 15 | 226 |
Accommodations
Restaurants & Eateries
Transport
To GET AROUND THE CORAL COAST is by private rental car, with a very close second place going to hiring a Local Taxi or taxi guide for the day. The services are very economical and provide you with an opportunity to speak to a local Fijian, enriching your journey with a lot of local knowledge as your transverse the different roads. If you ask at your reception desk, they normally have a list of established and respected companies that take pride in their profession. When you become accustomed to the area, you could also try the local bus system that operates. You will need to acquire a Bus card, which can normally be done at reception or a local convenience shop. More details on this can be found here. The bus companies across the coral coast consist of smaller coaches that provide first-class, frequent service to the different areas on a fixed timetable.
There are three main ways of GETTING TO AND FROM the coral coast, catering to everyone’s needs:
The first option is to hire a car for a few days; this will allow you to explore the whole of the coral coast at your own pace. We have written an in-depth, step-by-step guide providing you with all the car rental companies and specific requirements.
The second option is to take a Pacific Transport or Sunbeam air-conditioned coach. These run continuously every day; the ‘stopping bus’ does exactly what it says, picking up whoever waves them down from the side of the road. Although there are also express services available, these stop only at the major towns and Tourism hubs, allowing them to keep to a tight schedule.
If you like adventure, then give the Viti Mini Buses a whirl. A fast and furious ride from Sigatoka to Suva will cost you between $15.00 and $20.00 FJD one way, or the trip to Nadi is around $10 FJD. You can flag these down at the roadside if they have space left, and they always seem to manage to jam another person in.
| Coral Coast: (Sigatoka) | Coral Coast: (Sigatoka) |
|---|---|
| Korotoga – 7 km | Sanasana – 15 km |
| Pacific harbour – 73 km | Denarau – 55 km |
| Suva – 118 km | Nadi – 64 km |
| Nausori – 121 km | Lautoka – 90 km |
| Ba – 126 km | |
| Rakiraki – 197 km |
Beautification of Sigatoka Town
12-FOOT STALLION STATUE: People approaching Sigatoka Town are greeted by a stallion statue, symbolizing 50 years of Fiji’s independence. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, who officiated at the unveiling, highlighted the deep symbolism the statue holds for the people of Sigatoka. The 12-foot stallion, with a six-foot tall rugby ball beneath its hoof, pays tribute to the town’s rugby dominance. Located near the Melrose Bridge in Sigatoka, the statue was designed by renowned metal artist Shane Bower. It captures the essence of Sigatoka, with the flow of air and scenery connecting the stallion to the land. For over a century, horses have played a crucial role in Sigatoka’s history, aiding transport and agriculture, while also becoming symbols of strength, endurance, and pride. The stallion further represents the local rugby team, the Stallions, reflecting the region’s proud legacy of producing champions.
RIVER AMPHITHEATER: The Sigatoka Riverbank Amphitheatre serves as a venue where the community’s stories unfold, laughter echoes, and people come together. This riverside location attracts locals, tourists, and visitors to Sigatoka, providing a hub for casual gatherings, concerts, civic events, and seating for river sports.
ILLUMINATION OF MELROSE BRIDGE: The Minister for Local Government, Hon. Premila Kumar, officiated at the lighting of the Melrose Bridge in Sigatoka, marking a special occasion in Fiji’s 50th year of independence. The bridge was named to honor Fiji’s first Rugby World Cup Sevens victory in 1997, when the national team triumphed in Melrose, Scotland. The event brought together the local business community, celebrating both the nation’s sporting success and its journey of independence. The ceremony highlighted the bridge as a lasting symbol of Fiji’s achievements on the global stage.
Event Venues
Events: Yearly Events
The Coral Coast Sevens – first held in 2010, was created to highlight Fiji’s strengths in both Rugby Sevens and its beautiful Coral Coast. Initially a local event with a $20,000 prize, it quickly grew in popularity. The tournament, now held annually in November at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, attracts top international talent, including Waisale Serevi, Ben Gollings, and Matt Hawkins. This three-day event has become one of the most exciting Sevens tournaments in the Southern Hemisphere, offering thrilling rugby action and drawing crowds from around the world.
Coral Coast Bilibili Race – Another unique event on the Coral Coast is the annual Bilibili (bamboo raft) races, which started in 1984 as a fun competition between hoteliers. What began as a small race has evolved into a major celebration, drawing participants from various resorts, including those from Suva and Nadi. Held on Fiji’s Independence Day, October 10th, the Bilibili Races feature not only the main raft race but also side events like tug-of-war and sack races. It has become a beloved tradition and a significant community gathering in Sigatoka.
Tradition, Culture & Nature Meet
The Formation of Vatulele Island and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes: The following articles have been given a new lease of life, they were first published in 2012 on the official Coral Coast Website, They provide you with a glimpse of the Traditional stories and Culture Heritage of this coastal oasis.
One of the best-known legends on the Coral Coast is about the formation of Vatulele Island and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. The legend is that two-spirit gods, Tamaku and Vodovata, from the island of Kadavu came to Votua, famous for its rich clay soil and peaceful people. Tamaku brought with him a basket, and upon leaving Votua, he filled the basket with clay and quickly took flight ahead of Vodovata. Vodovata ordered him to bring back the clay he had stolen, and Tamaku, fearing the wrath of the more powerful god, dropped his basket into the ocean. The clay fell into the sea and formed what is now Vatulele Island. Sulking, Tamaku then flew onto land at kulukulu and started throwing sandstone rocks towards Vodovata, which fell all along the coral coast; this very rock is believed to be one of them.
Tamaku threw a gigantic rock that would have caused grave damage to the coastal lands, and Vodovata, with his mighty powers, stopped the rock mid-air, sent it back, and crumbled it over the Kulukulu coastline, forming the Sigatoka Sand Dunes.
Vatulele Island is known for its masi making and Tapa printing. The masi and tapa used throughout the Coral Coast are from Vatulele Island, situated about 25 Km off the Coral Coast. Rock carving is based on the local legend about the formation of Vatulele Island and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes.
Legend of the Loka and the Disappearing Isles: The legend of the loka (an unusually high tide that occurs on the coral coast) and the disappearing islands, where forces of a Tongan sea deity in the form of huge waves wash over the coast to reclaim the souls of early Tongan settlers who have perished on our shores, However, the purpose of the loka was not fulfilled, and many of the returning souls were lost at sea forever. The loved ones of those lost souls were distressed by this loss and petitioned the sea deity to find these souls and return them to their homeland.
Failing to do so, the sea deity decided to make up for his shortcomings by forming the legendary Disappearing Isles. These islets were to be the resting place of the lost Tongan souls, and the surrounding reefs are said to be encrusted with jewels such as jade, amethyst, aquamarine, and gardens of pearls in the hope of appeasing the Tongans’ grief. There is much dispute as to the exact location of these bejewelled atolls, particularly within the Lau Group, with each island claiming closeness to the legend. It has been foretold that the Disappearing Isles are only visible to a select few, and it is particularly during the loka on the Coral Coast that the islands rise.
Myths and Legends of the Sigatoka Sand Dunes: Another myth from the village of Volivoli is about a small valley in the sand dunes that they call Nadrio, which means “darkness”. They believe that this certain valley is a doorway to the underworld and that if a falling star falls into the valley, it is a sign that a villager is about to die. These stories were garnered from personal interviews by Tessa Miller with villagers, especially C. Saimoni, a Volivoli Villager. The villagers of Kulukulu also claim to hear and see the spirits of the villagers that were buried alive in the sand dunes.
Legend has it that the Snake God, Degei, was angered by the villagers and sent a huge tidal wave that hit the beach and buried the village in the sand, killing all its inhabitants. In Fijian mythology, Degei (pronounced Ndengei), enshrined as a serpent, is the supreme god of Fiji. He is the creator of the (Fijian) world, of fruits, and of men. He judges newly-dead souls after they pass through the doorway to the underworld. A few of these he sends to the Fijian paradise, Burotu. Most others are thrown into a lake, where they will sink to the bottom (Murimuria) to be appropriately rewarded or punished.
Degei is said to have at first moved about freely, but then, in the form of a snake, to have grown into the earth with his ringed tail. Since then, he has become the god of earthquakes, storms, and the seasons. Whenever Ndengei shakes himself, fertilising rain will fall, delicious fruits will hang on the trees, and the yam fields will yield an excellent crop. But Dengei is also a god of wrath who declares himself in terrible fashion. He punishes and chastens his people by destroying the crops or by floods; he could indeed easily wipe out mankind from the earth, for since he has lived in the bowels of the earth, he has been tormented with such insatiable hunger that he would like to take in and swallow the whole world.
Degei hatched an egg from which the first humans came to Earth. He is prominent in the Kalou-vu, the Fijian pantheon. The Kulukulu have reverence for the dunes and do not make lots of noise when visiting them, especially at night. The children of nearby villages love listening to the myths and legends of the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. It is part of their culture and upbringing. They do not necessarily have to believe all of them; just the fact that they are passed down from generation to generation is enough to keep the legends alive.
The Ancient Art of Lalava and Magimagi: The ancient art of lalava is the use of decorative coconut sinnet lashings (Magimagi) in the construction of canoes and houses. Magimagi is made from coconut husks in black or natural. (The black colour is achieved through soaking in mangrove mud.) The husks are boiled and soaked in water for several days, then pounded and dried in the sun. The fibres are then spun by rolling on the thigh, and the resulting string is braided.
The art of Lalava was a result of a lack of building supplies (nails and screws). Magimagi was used in place of nails and screws to connect the beams.
- Talitali is the weaving done on horizontal beams.
- Lalava is weaving that was done on vertical beams.
- Malo/Lairo is the woven design insert.
Lalava is an art form practiced only by Kai-Lau people from the Lau Islands, the group of Fiji islands closest to Tonga. The origins of Lalava can be traced back to Tonga. There are two settlements of Kai-Lau along the Coral Coast. Jafau, Korolevu, and Wesei, a local settlement near Maui Bay
Island News & Tidbits
Glimpse of the Past
Korolevu Beach Hotel
If you travel from the capital city Suva towards the tourism hub Nadi along the Queen’s Road, down the hill past the Warwick, and look to the left, you will glimpse the birthplace of Fiji tourism, Korolevu on the Coral Coast. A brilliant stretch of white beach dotted by copious lush vegetation, Korolevu on the Coral Coast is primarily where it all started, where Fiji’s reputation as a tourism mecca was founded and nurtured. If there was ever a place along the Coral Coast with so much energy, history, and character, it would have to be Korolevu. This was a happening place to be, and it still is, what with the pack-packer retreats, hotels, and resorts that line its beautiful shoreline. However, these flashy establishments are mere Johnny Come Latelys.
The Korolevu Beach Hotel, built in the 1950s, was a landmark beachfront development that once lured droves of visitors, mostly colonial expatriates from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. The resort, established in 1948 by pioneer hotelier Bill Clarke, stood on 76 acres of prime real estate that included the Paradise Point Hotel, which was established a decade later. The small, self-contained units at Korolevu, which incorporated indigenous architecture, were believed to be the first of their type in the world. Clarke admitted that he used this design out of economic necessity. Evidence suggests that great things often come from simple ideas. A massive hurricane and a land dispute combined to put the two historical resort establishments out of business in 1983; however, you are still able to see the remnants of this once-majestic establishment peaking out from the shrouded palm trees and native fauna along the pristine coastline.
Old Bridge Sigatoka town
The Sigatoka Old Bridge, completed in 1913, is an enduring testament to the historical development of Sigatoka, Fiji. Originally constructed to facilitate the transportation of sugarcane from the eastern cane fields to the western mill, the 810-foot timber-decked railroad bridge connected the two banks of the Sigatoka River, facilitating the growth of the community and its economy. Prior to the bridge’s construction, there were no roads into the Sigatoka area, and access was limited to water transport or walking trails. Construction began on February 14, 1911, and was completed quietly, with the first train crossing on June 3, 1913. In December 1914, passenger service was introduced, with the first free passenger train running twice a week between Ba, Sigatoka, and Kavanagasau by 1915.
The bridge was a critical part of a railway system established by the Colonial Sugar Refinery (CSR) to support the sugar industry. As the bridge opened access to the western part of Fiji, it spurred the development of Sigatoka town. Government agricultural initiatives in the valley, combined with easy access across the river, led to the establishment of new administrative centers in Lawaqa, followed by the arrival of merchants and services to support colonial employees and their families. The Sigatoka Bridge was built to handle both rail and road traffic, though it was a one-way bridge for vehicles. To manage the traffic flow, a simple traffic light system was installed, though the lack of a mechanism for vehicles already on the bridge often resulted in cars meeting in the middle, forcing one vehicle to reverse back.
Over its century of service, the bridge suffered significant damage due to several hurricanes and floods. The first major incident occurred in 1929 after a severe hurricane. Each time the bridge was damaged, it was due to fast-moving floodwaters carrying debris, which would become lodged against the bridge’s pylons, eventually collapsing them. The final collapse came during Cyclone Kina in 1993, after which the bridge was not rebuilt. By this time, the new Melrose Bridge had been constructed, and the local sugar industry, no longer under CSR, was unable to fund repairs to the bridge.
Despite its official closure, the bridge remains a symbol of the Sigatoka community. It continued to serve as a crossing until its last sections were dismantled, and it remains one of the most photographed landmarks in the South Pacific. Today, only about three-quarters of the original bridge spans the river, but its legacy endures. Over the years, it became a site for romantic rendezvous, a place for local gatherings, and a memorable spot for fishing, swimming, and photography.
At 110 years old in 2023, the Sigatoka Old Bridge stands as a proud historical monument, a link between the past and present for the local community. While it may no longer serve its original function, it remains a cherished reminder of Sigatoka’s growth and development, particularly in relation to the sugar industry. Many still hope for the day when the bridge will be restored, allowing both locals and tourists to enjoy its views and its place in Fiji’s rich history.
Lapita Pottery
Lapita pottery is crafted by shaping local clays using techniques that continue to be practiced in Fiji’s pottery villages today. This pottery includes a variety of items such as cooking pots, storage jars, cups, serving dishes, bowls, and pottery stands. Not all pieces are decorated, but those that are feature distinctive designs that are easily recognized as Lapita. A key feature of Lapita decoration is the use of a dentate stamp, a comb-like tool pressed into the clay surface to create intricate patterns. The human face motif is one of the most famous early Lapita designs. After the initial settlement of Fiji, the decoration of Lapita pottery gradually became simpler. By around 2500 years ago, pottery decoration nearly disappeared for reasons that remain unknown, signaling the end of the Lapita era in Fiji.
Lapita pottery is crafted by shaping local clays using techniques that continue to be practiced in Fiji’s pottery villages today. This pottery includes a variety of items such as cooking pots, storage jars, cups, serving dishes, bowls, and pottery stands. Not all pieces are decorated, but those that are feature distinctive designs that are easily recognized as Lapita. A key feature of Lapita decoration is the use of a dentate stamp, a comb-like tool pressed into the clay surface to create intricate patterns. The human face motif is one of the most famous early Lapita designs. After the initial settlement of Fiji, the decoration of Lapita pottery gradually became simpler. By around 2500 years ago, pottery decoration nearly disappeared for reasons that remain unknown, signaling the end of the Lapita era in Fiji.
Vatulele Island Resort
Vatulele Island Resort, once an exclusive five-star destination, was nestled on the west coast of Vatulele Island, Fiji, offering a secluded, romantic hideaway for couples. The resort specialized in luxury accommodations, with 19 architecturally unique villas, including the renowned Vale Viqi, a grand honeymoon bure. The villas were set in lush tropical surroundings, providing guests with privacy and direct access to the beach. Vatulele’s offerings included a range of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and village trips, as well as an idyllic setting for weddings, where traditional Fijian ceremonies were held on the beach at sunset.
In its prime, the resort was renowned for its high-end services and romantic atmosphere, with an emphasis on helping guests escape the distractions of the Western world. The resort’s dining room and bar, along with its spa services, provided an exclusive experience for guests. Reached via a 25-minute flight from Nadi, the resort was perfectly suited to those seeking a luxury getaway or a quiet honeymoon. Its private beachfront and serene lagoon were perfect for beach lovers, while the pristine waters were ideal for diving and snorkeling.
However, the resort’s history took a tumultuous turn after a series of ownership changes. In 2012, it was purchased by a Sydney-based developer, who invested in a $30 million renovation. Despite the ambitious plans, a series of challenges, including a cyclone and a failed attempt to convert a retired cruise ship into a casino, led to its eventual closure. By 2019, the resort lay abandoned, overtaken by nature, with many of the bures severely damaged. Despite efforts by a new owner, the resort remains closed, and locals hope for its eventual reopening to restore jobs and bring back the island’s former prosperity.
Additional Information
Just a quick note—no footnotes to add this time!
This overview outlines what guests can generally expect from motels, hotels, and resorts displaying a Star Rating assigned by us. However, these features and amenities may not be available at condominiums, apartment-style facilities, bed-and-breakfasts, and other specialty properties. Items listed may not all be offered at every property in a specific rating classification. Some criteria may vary from country to country. Our hotel star rating classifications are not a representation or promise of any particular feature or amenity.
1 Star: These basic motels, hostels, and dormitories offer no-frills accommodations with minimal on-site facilities. Public access and guest reception may not operate 24 hours. Daily housekeeping service may not be offered. Guestrooms are small and functional, but may not have private bathrooms, TVs, or in-room telephones.
1.5 Star: Hostels and dormitories in this classification customarily offer additional amenities such as billiard games, Internet stations, and conversational seating areas. Basic motels may offer 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping service and private bathrooms.
2 Star: These budget properties offer clean accommodations. Most offer 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping service, TVs, telephones, clothes racks or small closets, and private bathrooms—possibly with showers only. On-site dining is usually limited to a Continental breakfast.
2.5 Star: This classification contains limited-service properties (often all-suite economy properties in North America) offering upgraded quality and expanded comfort, without the amenities of full-service hotels such as a restaurant or bell staff. An expanded Continental breakfast, including hot items, is often served in a breakfast room. In Asia, multiple on-site dining options may be offered, and at times in the Americas and Europe basic full-service properties will appear.
3 Star: Properties in this classification place a greater emphasis on comfort and service, with many offering an on-site restaurant and bar. Baggage assistance is often available. Guestrooms typically feature more space, comfortable seating, and better quality bedding. Bathrooms are often larger, with shower/tub combinations and expanded counter space.
3.5 Star: Many of these hotels feature multiple restaurants, uniformed bell staff, and enhanced lobbies with upscale decor and live plants. Most properties feature upgraded guestroom decor, large desks paired with comfortable workstation chairs, and TVs housed in armoires. Amenities may include larger bathrooms, incandescent lighting, and stone counters. Resorts, and some hotels in Asia, often feature attractive pool areas and small spa facilities or massage treatment rooms.
4 Star: Lobbies typically offer upscale decor and multiple conversational areas. Services often include a dedicated concierge, valet parking, turndown service by request, and 24-hour room service. Guestrooms usually feature superior amenities such as large beds, additional seating, minibars, laptop-compatible safes, pillowtop mattresses, bathrobes, and upscale bath products. Decorative features such as crown molding, bathroom artwork, and granite or marble accents may appear. Resorts, and some hotels in Asia, customarily feature full-service spas, tennis courts, golf access, child-care services, and upgraded pools with poolside food servers.
4.5 Star: Fresh flowers, original art, and luxurious furnishings often adorn the lobbies. Amenities customarily include fine-dining restaurants (occasionally award-winning), 24-hour room service with hot food items, and automatic turndown service. Personalized service aims to anticipate guest needs. Guestrooms typically feature premium hardwood furniture, luxurious bedding with triple sheeting, and large bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, and materials such as granite or marble.
5 Star: Amenities typically include gourmet dining, luxury spas, and full-service health clubs with lavish locker rooms. Staff members are generally polished, anticipate guest needs, and consistently address guests by name. Features may include upgraded check-in, a welcome amenity, and butler service on all or select floors. Guestroom decor is often elegant and may include coordinated fabrics on drapes, chairs, headboards, and duvets. Electronic features sometimes include bedside controls for drapes, lighting, and surround-sound. Oversized bathrooms are often clad in marble, with premium, custom-built features, dual-sink vanities, enclosed toilets, premium spa-brand toiletries, and fresh flowers or live plants. Five-star resorts typically offer signature golf courses, tennis centers with choice of playing surfaces, health clubs with personal trainers, luxurious spas, cultural activities, and children’s day camps. In Asia, both hotels and resorts often feature some of these amenities.