23 Best Places to Visit in Oceania
A new year means new travel dreams and destinations. As part of my dream destination series, I’ve partnered with travel bloggers from around the world to bring you more of the best destinations to visit in Oceania to inspire you to get back to traveling in the new year. From incredible cities to breathtaking nature – you’ll find somewhere to add to your bucket list!
For more inspiration check out the dream destinations for the USA, Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America!
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Samoa
Samoa is a Polynesian island country in the South Pacific Ocean. It is a group of 9 islands out of which only 5 are inhabited. The country is mainly divided into two regions, Upolu, and Savaii. Apia, in the Upolu region, is the capital city and has the main international airport. The best time to visit Samoa is between July and September and one needs about 4 to 5 days to explore both the regions.
Even though Samoa is a small country, there are many things to do. The islands are popular for their natural pools and waterfalls, and the most famous and picturesque pool is the To-Sua Ocean Trench. The city of Apia has a museum dedicated to a Scottish poet and author Robert Louis Stevenson who spent his last five years in the capital city. There is also a walking trail called Road of loving hearts by the museum that leads to the burial tomb of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Recently in the past few years, the islands are becoming notable for their dive sites as there are about 900 species of fish and 200 types of corals. And because of this, Samoa is also a fishing destination that exports fish to other countries. Apart from these places, the islands have a lot of flea and farmer markets in Samoa where one can shop for souvenirs and local products. They have products that are made from trees and plants.
Samoa has accommodation options that cater to all kinds of tourists and travellers. There are budget to luxury options. One of the beautiful resorts close to the beach and city centre is the Le Manumea Resort. The resort has its own bar and restaurants. There is live music in the evenings to relax by the bar.
Nuku Hiva, Polynesia
Nuku Hiva is in the Northern Marquesas Islands and is amongst the most historical Polynesian Islands. With lush green bush, uncrowded beaches and fresh food, this overlooked island is definitely worth a visit.
The traditional Maohi artform of carving has gone through a revival in recent years. You can find a lot of carvings sprinkled around the island, including the Taeoha’e foreshore. One landmark you must see, and is frankly hard to miss, is Tiki Tuhiva. The 12-meter sculpture depicts a male protecting a female Tiki, an ancestorial God.
For hiking, find a boat/guide to get to Hakatea Bay. Hakatea is where the first settlers shipwrecked and the first-ever Haka was subsequently performed. The following hike to Vaipō waterfall is reminiscent of the island from Jurassic Park.
The official dish is Ota Ika; raw tuna marinated in lime and coconut. Seafood is usually eaten raw or rare, and always very fresh. For fruit, try noni and breadfruit. Noni has an unusual smell, and a taste that is both earthy and tart, and breadfruit is like a spongy potato. Taro is also very popular and coconuts are pretty much everywhere. The Keikahanui Pearl Lodge incorporates a lot of the local produce in their restaurant.
Most hotels/Airbnb’s are in the $100-$200 range. There are some fantastic Airbnbs around the island, but if you’re looking for a hotel, Keikahanui Pearl Lodge is a really nice hotel for that price.
Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea is one of the best islands in French Polynesia to visit. More specifically, Moorea is part of the Winward archipelago, which also includes the capital, Tahiti.
Moorea is not one of the most popular Polynesian islands to visit; that’s why it is a great option for all kinds of travelers. However, Moorea is as stunning as other famous islands, surrounded by crystal clear water and lush vegetation inland.
The choice of accommodation in Moorea is wide, from dreamy resorts with water bungalows to more modest bed & breakfasts.
The range of things to do in Moorea is vast and goes from jet skiing or diving to spectacular hikes inland. Wildlife around the island abound, and from mid-July to mid-November, it is possible to see dolphins and whales. You can also do a 4×4 land tour to get a feel for the island!
The typical dish in Moorea (and French Polynesia) is the ‘poisson cru’ or raw fish. They have lots of exotic fruits too. You can enjoy your meals in your beautiful resort with a view, or do some tastings in the local markets. Picnics on the beach are common too (after all, they are French!).
A great place to sleep in Moorea is the Manava Beach Resort & Spa. The location between the lagoon and the mountains is spectacular, and the staff is very friendly.
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania is synonymous with wombats and the iconic Dove Lake boat shed. It’s one of the most spectacular places to visit in Australia and offers a peaceful escape for all travelers, young and old.
Arguably the most popular attraction is Cradle Mountain itself. Sitting at 1 454m high, the Cradle Mountain summit offers sprawling views of jagged peaks and rolling hills in the distance. But the 8 hour hike to get there is a tough one that will see you crouching on all fours and scaling massive boulders.
It’s a rewarding hike for adventurous travelers but if you’re looking for something less physically demanding, there are several alternative walking trails to choose from including Hansons Peak and the Dove Lake Circuit which both start from the same location as the summit walk.
After a busy day exploring, be sure to stop at the Tavern Bar and Bistro which is just a stone’s throw away from the visitors’ centre. With its charming décor and cosy atmosphere, it’s the best place for an ice-cold beer and delicious pizza to go along with it.
The remote landscapes, unique wildlife and lush forest settings make Cradle Mountain a bucket list worthy destination. If you want to experience this, and more, book a stay at Cradle Mountain Lodge and you’ll be right in the center of all the attractions. If you’re visiting from nearby Launceston, this is a great day tour option to see the mountain!
Gippsland Lakes, Australia
The Gippsland Lakes are located about 3 hours east of Melbourne in East Gippsland and consist of a network of lakes, marshes and lagoons measuring over 600 square kilometres. Gippsland Lakes are the largest inland lakes in Australia and are separated from the ocean by coastal dunes which span the length of Ninety Mile Beach. You can enter the Gippsland Lakes through a manmade entrance in an aptly named town called Lake Entrance. You see the entrance as you drive into town along the Princes Highway when heading east.
Ninety Mile Beach is one of the most spectacular and secluded beach areas in Victoria. It’s rugged and wild and known for a good set of barrels for surfers. If you’re lucky during whale migration season you might be lucky enough to spot a whale breaching off the coast.
The inland village of Metung is a beautiful place to experience the Gippsland Lakes. Drop into the waterfront Metung Hotel for lunch and if you snag a table near the window you can watch the water for dolphins, seals and pelicans. Metung is a quaint lakeside village where sunrises and sunsets are spectacular. Great spot for fishing too or nice and flat for SUP.
Base yourself in the area and explore the towns and villages and immerse yourself in the amazing local produce. Take a boat tour from Lakes Entrance around to Paynesville and you’ll see just how incredible the Gippsland Lakes area is. Visit Raymond Island to spot our native Australia Koalas, who doesn’t want to see an iconic Aussie favourite.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a dream destination in Australia. With its stunning coastal location, famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney is a special place to visit.
The main attractions can be found around the beautiful Sydney Harbour. There are so many things to do in Sydney. You can visit the extraordinary Opera House, take a tour backstage and watch a performance. Stroll around The Rocks through the laneways and convict-built stairways to get a feel for Sydney’s colonial history. Walk around Sydney Cove past the busy Circular Quay and the Opera House to the lovely Botanical Gardens where you can relax with a picnic on the grass and enjoy sensational views of Sydney Harbour. You’ll find one of the best views in Sydney at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.
You can see the Sydney Harbour Bridge from many vantage points around the city, and a great way to discover this iconic Sydney landmark is to climb it. The views from the top of the bridge are unbeatable. There are lots of places to eat around Circular Quay. The Guylian Café or the MCA Café are good choices and both have harbour views.
The best place to stay is in The Rocks at the Shangri-La Hotel.
The Grampians, Australia
For anyone, locals and international tourists alike, wanting to see amazing scenery, epic waterfalls, taste divine local foods, sample delicious craft wines, sip on some of the best wines in the state, and get right back to nature then look no further than a trip to the Grampians.
To start this trip of a lifetime you need to base yourself in the quaint village of Halls Gap. This gorgeous little town is nestled in the heart of the Grampians National Park and is the gateway to all of your epic adventures. While not a large town you will find all of the necessities in Halls Gap and there is an abundance of accommodation options for every traveller. From Halls Gap, you can start and finish some of the hikes through the National Park. Make sure if you plan a long hike someone knows where you are going and your estimated time for return.
Halls Gap is also the perfect place to start chasing the Grampians waterfalls. If you want an epic waterfall head straight to McKenzie Falls. You can see the waterfall from the lookouts above and there is a path down to the bottom of the falls too. It can be a bit treacherous in the rain so you do need to be careful if you have mobility issues. If you are looking for an easily accessible waterfall then Silverband Falls are the best. The car park is large and the contact dirt track to the falls is good for prams and some wheelchairs. A must-see when you are visiting the Grampians is the views over the National Park from the Pinnacles Lookout. On a clear day, you can see for miles and the views are absolutely stunning. If you have time you can also visit Reed Lookout and the Balconies.
In the town is the Paper, Scissors, Rock brewery which has a great selection of craft beers and food that complements it for you to try. A short drive out of town is the 5 Ducks farm where you can sample (and take home) some of the best homemade jams. Pomonal Estate and Fallen Giants vineyards not only offer some magnificent wines, the views you have from there are also breathtakingly beautiful, adding to the amazing atmosphere. You can easily spend some time at the Grampians Adventure Golf course, rumored to be the hardest mini-golf course or you can spend a few hours out at the Halls gap Soo making friends with the always hungry goats, deer, and kangaroos!
North Stradbroke Island, Australia
Looking for your next dream destination away, then look no further than North Stradbroke Island. It’s located about 30 kilometers off the coast of Brisbane, Australia, and roughly 10 ferries every day to transport you there. Whether you choose to go over on your own or take your own car, you’re sure to find something that suits your type of holiday.
It’s otherwise known as Minjerribah and features several different beaches, animal life, diving, snorkeling, National Park exploration, and four-wheel driving areas. This is your chance to sit back and relax or enjoy the many activities that the Island has to offer.
With 2000 people permanently living on Stradbroke Island, you have an ample selection of shops, cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in your favourite seafood, and the Stradbroke Island Beach hotel has the best spot for views overlooking the crystal clear waters.
Pick your style when it comes to accommodation, ranging from camping on the beach to luxury 5-star comforts. There is something suited to your style and budget. Looking for something affordable and right beside the beach, you can’t go past the Anchorage Beach Resort. With all your creature comforts and 5-minute private access to the beach.
Summer or winter, you’re never going to tire of North Stradbroke Island, and it makes a perfect vacation for everyone.
Cairns, Australia
The city of Cairns in Queensland is a highly sought-after tourist destination for both international and local visitors. As the gateway to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world, it’s easy to see why Cairns consistently ranks as one of the best places to visit in Australia.
Must visit attractions include day trips exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel, go diving, take in the natural beauty of the coral reef and marine life on a glass bottom boat, or just spend your time relaxing on the nearby Fitzroy or Green Island’s.
To get the most out of a visit, plan to stay a week as there are so many things to do in Cairns.
Other notable attractions near Cairns include visiting the Atherton Tablelands, exploring the Daintree rainforest, or taking the scenic Kuranda Railway to name just a few. Day trips often book out well in advance so it’s best to book early.
With one of the busiest international airports in Australia, Cairns attracts visitors of all nationalities and the style of accommodation on offer, caters to all budgets. Many visitors choose to stay at one of the hotels in the centre of the city that are close to the foreshore and within proximity to restaurants and entertainment. Popular choices include the Shangri-La The Marina and the Hilton Cairns.
For those visiting Cairns by car or caravan there are also many caravan parks available in Cairns or at the nearby beach townships such as Palm Cove or Trinity Beach.
As a dream destination to visit Cairns has something for visitors of all ages.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
Just off the bottom of South Australia, Kangaroo Island, is Australia’s third-largest island. With gorgeous beaches, amazing wildlife and a thriving food scene, Kangaroo Island makes a great place for an Aussie road trip.
Most visitors arrive by ferry from the mainland into the town of Penneshaw, and while there are some attractions here, the key sites are along the south coast, starting with Seal Bay, where you can watch sea lions up close.
The next stop should be Vivvone Bay, one of the prettiest beaches on the island. At the turnoff to the beach is a small, unassuming little shop that serves one of the most popular burgers on the island, the Kangaroo Island Whiting Burger. Grab one and head to the beach for a picnic lunch.
Western KI Caravan Park, near the entry to Flinders Chase National Park, is a fantastic base for exploring the island on a road trip. Ideally, spend at least two nights here. Spend the evening at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, next door to the caravan park. Their twilight tour is a fantastic experience. You will see kangaroos, koalas and lots more.
The next day, head into Flinders Chase National park as the sunrises. The early morning light on Remarkable Rocks is a memorable way to start the day.
Perth, Australia
Perth, in Western Australia, is a must-visit destination for 2022. Perth is the most isolated capital city in the world, nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Australian outback and there is something here for everyone.
No visit to Perth would be complete without a visit to Rottnest Island. This pristine nature reserve is home to a spectacular array of flora and marine life. Visitors can tour the island on foot, bike or even Segway, before taking an iconic selfie with an adorable quokka. To get here catch the ferry over from Elizabeth Quay or Fremantle.
Watching the sun go down over the Indian Ocean from Cottesloe Beach is another activity not to be missed! Cottesloe is Perth’s most famous beach and is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and just soaking up the sun. Spend an afternoon on the beach and watch the sun slowly sink below the bright blue horizon before heading over the road for dinner and a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants in the area. The Cottesloe Beach Hotel will not disappoint for dinner with a view.
Fremantle is a half-hour drive from Perth CBD but should not be missed! This historical port-side city is packed with well-preserved convict-era buildings and landmarks. Visitors can wander through the buzzing Fremantle markets on a Sunday morning before checking out the historical buildings. Little Creatures Brewery is a fantastic spot to stop for a drink and a woodfire pizza lunch.
The Crown Towers Perth is a great accommodation option for travellers after a little luxury. They offer plenty in the way of entertainment and relaxation and it’s located close to Perth’s new stadium and the beautiful Swan River.
Narooma, Australia
Narooma is 5 hours south of Sydney on the Eurobodalla Coast of New South Wales. It is a spectacular place with beaches, a river inlet and lovely beaches. There are also rugged coastal features to explore like Glasshouse Rocks.
Conditions permitting, a cruise to nearby Montague island is a must. The island and surrounding waters are a marine sanctuary. You can get onto the island and see its rich birdlife. There is also the option to get in the water and snorkel with the local seals. In winter, you might spot migrating whales.
The Mill Bay Boardwalk fringes the Wagonga inlet. You can walk or ride on it or snorkel and kayak along it. It has great views across the town. Look out for inquisitive seals and giant stingrays. You can follow the boardwalk to Bar Beach South, a protected and beautiful swimming beach. If you’re on a bike, the path continues through to neighboring Dalmeny. It is a great ride along the coast.
The Quarterdeck on the Wagonga Inlet, complete with Tiki Bar, is a fun place to eat – it’s super popular so make sure you book. For waterfront views and a great range of accommodation, the BIG4 Narooma East’s Holiday Park is a top spot to stay.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is arguably one of the best road trips in Australia – and maybe even the world! Starting in Torquay (which is approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD), the Great Ocean Road winds along the stunning Southern Ocean coastline and through ancient forests for 243km before ending at a small town called Allensford. You can do it in a (very rushed) day, but we recommend 2-3 days minimum to really enjoy everything the region has to offer.
When touring the Great Ocean Road, you can visit the famous limestone cliffs of the 12 Apostles (although, by the last count, there are only 6 or 7 left!), descend Gibsons Steps to the beach, see Loch Ard Gorge and the Bay of Islands, all of which can be found along the coastline of Port Cambell National Park. Inland, you need to keep an eye out for Koalas, Kangaroos, and other native Australian wildlife as you chase waterfalls in the Otways; or spend the days in the vibrant coastal towns, shopping small and enjoying some incredible locally produced food and drink (think seafood and breweries!)
As for where to stay, there are options along the whole stretch of road, with the larger towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay being the most popular, especially in the peak summer months (be sure to book in advance if you’re heading that way). For somewhere a little quieter, look for accommodation closer to Wye River, Anglesea, or Kennet River – these towns are smaller with fewer shops and restaurants, and have a slightly more relaxed vibe – but in summer still need to be pre-booked.
As one of the premier tourist attractions/regions in Victoria, be prepared for large crowds and heavy traffic during the summer months, and as such we recommend visiting in the shoulder season (Spring and Autumn). This will help you get the best of the weather (in theory – but if you know Victoria, you know we can have 4 seasons in a day any time of year!) and be able to enjoy the drive without large numbers of other people!
Rottnest Island, Australia
Rottnest Island is an absolute paradise and one of the best places to visit in 2022. Located off the coast of Perth, Australia Rottnest Island is a beautiful little island with dream-like beaches and stunning landscapes. One of the best things to do on the island is to rent a bike and ride around the island. Rottnest has a population of little animals called Quokkas which are so used to humans they can be approached and are often subjects of selfies. Don’t forget to visit Rottnest Island’s lighthouses which offer great views and are also great for having a picnic. The Basin and Little Salmon Bay are some of the most beautiful beaches on the island and will make you fall in love with Australia’s crystal-clear waters and white sand. Go snorkeling or just relax by the beach. The possibilities are endless.
Rottnest Island has a small number of hotels but most people come here on a day-trip. If you do want to stay the night why not go camping on the Rottnest Island campground? It’s one of the most affordable accommodation options on the island and a fantastic adventure. After a long day of exploring have a snack at the Kingstown Kafe by the docks and enjoy their delicious sandwiches.
Tonga
To experience a little bit of paradise in 2022, head to Tonga, a small country in the South Pacific islands. Only 2-3 hours’ flight from New Zealand, is Tonga stunning, with turquoise waters, an abundance of palm trees and white, sandy beaches. While the main island of Tongatapu has many pretty spots, to see the best of Tonga, you have to venture further afield.
For picture-perfect surroundings, head to the Ha’apai island group. The easiest way to get there is by plane from Tongatapu, however, it’s possible to island-hop via the Vava’u islands, which are also lovely. The Ha’apai are relatively underdeveloped and incredibly beautiful, with a beautiful lagoon, stark, white sand and very few people. If you don’t have time to visit the outer islands, Atata Island, just off the coast of Tongatapu is also a wonderfully relaxing spot to spend a few days.
While there are some great walks and interesting wildlife in Tonga, you’re likely to spend your trip focused on the water. Try kayaking through the pristine lagoon and snorkelling with tropical fish. If your visit is between June and late September, take the opportunity to see the whales – it’s a remarkable experience. While you’re there, be sure to try the Ota Ika, a raw fish dish which is common in the South Pacific.
Wellington, New Zealand
The capital city of Wellington is often overlooked by travelers for the more breathtaking nature of New Zealand. However, “Windy Welly” as it’s so aptly nicknamed, has plenty to offer visitors. Located at the southern tip of the North Island, it’s the perfect transition to the other island. The Lonely Planet recently called it the coolest little capital. Even though it’s a city, it brings a sense of calm along with it.
There are plenty of things to do in Wellington so you won’t be bored. Exploring Wellington Harbor is the perfect way to spend a day. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and museums to fill the hours! The Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, commonly referred to as Te Papa, is the National Museum of New Zealand. The museum is free and covers everything from dinosaurs to Maori culture! A trip to Wellington wouldn’t be complete without a ride on the iconic cable car. The bright red cable car stands out on the hills of Wellington and is used by tourists and locals alike. You’ll get a great view of the city at the top and can walk down the hill through the Wellington Botanical Garden back into the city center.
For a great view of the city, head to Mount Victoria lookout or take a walk along the Skyline Walkway – a 12km walk with astonishing views. In the evening, head to Cuba Street – a festive, quirky street that comes alive as the sunsets.
Waiheke, New Zealand
Off the coast of Auckland lies a wine lovers paradise. Waiheke, known colloquially as the “wine island” of New Zealand, is a relaxing getaway full of vineyards, white sand beaches, and amazing restaurants.
Waiheke is best visited on a wine tour – that way there’s no risk of not being able to sample more than one vineyard. You can find excellent tours that cover half a day, a full day, or a full day and include restaurants. These tastings will include a few glasses at each vineyard, usually with a variety of reds and whites and bubbles.
If you can only go to one, visit Cable Bay, where you can also enjoy a fabulous lunch on their outdoor patio. If you’re not into wine, don’t worry! There’s still tons to do on Waiheke. Foodies will enjoy the free olive oil tastings at the various olive groves on the islands. Sample some olive oil, then go relax on the beach. If you’d rather get your heartrate up instead of relaxing, head to Wild on Waiheke. Located amongst amazing hiking trails, this adventure depot is home to archery, trampolines, and ziplines.
One day on Waiheke just isn’t enough. Head to Starfish on the Bay for a luxurious B&B experience where you can watch the amazing sunsets each night.
Akaroa, New Zealand
Akaroa is one of those places that you’ve never heard of, but when you get there, you wonder how that could possibly be?! The captivating beauty of the area, the small-town feel, and stunning wildlife are truly the whole package. Located a little southeast of Christchurch and on the Akaroa Harbor, this beautiful town is definitely a dream destination in Oceania.
The famous residents of the harbor are the rare Hector’s dolphins. If you’re visiting in a warmer month you can go snorkelling with them – don’t worry, it’s an ethical animal encounter, all the dolphins are wild! If it’s too chilly to get in the water, there are plenty of cruises around the harbor to try to spot dolphins, seals, and more!
If you think the town feels a little…. French – you’re not alone. There’s something you can’t quite put your finger on that reminds you of France. It might be the historic buildings or the passion for fine food. Maybe it’s because it was the only settlement in New Zealand. The French colony didn’t last too long, but the street names and charming colonial cottages have lasted to today.
Wear comfortable shoes – the best way to explore is on foot! Don’t miss Barrys Bay Cheese where you can see fresh cheese being made daily! Their methods have been used for over a century.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Visiting Queenstown has long been one of the best things to do in New Zealand. This small mountain town sits on the shores of the gorgeous Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by stunning mountain peaks.
This epic landscape provides the perfect playground for adventure lovers, with some of the best things to do in Queenstown being rock climbing, canyoning, and hiking. When it comes to hikes, Ben Lomond Summit is a crowd favorite. The grueling full-day trek takes you from Queenstown to over 1,400 meters above Queenstown for one epic view.
Wine lovers will also love this Oceania destination. The nearby Gibbston valley wine region is famous around the world for producing delicious Pinot Noir. Take a tour from Queenstown and get lost in the vines with plenty of local wine!
After a big day exploring, head to Blue Kanu for a tasty dinner! Known as one of the best restaurants in Queenstown, Blue Kanu serves up Pacific Islander cuisine with an Asian twist – it’s a great way to get a taste of the flavors of the region.
When it comes to great places to stay, you need to be downtown. My top choice is the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. With one of the best locations as well as gorgeous facilities, you’ll feel right at home here!
Not many places to visit in Oceania welcome you with mountain peaks and glacier-fed lakes. So, take this opportunity to explore Queenstown, New Zealand!
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is often people’s first entry into New Zealand and therefore often overlooked. Whether you’re napping off the jet lag, or anxious to get out and explore, I implore you to spend some time in the city. Even if it’s one day so you can at least see the top things to do in Auckland, you won’t be disappointed.
Start your time at the iconic Sky Tower. It stands out in the city skyline and has stunning views of the entire area. It’s not only the tallest building in New Zealand, but all of the Southern Hemisphere. Adrenaline junkies can walk on the outside of the tower or even go bungee jumping from the building! If you’re in town for a rugby game, head to Eden Park. Rugby fans are an experience in themselves so get caught up in the energy! You may get to see a traditional Haka dance if the team is playing an international competitor.
If you’re thinking “I came to New Zealand for the nature, not for the city” don’t worry – there’s plenty of nature in the city – from Albert Park to One Tree Hill to the Parnell Rose Garden – so many places will make you forget you’re actually in a major city. Hikers can check an item off their bucket list – hiking coast to coast! It’s a lot easier in Auckland – the Te Araroa Trail is only 10 miles (16km) long. It covers some of the top things to do as well including Auckland museum, Mount Eden and Cornwall Park. Bonus, spend some time in Onehunga for a meal and local shops before heading back to Auckland.
Robinson Crusoe Island, Fiji
When you think of Fiji, you probably think of stunning isolated islands dotted with palm trees. Well, that’s exactly what you’ll get with Robinson Crusoe Island. This tiny white-sand island is located off the western coast of Fiji’s main island Viti Levu. It is the perfect place to go if you want that relaxing “island vibe” vacation that Fiji is so famous for.
Because of its close proximity to Viti Levu, Robinson Crusoe Island is often visited by people on day trips. In fact, a trip to the island is one of the best things to do in Fiji and one of the most popular tours in the country. On this full-day trip, you’ll first gon on a river cruise before getting to the ocean. Upon arrival on the island, you can go snorkeling, eat amazing traditional food, and do plenty of water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
The little bar and restaurant on the island serve delicious drinks and food, and it’s a good thing too since they are your only option. You can literally walk from one side of the island to the other in a couple of minutes – it’s that small!
If you do want to stay on the island then you should book Likuri Island Resort, since this is the only accommodation on the island. The resort offers a variety of bures (traditional Fijian bungalows) to stay in as well as cheap transfers to get there from Nadi.
New Caledonia
New Caledonia is a beautiful French territory, made up of several islands in the South Pacific. The capital Noumea is a charming town with lots to do, including nice beaches, bustling markets, cultural museums, and colonial architecture.
Dining wise you will be spoilt for choice in Noumea with many French haute cuisine restaurants. Try Le Roof which is an overwater bungalow-style restaurant that offers a mix of both New Caledonian and French cuisine.
There are also many excellent island-hopping day trips that start In Noumea and visit places such as Ile aux canards (Island of ducks) which is a perfect spot for snorkeling above pristine coral reefs and for sunbathing.
However, the most stunning part of New Caledonia is the Isle of Pines known as ‘the jewel of the pacific’. This tiny island is a 25-minute flight or 2.5-hour ferry ride away from Noumea and is famous for its soft white sand beaches, turquoise lagoon seawater swimming pools, and pretty pine tree-fringed bays. Other things to do in Isle of Pines include exploring caves or hiking to the island’s peak for amazing views.
There are only a handful of hotels on the island but the Le Meridien Ile des Pins is one of the most luxurious, otherwise, Hotel Kou Bugny is a great beachfront budget option.
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WOW! What an amazing list of travel destinations. All of these look beautiful, but I would love to travel to New Zealand.
I have been to just 6: Gippsland. Grampians. Sydney. Waiheke. Auckland and the Great Ocean Road! Have to explore more of Oceania.
We are starting to dream about travel in 2022. So it was great to see this list of dream destinations in Oceania. Polynesia and Fiji has been on the list for a long time for scuba diving. And we cancelled Australia in 2020. New Zealand has moved higher. Will have trouble prioritizing which goes first!
Would love to see some of these travel destinations, but it is such a long way from home. Maybe someday…
Kangaroo Island sounds like it would be a fun adventure
! Ive sadly only been to 2 of the places on the list, so I have quite the catching up to do!
Love this article. I really would like to visit New Zealand but for me, it is very far (I live in London). Maybe one day. Thank you for making me dream about it with your article and your pictures!
It is so worth the long flight! I’m in PA, USA and it was quite the long flight! Haha