
Natadola Beach
Fiji's premier mainland beach, offering pristine white sands, clear turquoise waters, and a range of activities like horseback riding and local massag...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Swimmable all day long

Natadola Beach
Best Time
Swimmable all day long

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fiji's premier mainland beach, offering pristine white sands, clear turquoise waters, and a range of activities like horseback riding and local massages.
"Often said to be the best beach on the main island and I would have to agree."

🚗 Easy Day Trip Access
Just an hour from Nadi, perfect for a day trip with a rental car! :car:
🐴 Horse Riding Deals
Local guides offer rides for around AU$95. Book ahead! :horse:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sands
Coral Coast, Viti Levu
Miles of soft, white sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing and swimming.

Horseback Riding Adventures
Along the shoreline
Enjoy scenic rides along the beach with friendly local guides, suitable for all skill levels.

Snorkeling Opportunities
Near the reefs
Discover vibrant marine life in the clear waters, with reefs accessible for exploration.

Local Massage Shelters
Beachfront
Experience relaxing massages from local villagers at competitive prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Beach on the Mainland
Activities & Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Day Trip Access
Just an hour from Nadi, perfect for a day trip with a rental car! :car:
🐴 Horse Riding Deals
Local guides offer rides for around AU$95. Book ahead! :horse:
💆♀️ Affordable Massages
Get massages from locals for better prices than resorts. :massage:
🌊 All-Tide Swimming
Enjoy swimming at high or low tide, unlike many mainland beaches. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Day Trip Access
Just an hour from Nadi, perfect for a day trip with a rental car! :car:
🐴 Horse Riding Deals
Local guides offer rides for around AU$95. Book ahead! :horse:
💆♀️ Affordable Massages
Get massages from locals for better prices than resorts. :massage:
🌊 All-Tide Swimming
Enjoy swimming at high or low tide, unlike many mainland beaches. :ocean:
💰 Day Visit is Free!
Access to the beach itself is free, though activities cost extra. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Natadola Beach is widely praised as one of the best beaches on Fiji's main island, offering beautiful white sands and clear waters swimmable at all tides. Visitors love the variety of activities like horseback riding and affordable local massages, though some note the water clarity can vary.
"You can participate in a fair number of activities at this beach - besides swimming, sunbathing and strolling along the beach, you can also get a horse ride or a massage at the shelters set by the the locals. The beach itself was average, and the water was not particularly clear or enticing, but there were activities to keep you occupied for at least half a day"
CK Cheong
"Often said to be the best beach on the main island and I would have to agree. It was clean and was still swimmable even at low tide, unlike most of the others on the main island. To stay could be expensive as the accommodation choices are the Yatule or Intercontinental resorts. You can do a day visit on your own and swim get a massage or do a horse ride. Both the massage and horse rides are done by the local villagers."
Ross Woodford
"This is a legitimate sandy beach with waves along the Coral Coast. Best of all, it’s free! You might get friendly harassment from people offering horse rides—just smile and claim your spot in the sand."
douglas alvarez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Natadola Beach is conveniently located on Viti Levu's Coral Coast, about a one-hour drive from Nadi International Airport. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the island and reaching the beach easily. Taxis are also available, though they can be more expensive for the round trip.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors, especially for those arriving by car for a day trip. You can usually find a spot without much difficulty, particularly if you arrive earlier in the day.
Absolutely! Natadola Beach is a fantastic destination for a day trip. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, horseback riding, and massages, making it a full day of relaxation and activity.
If you have a rental car, Natadola Beach is a great starting point to explore more of the Coral Coast. You can drive along the scenic coastal road, stopping at other viewpoints or villages along the way.
While taxis and rental cars are common, public buses do run along the Coral Coast. However, they may not be as frequent or direct as private transport, so check schedules in advance if considering this option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The beach itself is free to access, making it a great budget-friendly option for enjoying Fiji's natural beauty. However, activities like horseback riding and massages will incur separate charges.
Natadola Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Specific activity providers, like horse riding tours, will have their own operating hours, typically during daylight.
It's highly recommended to book popular activities like horseback riding in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. You can often book through your accommodation or directly with the tour operators.
While not explicitly stated as 'day passes,' staying at resorts like the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa or Yatule Resort and Spa gives you direct access to the beach and their amenities. Day visitors can still enjoy the beach and local activities.
It's advisable to carry some cash for activities offered by local villagers, such as massages and some horse riding tours, as they may not always have card facilities. Resorts will accept cards for their services.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, and stroll along the beach. Popular activities include horseback riding along the shore and getting massages from local villagers. Snorkeling is also possible, especially near the reefs.
Yes, Natadola Beach is known for being swimmable at all tides, which is a significant advantage over many other mainland beaches. The water is generally clear and inviting.
Basic facilities are usually available near the main access points, especially around the resort areas. It's always a good idea to check with locals or resort staff for the most convenient options.
Natadola Beach is known for its waves, making it a popular spot for surfing, especially for beginners and intermediate surfers. There are surf schools that offer lessons.
While it's a popular spot, especially for day-trippers, it's often less crowded than some other tourist hotspots. Visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons can offer a more serene experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually food stalls and small eateries near the beach offering local Fijian dishes and snacks. Resorts like the InterContinental also have dining options available.
You can typically find fresh seafood, local fruits, and traditional Fijian cuisine. It's a great opportunity to sample authentic island flavors.
Bringing your own picnic is generally allowed, which can be a cost-effective option. Remember to dispose of your trash responsibly to keep the beach clean.
While local cuisine often features seafood, many places will have vegetarian options like root vegetables and salads. It's best to inquire directly with the food vendors or restaurants.
Resorts like the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa offer a range of dining experiences, from casual beachfront cafes to fine dining restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for stunning photos. Midday can be bright, but the clear turquoise water and white sand are always photogenic.
The long stretches of white sand, the clear blue water, the palm trees, and the horseback riders create beautiful compositions. The reefs visible at low tide also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or resort management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
Locals might guide you to unique spots, like hidden coves or ancient caves, which can make for memorable and distinctive photographs. The children learning to surf also provide dynamic action shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. Waterproof protection for your camera is also a good idea if you plan on getting close to the water or participating in water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water. While there are food stalls, bringing some familiar snacks for picky eaters can be helpful. The free access to the beach makes it an economical option for a family day out, with opportunities for both relaxation and gentle adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for massages from local villagers instead of resort spas for significant savings. While horseback riding has a cost, it's often more accessible than other adventure activities. Renting a car for a day trip from Nadi can also be cost-effective if you're traveling with a group.
couples
Consider booking a couples massage from the local providers for a truly relaxing experience. The stunning natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and intimate moments, making it an ideal spot for a romantic day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Horseback Riding at Natadola Beach
Many visitors describe the horseback riding as a highlight of their Fiji holiday, praising the friendly guides and the breathtaking scenery. The rides typically take you along the soft white sands, with the gentle sound of waves and the ocean breeze accompanying you. It's a fantastic way to capture memorable photos and create lasting memories of your visit to this beautiful Fijian beach.
Prices for these rides are often competitive, with one operator mentioning around AU$95 for an experience. It's a good idea to inquire about the duration and route of the ride when booking to ensure it meets your expectations. This activity truly embodies the relaxed and scenic charm of Natadola Beach.
Surfing and Water Activities
Beyond surfing, the clear, turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. At low tide, the reef is exposed, revealing interesting marine life and rock formations, while high tide offers perfect conditions for long, leisurely swims. The lagoon provides a safe and enjoyable environment for various water activities, appealing to both adventure seekers and those looking for a refreshing dip in the ocean.
For those interested in exploring further, some local guides can take visitors to nearby private beaches or ancient caves, adding an element of discovery to your beach experience. The combination of calm waters for swimming and waves for surfing makes Natadola a versatile destination for all types of beachgoers.
Local Experiences and Massages
Visitors often mention the friendly nature of the locals, who are eager to share their culture and beauty of their home. Some reviews suggest walking past the resorts to find these local service providers. This direct interaction offers a more authentic glimpse into Fijian life and hospitality, making your visit more meaningful.
Whether it's a soothing massage or a guided tour to a hidden spot, engaging with the local community at Natadola Beach adds a rich layer to the typical beach vacation. It's these personal connections and authentic experiences that often leave the most lasting impressions on travelers.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit