Planning a 7-day senior trip to Fiji? Whether you’re looking to catch world-class surf breaks, party on the beach, or explore the vibrant Fijian culture, Fiji is the ultimate destination for high school seniors seeking adventure and unforgettable memories. With stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tropical climate, your 7-day senior trip will be filled with exciting activities and relaxation. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip!
Best Time to Visit Fiji: Surfing and Partying Season
Fiji is a paradise for surfers and party-goers alike. To make the most of your trip, plan your visit during the dry season from April to October. This is when the waves are at their best, and the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities.
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Surfing: During the dry season, the waves are at their prime, with consistent swells reaching 8 to 10 feet. This is the ideal time to catch some of the world’s best waves at Cloudbreak and other popular surf spots.
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Party Season: This is also the best time to enjoy vibrant nightlife and beach parties. Many resorts and beachfront bars host lively events throughout the season.
Surfing Hotspots in Fiji: Cloudbreak, Restaurants, and More
Fiji is home to some of the best surf breaks in the world, making it a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts. Here are some top surf spots you should check out:
Cloudbreak:
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Cloudbreak is one of the most famous waves in the world, attracting surfers from across the globe. This reef break is known for its powerful barrels and challenging waves.
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If you’re staying on Tavarua Island, you’ll have direct access to Cloudbreak. However, even if you’re staying on the mainland, boat trips to Cloudbreak are easily arranged and take around 30 to 60 minutes.
Restaurants:
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Restaurants is another legendary surf spot, offering hollow, fast waves that are perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Swimming Pools:
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For those looking for a mellow ride, Swimming Pools is an excellent spot. Its long left-hand waves are perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Boat Trips to Surf Spots:
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Staying on the mainland means you’ll need to take boat trips to reach these famous surf breaks. Expect boat rides to take 30 to 60 minutes, making each trip an exciting adventure.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore Fiji’s Underwater World
Fiji isn’t just a surf destination—it’s also a haven for underwater explorers. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a prime location for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Snorkeling:
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Discover the colorful coral reefs around the Mamanuca Islands and Coral Coast. You’ll encounter vibrant fish, turtles, and a diverse array of marine life. Many resorts offer guided snorkeling trips.
Scuba Diving:
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For a more adventurous experience, dive into the Great Sea Reef or Bligh Water. These dive sites offer encounters with sharks, rays, and exotic fish in some of the clearest waters in the world.
Currency & Exchange Rate: How to Budget for Your Trip
Understanding the exchange rate between the US Dollar (USD) and Fijian Dollar (FJD) will help you budget your trip to Fiji more effectively.
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1 USD ≈ 2.26 FJD (as of May 2025)
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1 FJD ≈ 0.44 USD
The favorable exchange rate means you’ll get more value for your money, which can help cover additional activities, meals, and accommodation costs.
Currency Exchange Tips:
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Avoid Airport Currency Exchange Counters: Airport exchanges typically charge higher fees and offer less favorable rates.
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Use ATMs in Urban Areas: ATMs in Nadi and Suva tend to offer better exchange rates, but watch out for international fees.
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Consider Travel-Friendly Credit Cards: Some credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees and competitive exchange rates.
Food Costs and Lodging in Fiji: What to Expect
Whether you’re staying in budget accommodations or splurging on a luxury resort, Fiji offers a wide range of dining and lodging options to suit every budget.
Food Costs:
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Local Restaurants: Expect to pay about $10 - $20 USD per meal at casual eateries.
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Resort Dining: Meals at higher-end resorts can cost between $25 - $50 USD per person.
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Street Food: For a budget-friendly option, try samoa (fried dough) or roti (flatbread) for about $3 - $6 USD per meal.
Lodging Costs:
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Budget Accommodation: Simple guesthouses or hostels range from $30 - $60 USD per night.
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Mid-Range Accommodation: Expect to pay around $80 - $200 USD per night for hotels or resorts offering more amenities.
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Luxury Resorts: High-end resorts charge between $250 - $600+ USD per night, with some offering all-inclusive packages.
Total Estimated Cost Per Person for a 7-Day Senior Trip to Fiji
Here’s a breakdown of the total estimated cost for a 7-day senior trip to Fiji, based on different travel styles:
Budget Traveler:
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Accommodation: $210 - $420 (7 nights at $30 - $60 per night)
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Food: $140 - $210 (3 meals per day at $10 - $20 per meal)
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Transportation: $140 - $210 (boat trips, local transportation)
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Total for 7 Days:$490 - $840 per person
Mid-Range Traveler:
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Accommodation: $560 - $1,400 (7 nights at $80 - $200 per night)
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Food: $210 - $350 (3 meals per day at $20 - $50 per meal)
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Transportation: $210 - $350 (boat trips, taxis, etc.)
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Total for 7 Days:$980 - $2,100 per person
Luxury Traveler:
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Accommodation: $1,750 - $4,200 (7 nights at $250 - $600 per night)
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Food: $350 - $700 (3 meals per day at $50+ per meal)
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Transportation: $350 - $700 (boat charters, private transport)
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Total for 7 Days:$2,450 - $5,600 per person
Safety Tips: What Not to Do in Fiji
While Fiji is generally safe for tourists, there are a few essential safety precautions you should follow:
Safety Guidelines:
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Avoid Swimming in Unsafe Areas: Stick to designated swimming zones. Strong currents can be dangerous, especially near surf spots.
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Respect Local Culture: Fijian culture is warm and welcoming, but it’s important to respect local customs. For example, always remove your shoes when entering homes or temples.
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Be Careful Around Marine Life: Some marine creatures, like stingrays and sea urchins, can be dangerous. Always snorkel or dive with a guide.
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Stay Hydrated and Protected: The tropical heat can be intense. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen to protect against sunburns.
Alcohol and Local Drink Kava: What to Expect
Alcohol in Fiji: Enjoying a Drink Responsibly
Fiji has a thriving tourism industry, and you’ll find a wide range of alcoholic beverages available throughout the islands. Whether you’re partying on the beach or enjoying a quiet evening at a resort, here’s what to know about alcohol in Fiji:
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Fijian Beer: The local beer in Fiji is Fiji Bitter, a light lager that’s popular among both locals and visitors. Other common beers include Gold and Pure Lager.
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Imported Alcohol: Most international brands, including Jack Daniel’s, Smirnoff, and various wines, are available at bars, restaurants, and resorts, though they can be more expensive than local drinks.
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Cocktails: Enjoy tropical cocktails made with rum, vodka, or gin, often featuring local fruits like pineapple, coconut, and passionfruit. A Fijian cocktail commonly enjoyed is the "Fijian Daiquiri" or Pina Colada, both refreshing and perfect for the beach.
Drinking Etiquette:
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Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Fiji is 18 years. Always carry an ID if you plan to drink.
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Responsible Drinking: While many bars and resorts cater to the party crowd, it’s important to drink responsibly, especially when near the ocean, as alcohol can impair your judgment and increase the risk of accidents.
Kava: Fiji’s Traditional and Cultural Drink
Kava is a traditional Fijian drink made from the root of the kava plant (Piper methysticum) and has been consumed in Fiji for centuries. Known for its calming and relaxing effects, Kava plays an important role in Fijian culture and social life.
What Is Kava?
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Preparation: Kava is prepared by grinding or pounding the root of the kava plant into a powder, which is then mixed with water to create a murky, earthy-tasting drink.
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Effects: Unlike alcohol, Kava does not intoxicate you, but it has a calming, sedative effect. It’s known to relax the body and mind without impairing motor skills, making it a perfect drink for socializing in a peaceful setting.
Kava Ceremonies: A Cultural Experience
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Kava Ceremonies: Drinking Kava is a communal ritual and is often served in traditional ceremonies. The ceremonies are a way for locals to welcome visitors, bond, and celebrate important occasions. During a ceremony, a designated “Kava master” prepares and serves the drink while participants sit in a circle.
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How It’s Drunk: Kava is typically consumed in a small bowl or cup called a "bilo". After receiving the drink, you clap once, say "Bula!" (a traditional greeting), and drink it in one go. It’s common to say "Vinaka" (thank you) after drinking.
Where to Experience Kava:
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Resorts and Cultural Experiences: Many resorts in Fiji offer guests the chance to participate in traditional Kava ceremonies, often as part of an authentic Fijian cultural experience.
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Local Villages: If you venture into the rural villages, you may be invited to participate in a Kava ceremony with the locals. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Fijian culture.
Kava's Effects:
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Relaxing but Non-Intoxicating: While Kava has a calming effect, it does not impair coordination or mental clarity the way alcohol does. However, drinking too much in one sitting may make you feel tired or slightly woozy.
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Health Benefits: Kava is believed to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. However, long-term use can have negative effects on your liver, so it’s essential to drink it in moderation.
Final Thoughts on Alcohol and Kava in Fiji
Whether you're unwinding with a cold Fiji Bitter after a surf session or enjoying the cultural experience of a Kava ceremony, alcohol and Kava are an integral part of life in Fiji. Make sure to enjoy both responsibly, especially if you're planning to party at local bars or take part in traditional Kava rituals. Fiji’s vibrant drink culture adds an extra layer of charm to your 7-day senior trip, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
