The vast Pacific Ocean is like a treasure chest of scattered, paradise-like islands. These amazing islands pepper these waters and each of them have something special to offer. It would take a lifetime to explore each and every one of them. Luckily for all eager travelers, people already explored them and described them, so it is easy to use the experience of others as guidelines for your family adventures. Here are some of the most wonderful islands of the Pacific and their secrets revealed.
The Mysterious Easter Island
Roughly between Chile and Tahiti, Easter Island and nearly 1000 Moai statues continue to amaze visitors from all over the world. Polynesian name for this island is Rapa Nui. You will be overwhelmed by the number of archeological sites on the Easter Island. Ranu Kao and Ranu Raraku are two most interesting sites because they are volcanic craters. Ranu Raraku includes a small query where the stunning moai were created. If you are in search of beaches, you should look for Anakena and Ovahe. Anakena is a better choice for families because it has some facilities, BBQ and shade. Ovahe is a bit secluded and it has steep cliffs and dangerous paths, but it is definitely worth your time.
The Unforgettable Fiji
This cluster of over 300 islands has the perfect island for everybody. You can enjoy rafting on the Navua River, rope climbing at Kila World or diving at Bequa Lagoon. However, if you are not too lazy to travel a bit longer, choose one of the Mamanuca islands. Long stretches of white, sandy beaches are enough for everybody. You can choose luxurious hotels there, but if you like, you can find mid-range accommodation and eco-resorts. Most of these places offer world-class entertainment for kids, so you can go exploring this paradise, as a family. Viti Levu offers Kula Eco Park, Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, Garden of the Sleeping Giant and Hot Springs.
The Magical Island of Moorea
Two glorious mountain tops and twin bays are famous landmarks of Moorea. This jewel of Tahiti offers traditional Tiki Village, Moorea Dolphin Center and vast plantations of pineapple, vanilla and coffee. The abundance of water activities will make Moorea perfect for a family vacation. In some resorts, they offer summer camps that include flower weaving, visits to Botanical Gardens and tons of fun activities.
The Wonderful New Caledonia
This is the place for families that want to spend some time relaxing at lagoons that look like they are out of this world. What makes New Caledonia packages perfect for families is that it mixes the beauty of tropical islands with the organized luxury of Europe. Diving is precious because you can see the corals and shipwrecks in abundance. You can also enjoy sailing or kayaking. Flying above New Caledonia will show you the heart shaped island of Voh. If you enjoy cultural and historical heritage, visit Ouvéa Memorial and Fort Téremba. It is best to visit the Fort in October because it features a festival with costumes from that period and fireworks.
Volcanic Adventure of Vanuatu
The archipelago of Vanuatu contains 80 islands of pure secluded diving heaven. If you want to avoid tourists completely and enjoy the diving spots like no other, this is the place for you. Tranquil beauty of the beaches is contrasted with glorious volcanoes on Mt Benbow, Mt Marum and Mt Yasur. It is a real adventure to hike on the terrifying but gorgeous Yasur. Lysepsem Culture Park will show you the marvels of local traditions of people from the depths of the jungle. The trip to the Millennium Cave will satisfy the most notorious hikers and adventurists. If you are coming there with kids, take a trip to Mele Cascades. It is just a short distance from Port Villa and it has all the facilities you need to for a comfortable day of fun.
Each of these islands have different culture, flora and fauna. At the same time, they all have something in common, and they are all united by the biggest ocean on Earth. The best tip anybody can give you before going on a vacation on any of these islands is to read up about them before going there. That is the safest way to make sure that you will not miss out on some amazing details that can slip by an untrained eye.
