Part of our Pacific Islands guide.
The Pacific Islands offer beaches from the volcanic black sands of Vanuatu to the coral-white shores of French Polynesia. This guide gathers nine of our coverage areas across the region, from the Society Islands to the Coral Coast, to help you pick your next stretch of sand.
Related travel guides: Things To Do In Pacific Islands, Hidden Gems In Pacific Islands, What It Costs In Pacific Islands, Hiking And The Outdoors In Pacific Islands, Oceania Highlights And Travel Tips In Pacific Islands, and Zealand Need Australia In Australia South Pacific.
The Society Islands Of French Polynesia
The Society Islands include Bora Bora and Tahiti. They offer white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, and lush tropical landscapes. A distinguishing feature is the blend of cultural influences, from Polynesian traditions to French colonial touches, which shapes the local music, dance, and cuisine.
Pacific Island War Bunkers
Scattered across various islands, World War II bunkers served as defense points during intense battles. Today, they offer a glimpse into history. Visiting these sites allows you to imagine the lives of soldiers who once took shelter within their concrete walls, with many located along coastlines where the original beach landings occurred.
Maui vs. Kauai: Which Hawaiian Island is Best?
Hawaii is one of the 50 states of the U.S., with tropical weather, pristine waters, and the Aloha spirit. Among its eight islands, Maui and Kauai are the most visited. They both offer waterfalls, hiking trails, and dramatic coastlines—so the choice comes down to whether you prefer Maui's more developed resorts or Kauai's wilder, quieter north shore.
Aore Island In Vanuatu: A Week In Seclusion
Aore Island is nestled in the waters of Vanuatu, a short boat ride from Espiritu Santo. Its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and lush tropical forests make it a tranquil haven. The island is small enough to explore on foot in a day, and the surrounding reef is accessible directly from the shore for snorkeling. You can also visit the nearby mainland for the famous blue holes.
Visiting Fernandina Island In The Galápagos
Fernandina Island, also known as Narborough Island, is the youngest and most pristine of the Galápagos Islands, located in the western part of the archipelago. Its isolation is characterized by volcanic landscapes and diverse wildlife. You can walk along the Punta Espinosa sand strip to see marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Galápagos penguins, but there are no trails beyond the beach—the rest of the island is a lava field best viewed from the water.
Buck Island Reef National Monument - Virgin Islands' Underwater Trail
Buck Island Reef National Monument in the Virgin Islands offers an underwater trail where you can swim alongside vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot sea turtles and explore underwater caves. The island itself has beaches for relaxing after your underwater adventure. The trail is marked with underwater signs, and you can reach the reef by taking a short boat trip from Christiansted, St. Croix.
The Unspoilt Paradise Of The Samoan Islands
The Samoan Islands consist of two main islands, Upolu and Savai'i, as well as several smaller ones. This tropical archipelago offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant local culture. On the Samoan islands, you can swim in the To Sua Ocean Trench, a collapsed lava tube filled with clear water, and then walk along the Alofaaga Blowholes on Savai'i's south coast. The Samoan buses are a colorful and practical way to hop between villages, with open windows and loud music.
Symi Island's Vibrant Harbor Walk
Symi Island's vibrant harbor, in the Dodecanese archipelago, offers a blend of colorful neoclassical houses, crystal-clear waters, and a rich history. As you stroll along the harbor, you'll find cafes, local shops, and friendly faces. The harbor is the main settlement of the island, and the steep hillside is dotted with houses that date back to the 19th century, when the island was a major shipbuilding center.
The Coral Coast
The hidden seahorse lagoons of the Coral Coast are tucked away from the usual tourist paths, offering a serene escape filled with vibrant marine life. You can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by colorful coral reefs and graceful seahorses. The lagoons are part of a longer stretch of coastline that includes the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, a national park with ancient burial sites and dramatic dune formations. The best time to visit the lagoons is at low tide, when the water is shallow and the seahorses are most active.
