When you want a list of South Pacific countries that you really want to visit, but at the right time and season, you want this page right here. We’ve made a list of 12 stunning South Pacific destinations which are world-renowned for their beaches, superb water activities, great variety of cuisine and cultural diversity. Additionally, you’ll also see nifty tidbits like which festivals international travellers can plan their holiday around, so they can wind up on a holiday with the country in full celebratory swing! The only disclaimer to this post is that the list is not numbered deliberately – they’re all simply epic, and cannot be compared at all!
This island destination simply ticks all checkboxes, and then some more. Fiji boasts of over 330 islands, full-service and bespoke luxury private island resorts on one hand, and super-affordable backpacker dorms and hotels dotting the countryside on the other hand. Welcoming both the well-heeled with chopper rides and budget adventurers with fun ferry transfers between islands, Fiji’s ebullient ‘bula’ spirit welcomes one and all.
Time your holidays between May and October – it’s the dry season, where the islands get less torrential rainshowers, there’s plenty of sunshine and holidaymakers get more hours of fun per day!
In terms of tourist numbers, the traditional high season would be July to August, which would coincide with the Australian and New Zealand school holidays or ‘schoolies’. December would also see a high influx of travellers because who wouldn’t want to celebrate Xmas and New Year with the family in Fiji? We thought so, too. The ‘low season’ would be November to April as it is Fiji’s monsoon season. It’s good for comparatively low travel and accommodation costs, but you do have to mind very frequent rainshowers.
If you’re planning to visit Fiji during August, September Try to include the Hibiscus Festival. In your holiday. This is when Fiji’s capital of Suva gets decked up, and travellers are treated to vibrant street parades, live music and dance performances. Because Fiji is such a multicultural melting pot, international travellers can also expect exuberant celebrations of Indian festivals like Holi and Diwali – the former is a veritable explosion of colours on the streets, while the latter is a celebration of light, and there’s plenty of fireworks to watch.
This South Pacific destination is served up best when travellers want superb surfing, unpretentious, genuine hospitality, and a generous helping of Polynesian culture. With islands like Aitutaki and Mangaia, Cook Islands offers picture-perfect beaches, affordable resorts and hotels for families, young couples, and adventurers.
April to October are the dry, summery months and the ideal time to visit Cook Islands. The temperatures remain pleasant, the island get balmy ocean winds throughout, and the lower humidity helps. In terms of tourist arrivals, July to August would be the high season which coincides with Australian and New Zealand school holidays; while December/January are always in demand because of Christmas and New Year. From budget-minded travellers and those who want long stays in Cook Islands, the low season would be November to March. Just be ready with an umbrella, ‘cause it gets pretty precipitation-al!
Want the full bang for your buck when it comes to great Cook Islands holiday deals? Then try booking your Cook Islands getaway between July and August and attend the Te Maeva Nui festival. This event, which lasts for a full week, celebrates the islands’ independence and self-governance and concludes on August 4 – Cook Islands’ Constitution Day. International travellers can see the nation turn on the week-long party mode with cultural performances, celebrations, song and dance showcases and food highlights from across the islands.
The Islands of Tahiti are the posterchild of overwater bungalows, crystal-clear waters, a looming extinct volcano in the distance and endless romance everywhere. A luxury destination in itself, Tahiti and Her Islands (as they call it) offer superlative accommodations and hospitality, with five-stars resorts and private island resorts lining islands like Bora Bora, Moorea and Tetiaroa. You want romance, isolation and drop-dead natural beauty? This island destination nails it, with no caveat. On top of which, Tahiti has ancient Polynesian temples called marae to explore, beautiful jungle hikes and some of the best pearls this side of the globe. Especially black pearls. You’d want to budget for that, too.
May to December are the warm, dry summers to visit – pack those bikinis and get ready to pose against Mount Otemanu. Not that Tahiti has a low season, but the wet, stormy period from November to April will see holidaymakers thinning out. On the other hand, July and August are the destination’s top season for international visitors.
If you want to make your Tahiti holiday packages really stand out and include the best of the island, then plan your holiday around July, which is when the country organises its Heiva i Tahiti. It’s Tahiti’s annual celebration of Tahitian and Polynesian art, culture, crafts, and sporting disciplines. If you can’t make it, try for October, which is when Bora Bora its week-long festival, celebrating and showcasing much of the same events.
We would describe this South Pacific gem as a tapestry of French sophistication, Melanesian island charm and great sights both above and below the waterline. Besides being a UNESCO-designated biosphere, New Caledonia offers a unique meld of European-style architecture, French boulangeries and cafés, and simply amazing diving and water sports activities. Add to it places like Bourail, Koumac, Poindimié, Isle of Pines, Ouvéa and more and international travellers can build themselves a multi-week itinerary!
Try for a New Caledonia holiday deal between May and October (it’s the dry season!) for cooler temperatures and less humidity. Predictably, the high season would be July and August, and the low/shoulder season would fall around monsoons – December to March. Then, the weather is hot, humid, and storms passing through – good for budget-friendly long-stays, though.
When planning for a New Caledonia holiday, keep in mind that the Nouméa Carnival is organised between February and March. It’s a lovely smorgasbord of colour, food, and activities with parades, live dance and music performances and more! Then, and this really happens, if you end up holidaying in New Caledonia around Easter, then be sure to drive over to Dumbéa for the… well, the Giant Omelette Festival! On Easter Mondays, the community has a tradition of cooking a monstrous-sized, yet superbly scrumptious omelette and having it all together.
Drone videos of Vanuatu highlight what it is – an archipelago of volcanic islands, crystal-clear river, lush jungles and a playground for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. From attending Pentecost Island’s land-diving rituals, to standing on edge of Tanna’s live volcano to visiting its ‘kastom’ villages – Vanuatu is unforgettable. Not to forget the Million Dollar Point for scuba-divers – it’s surreal, seeing gigantic war-machines as new homes for fishes. This destination has a raw and untamed beauty, and when combined with the warmth and hospitality of its people – a Vanuatu holiday package makes just so much sense.
That would be from May to October – the dry season ensures ideal weather and lower humidity. The high season for Vanuatu holidays would again be July and August, coinciding with Australian and Kiwi schoolies, while November to April would be the ‘wet season’, favourable for long-stays and explorers. Besides the Pentecost Island festival in April/May, Port Vila comes alive with Fest’Napuan, a music festival showcasing local and international artists in October!
Alright, let’s talk about New Zealand, the land of the Kiwis. Soaring mountains, sparkling glaciers, geothermal wonders, coastlines that’ll make your jaw drop – they’re all there in one destination. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or just looking for some stunning scenery, New Zealand’s got you covered. Get your hiking boots on and explore those breathtaking national parks, like Tongariro National Park with its volcanic landscapes or Fiordland National Park with its stunning fjords. Feeling brave? Sign up for bungee-jumping or white-water rafting with certified experts and teams – New Zealand’s the adventure capital of the world, after all. This county is really where adventure meets awe-inspiring landscapes. Trite, but never truer.
It really depends on what you’re keen on doing, honestly. Keep in mind this is the Southern hemisphere. So, if you’re into summer vibes and outdoor adventures, then December – February is your sweet spot. But if hitting the slopes and skiing is more your style, then pack your bags for winter (June to August). And let’s not forget the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) – they offer a nice balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Check out the Pasifika Festival in Auckland if you’re around in March. It’s a celebration of Pacific Island cultures, with music, dance, and food that’ll make you want to move and groove. In fact, New Zealand has so many festivals, we’re going to just write a separate blog on it. On to the next!
Samoa is where Polynesian culture wreaths itself with lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and those iconic fale bungalows perched right on the beach. Samoa is surfing, exploring jungles, partaking in epic buffets with hours of traditional song and dance, and… rinse and repeat.
For timing your Samoa holiday package just right, aim for the dry season – that’s May to October. Families and couples will find comfortable temperatures, less rainshowers and more sunshine; perfect for exploring the islands. But July and August are popular times for families, so couples, adventurers and experiential travellers can expect things to be a bit busier then.
Culture vultures won’t want to miss the Teuila Festival in Apia, happening in September – it’s a week-long celebration of Samoan culture, with traditional dances, music, and a flower parade that’ll brighten your day. And of course, Samoa celebrates its Independence Day on June 1, and the nation bursts out in celebration, filled with colour, joyful pride and so. much. festivities!
Literature lovers, take a hike up Mount Vaea and visit the resting place of Robert Louis Stevenson, the masterful adventure writer. Explore the lush rainforests of O Le Pupu-Pu’e National Park, and don’t miss the chance to experience a traditional ‘fiafia’ night – guests can enjoy authentic Samoan food, music, and dance.
This archipelago is a hidden gem, highlighting eco-tourism, stress-free and laidback holidays for adventurers, couples and groups. Blessed with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a fascinating history that intertwines with World War II – Solomon Islands comes packing. Get ready to dive into a world of underwater WWII wrecks, explore remote islands, and experience Solomon people’s unique culture!
Again, time your Solomon Islands holiday package during the dry season, from June to August –expect sunny skies and less rain. More importantly, this is also the ideal time for diving and snorkelling, as the water visibility is at its best, with algal clouding at its least. If you’re keen on experiencing local culture, we seriously recommend the Wagosia festival. This July event is a traditional celebration in the Western Province, with heart-pounding canoe races, much dancing, and feasting. And of course, Independence Day on July 7th is a nationwide celebration with plenty of festivities!
Micronesia, a vast archipelago scattered across the western Pacific, is a world of diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. From ancient ruins and traditional villages to pristine coral reefs and WWII relics, this region offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure.
Micronesia is a diver’s paradise, with world-renowned sites like Palau’s Jellyfish Lake and Chuuk Lagoon’s underwater shipwrecks. But there’s more to discover beyond the underwater world. Explore the ancient stone money of Yap, hike through the lush rainforests of Pohnpei, or visit a traditional village to learn about Micronesian culture and customs.
The best time to visit Micronesia varies depending on the specific island group you’re interested in. Generally, the dry season (December to April) offers the most pleasant weather for most activities.
Each island group in Micronesia has its own unique festivals and celebrations. On Yap Island, Yap Day in March is a vibrant showcase of traditional dances, canoe races, and handicrafts. Throughout Micronesia, Liberation Day in September marks the end of World War II with parades and festivities.
Niue, a tiny island nation known as the “Rock of Polynesia,” is a hidden gem for eco-conscious travellers and adventure seekers. Swimming with whales in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden caves and chasms, and experiencing a unique culture that’s deeply connected to the land and sea – Niue island holidays offers tranquil escapes, focussing on sustainable tourism and authentic experiences.
Niue’s rugged coastline and unique geological formations create a playground for adventurers. Explore the dramatic chasms and caves of Avaiki Cave, swim in the natural pool of Matapa Chasm, or hike along the scenic trails that wind through the island’s lush interior. For a truly unforgettable experience, go whale watching and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. And don’t miss the chance to experience Niue‘s vibrant culture by visiting a local village or attending a traditional feast.
That’s during the dry season, from May to October, when you can enjoy warm, sunny days and excellent visibility for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. This is also the peak season for whale watching, with humpback whales migrating through Niuean waters from July to October.
Niue celebrates its unique identity with a few key festivals throughout the year. Constitution Day, on October 19th, marks the island’s self-governance with festivities and cultural performances. Show Day, also in October, is a showcase of local agricultural products, handicrafts, and traditional entertainment.
A kingdom of over 170 islands, Tonga offers a glimpse into a world of Polynesian royalty and ancient traditions. Besides swimming with humpback whales (one of the few countries to practice it safely), travellers can go exploring ancient royal tombs, and witness the Heilala Festival’s fun and grandeur.
The dry season, from May to October, is the best time with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. This is also the peak season for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to Tongan waters to breed and calve.
Tonga’s cultural calendar is filled with vibrant celebrations. The Heilala Festival, held in July, is a week-long extravaganza of traditional dances, music, and a beauty pageant. Then, the Vava’u Festival takes place in October, featuring sailing races, cultural performances, and traditional village feasts.
Adventure, you asked? Tonga’s packing plenty! Visitors can explore Houma’s dramatic blowholes, swim in Anahulu Cave’s turquoise waters, or kayak through the stunning Vava’u island group for starters. For a cultural immersion, head over to the Tongan royal tombs and learn about Tongan monarchy’s fascinating history. And don’t miss the chance to experience a traditional Tongan feast, where you can sample local delicacies and witness ancient customs.
Here, Polynesian culture meets American flair! American Samoa offers a unique island experience. This U.S. territory, located in the heart of the South Pacific, provides a fascinating glimpse into a culture that has accepted and embraced both its Polynesian heritage and its American identity.
While American Samoa’s beaches are undeniably beautiful, the island offers a wealth of experiences beyond the shoreline. Get a pair of trusty binoculars and hike through National Park of American Samoa’s lush rainforests. It’s home to diverse flora and fauna, including flying foxes and exotic birds. Or, go snorkelling or diving excursions, discovering vibrant coral reefs and encountering fascinating marine life. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages, learning about Samoan customs, and witnessing the art of siapo (tapa cloth) making.
For the most enjoyable weather, plan your American Samoa holiday during the dry season, from May to October. Families, groups and couples will enjoy comfortable temperatures and fewer showers, perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty and getting that tan on!
American Samoa boasts a vibrant cultural calendar with events that showcase its unique blend of traditions. Flag Day, celebrated on April 17, commemorates the raising of the American flag in American Samoa with parades and festivities. The Teuila Festival takes place in September, featuring traditional dances, music, and cultural performances.
From the vibrant cultural celebrations of Fiji to the untouched beauty of the Solomon Islands, the South Pacific offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these 12 destinations promise to captivate your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, embrace the island spirit, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that await you in this enchanting corner of the world!
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