10 Must-Visit Pacific Islands for Your Bucket List

The South Pacific is home to thousands of islands, and although getting there could be a bit of a challenge, the reward is worth it. Discover pristine beaches, fascinating historical sites, and a tranquil vibe perfect for a vacation in this expansive region. With so many beautiful islands in Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia to see, picking just one may be difficult—that’s why we’re here to help.

Based on user votes and expert judgments, as well as characteristics such as diversity of attractions, accessibility, and price, TravellerGoals determined the top Pacific Islands. Make use of these suggestions when you arrange your next holiday, and vote for next year’s list by using the button below.

Exploring the Top Attractions in the Pacific Islands

1. Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands are perfect for ecotourists since they have so many unspoiled natural attractions and so few conventional hotels. Adventurers can climb a dormant volcano, surf empty waves, and delve into lush rainforests.

For anyone interested in WWII history, the nation is a treasure trove of disused tanks and amphibious vehicles that can be found throughout the islands. However, the underwater landscapes of the islands may provide the most memorable experiences. The sunken oil tankers, submarines, and warplanes of the Solomon Islands attract divers from all over the globe.

2. Samoa

Visit peaceful Samoa if you’re an adventurer, history buff, or nature lover. Some of the most stunning natural attractions in this area include the Alofaaga Blowholes, the Sopoaga and Papapapaitai waterfalls, and the enormous swimming hole known as the To Sua ocean trench.

Samoa is home to many cultural sites, such as the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and the Samoa Cultural Village, where visitors can see traditional tattooing and tapa cloth-making demonstrations. Visit a nearby market for some seafood or fresh produce once you’ve seen all the sites, and then spend the night in a file, a primitive coastal accommodation.

3. Tonga

A nation of almost 170 islands, Tonga is famous for being the final monarchy in Polynesia. While on vacation in Tonga, visitors can experience a traditional Tongan feast, explore the blowholes of Mapu’a ‘a Vaca, and unwind on remote beaches.

From July through October, visitors to Tonga have the unique chance to swim alongside the majestic humpback whales, an experience that promises to be unforgettable. Additionally, daredevils should swim in the freshwater pool at the ‘Anahulu Cave,’ which is encircled by old stalactites and stalagmites.

4. Tahiti

Tahiti is an ideal South Pacific destination because of its international airport and plenty of city-style services, such as a wide selection of restaurants, lively cultural events, and luxurious resorts. Tahiti may be known as an island paradise in French Polynesia, but don’t let that mislead you—the island is also home to breathtaking waterfalls, majestic mountains, and beautiful beaches—the perfect backdrop for a tranquil island retreat.

Before you escape to one of Tahiti’s breathtaking natural attractions, begin your journey by seeing the capital city of Papeete, which is home to the island’s marketplaces, boutiques, and nightlife spots. Fautaua Waterfall, Vaipahi’s Water Gardens, and Papenoo Beach are must-see attractions.

5. Bora Bora

If you are seeking a holiday spot where you can relax, unwind, and rediscover nature, then this French Polynesian island is for you. Bora Bora is a romantic island paradise with overwater villas, spas fit for newlyweds, a stunning blue lagoon, and verdant Mount Otemanu.

Experience the island like never before on an exhilarating four-wheel-drive adventure or a boat tour that lets you feed sharks and stingrays. The next step is to choose a private beach at your resort or Matira Beach to relax on as you watch the sun go down.

6. Cook Islands

This cluster of fifteen islands, located halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, may be little, but it packs a massive punch. Hikes to waterfalls and snorkeling trips are among the most popular things to do, but local village visits also rank high. Do not miss the breathtaking white sand beaches of Aitutaki and Rarotonga either.

Visit a market after your explorations to taste local specialties like ika mata (marinated raw fish) and poke (a pudding-like meal prepared with tropical fruits). Then, don’t miss the island night celebration, where traditional dancing and an umukai (a feast cooked in an underground oven) are featured items. Due to the Cook Islands’ association with New Zealand, travelers can simply fly here from Auckland.

7. Vanuatu

Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, this chain of eighty volcanic islands is an idyllic, off-the-beaten-path retreat. Several of Vanuatu’s tourist amenities, such as restaurants, stores, and lodgings, are located in Port Vila, the capital of the country on the island of Efate. Popular things to do in Vanuatu include climbing the active volcano Mount Yasur, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, and snorkeling in the pristine seas off Mystery Island.

8. Moorea

Moorea is a great option for newlyweds who are looking for a hidden gem in French Polynesia for their honeymoon. Stunning natural wonders and romantic lodgings await couples on this breathtaking island, which is similar to Bora Bora but offers a more laid-back vibe and more affordable rates.

Moorea is conveniently accessible from the main international airport or by ferry from French Polynesia because it is only 10 miles from Tahiti. When visitors reach the island, they will see eight majestic mountains, two picturesque bays, and some notable landmarks, such as Temae Beach and the Moorea Dolphin Centre.

9. Tuvalu

Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest nations, and its nine low-lying islands are known for its pristine white sand beaches, diverse marine life, and easygoing vibe. Here, you can spend most of your time swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach.

But don’t forget to set aside some time to explore the World War II debris sites and the Tuvalu Post, which houses an extensive collection of rare stamps dating back decades. You won’t have to battle crowds of tourists for a seat on the sand in Tuvalu since, despite its beauty, it remains off the radar of many travelers.