The minute you step off the plane in Fiji, you'll find the relaxed nature of the locals enchanting. If you need a break from the hectic pace of life, this idyllic destination is the perfect place to recharge your batteries.

With more than 330 islands to choose from, the only trouble you'll have is deciding which one to explore.

Denarau Island is a great place to start. Located on the western side of Viti Levu - Fiji's largest island - it's a 20-minute drive from Nadi International Airport.

The island caters to all tastes and budgets. If you're looking for adrenalin there's an abundance of water sports on offer. From scuba diving and snorkelling to jet-skiing and parasailing - you won't find yourself twiddling your thumbs. And for those who like to swing a club there's also a spectacular golf course.

However, if you want to unwind, there are many places to be pampered including the Harmony Retreat at the Radisson Resort where massages, manicures and facials are all on offer.

The resort's accommodation is superb too, with one and two-bedroom suites as well as regular guest rooms. The suites have a separate lounge and dining room and a fully equipped kitchen, so you don't have to venture out for every meal.

If you're taking a holiday from the kitchen, the resort's Nautilus Restaurant is simply sensational.With mouth-watering dishes such as spiced chicken wings with coconut, soy and chilli, flame-grilled gourmet burgers and Portuguese peri peri chicken, you'll be spoilt for choice.

The drinks list in The Orchid Lounge is tantalising too - what better way to cap off your day than by sipping a mojito and taking in the Pacific?

It would be easy not to leave the resort for the duration of your Fijian fling because there's so much to do. There's a Kids Club and five lagoon pools, one exclusively for adults with a swim-up bar, and another for the kids complete with waterslide.

But if you're up for exploring then jump on the free Bula Bus and head to Port Denarau. Give your credit card a workout at the new shopping centre, then grab a meal at one of the restaurants. There is a huge range to choose from including seafood, Italian and good old-fashioned pub grub, but the Indigo Premium restaurant is not to be missed.

After you've satisfied your shopping desires, visit Adrenalin Watersports (www.adrenalinfiji.com) - they have an office at most major hotels on the island - to indulge your wild side.

Fiji is the ideal family destination. The flight from Sydney is three hours and 50 minutes, and less than five hours from Melbourne. Air Pacific hands out kids travel packs to keep the little ones entertained while you can sit back and enjoy the flight.

One of the best things about Fiji is that it's so laid-back you can't help but feel rejuvenated when your holiday is over. And part of the magic of this South Pacific destination is that you won't walk 10 metres without hearing a bula - Fijian for hello - from a local. They're simply a super-friendly bunch!