Warm waters, long sandy beaches, and tropical vibes make the Pacific Islands a fantastic year-round holiday destination. These beautiful archipelagos are spread throughout the Pacific Ocean, stretching from the coast of Asia to the waters surrounding New Zealand. The Pacific Islands have something for everyone, from water sports to relaxing spas. If you want to avoid the rainy season and overwhelming humidity, plan your trip between May and September.
01 Fiji
Fiji, known as the Land of Smiles, is home to some of the friendliest people in the world. Although thousands of tourists flock here, it’s still possible to get off the beaten track and find a secluded cove or hidden bay. A variety of boat trips are available to explore the inlets, deserted islands, and turquoise lagoons. Diving trips to coral reefs are popular, as are water sports like paddleboarding, sailing, surfing, and kayaking.
02 Taveuni
Get back in touch with nature on the island of Taveuni, where you’ll find dense jungle, beautiful waterfalls, and black sand beaches. You can even hike up a dormant volcano for stunning views of the area. Experience life like a local kid with a trip to the Waitavala Water Slide, a natural rock slide can provide hours of free entertainment. The island is also home to some of the best dive spots in the world. Rainbow Reef has abundant fish life and beautiful coral.
03 Easter Island
These 1,000 Moai sculptures were created by the early Rapa Nui tribe, whose culture can be explored during a night of storytelling, dance, and food. Performances take place against the island's stunning, volcanic backdrop in one of the most remote inhabited places on earth. Rent a car or bikes to explore the island at your own pace, go swimming at Anakena Beach, or try diving with submerged Moai statues while exploring underwater caves.
04 The Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are made up of fifteen islands, each one more beautiful than the last. To make the most of your time here, stay in Rarotonga and explore the islands at your own pace. Visit Motuanga, known as the cave with 100 rooms, where you’ll find a network of caves, an underground pool, and tunnels that extend out to the sea. For traditional Polynesian foods, head to the market at Punanga Nui, where you can sample delicious smoothies, locally grown coffee, and fresh fish.
05 Tahiti
Tahiti is a beautiful mountainous, volcanic island that boasts black sand beaches, waterfalls and coral reefs. If you want to learn more about the island, you're in luck as Tahiti is culturally diverse and steeped in history. Every July the island hosts the Heiva festival, a celebration of percussion music and traditional dancing.
06 Tonga
With 36 inhabited islands and around 130 deserted, Tonga has the perfect mix of seclusion and fun. Highlights of Tonga include the Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes, which stretch an impressive 3 miles along the coast. These are best experienced on a windy day, when the rough seas create a dramatic show, spraying water up to 30 meters into the air.
07 Hawaii
Welcome to Hawaii, the perfect destination for a laid back, tropical beach holiday. Here you can learn to surf, go night diving, and experience the local nightlife. The island is home to Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, located in National parkland amongst ancient forests. If you’re lucky, you’ll see awe-inspiring volcanic displays of molten lava and deserts.
08 Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands were historically a land of head hunters who collected the skulls of their enemies. Nowadays you’ll find hospitable people, traditional performances, and art which bring history to life. There are many museums that trek back through ten thousand years of civilization and a look into World War II. In many ways, this archipelago has remained unchanged for hundreds of years.
09 Mariana Islands
Have you ever heard of the Mariana Islands? They are located near the Philippines and make a great place for a romantic getaway. Relax on the beach or take part in water sports such as paddleboarding, snorkeling, grotto dives, and boat trips. The bustling capital of Saipan is full of tourists, so if you want to avoid the crowds find a secluded spot on one of the other islands.
10 Marshall Islands
If you are looking to get off the beaten track, consider visiting the Marshall Islands. Located halfway between Hawaii and Australia, the Marshal Islands are a group of pristine islands where you can swim amongst sea life. Consisting of a lagoon and small coral islands, this country receives just 5000 visitors a year. Some popular activities include booking a homestay with locals, visiting banana plantations, and eating fresh seafood.
11 Caroline Islands
These 500 tiny islands are remote, widely scattered and located near Papua New Guinea. They are beautiful, unspoiled and an excellent place for surfing, rainforest hiking, diving, and waterfall climbing. The islands have a fascinating and rich Polynesian and Asian history.
12 How to decide which island to visit
With all these amazing islands on offer, consider what you want most from your vacation. Are you looking for a beach break or more of an adventure-packed stay? Try combining your pacific island getaway with a stop off in Australia or New Zealand as many flights go from these countries.
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