Things To Do
in Labasa
Labasa is a lively town on Fiji's northern island of Vanua Levu, known for its bustling market and riverfront setting. It sits along the Labasa River, surrounded by sugar cane fields and lush tropical vegetation. The town is culturally diverse, blending Indigenous Fijian, Indo-Fijian, and Pacific influences through food, crafts, and daily life.
It serves as a gateway to northern Vanua Levu's coast and inland trails, offering a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Labasa Airport and feel the warm tropical breeze as you make your way to your beachfront resort. Savor a freshly brewed Fijian coffee while a local guide briefs you on the week ahead and the island’s hidden treasures. The gentle hum of daily life in the town center invites you to step out and explore.
Stroll down Bang Street to marvel at the vibrant market stalls brimming with exotic fruits, handwoven baskets, and colorful sarongs. Chat with friendly vendors to learn about traditional crafts and sample tropical papaya and fresh coconut water. Let the lively atmosphere and island rhythms awaken your senses.
Join a sunset cruise along the Labasa River as the sky transforms into a palette of orange and pink. Sip on a chilled tropical cocktail while local musicians play soulful melodies under the swaying palm trees. Return to your resort for a freshly prepared seafood dinner and the soothing sound of the waves.
Begin at the Fiji Museum in Labasa to uncover artifacts and stories from the island’s colonial past, including sugar mill machinery and vintage photographs. Wander through the historic railway station that once transported sugar cane across Vanua Levu. Engage with museum curators to hear firsthand accounts of early indentured laborers and pioneering families.
Visit the old Colonial Sugar Refinery site for a guided tour of its rusting boilers and restored pump houses. Admire the Victorian-era architecture that contrasts with the lush jungle backdrop. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds while listening to the lore of sugar barons and plantation life.
Attend a screening of old colonial films at the town’s community hall to immerse yourself in turn-of-the-century Fiji. Share insights with local history buffs over plates of fish curry and cassava chips. Let the flickering black-and-white images transport you to a bygone era.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥪Lunch at a local cafe | $6-12 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (1L) | $1-2 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $3-5 |
| 🛏️One-night stay at budget hotel | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and rich market culture
- Gateway to northern Vanua Levu and coastal scenery
- Limited nightlife and fewer international flight options
- Heat and humidity can be intense for some travelers
- "Bula" - Hello
- "Vinaka" - Thank you
- "Moce" - Goodbye
- "Io" - Yes
- "Sega" - No
- "Yadra" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Labasa
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, morning light, and people preparing market goods create vibrant photo opportunities.
Iconic bridge over the Labasa River offers sunset silhouettes and street photography moments.
Open fields and distant hills provide dramatic landscapes and silhouettes at golden hour.
Coastal views and fishing boats along the northern Fiji coast for ocean photography.
Food in Labasa
Labasa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional earth-oven feast where meat or seafood and vegetables are wrapped in leaves and baked in an underground pit.
Must-Try!
Fresh reef fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, similar to ceviche.
Taro leaves simmered with coconut milk, served with cassava or rice.
Spiced fish cooked in curry served with soft roti and chutney.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub to try tropical fruits, vegetables, local snacks, and street stalls offering roti, dal, and fried fish.
Casual spots around the market where you can sample snacks like cassava chips, fried plantains, and keke (banana fritters).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm 'Bula' and a handshake; use polite language and address elders with respect.
Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites; remove hats in places of worship; ask before taking photos of people.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or ceremonies.
Respect local temples and churches; observe local customs and remove shoes if required.
Safety
Tipping in Labasa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; round up bills in casual eateries or leave small change.
Cash is widely used; some larger establishments may accept cards or mobile payments; check before assuming.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with regular tropical rain showers and occasional storms; carry rain gear and stay hydrated.
Drier, slightly cooler days with more comfortable humidity; good for outdoor exploration and photography.
Labasa at Night
Hiking in Labasa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail along the river offering green scenery and birds, suitable for a light hike.
Ridge path with ocean views; a moderate hike near the coast.
Airports
How to reach Labasa by plane.
Small domestic airport on Vanua Levu with connections to Suva and Nadi; taxi or shuttle access to town.
Major international gateway in Fiji with flights to Australia, Asia, and the Pacific; from there, domestic flights to Labasa.
Regional airport on Vanua Levu with domestic flights to Nadi and Suva.
Domestic/international airport near Suva; convenient for connections when coming from the east side of Viti Levu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population, contributing flavors, markets, and cultural events.
Traditional communities and leadership structures influence local culture and village life.
Smaller communities and expatriates contributing to the cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and tourists; watch matches or join community games where available.
Played in parks and schools, especially during weekends and holidays.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and street games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Labasa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy root vegetables, dhal, curries, and fresh fruit and vegetables. Request dhal with extra vegetables, and ask for coconut-free sauces if needed.