Fiji hit new heights in 2023 by welcoming the highest number of Australians in its history, surpassing 2019 pre-COVID levels with a 16.9 per cent increase in Australian visitors (2019 v 2023).

Australia continues to be Fiji’s dominant source market, contributing nearly 50 per cent of all visitor arrivals.

In 2023, Fiji welcomed 929,740 arrivals across all markets, reflecting 104 per cent of 2019 numbers, with an estimated tourism earning of $3.3 billion.

The burgeoning popularity of Fiji among Australian and emerging markets has not only propelled tourism but has also attracted significant new developments and events, solidifying Fiji’s status as a premier global travel destination.

Robert Thompson, executive director of regions at Tourism Fiji remarked: “Towards the end of 2023, we proudly announced several notable investments, including a new luxury resort and lifestyle precinct, Vatu Talei – The Jewel, and Radisson Hotel Group’s second Fiji property Radisson Blu Mirage Resort, Fiji Naisoso Island. Additionally, the opening of Waya Island Resort in the Yasawas and the introduction of MS Caledonian Sky to Fiji waters by Captain Cook Cruises have added further diversity to our tourism landscape. The imminent launch of Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay in March is a testament to the thriving tourism industry in Fiji.”

In a bid to sustain and amplify the investment momentum, and to underline Fiji‘s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in the tourism sector, Tourism Fiji announced the 2nd Tourism Investment Summit in partnership with AHICE. The summit is scheduled for July 2024, following the success of the inaugural summit in 2023.

Fiji Airways is actively contributing to the tourism boom with the expansion of its fleet, marked by the arrival of new A350s. Furthermore, the airline is set to open/reopen routes to Canberra, Japan, Hong Kong, and New Caledonia, enhancing their accessibility and connectivity to new markets and nearby islands.

The following sporting, food and lifestyle events will take place in Fiji this year:

Melbourne Storm’s NRL match in February 2024

Melbourne Storm will come to Fiji in February for the first-ever NRL-sanctioned rugby league game against the Newcastle Knights. The game to be played on Saturday 24 February at Churchill Park, Lautoka, will be the club’s second trial in preparation for the 2024 season.

Firing up at Kokomo Private Island

Kokomo Private Island has teamed up with Chef Lennox Hastie (Gildas and Firedoor) to curate a unique culinary experience from 8 – 11 February 2024. As Australia’s only fully wood-fired restaurant, Chef Lennox will put on a three-night gourmet bonanza which includes a welcome dinner, intimate masterclass and beach BBQ.

Wellness Retreat with Fluidform Pilates at Six Senses Fiji

Six Senses Fiji will launch its inaugural wellness retreat in May 2024 in collaboration with leading Pilates brand, Fluidform. The four-day retreat from 16 – 20 May 2024 will incorporate a holistic itinerary of movement, nutrition, and relaxation, offering guests the opportunity to connect with Fluidform founder, Kirsten King amidst the breathtaking beauty of Fiji.

World Surf League Fiji Pro returns in August 2024

After a seven-year hiatus, the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour will return to Fiji as the event’s final destination from 20 – 29 August. The 2024 Fiji Pro will see the top 24 men and 12 women return to Cloudbreak for the first time since 2017.

Surfing Cloudbreak (Tourism Fiji)

Australian great and eight-time World Champion, Stephanie Gilmore, is thrilled to get another chance to surf in Fiji.

“I’ve competed in Fiji several times and have always enjoyed myself there,” Gilmore said. “It is such a beautiful location; the people are always so friendly and welcoming, and the waves are perfect. I’m excited to get back and challenge myself.”

Take your Bestie to Kokomo Private Island

Radio superstar Jackie O and her bestie Gemma O’Neill will be taking their Besties retreat to Fiji in September 2024. The four-day/five-night getaway will include intimate fireside sessions with guest speakers such as Celeste Barber, Pip Edwards and the ladies behind Three Birds Renovations. Besties is a community fuelled initiative for best friends to come together for engaging events to destinations on a group holiday adventure.

(Featured Image: Snorkelling in Fiji – Tourism Fiji)