Eastern Division, Fiji Travel Guide

Discover the untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage of Fiji's Eastern Division, a serene paradise of unspoiled islands and vibrant marine life.

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Eastern Division

Eastern Division in Fiji is a serene paradise known for its stunning beauty and tranquil environment. It comprises a group of islands including Lomaiviti, Lau, and Rotuma. These islands are less frequented by tourists, offering a more authentic Fijian experience away from the bustling resorts. The region is rich in culture and history, with many traditional villages where you can experience the Fijian way of life. The people here are warm and welcoming, often inviting visitors to participate in traditional ceremonies and festivities. In addition to cultural experiences, the Eastern Division is home to some of Fiji's most pristine natural attractions, including lush tropical forests, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. For the adventurous, the Eastern Division offers excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling. The waters around the islands are teeming with marine life, making it a diver's paradise. Hiking through the dense forests and exploring hidden waterfalls are also popular activities. Whether you're looking to relax on a secluded beach or immerse yourself in local culture, the Eastern Division provides a unique and unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Eastern Division.

Visit during the dry season from May to October for the best weather.
Carry cash, as ATMs are limited in remote areas.
Respect local customs, especially when visiting traditional villages.
Arrange transportation in advance, as public transport options may be limited.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.

Top City Travel Guides in Eastern Division

The cities of Eastern Division, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Levuka

Explore Eastern Division: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Eastern Division

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Heavens Peak

Hike to breathtaking panoramic views at Heavens Peak in Nadi, Fiji. Experience lush landscapes and Fiji's natural beauty on well-maintained trails.

5.0

Auesa Dancing group

Immerse yourself in Fiji's vibrant culture with traditional dance and music at the Auesa Dancing Group in Cuvu. An unforgettable cultural experience awaits!

Centenary Church

Discover Suva's Centenary Church: A blend of history, spirituality, and architectural beauty in the heart of Fiji's capital.

4.6

Grand Bleu Fiji

Discover Grand Bleu Fiji on Fantasy Island, Nadi: Pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and unforgettable Fijian hospitality await!

Best landmarks in Eastern Division

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Colo-I-Suva Forest Park

Experience the lush trails and stunning waterfalls of Colo-I-Suva Forest Park, a natural paradise in the heart of Fiji, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

4.2

TappooCity Suva

Explore TappooCity Suva, Fiji's premier shopping destination with a blend of local culture, international brands, and delightful dining experiences.

4.2

Suva Municipal Market

Discover the vibrant heart of Fiji at Suva Municipal Market—where local flavors, crafts, and culture come alive in a bustling atmosphere.

4.0

Albert Park

Experience the lush beauty and cultural vibrancy of Albert Park in Suva, Fiji's serene urban oasis for relaxation and exploration.

4.4

Best restaurants in Eastern Division

Top-rated picks

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Bulaccino Café (Namaka, Nadi)

Discover the best of Fijian cuisine at Bulaccino Café in Namaka, Nadi - where every meal is an adventure!

4.3

Paradiso-bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Fiji at Paradiso Bar - your go-to spot for breakfast and pizza in Suva.

4.2

Tikos Seafood Restaurant

Experience the best of Fijian seafood at Tikos Seafood Restaurant in Suva – where freshness meets flavor against stunning ocean views.

4.5

The Coffee Hub - Suva

Experience the best of Fijian hospitality at The Coffee Hub - Suva with delicious food and exceptional coffee.

4.5

Best bars in Eastern Division

Top-rated picks

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Bulaccino Café (Namaka, Nadi)

Discover the culinary charm of Bulaccino Café in Namaka, Nadi, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere for every traveler.

4.3

Paradiso-bar

Discover the flavors of Fiji at Paradiso-bar, where delicious pizzas and a cozy atmosphere await in the heart of Suva.

4.2

Tikos Seafood Restaurant

Discover the taste of Fiji at Tikos Seafood Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets authentic flavors in a charming setting.

4.5

Eden Bistro & Bar (Fiji)

Eden Bistro & Bar in Suva, Fiji offers a delightful blend of local and international cuisines in a cozy, inviting ambiance perfect for all occasions.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Eastern Division

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DownUnder Pub

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Suva at DownUnder Pub, where great music, drinks, and fun await you in a lively atmosphere.

4.1

The Hive

Experience Nadi's vibrant nightlife at The Hive, where good music and great drinks create unforgettable memories.

4.2

O'Reilly's Bar Suva

Discover the heartbeat of Suva's nightlife at O'Reilly's Bar, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.

4.1

Traps Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Traps Bar in Suva, Fiji, where the beats and atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

3.6

Best shops in Eastern Division

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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MHCC

Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at MHCC in Suva, Fiji's bustling shopping mall offering a blend of local and international experiences.

3.9

TappooCity Suva

Discover TappooCity Suva, Fiji's premier shopping mall featuring diverse retail stores, vibrant dining options, and a lively atmosphere for all visitors.

4.2

My Fiji Store

Explore My Fiji Store for an array of unique gifts, chocolates, and souvenirs that embody the spirit of Fiji, perfect for any traveler.

5.0

S Nagindas Renwick

Explore the vibrant fashion scene at S Nagindas Renwick in Suva, where local culture meets contemporary style in a multi-level clothing store.

4.4

Explore Eastern Division on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Eastern Division, mapped for you.

Eastern Division Essentials

Eastern Division in Fiji can be accessed primarily through air travel. The closest international airport is Nausori International Airport (SUV) in Suva. From Suva, you can take domestic flights to smaller airports within Eastern Division, such as Levuka Airfield on Ovalau Island. Alternatively, you can reach Eastern Division by ferry services from Suva, which connect to various islands such as Ovalau, Gau, and Koro. The ferry journey offers a scenic view of Fiji's beautiful waters and islands.
Transportation within Eastern Division is varied and includes buses, taxis, and boats. Buses are a common and inexpensive way to travel between towns and villages. Taxis are available and can be hired for local trips or day tours. For island hopping, boats and ferries are the primary modes of transport. Renting a car is also an option, especially on larger islands like Ovalau, but be aware that roads can be rugged and less maintained in some areas.
The official currency in Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to remote areas and smaller islands. ATMs are available in major towns, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more isolated destinations.
Eastern Division is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas after dark and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the crime rate targeting tourists is low, it is always best to stay vigilant. Specific areas to be cautious about include some remote villages where petty theft can occur. Always follow local advice and stay within recommended tourist zones.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Major towns in Eastern Division have police stations and medical facilities. It is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in towns like Levuka, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your hat and shoes before entering any village or religious site. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bula!' (hello). A handshake is also a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Eastern Division like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Fijian crafts. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the historical town of Levuka, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, participate in a traditional kava ceremony, which is a significant part of Fijian culture.

When is the best time to visit Eastern Division?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Eastern Division

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Eastern Division. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBula
  [boo-lah]
- GoodbyeMoce
  [mo-they]
- YesIo
  [ee-oh]
- NoSega
  [seh-ngah]
- Please/You're welcomeTukuna
  [too-koo-nah]
- Thank youVinaka
  [vee-nah-kah]
- Excuse me/SorryTukuna, au sa sega
  [too-koo-nah, ow sah seh-ngah]
- How are you?O cei na nomu bula?
  [oh they nah noh-moo boo-lah]
- Fine. And you?Vinaka. O cei na nomu?
  [vee-nah-kah. oh they nah noh-moo?]
- Do you speak English?O tukuna vakaviti?
  [oh too-kuna vah-kee-vee-tee?]
- I don't understandAu sega ni kila
  [ow seh-ngah nee kee-lah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAu vinaka me raica na menu, tukuna
  [ow vee-nah-kah meh rye-nah nah meh-noo, too-koo-nah]
- I don't eat meatAu sega ni kana na gogo
  [ow seh-ngah nee kah-nah nah ngo-ngo]
- Cheers!Sere!
  [seh-reh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAu vinaka me bay, tukuna
  [ow vee-nah-kah meh bye, too-koo-nah]
- Help!Vakaraitaka!
  [vah-kah-rai-tah-kah]
- Go away!Tale mai!
  [tah-leh my]
- Call the Police!Tukuna na polis!
  [too-koo-nah nah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Tukuna e dua na doketa!
  [too-koo-nah eh doo-ah nah doh-keh-tah]
- I'm lostAu sa leqa
  [ow sah leh-ngah]
- I'm illAu sa mate
  [ow sah mah-teh]
- I'd like to buy...Au vinaka me volia...
  [ow vee-nah-kah meh voh-lee-ah...]
- I'm just lookingAu soqo tiko
  [ow soh-ngoh tee-koh]
- How much is it?E vuqa na cost?
  [eh voo-ngah nah cost?]
- That's too expensiveSa levu sara
  [sah leh-voo sah-rah]
- Can you lower the price?E rawa ni lailai na cost?
  [eh rah-wah nee lie-lie nah cost?]
- What time is it?Na gauna cava oqo?
  [nah gow-nah thah-vah oh-ngoh?]
- It's one o'clockE dua na kaloko
  [eh doo-ah nah kah-loh-koh]
- Half past (10)Tolu na miniti
  [toh-loo nah mee-nee-tee]
- MorningMatanitu
  [mah-tah-nee-too]
- AfternoonTale
  [tah-leh]
- EveningSiga
  [see-ngah]
- YesterdayE na siga sa oti
  [eh nah see-ngah sah oh-tee]
- TodayE na siga oqo
  [eh nah see-ngah oh-ngoh]
- TomorrowE na siga mai
  [eh nah see-ngah my]
- 1Dua
  [doo-ah]
- 2Rawa
  [rah-wah]
- 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
- 4Vula
  [voo-lah]
- 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
- 6Talu
  [tah-loo]
- 7Tini
  [tee-nee]
- 8Toru
  [toh-roo]
- 9Ika
  [ee-kah]
- 10Tini
  [tee-nee]
- Where's a/the...?E na cava na...?
  [eh nah thah-vah nah...?]
- What's the address?Na i tukutuku?
  [nah ee too-koo-too-koo?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?E rawa ni vakaraitaka vei au (ena mapa)?
  [eh rah-wah nee vah-kah-rai-tah-kah veh-ee ow (eh-nah mah-pah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Na gauna cava e na loma?
  [nah gow-nah thah-vah eh nah loh-mah?]
- A ticket (to ....)E dua na tiket (ki ....)
  [eh doo-ah nah tee-ket (kee ....)]

History of Eastern Division

The Eastern Division of Fiji, comprising the Lomaiviti, Lau, and Kadavu island groups, has a rich history of early human settlement. Archaeological evidence suggests that the islands were inhabited by Austronesian-speaking people as early as 1000 BC. These early settlers established thriving communities, engaged in fishing and agriculture, and developed intricate social structures. The islands were known for their unique pottery styles, which have been unearthed in various archaeological sites across the region.
During the 10th to 13th centuries, the Eastern Division came under the influence of the Tongan Empire. The Tongans, known for their seafaring prowess, extended their reach to the islands of Lomaiviti and Lau. This period saw the introduction of Tongan customs, language, and governance structures. The Tongan influence is still evident today in the traditional ceremonies and linguistic similarities observed in the region.
The first European contact with the Eastern Division occurred in the 18th century. Notable explorers, such as Captain James Cook and Captain William Bligh, navigated through these waters, documenting their encounters with the indigenous people. These early European explorers were fascinated by the intricate social systems, advanced navigation skills, and the rich cultural heritage of the Fijian islands. Their accounts contributed significantly to the Western world's understanding of the Pacific region.
In the early 19th century, Christian missionaries from Europe arrived in the Eastern Division with the aim of spreading Christianity. The London Missionary Society and the Wesleyan Mission were particularly active in the Lau and Lomaiviti groups. The introduction of Christianity brought significant changes to the local culture and traditions. Many Fijians converted to Christianity, leading to the establishment of churches, schools, and new social norms. Despite the initial resistance, Christianity eventually became deeply rooted in the region.
In 1874, Fiji, including the Eastern Division, was ceded to the British Empire. This historic event marked the beginning of a new era of colonial rule. The British administration introduced new systems of governance, land ownership, and economic policies. The Eastern Division, with its strategic location and rich natural resources, became an important part of the colonial economy. The legacy of British colonial rule is still visible in the region's infrastructure, legal systems, and educational institutions.
The Eastern Division played a pivotal role in Fiji's journey to independence. Prominent leaders from the region, such as Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara from the Lau Group, were instrumental in negotiating Fiji's transition from a British colony to an independent nation in 1970. The Eastern Division's strong traditional leadership and cohesive communities provided a stable foundation for the newly independent nation. The region continues to hold a significant place in Fiji's political and cultural landscape.
Today, the Eastern Division is renowned for its vibrant cultural practices and festivals. Traditional ceremonies, such as the yaqona (kava) ceremony and meke (dance) performances, are integral to community life. The annual Lomaiviti Festival and the Lau Provincial Council Meeting are significant events that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. These events attract visitors from across Fiji and the world, offering a unique glimpse into the enduring traditions and customs of the Eastern Division.