There is much more to Fiji than its blue seas, lush rainforests, and picture-perfect palm-covered beaches: it is a secret paradise for those who love to indulge in fine beverages. Whether it’s a cool coconut, a cultural rite, or a tropical cocktail on the beach, the islands will satisfy every taste.
When it comes to a tropical vacation in the South Pacific, what to drink in Fiji is as important as what to visit. Fiji has a wide array of traditional Fijian drinks, tropical juices, local brewed spirits, and refreshing soft drinks which are all based on the culture, climate and character of Fiji.
Whether you’re lounging on white-sand beaches, attending a village ceremony, or relaxing at a luxury resort, here are 15 must-try drinks in Fiji that will elevate your island experience.
1. Kava (Yaqona or Grog)
Kava is the national drink of Fiji. Kava is traditionally drunk in a communal ceremony and is made of the roots of the yacon plant, powdered and combined with water. It is mildly sedative with a unique, earthy flavour that is usually drunk in cups carved out of a coconut shell (bilo). Don’t expect a fruity cocktail; kava tastes earthy and bitter, but it brings people together and represents the spirit of Fijian hospitality. Just remember to clap once before receiving your cup and again afterwards—it’s tradition.
2. Fresh Coconut Water (Bu)
In Fiji, there is nothing more reinvigorating than the coconut water fresh off the husk. This coconut drink is locally called bu. It is the most natural way to hydrate in the Fijian sun and has a bounty of natural electrolytes. Fresh and green coconuts are often sold roadside or served at resorts in Fiji, and you should never leave the place without having this highly cultural and socially inclined drink.
3. Fiji Bitter Beer
Fiji Bitter is a must-try for beer lovers. This is a national favourite golden lager, since 1958.. It will be available everywhere: on beach bars and on supermarket shelves. It is both locals’ and tourists’ favourite and may be considered a classic of Fijian beer.
4. Fiji Gold
If you prefer a smoother, lighter lager, Fiji Gold is your go-to. It has a mild flavor and is popular with those looking for a sessionable island beer with the same tropical vibe. Locals are divided into Team Bitter and Team Gold—try both and decide where your loyalty lies. Pair your beer with fish and chips, cassava crisps, or just sip it while watching a local rugby game.
5. Bounty Rum (Dark & Spiced)
Brewed in Lautoka, Bounty Rum is a true Fijian classic. Whether you like it dark, spiced, or over ice, this sugarcane-based spirit is rich, aromatic, and ideal for tropical cocktails.
6. Bati & Ratu Rums (Rum Co. of Fiji)
Looking for premium Fijian spirits? Bati and Ratu rums are award-winning expressions by the Rum Co. of Fiji. These handcrafted, barrel-aged rums are infused with local flavors like coconut and cocoa. Whether enjoyed in a daiquiri or brought home as a souvenir, they’re a luxurious taste of the islands.
7. Blue Turtle Gin
One of the more exciting additions to Fiji’s drink scene is Blue Turtle Gin, the country’s first small-batch, premium craft gin. Infused with local botanicals such as kaffir lime, ginger, and even curry leaves, it’s a unique twist on the classic spirit. You’ll find it served in upscale bars across Nadi, Denarau, and Pacific Harbour—often with a splash of local tonic or passionfruit juice.
8. Fiji Water
Of course, no visit to Fiji is complete without trying Fiji Water. This artesian bottled water is sourced from an underground aquifer in Viti Levu and is known worldwide for its purity and mineral softness. You’ll see it everywhere—from humble guesthouses to five-star resorts. It’s the perfect hydration companion under the South Pacific sun and a popular take-home item for tourists.
9. Fresh Tropical Fruit Juices
If you’re craving something sweet, nutritious, and vibrant, fresh tropical fruit juices are abundant and irresistible. Whether it’s mango, guava, pineapple, papaya, or passionfruit, the juices are often freshly blended and served at breakfast buffets, beach cafés, or roadside stalls. These juices offer rich nutritious value to maintain your energy levels during the overall trip to the island.
10. Fijian Ginger Beer
Another traditional beverage worth trying is Fijian ginger beer. This non-alcoholic drink is homemade in many villages and has a strong, zesty flavour with a bit of a spicy kick. It is a naturally fermented drink and is commonly prepared simply using ginger, lemon, sugar and water. Many locals drink it for its digestive benefits, and it’s a flavorful alternative to soda, especially when served chilled on a hot day.
11. Sugarcane Juice
Along the same lines, you might come across sugarcane juice, pressed fresh at local markets or roadside stands. Vendors crush long stalks of sugarcane to produce a golden-green liquid that’s naturally sweet and surprisingly energizing. In some places, they add a touch of lime or ginger for extra zing and flavour. This beverage is pretty basic, unprocessed, and rejuvenating, indeed an island pick-me-up.
12. Fijian Masala Chai
Thanks to the large Indo-Fijian population, masala chai has also become a popular drink across the country. It is a spiced black tea prepared using black tea, milk, and sugar with spices such as cardamom, ginger, among others and has a soothing and aromatic flavour. It’s commonly served during breakfast or afternoon snacks, often with fried treats like samosas or bhajia. If you’re staying with a local family or visiting inland towns like Labasa or Ba, you’re likely to be offered a cup.
13. Bula Coffee
Coffee enthusiasts will be happy to know that Fiji is home to Bula Coffee, a small but thriving coffee operation that sources beans from the Fijian highlands. The company works with remote villages to harvest and roast beans, creating a rich, aromatic brew that’s both ethical and delicious. You can enjoy Bula Coffee in cafés in Pacific Harbour or buy a bag of beans to take home as a souvenir.
14. Imported Wines (NZ & Australia)
While Fiji doesn’t produce its own traditional wine made from grapes, it imports excellent selections from nearby New Zealand and Australia. You’ll find imported wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir on most resort and restaurant menus. They pair beautifully with fresh seafood or sunset views and are a sophisticated complement to your tropical stay.
15. Local Soft Drinks (e.g., Sprint)
Lastly, don’t forget to try local soft drinks like Sprint—Fiji’s answer to Fanta—and other fruity sodas available in flavours like pineapple, raspberry, and lemon-lime. These are especially popular with kids, but even adults will appreciate their fizzy, tropical charm. They’re inexpensive, nostalgic, and widely available in every corner shop.
Final Sip: Drink Like a Local in Fiji
Enjoying drinks in Fiji is one of the most awesome experiences because it can largely be associated with memorable places and experiences. Think how nice it will be to dig a fresh coconut after a waterfall hike, or a cold Fiji Bitter after golf with an ocean landscape. The beauty is that your drink is not merely a refreshment but is a small piece of the island’s story.
Many of Fiji’s top golf courses and natural attractions are tucked away along rural coastlines and lush interiors, especially on the main island of Viti Levu. While resort transfers can get you to nearby spots, the best way to combine your beverage adventures with sightseeing and golf is to have the freedom of your transport.
That’s where Aries Rental Car comes in—a trusted and affordable option with convenient pickup points across Viti Levu. If you are going to spend time at the Biausevu Waterfall, enjoy the Sabeto Hot Springs, or simply take your time touring some of the scenic coastal golf courses, then a rental vehicle helps you to be in total control of your journey on the island.
So drink like a native, drive like a free spirit and join Fiji`s tastes and vistas towards your adventure.
