Weather
November is at the start of the wet season. It's a month of two halves: early November is generally dry and settled, as in the dry season, whereas the rains get heavier and more persistent from the middle of the month. Even so, there's less rainfall now than during the peak of the rainy season (January to March), so this isn't automatically a reason to stay away from Fiji this month.
Although temperatures are fairly uniform year-round in Fiji, expect high temperatures of up to 84°F (29°C) in October. The chance of cyclones is low in November as the main cyclone season runs from January to March. However, there's still a chance of an unseasonal early cyclone this month, so keep an eye on the weather forecasts to make sure you won't be in the path of one of these destructive storms.
Crowds & Costs
November is the low season for travel to Fiji, as is most of the rainy season (with the exception of late December). However, because the rains aren't too heavy or persistent, November is a great time to grab a bargain on flights and accommodation and enjoy the beaches without too many other people around.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
You can have a perfect beach vacation in Fiji in November if you choose a beach or resort in the right part of the country. Head to a resort around Nadi, on the west coast of Viti Levu, or further south, around Sigatoka. This is the drier side of the island with many resorts on offer. This part of the island is also conveniently near the airport, ideal for family travelers or those on a quick trip.
If Diwali falls in November during your travels, make sure to visit a town or city with a prominent Indo-Fijian community, such as Nadi or Suva. Nadi is home to the largest Hindu temple in the Pacific, the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, in the South Indian style with a decorative gopuram (tower). It's especially lively during Diwali, particularly after dark. (Outside Diwali, the temple can be visited between dawn and dusk.) Many resorts also have their own Diwali celebrations.
What to Do
While many travelers come to Fiji to stay in luxurious resorts, a far more interesting alternative (or addition) is to stay in a small local homestay in a village. These are dotted around the country, including Viti Levu, the Mamanuca Islands, and the Yasawa Islands. Learn about everyday life in rural Fiji and get to know the local people in a way impossible from a regular hotel. Living quarters are usually basic but clean and comfortable, and activities typically include a village tour and a kava ceremony.
If you're based at a beach resort on Viti Levu's south coast, don't skip a half or full-day safari tour along the Sigatoka River. Journey into the island's jungle-covered interior, visit a local village and enjoy a cultural performance. Separate trips can also be made to the infamous Naihehe Cave, once used by Fiji's last known tribe of cannibals in the 19th century, and you can still see some of their ritual items on display. Get there by floating on a bamboo raft up the Sigatoka River.
Events in November
Diwali, nationwide. Diwali is a five-day Hindu festival celebrated in late October or early November by Fiji's Indo-Fijian community. This festival of lights is celebrated with fireworks and candlelight displays in homes and at temples. It's a public holiday across Fiji.