Fiji’s Pacific Harbor

The Fiji first timer may feel overwhelmed when it comes to deciding which of the nation’s 3,000 islands to visit. Travelers seeking a little adventure with their leisure may find Fiji’s Pacific Harbor region to be the perfect all-in-one location. Known as Fiji’s adventure capital to locals, Pacific Harbor is just a leisurely, and scenic, two-hour drive from Nadi International Airport. The Pearl South Pacific

The Pearl South Pacific, the area’s main resort, is the jumping-off point for much of the area’s eco-adventures. Located along one of Fiji’s longest sand beaches, the ultra-chic resort has the feel of a sleek New York nightclub. The lobby bar is set in front of an eye-catching glass-wall waterfall, and with five other bars, the resort provides a ratio of one bar for every 13 rooms.

The Pearl manages an 18-hole, 72-par golf course. With water hazards on 12 of the 18 holes, this is one of the most challenging courses in Fiji. The hotel also has an on-site spa, and organizes regular surfing, diving and river-rafting excursions.

Aqua-Trek, located at the Pearl, offers a number of diving options ranging from soft coral diving to wreck diving. The organization’s most popular adventure, however, is its Shark Encounter, which won the SKAL International Eco-Tourism award last year. Guests dive 80 feet in the Beqa Lagoon, and have reported seeing up to 10 different shark species in one dive.

The Upper Navua River

Hidden amidst the rainforest in the highlands above Pacific Harbor, the Upper Navua River cuts a striking gorge through a black volcanic rock canyon. With nearly 70 waterfalls punctuating its Class II and Class III rapids, this river run is considered to be one of the most scenic whitewater trips in the world. Rivers Fiji organizes one-day rafting programs, including roundtrip transportation, lunch and light snacks, which start at $170.

Arts Village

For slightly softer adventure, the Arts Village is a popular area attraction. Its most popular activity is a cultural show which incorporates traditional Fijian performances and culminates in an impressive fire-walking display, where members of the Beqa tribe walk barefoot over coals that have been heated to 850 Celsius. The Arts Village also has a complete shopping center, restaurants and a handicraft market. Other programs include a temple tour and a village boat tour that introduces guests to the traditional Fijian way of life.

One of the Arts Village’s colonial-style buildings has been converted into dormitory-style accommodations, and the rooms sport lavish hand-painted murals in native themes. Tsulu guests have free access to the Arts Village Tiki Pool, which is surrounded by a sandy beach and offers a swim-up bar. Daily activities are organized for guests, and a single bunk bed space starts at about $25. Single rooms and multi-room apartments are also available.

Hot Stones Villas

Clients seeking a more intimate lodging experience may wish to consider renting one of two private villas along the scenic Qara ni Qio river. The Hot Stones Villas, a two-bedroom and a three-bedroom residence, are located walking distance to the beach, feature an open-air design, and each one comes with a private pool, a private chef and daily valet and nanny service.