Crashing white waves that form a distinct line in the ocean is a familiar sight at some of Fiji's top resort locations.

These waves hold the key to a fast growing sport that is now becoming popular in Fiji. Unlike surfing in Australia or Hawaii, the surf in Fiji most often breaks on coral reefs.

Depending on the tide, the waves show their power and speed when they encounter the steep slopes of the coral and expends its energy over a short distance.

Visiting surfers can find a host of different surfing spots which are mainly near the large island of Viti Levu.

Access to these locations are usually by boat or local connections. News of Fiji's surfing sites is spreading like wild fire around the world and getting wide exposure.

Over the last five years many surfers have hit the Fiji waves and have not been disappointed with the experience.

Surfing has put Fiji in the professional world of competition and expanded the tourism industry to new heights.

Here are some locations to check out while on your holiday - the capital city of Suva has four breaks adjacent to Lighthouse Reef which you can catch at high tide when the swell is about four to five feet high.

Five miles out of Pacific Harbour, west of Suva, you come across Frigate Pass which also has one of the best waves in Fiji.

Other surfing venues are at Hideaway Re sort, the beach break at the Sigatoka sand dunes and our very own world class surfing turf, Tavarua Island.

If you need further information, contact the Fiji Surfing Association in Suva.