The Best Pacific Islands to Visit Based on Your Personality

When you dream of a South Pacific vacation, images of screensaver-worthy beaches, luxury resorts and abundant marine life are sure to come to mind. But what archipelago are you picturing, specifically? There are several countries and territories in this tropical part of the world, and each is made up of multiple islands.

In fact, there are so many islands that it can be a real challenge to decide which ones to travel to. And that’s where we come in! Keep on reading to discover the best Pacific islands to visit based on your interests — we’ve got recommendations for foodies, nature lovers, budget travellers, families and more!  

• Fiji
• French Polynesia
• Cook Islands
• Samoa
• Easter Island
• New Caledonia
• Tonga
• Vanuatu

Fiji is probably the first island nation that pops into your mind when you think of the South Pacific. Its stunning beaches, friendly local culture, ancient traditions and vibrant snorkelling sites (people don’t call it the “soft coral capital of the world” for nothing), attract nearly 1 million travellers each year.

Considering being one of them? Here are the islands we recommend putting on your must-visit list:

• Viti Levu: As Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu is brimming with family-friendly resorts and countless opportunities to learn about the country’s unique history and culture.   
• Mamanuca Islands: When it comes to pristine beaches, the Mamanuca Islands really deliver. Despite being situated just off the coast of Viti Levu, this archipelago has an ultra-remote feel… no wonder Survivor is filmed here!
• Yasawa Islands: Outdoor adventurers, take note. This string of volcanic islands boasts dramatic landscapes comprised of ancient limestone caverns, cerulean lagoons and scenic lookouts.

This group of South Pacific Islands is basically synonymous with romantic getaways. Couples and honeymooners not only flock to French Polynesia for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters but also its luxury resorts — many of which feature secluded overwater bungalows.

Ready to fall in love with these idyllic islands for yourself? Here are the ones we suggest adding to your bucket list:

• Bora Bora: If you or your partner is a history buff, Bora Bora is a great choice. You can balance your time between relaxing on the beach and checking out WWII sites; the island was once a US military base.
• Tahiti & Moʼorea: Separated by just 17km of Pacific Ocean, Tahiti and Mo’orea are made for island hopping (and swimming and waterfall chasing and snorkelling).
• Huahine: For untouched natural beauty and authentic Polynesia experiences, you can’t go wrong with Huahine.

We’re not going to lie to you… travelling to the South Pacific, given its distance from Canada, is going to cost you a pretty penny. But some countries in this region are more affordable than others. The Cook Islands, for example, are less frequented by tourists than both Fiji and French Polynesia and offer a wider range of accommodation options to suit every budget.

Want to soak in the South Pacific beauty for less? Here are some incredible beach destinations that won’t entirely break the bank:

• Rarotonga: As the largest island in the Cook Islands, there’s a lot to see, do and experience on Rarotonga. Popular activities include snorkelling, quad biking and eating your way through local markets.
• Aitutaki: Aitutaki is home to one of the world’s most gorgeous lagoons. And each of the small islands (aka islets or motus) within it looks and feels like a private slice of paradise.
• Aitu: With virtually no township, escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life is easy on Aitu. Go here to discover small island villages, coffee plantations and rare native birds.

Samoa isn’t as popular of a destination as some of the other island nations on this list, and that’s part of the appeal! Its unspoiled landscapes and humble accommodation options (you’re more likely to stay in a beach fale than an overwater bungalow) make it a hidden gem for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist hot spots.

Want to escape the crowds and discover natural wonders? Here are the Samoan islands that should be on your radar:

• Savai’i: Feel the ocean spray at the Alofaaga Blowholes, walk across the ancient Saleaula Lava Field and hike through a lush rainforest to the Afu Aau waterfall.
• Upolu: If you like diving into the cenotes in Mexico, you’ll love the To Sua Ocean Trench (this island’s “giant swimming hole”).

Situated approximately 3,500km off the coast of Chile in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, Easter Island has been fascinating travellers and history buffs for centuries. What is the lifestyle and traditional culture like on such a small, isolated island? Where did those monolithic Moai statues come from? How did the Rapa Nui people discover Easter Island in the first place?

Book a trip to this mysterious South Pacific island to find the answers to these questions and more. Plus, explore volcanic craters and discover white sandy beaches.

Snorkelling through a barrier reef that’s teeming with coral gardens and manta rays probably isn’t something you’d typically associate with France — but New Caledonia changes that! This South Pacific archipelago is actually an overseas territory of France and therefore offers a unique blend of French and Melanesian cultures. You can be sipping espresso at a chic café one moment and then exploring a traditional Kanak village the next.

Interested in getting a taste of Europe in the middle of the South Pacific? Here are the islands that will satisfy your appetite for adventure:

• Grande Terre: This is where you’ll find the capital city of Nouméa, which is bustling with French-inspired restaurants, art galleries, museums and more.
• Île des Pins: Also known as “the closest island to paradise,” Île des Pins stuns with its blue lagoons, powdery white-sand beaches and towering Araucaria trees.
• Loyalty Islands: From ancient rituals to tribal homestays, visiting the Loyalty Islands will immerse you in the local Indigenous culture.

Snorkelling with sea turtles and tropical fish is one thing, but swimming alongside humpback whales is another — and Tonga is one of the few places in the world where you can do it responsibly. Of course, there’s also plenty to do above the surface, including hanging ten! Tonga’s reef breaks provide some excellent (and often uncrowded) surf spots.

Ready to dive into a majestic marine world? Here are the top islands to explore in Tonga:

• Vavaʻu Islands: The Vava’u group is the place for humpback whale watching and swimming experiences. Join a guided tour during migration season to get close (but not too close!) to these magnificent creatures.
• Ha‘apai Islands: For a quieter, more intimate experience with nature, head to Ha‘apai. This low-key island group offers pristine beaches, great surf and plenty of chances to spot whales without the crowds.
• Tongatapu: The main island is perfect for getting a feel for Tongan culture. Visit ancient stone monuments, local markets and rugged coastal blowholes.

If your idea of paradise involves more than lying on incredible beaches, Vanuatu is calling! This island chain is a tropical playground where you can zipline through jungle canopies, quad bike along coastal trails, hike to the rim of an active volcano and even crawl through caves.

Is your heart racing just thinking about this South Pacific Island nation? Here are the exhilarating destinations you can’t miss.

• Tanna: Home to the fiery Mount Yasur, this is the ultimate adventure hub. Climb to the top of the volcano and watch glowing lava bursts light up the night sky.
• Efate: Sure, Port Vila is here… but that’s not Efate’s biggest draw. Venture beyond the capital city’s borders and you’ll find plenty of ziplining, off-roading and abseiling experiences.
• Espiritu Santo: This is where you can dive into blue holes and navigate thrilling subterranean environments, like the Millennium Cave.

So, what’s the best Pacific island to visit for your personality and travel style? Is it the affordable Cook Islands, the romantic French Polynesia, the marine wildlife-filled Tonga or another archipelago entirely? Whether you’re seeking adventure or a relaxed atmosphere, your centre for travel can help you find your paradise.

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