5 Best Sights in Nadi, Viti Levu

Founded by the late American actor Raymund Burr in 1977 to house his own orchids, the garden now displays more than 2,000 kinds of orchids across its 50 acres. Guides are available at no additional cost. The garden is a half-hour's drive north of Nadi, in the foothills of the Sabeto Mountains.

Guns and bunkers were set up here during World War II to protect Nadi from a potential attack by the Japanese. One of the bunkers has been turned into a museum with photographs documenting its history. The site offers spectacular views over Momi Bay and the Mamanuca Islands.

Natadola Beach remains arguably the mainland's best beach. You can ride horses provided by the locals (if they're not there, this can be arranged through the Natadola Beach Resort or the Intercontinental Fiji), swim without fear of stepping on coral, soak up the sun and eat at the beachfront resorts. Since there are no true amenities at the beach, the close proximity to the Natadola Beach Resort (adults only!) and Intercontinental is a blessing. The beach is at the end of Maro Road, which appears just past the police post on Queens Road, near Km 45. Turn right before you get to the Intercontinental and go round the back of Natadola Beach Resort. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude and swimming.

For a naturalistic bathing experience north of town, you can take a dip in these underdeveloped thermal bathing and mud pools in the lush Sabeto River Valley; those looking for a Canyon Ranch substitute will be disappointed. The pools are best enjoyed as the air cools later in the day, and there are basic changing and shower facilities on-site. Many resort tour desks can arrange a half-day tour. The admission fee is actually a contribution to the village that owns the pools.

This pastel-color Hindu temple cuts an impressive figure at the southern end of the main strip. Its many vivid ceiling murals and intricate patterns are the work of a single artist, C. Gopalakrishnan of Madras, India, who, at the time of writing, was repainting the entire 13-year-old structure. The open-air temple includes a number of shrines with ornate statues and doors imported from India, and is the site of weddings virtually every weekend. Its more than 1,000 devotees come to pray bearing fruit and other offerings throughout the day. Admission includes a casual tour—you may have to prod your guide with questions if you want more detail. Remove your shoes once inside the gates.