38 days in Oceania Itinerary

The largest and probably best-known of the French Polynesian islands, Tahiti remains synonymous with turquoise coral lagoons, lush tropical vegetation, and palm-fringed beaches of black, volcanic sand. Tall, green mountains rise out of the blue ocean, lined with deep valleys, foaming waterfalls, and tumbling streams. Settlements skirt the island, including French Polynesia's small but vibrant capital Pape'ete, where colorful architecture, a bustling market, and smiling locals generate a great deal of charm. Top things to do here include exploring the island's rugged interior, as well as experiencing the traditional culture through archeological sites and hip-shaking music and dance.

Scattered across a 2,200,000 sq km (849,425 sq mi) zone in the vast Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, the Cook Islands are about as remote a holiday destination as you will find. With their pristine white-sand beaches, tranquil azure lagoons, lush tropical jungles, and teeming coral reefs, the 15 islands seem plucked from a picture postcard of paradise. Relaxation comes first and foremost, for locals as much as tourists, and you will find the laid-back lifestyle of the Cook Islanders as infectious as their warm smiles. As tempting (and fulfilling) as it might be to spend all day swinging lazily in a hammock strung between shady palm trees, plenty of adventures await exploring the idyllic scenery overland, on the waves, and undersea.

Far-flung New Zealand has become known for its astounding topography, singular biodiversity, varied climate, and for marrying native Maori and post-colonial European cultures on its two main islands and the multitude of smaller landmasses dotted around them. Free-spirited New Zealanders cultivate a love of sports, sustainability, and the outdoors. Far from other landmasses, the islands existed for millions of years before being inhabited by humans, so an abundance of species have come to thrive in the thick, wild rainforest, vast and rugged backland, and extensive surrounding marine areas. While much of New Zealand tourism centers around adventures through this spectacular scenery, take time to explore the nation's rich cultural heritage as well. The traditions and history of the Maoris, and the industry and internationalism of the descendents of the first European settlers endure in fascinating attractions, ranging from museums, to farms, to places of worship.

Located at the heart of the Central Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago of 333 islands and hundreds more tiny islets, many of which are uninhabited. The land masses range from vast Viti Levu, mountainous and covered in green jungle, to private desert islands available for rent. With bountiful sunshine, white sand beaches, tranquil oceans, and lush rainforest, it is no surprise that ecotourism in Fiji thrives. Local culture combines indigenous Fijian, Indo-Fijian, Asian, and European influences in a vibrant mix, with many of the smaller islands still retaining a strong element of traditional island life. Explore the countless pockets of paradise to find your favorite.

A group of tiny atolls and reef islands in the South Pacific, Tuvalu offers plenty of seaside appeal. Most visitors start and end their tour of Tuvalu on Fongfale, the main islet where you'll find the majority of accommodations and other tourist-oriented facilities. Beaches fringed by palms remain the main attractions on Tuvalu, with visitors coming to dive and snorkel the waters sheltering a variety of tropical fish and sea turtles. Others head for the uninhabited islets, which provide no amenities but plenty of chances to spot a range of sea birds.

Spread out over 177 islands, Tonga features an incredible array of natural environments and places to visit. "Island time" remains omnipresent in Tonga, and visitors may find that locals are in little hurry in their day-to-day lives. While sightseeing in Tonga, head for the country's three main island groupings--Vava'u, Ha'apai, and Tongatapu--to enjoy a taste of their world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities. Reefs and forests burst with life and lush foliage, and lend themselves well to enjoying the great outdoors, while sun-kissed beaches and idyllic lagoons make for fantastic lazy days along the shore. Alternatively, take advantage of the country's prolific whale-watching industry--frequently ranked among the best on the planet.