Discover These Islands in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific

Situated in the vast blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, the world’s smallest content Oceania is home to countless archipelagos. Dotted with dreamy palm trees, colorful vegetation, pristine beaches, lively coral reefs and impressive volcanoes, these stunning island landscapes make for the perfect getaway.

Here are four islands in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific that travelers will love.

Fiji Islands, Fiji

Consisting of more than 300 islands, the country of Fiji is rich in sandy shorelines, lush greenery, bright blue waters and vibrant culture. For travelers, a visit to this South Pacific wonder might consist of days spent lounging in the sun at a lavish beach club or resort or time on the open ocean above the waves or below the surf swimming amongst colorful marine life. In the jungles, visitors can marvel at waterfalls and local flora and fauna from below or dangle from the canopies above as they zipline from place to place.

One of the things that makes the Fiji Islands so special is the Fijian people. A mix of Southeast Asian and Melanesian customs, Fijian culture is unique from anywhere else in the world. Interestingly, the Fiji Islands are still home to thousands of villages where people honor ancient traditions alongside some modern bells and whistles. To experience Fijian culture for themselves, travelers can visit Fiji Culture Village, a popular tourist attraction in the city of Nadi where visitors experience the lifestyle, hospitality and customs of the local people.

Bonus: Fans of CBS’ popular reality show Survivor will recognize the Fiji Islands as the backdrop of many modern seasons.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

In the Land Down Under, travelers will find no shortage of wildlife and natural beauty to behold on Kangaroo Island, a stunning retreat off the coast of Southern Australia. Home to several parks dedicated to incredible rock formations and rare beasts, the island’s unique wildlife is its main claim to fame. In fact, over a third of Kangaroo Island is occupied by protected nature reserves including Seal Bay Conservation Park, Raptor Domain, Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and more. The region is also home to Flinders Chase National Park, a 126 square-mile stretch of land that features magnificent coastal landscapes — including the famed Admiral’s Arch and Remarkable Rocks — and amazing animals like New Zealand fur seals, “little penguins”, goannas, koalas, eagles, kangaroos and echidnas.

In addition to Kangaroo Island’s bounty of natural wonders, the area is also a hot spot for luxury travelers looking to indulge in some high-quality spirits or vino. In fact, boozy activities are quite popular with a variety of tours focused on wine or gin tastings and private cocktail masterclasses. As for the foodies, travelers can sink their teeth into Kangaroo Islands' most scrumptious flavors when they participate in Exceptional Kangaroo Island’s Luxury Food and Wine Tour.

Mo’orea, French Polynesia

A place where jagged green cliffs reach toward the sky, Mo’orea is the epitome of an island paradise. Sparkly blue ocean waves, shaggy palm trees and white sand beaches make this French Polynesian destination the perfect retreat for travelers who are looking to get away from it all. With several worthwhile mountain hikes and dreamy gardens and beaches, Mo’orea offers visitors the perfect mix of activity and relaxation. Travelers can spend a morning taking in picture-perfect views from Belvedere Lookout and unwind on the coast in the afternoon at Temae Beach.

For a taste of island life, jet setters can visit the Tiki Village Cultural Center, a popular attraction where visitors can experience the traditions of old Tahitian villages through demonstrations of painting, dancing, weaving and stone carvings. Also on the island is Polynesia Culture Night a traditional luau hosted by the Polynesia Culture Center complete with dancing and fire performances. To take a piece of Mo’orea home, vacationers can stop at Pearl Romance, the island’s famous pearl shop where travelers can choose between earrings, bracelets and necklaces crafted from authentic Tahitian pearls.

Waiheke Island, New Zealand

Home to over 30 boutique wineries, New Zealand’s Waiheke Island is a must-visit destination for any oenophile. Famous for its delicious reds inspired by Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot grape varieties, this region just east of Auckland is commonly referred to as “New Zealand’s Island of Wine”. That being said, it’s unsurprising that many of the activities on this sunny inlet involve, what else, wine. From tastings and tours to food pairings and more, Waiheke Island is a dream for travelers looking to imbibe and thrive.

In addition to savoring the flavors of the island, travelers will enjoy exploring quirky attractions like Connells Bay Sculpture Park and the Stony Batter Tunnels — a private collection of large-scale sculptures created by local artists and the remnants of the area’s coastal defenses from World War II respectively. Those looking to spend some time outside might consider a visit to Oneroa Beach or Sacred Blessing Sanctuary Garden, a two-acre garden with a wide variety of plant life.

About the Author

Senior Editor for VAX VacationAccess and world explorer, Jenna loves writing about all things travel. When she’s not busy creating content, she spends her time exploring the great outdoors, cuddling with her two black cats and researching her next big (sometimes strange) adventure.