As an expat or digital nomad in Suva, you’re in for a cultural treat when it comes to shopping and experiencing local markets. Suva offers a variety of markets that cater to all tastes, from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for the freshest ingredients for your next meal, unique Fijian crafts, or just a vibrant atmosphere to soak in, these markets are must-visits. Here are some of the best markets in Suva that provide a glimpse into the local life and culture.
Suva Municipal Market
Location: Harris Road, Suva
Type of Market: Fresh Produce Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM; Saturdays until 3 PM
The Suva Municipal Market is the largest and most bustling market in the city, offering a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. It’s a colorful and lively spot where locals and visitors alike come to find the freshest produce brought in from all over the island. The market is a sensory overload with its vibrant colors, exotic smells, and the friendly banter of vendors and shoppers.
We Recommend: Trying the local kava, a traditional Fijian drink, or picking up some soursop, a delicious tropical fruit that’s both sweet and tangy.
Curio & Handicraft Market
Location: Usher Street, Suva
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Daily, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
For those interested in Fijian art and crafts, the Curio & Handicraft Market is a treasure trove. Here, you can find beautifully crafted wooden carvings, woven baskets, traditional masi cloth, and a variety of other hand-made souvenirs. It’s an excellent place for expats and digital nomads to find unique gifts or items to decorate their homes.
We Recommend: Picking up a traditional Fijian tapa cloth, which is made from the bark of the paper mulberry tree and often decorated with cultural motifs.
Municipal Handicraft Centre
Location: Rodwell Road, Suva
Type of Market: Handicraft Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 4 PM
The Municipal Handicraft Centre is a hub for local artisans to sell their work. This market is smaller than the Curio & Handicraft Market but offers a more intimate shopping experience. You’ll find a variety of Fijian-made goods, including jewelry, pottery, and traditional clothing.
We Recommend: The beautifully crafted pearl jewelry, which makes for an elegant souvenir or gift.
Suva Flea Market
Location: Rodwell Road, Suva
Type of Market: Flea Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
The Suva Flea Market is a favorite among bargain hunters and those looking for second-hand goods. From clothing to electronics, this market has a bit of everything. It’s also a great place to mingle with locals and experience the Fijian way of life.
We Recommend: Scouring for unique vintage clothing items or traditional Fijian sarongs, known as ‘sulus’, which are both practical and stylish for island living.
Suva Fish Market
Location: Veitari, Suva
Type of Market: Seafood Market
Open: Daily, early morning until sold out
For seafood lovers, the Suva Fish Market is a must-visit. Located right by the sea, it offers the freshest catch of the day. You’ll find a variety of fish and other seafood, and the prices are usually very reasonable. It’s a great place to pick up ingredients for a delicious home-cooked meal.
We Recommend: The fresh tuna, which is often caught the same day and is perfect for making sashimi or a Fijian-style ceviche known as kokoda.
Thurston Gardens Craft Market
Location: Thurston Gardens, Suva
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Occasional, usually once a month on weekends
Set in the beautiful Thurston Gardens, this craft market is not a daily event but is worth attending when it’s on. Local artisans come out to sell their crafts, and it’s a lovely way to spend a weekend morning. The market is also a great opportunity to enjoy the gardens and visit the Fiji Museum located within the same grounds.
We Recommend: Handmade Fijian jewelry made from shells and coconut, which are not only beautiful but also support local artisans.
Namaka Market
Location: Namaka, near Nadi International Airport
Type of Market: Produce and Flea Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM
Although a bit of a drive from Suva, Namaka Market is worth a visit, especially if you’re heading towards Nadi. It’s a bustling market with a mix of fresh produce and flea market items. The market is known for its friendly vendors and offers a chance to experience a different side of Fijian market life.
We Recommend: Sampling some of the local snacks from the food vendors, such as cassava chips or fresh coconut water.
These markets in Suva provide a vibrant slice of Fijian life and are an essential experience for expats and digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Each market has its own unique charm and specialties, so be sure to explore as many as you can during your stay in Fiji.
