Part of our Pacific Islands guide.
Places and guides from our Pacific Islands coverage, gathered into one page.
Related travel guides: Beaches 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 Pimp My Bus Ride: Samoan Buses Are A Unique Experience.
What To Do On A Papeete Layover
Spend a layover in Papeete exploring the vibrant capital of French Polynesia, located on Tahiti. Visit the bustling municipal market for fresh produce and local crafts, or unwind on the black-sand beaches near the waterfront. The waterfront esplanade offers views of Moorea across the sea, and the Robert Wan Pearl Museum provides insight into Tahitian pearl farming. For a quick nature escape, hike to the top of Mount Marau for panoramic views of the island, or take a short ferry to explore the beaches and resorts of Moorea if you have six hours or more.
Hidden Gems And Must-Do Activities In Apia's Vibrant Heart
Apia, the lively capital of Samoa, offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Stroll through the vibrant Maketi Fou market for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, a tribute to the author who called Samoa home, set in his former estate with grounds offering views of the coast. Relax at Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, a snorkeling paradise where you can swim among coral and tropical fish. For a cultural experience, attend a Sunday church service to hear Samoan choir singing, or hike to the top of Mount Vaea for a view of the harbor and surrounding rainforest. The Samoa Cultural Village offers demonstrations of traditional tattooing, weaving, and fire-making. Take a bus ride decorated with local art—a unique feature of Samoan public transport—to explore the island's hidden gems and beaches. The island also features the explosive Mount Yasur volcano in neighboring Vanuatu, a popular day trip for adventurous travelers.
