South Pacific holidays

Comprising 333 islands, Fiji certainly offers plenty of choice. Nearly 3,000 miles east of Australia, this picture-perfect country has become a haven for diving and snorkelling – and it’s not hard to see why. Fiji’s waters are teeming with rich coral reefs, where you’ll find more than 1,200 species of tropical fish, as well as rays, sharks and turtles. Combine this with the photogenic beaches and luxurious resorts, and you’ve got a winning combination.

The main island, Viti Levu, makes a great base for island-hopping daytrips – or you could sail away to a remote spot in the Mamanuca or Yasawa archipelagos. Wherever you stay, you’ll be amazed by Fiji’s diversity. Discover underwater worlds and explore lush forests. Learn about the country’s history and cultural traditions. And immerse yourself in Fiji’s optimistic way of life, as welcoming cries of “Bula” – meaning “good health” – and infectious smiles set the tone.

Lying more than 2,000 miles northeast of New Zealand, the Cook Islands is made up of 15 pint-sized isles, each with its own unique character. Rarotonga is the largest – 26 square miles – and it’s likely that you’ll spend a lot of time here, strolling along the beaches and exploring the interior’s dense forests, waterfalls and dramatic rock formations. You can even go on a four-hour walk across Rarotonga, which is undoubtedly the best way to take in the island’s incredible sights.

If you want to get off the beaten track, why not venture further afield to Atiu or Mauke? Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, Atiu is the third-largest Cooks Island. Meanwhile, easternmost Mauke gives you a taste of the simple life. As you relax on the untouched beaches, you’ll be able to see locals catching enormous tuna and carving household objects. And, if you plan your South Pacific holiday between July and October, you might even see wild whales passing through.

If you want to visit somewhere truly remote on your holiday to the South Pacific, this is the place to come. French Polynesia is a whopping 5,000 miles east of Australia. To give a sense of scale, that means that Australia itself could fit in between the two countries, twice.
Dispersed across 1,500 square miles, 118 islands make up French Polynesia. Renowned for its romantic scenery, this beautiful country is the ultimate choice for a relaxing getaway. On the largest isle, Tahiti, you’ll find volcanic peaks covered with greenery, while the powdery white beaches are brushed by bright turquoise waters.

Meanwhile, honeymoon headliner Bora Bora is synonymous with luxury resorts, where overwater villas and five-star service are the norm. If you manage to drag yourself away from your ocean-view terrace, you’ll discover all kinds of wonderful marine life. Snorkel among bright corals, go on a diving trip, or hire a kayak for two and paddle across the glass-clear waters.

Fly 3,500 miles east of Australia, and you’ll reach Samoa – a white-sand paradise made up of two main islands, Upolu and Savai’i. A trip to Samoa serves up a glorious mix of tropical landscapes, soaring mountains and tumbling waterfalls. And, of course, you can expect to find the South Pacific’s signature turquoise waters and snow-white beaches.

Populous Upolu offers all kinds of adventures. You can surf, dive and snorkel in the surrounding sea, where you’ll spot an array of fish, rays and turtles. Back on dry land, you can hike through the rainforest in O Le Pupu-Pue National Park, or marvel at the 100-metre-high Papapapaitai Falls. And make sure you don’t miss the colourful flea markets in Samoa’s capital, Apia.

The isle of Savai’i is another great option, particularly for keen divers. You’ll see a variety of colourful marine life among the island’s reefs and dive sites. Plus, you can stroll among the treetops on a canopy walkway at Falealupo Rainforest Preserve, and go for a relaxing dip in the pools beneath Afu Aau Falls.