The first time I set foot on an island in Oceania, it felt like someone quietly pressed the reset button on my life.
Oceania isn’t just beautiful; it’s therapeutic. It’s the only region where I actually forget about my inbox and start counting coconut trees instead of notifications.
What really surprised me was how the region balances pure tranquillity with wild, untamed nature.
Behind those soft, chilled island vibes are things that remind you how powerful the Earth really is: active volcanoes, world-class coral reefs, rugged mountains, and ancient cultures that have survived in isolation for centuries.
Every island has its own personality, some feel like a postcard that’s come to life, others feel raw and elemental, and a few honestly pushed me way out of my comfort zone.
But here’s the thing most travellers overlook: isolation comes with unpredictability.
Weather changes in a heartbeat, transport can disappear for a day, and infrastructure isn’t always dependable. After a couple of unexpected storms and one very memorable boat incident, I never visit the region without proper travel insurance.
So, coconut in hand and sunscreen definitely not applied evenly, here are my favourite islands in Oceania – the ones that left a permanent footprint on my travel memories and that I’d return to in a heartbeat.
At A Glance
6 Best Islands In Oceania You Have To Visit
1. Fiji
Kayak, Activities in Fiji
Fiji was the first island in Oceania that made me feel like I’d accidentally walked into a family gathering where everyone already knows your name.
The way Fijians greet you – with that big “Bula!” and an even bigger smile, feels oddly like coming home after a long time away.
Beyond the warmth, Fiji is a total treat for ocean lovers. Some of the clearest, most colourful coral reefs in the Pacific sit right here.
I remember snorkeling off the coast of Nadi and being completely overwhelmed by how bright the reefs were — neon blues, soft pinks, fish darting around like confetti.
If you’re more of an adrenaline-junkie, Fiji doesn’t disappoint either: shark diving in Beqa Lagoon, white-water rafting on the Upper Navua, and world-class surf breaks like Cloudbreak.
But one thing I quickly learned? Fiji isn’t just about beaches and adventure. Slow down, spend an afternoon in a local village, share a bowl of kava, and try dishes like lovo-cooked fish or cassava — they’re simple but comforting in that “this reminds me of childhood meals” kind of way.
Because Fiji’s islands are spread out and activities often involve boats, reefs, and remote areas, it’s also one of the places where I really appreciated having Oceania travel insurance. Boat timings change without warning, weather shifts quickly, and adventure activities definitely come with risks. Knowing I was covered meant I could jump into caves, swim with sharks, and hop islands without that nagging “what if something happens?” in the back of my mind.
If you’re a sun-chaser, a reef-lover, or someone who enjoys moving slowly (with a coconut in hand), Fiji is the kind of place that digs its roots into you and doesn’t let go.
2. Tahiti
Tahiti island, Oceania
Tahiti is one of those places that hits you twice — first with its raw, dramatic beauty, and then with its slow, grounding calm.
Picture towering volcanic peaks wrapped in thick green jungle, black-sand beaches still warm from ancient lava flows, and lagoons so blue they look edited even in real life.
What I love most about Tahiti is the mix of worlds.
Your morning can start with a flaky croissant and café au lait (thank you, French influence), and by sunset you’ll be listening to Polynesian drums echoing across the water — the kind that make you feel the islands in your chest.
Some experiences you cannot miss:
- Papeete Market – chaotic, colourful, and full of flowers, fruit, and local crafts. I always end up buying more monoi oil than I need.
- Hidden waterfalls – Tahiti’s interior is full of them. Swimming in those natural pools feels like the island is rinsing stress right off you.
- Teahupoʻo – even if you don’t surf, watching those powerful, glassy waves crash is unforgettable.
- A day trip to Moorea – it’s close enough for a quick ferry ride and honestly one of the most stunning islands I’ve ever stepped foot on.
Tahiti is for anyone craving nature at its purest: slow mornings, deep breaths, and a pace of life that gently forces you to reset. It’s one of the few places where I genuinely slow down without trying — the island almost does it for you.
3. Vanuatu
Vanuatu feels ancient. With shimmering lagoons and active volcanoes that glow at night, it feels like traditions were made yesterday.
Mount Yasur is one of the most active and accessible volcanoes in the world where you can watch molten lava being spat out.
The lagoons, like Mystery Island, are perfect for clear swimming and snorkelling. The culture is extremely strong and uncommercialised; the people you meet in local communities are authentic.
Trekking routes go from the edge of a volcano to forest trails and ancient villages. If you love adventurous nature and cultural richness, Vanuatu is a place for you.
4. Samoa
There is no urgency in Samoa. The placid culture is softened with: fa’a Samoa, a deeply family-oriented, respectful, and community-centred way of life.
One of the most surreal natural swimming holes is the To Sua Ocean Trench. Otherworldly lava fields perfectly contrast the island’s slow tone. You can find natural swimming holes hidden in the trees and secluded beaches. Impressive blowholes display a perfect nature show.
The people are welcoming, warm, and non-intrusive. It’s less about the sights, and more about what gets stuck in your head.
5. New Caledonia
New Caledonia, islands in oceania
In New Caledonia, European sophistication meets South Pacific Culture. Imagine sipping a chilled glass of white wine and participating in a Kanak ceremony.
The lagoon is huge and protected by one of the world’s largest barrier reefs. The French influence is present in language, style, and food (try the fine gourmet versions of locally caught seafood).
Don’t miss out on the Kanak traditions, famous for rich and animated storytelling.
New Caledonia is one of the best travel destinations for high quality, relaxing, and nature-enjoying travel that is not crowded at all.
6. Cook Islands
The Cook Islands embody the essence of true and real happiness.
Here, there is no rush, no fuss, and no artificially ripe perfect tropical scenery. Just true and real beauty, and true and real people.
Rarotonga is beautiful with its mountains and rainforest; you can spend the day cycling around the entire island. Everyone loves and adores Aitutaki; its lagoon is breathtaking, offering cruises, swimming with rays, and freshly grilled fish.
Cultural nights are full of traditional dances, stories, and music. The Cook Islands are the perfect places to do nothing in.
Each Island’s Unique Personality
Each island has its own unique personality, and you get to match with them:
- Fiji is like the really funny one in the group.
- Tahiti has volcanic energy, wrapped in elegance.
- Vanuatu has wild energy for the explorer.
- Samoa is calm in human form.
- New Caledonia is the caring one, the thoughtful gourmet.
- The Cook Islands are sunny, polite, and graceful.
The magic lies in finding the one that is the best for you – whether that’s diving into coral crowded water, drifting in silence, or having a surf, then a pastry, then a surf.
Whether you’re trekking across volcanic landscapes, swimming in crystal lagoons, or learning cultural traditions passed down for generations, travelling in Oceania pushes you to slow down and savour the moment.
But because the islands are remote, conditions unpredictable, and infrastructure varies from place to place, being prepared makes all the difference.
Before your trip, make sure you’re covered with Oceania travel insurance.
And since staying connected can be tricky across scattered islands, I highly recommend getting an eSIM for international travel. It has saved me more times than I can count – whether for navigation, checking weather updates before a hike, or simply letting family know I’m somewhere safe (and probably sunburnt).
Oceania may feel far away on the map, but once you’ve felt the warmth of its people, the power of its landscapes, and the calm of its turquoise water, you’ll realise it never really lets you go.
So pack light, stay open-minded, and let the islands reset you in ways you didn’t even know you needed.
