10 Reasons Australian divers love Fiji

Fiji - A Scuba Diving Paradise for Australian Divers

Fiji, a stunning collection of volcanic rocks, is nestled in the middle of the deep blue South Pacific Ocean. It offers spectacular scuba diving opportunities. What makes it a must-visit destination for Australian scuba divers?

Waterlust Fiji highlights ten solid reasons diving enthusiasts should dive into Fiji – just four hours away from Australia's east coast.

most species of soft corals are not impacted by warming oceans as they do not contain zooxanthellae - hence, are not impacted by climate change

Reasons Why Fiji Diving May Be Considered Better Than the Great Barrier Reef?

1. Diverse Marine Life

Fiji is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. The variety of fish species, soft coral forests, and diverse marine ecosystems are breathtaking. The soft corals here are particularly unique. In contrast, the Great Barrier Reef is primarily dominated by hard corals. More importantly, soft corals are, for the most part, not affected by climate change. Hard corals, on the other hand, expel the symbiotic algae known as zooxanthellae when stressed, leading to bleaching.

2. Less Crowded

Fiji often feels less crowded than the Great Barrier Reef, especially in some dive spots. This provides divers with a more personal and intimate experience. You can explore at your own pace, and in many areas, you will find that you are the only dive boat on the reef!

3. Vibrant Coral Reefs

The coral reefs in Fiji are frequently referred to as more vibrant and healthier than certain sections of the Great Barrier Reef. They present stunning underwater landscapes filled with a rich array of colors. Fiji boasts world-renowned dive sites, like Mellow Yellow, the Great White Wall, and Mount Mutiny.

Diving the Rainbow Reef system allows you to experience Fiji's famous Great White Wall. This vertical wall descends to 100 meters. It is adorned with an expanse of white soft corals that appear lilac against the blue ocean. Combine this with a diving and Taveuni adventure package, which includes hiking around volcanic lakes, swimming under waterfalls, and trekking to Lavena’s cascading waterfalls.

The world class dive site - Mellow Yellow - will blow your dive boots off! Fish fizzing extravagance of yellow soft corals peppered with sea fans

4. Variety of Dive Sites

Fiji features a wide array of dive sites, ranging from shallow reefs to deep wall dives. This variety caters to divers of all skill levels. Explore exciting wrecks of scuttled fishing trawlers in the Beqa Lagoon area. Seek out macro discoveries like pygmy sea horses and blue ribbon eels.

Divers explore the Tasu 2 Wreck which was deliberately sunk in 1994 in Beqa Lagoon

5. Warm Water Temperatures

Water temperatures in Fiji are generally warm, making for a comfortable diving experience. This is especially appealing for divers who prefer not to wear thick wetsuits. During Fiji’s summer months, from November to April, the water temperature ranges between 27-30°C. A simple rash guard is often sufficient. In the winter months, the water is clearer, with temperatures ranging from 24-28°C. A 3-5mm wetsuit is usually the best choice during this time.

The Fijian spear dance!

6. Cultural Experience

Diving in Fiji often presents opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and hospitality. Many dive operators offer cultural interactions, like kava ceremonies and traditional Fijian dances known as mekes.

7. Conservation Efforts

Fiji has made significant strides in marine conservation. They have established marine protected areas, such as the shark reef reserve and Vatu I Ra Marine Park, to preserve underwater ecosystems. These efforts can lead to healthier and more sustainable diving environments. Many resorts in Fiji let guests assist with coral cultivation, removal of crown-of-thorns starfish, and learning about ocean sustainability practices.

Be wowed by 20 or more bull sharks diving at Waidroka Bay Resort

8. Exhilarating Shark Dives – Meet Bull Sharks and Tigers!

Beqa Lagoon, located on the southern side of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu, is famous for shark diving. Here, divers can view these incredible predators in a controlled and safe environment. Bull sharks are the predominant species found here, occasionally joined by tiger sharks, lemon sharks, silver tips, and nurse sharks. The shark reserve educates divers about these marine creatures, and small marine park fees benefit Fijian village chiefs, ensuring fishing rights are restricted to preserve marine life.

9. Accessibility

Many dive sites in Fiji are easily accessible from resorts and liveaboards. This convenience means divers can explore multiple locations during their stay. With numerous flights heading to Fiji from Australia every week, this incredible dive destination is a short hop away.

Fiji is a stunning destination with powdery white sand beaches, warm breezes and swaying palm trees

10. Scenic Above-Water Landscapes

The stunning above-water scenery in Fiji includes lush islands and pristine beaches, providing a memorable holiday experience for the whole family. Junior open water diver courses are available for children starting from ten years old. This makes Fiji's 'learn to dive' holidays a fantastic option for families.

Talk to Waterlust Fiji today—your Fiji dive specialist—about booking the perfect and affordable scuba diving trip to the Fiji islands.