Your guide to picking the perfect Pacific Island

A Pacific Islands escape is calling – but with so many breathtaking destinations, where do you begin? If your only criteria are sun, sand and endless ocean, every island delivers in abundance. But each Pacific paradise comes with its own personality – distinct traditions, landscapes, cultures and cuisine.

To help narrow your search, consider what kind of holiday you’re dreaming of: pure relaxation, rustic adventure, luxe indulgence, vibrant culture, family fun or a mix of everything. Your budget, travel style and the experiences you value most will guide you to the perfect fit.

As specialists in Pacific Island holidays, Spacifica Travel has created this easy guide to help you find the island that’s perfect for you.

Culture kings – Cook Islands

Imagine a place where there are no crowds, no high-rise hotels and unspoiled natural beauty as far as the eye can see. The Cook Islands are naturally designed to be explored, whether it’s traversing the tropical paradise of Rarotonga or retreating to the seclusion of Aitutaki. The local Māori people welcome the opportunity to share their local culture and showcase their special slice of paradise. Remote yet accessible, the islands blend Polynesian tradition and hospitality with modern influences and comforts.

Budget friendly – Fiji

Fiji is the South Pacific’s ultimate all-rounder – romance, family fun, adventure and wellness is all here. The famous Fijian warmth comes not just from the tropical climate, but from its people, who make visitors feel instantly at home. While there are experiences to suit all tastes and budgets, Fiji is well known for offering great value holidays for families with a vast range of family-friendly resorts offering kids’ clubs, nannies and endless activities so that everyone gets the break they deserve.

Bucket list – Islands of Tahiti

Dramatic mountains, emerald valleys, turquoise lagoons and an unmistakable spiritual energy known as Mana – Tahiti captures the imagination like few places on earth. As the cultural and spiritual heart of French Polynesia, Tahiti is the gateway to a world of unforgettable island experiences. Glide across Bora Bora’s iconic blue waters, wander Moorea’s lush interior, explore Papeete’s markets or trace ancient stories on Raiatea. Every island leaves a lasting imprint.

Eco warriors – Lord Howe Island

An unspoiled gem in the South Pacific, Lord Howe Island is close to the Australia’s east coast yet feels a world away. You don’t even need a passport! Here, local lore is to “take only pictures and leave only footprints” to preserve its UNESCO World Heritage environment. With only 400 visitors allowed at a time, Lord Howe Island remains an exclusive destination where you can enjoy unspoiled beauty without the crowds. With its white sandy beaches, sub-tropical forests, rich marine environment and wide variety of seabirds – its little wonder visitors fall in love with Lord Howe.

Authentic escape – New Caledonia

Discover the natural wonder of New Caledonia, home to the oldest living flowering plant and the largest lagoon in the world. Barrier reef surrounds the main island, attracting divers from around the world. As a French territory, New Caledonia blends French influence with the deep-rooted traditions of the Kanak people, who welcome the opportunity to share their age-old traditions with visitors. With ancient culture, European flair and incredible natural beauty, New Caledonia offers an escape unlike any other in the Pacific.

Genuine connection – Niue

The untouched natural wonder of Niue is like no other South Pacific Island. Often referred to as the “Rock of Polynesia”, Niue is one of the largest raised coral atolls in the world, and has a diverse landscape – towering limestone cliffs, vibrant coral reefs, chasms carved by ancient seas and crystal-clear waters. Here, experiences feel raw and real, and the warm, tight-knit community makes visitors feel part of island life. Niue is where true adventure meets genuine human connection.

The simple life – Norfolk Island

No passport is needed to escape to Norfolk Island, a peaceful retreat where the pace slows and nature takes the lead. There are no traffic lights here – only scenic winding roads where cows have right of way and breathtaking views greet you at every turn. Warm, welcoming locals share their unique history, language and island stories with genuine pride. Fill your days with bushwalks, fishing, swimming, snorkelling or a round of golf on a spectacular beachside course.

Historical haven – Pitcairn Island

There are few who aren’t familiar with the tale of the HMAV Bounty, the ship at the centre of the infamous mutiny in which 28 settlers landed on Pitcairn Island in 1790 to create a new home. The descendants of the original settlers still call this island home and welcome a small number of adventurous travellers each year. Home to the world’s largest marine reserve, Pitcairn Island waters are globally recognised as sanctuaries for endangered sharks. Pitcairn offers a rare chance to step into living history.

Home away from home – Samoa

The Islands of Samoa offer a breathtaking blend of untouched natural beauty, ancient traditions and warm island hospitality. It’s where time slows and the culture of Fa’a Samoa – the Samoan Way – shapes everyday life through deep respect, strong family ties and vibrant community spirit. From waterfalls and volcanic landscapes to vibrant markets and cultural performances, Samoa offers an authentic Polynesian experience. Visitors are embraced like family, which is why leaving is always the hardest part.

Exotic adventure – Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands is perhaps the Pacific’s best kept secret. With 992 islands, the region is incredibly diverse – culturally, geographically and historically. Eco-travellers and adventurers will find volcanic landscapes, wartime relics, untouched reefs and rich local traditions. Over 70 languages are spoken across the islands, and village life thrives through kastom – a deep cultural system that shapes community life. The Solomon Islands are remote, rewarding and wildly beautiful.

Traditional escape – Tonga

The Kingdom of Tonga is the only Pacific nation to never be colonised. It’s where tradition meets tranquillity, a true gem of the South Pacific that invites travellers to slow down and immerse themselves in a culture that has remained proudly and resolutely intact. Tonga is a place where tradition is part of everyday life – from kava ceremonies to Sunday feasts and hymn-filled churches. Tonga’s charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity, offering meaningful moments over modern distractions.

Happy place – Vanuatu

Vanuatu’s beauty goes far beyond its beaches – it’s where traditional culture continues to thrive, providing visitors with an immersive experience unlike any other. The people of Vanuatu are considered some of the happiest in the world and it’s easy to see why. Traditional tribal cultures and modern influences are perfectly balanced to create to Vanuatu’s indigenous population – Ni-Vanuatu – a rich combination of cultures that put family and community above all else. Explore cultural villages, witness ancient rituals, or simply enjoy the balance of tradition and modern island life.

From sun-soaked beaches and lush landscapes to rich culture and unforgettable experiences, the South Pacific has a destination for every kind of traveller. Let Spacifica guide you to the island that matches your dream holiday – we take care of every detail, so all that’s left for you to do is enjoy the journey. Call the team on 1800 800 722 to start planning your Pacific Island getaway.