Is tourism good or bad for Fiji?

Tourism is Fiji's largest industry, employing roughly 40% of the workforce. When done responsibly, it funds conservation, supports communities, and preserves culture. The key is choosing operators and resorts that prioritize local employment, environmental protection, and community benefit over pure profit.

A sevusevu is a gift of kava root presented to a village chief when visiting a Fijian village. It's a sign of respect and a request for permission to enter the community. Your guide or resort can help you obtain kava ($10-20) and will explain the ceremony protocol. Never visit a village without a sevusevu — it's considered disrespectful.

Sustainable Tourism in Fiji: Eco-Friendly Resorts and Responsible Travel Tips

Why Sustainable Tourism Matters in Fiji

Fiji is on the front lines of climate change. Rising sea levels threaten coastal villages, coral bleaching damages the reefs that sustain the tourism industry, and overtourism on popular islands strains fragile ecosystems. As visitors, we have a responsibility to ensure our tourism dollars protect rather than harm this paradise.

The good news: Fiji is a global leader in sustainable tourism. Many resorts are locally owned, community-based tourism is thriving, and the Fijian government has implemented strong marine protection policies. By choosing wisely, your vacation can directly support conservation and local communities.

Best Eco-Friendly Resorts

These resorts walk the talk on sustainability.

Fiji's Top Eco-Resorts

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

$$$$Marine biologist on staff, coral restoration, organic garden, solar power. The gold standard

Matanivusi Surf Resort

$$Solar-powered, locally staffed, reef-safe sunscreen required, community partnerships

Barefoot Manta Island

$$100% solar, composting toilets, marine research station, manta ray conservation

Kokomo Private Island

$$$$$Marine biology center, coral nursery, organic farm, turtle rehabilitation program

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How to Travel Responsibly in Fiji

Small choices make a big difference.

Use reef-safe sunscreen — chemical sunscreens damage coral. Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide formulas
Bring a reusable water bottle — Fiji has a plastic waste problem. Many resorts offer filtered water refill stations
Choose locally-owned accommodations — your money stays in the community rather than going to international chains
Don't touch or stand on coral — it takes decades to grow and seconds to destroy. Maintain buoyancy while snorkeling
Participate in village visits respectfully — follow your guide's instructions, dress modestly, bring a sevusevu (kava gift)
Eat local — choosing Fijian-grown food over imported items supports farmers and reduces the carbon footprint of your meals
Offset your flights — the carbon footprint of flying to Fiji is significant. Consider purchasing carbon offsets

Community-Based Tourism Experiences

These experiences directly benefit local Fijian communities.

Pro Tips

•Village homestays — stay with a Fijian family, share meals, learn traditions. $30-60/night, 100% goes to the family
•Rivers Fiji — community-owned rafting and kayaking company that funds local schools and health clinics
•Navua River eco-tours — locally guided trips through the Namosi Highlands supporting remote villages
•Coral Coast farm visits — meet farmers growing organic produce for local markets and resorts
•Fijian arts & crafts workshops — learn masi (tapa cloth) making or wood carving from village artisans