Planning a trip to Oceania?

I’m Australian, so I’ll say it straight - Oceania is worth every kilometre. It might look far on the map, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. And the best part? You’re never far from paradise.

This region has everything: the red heart of Australia and Uluru, New Zealand’s mountains and fjords, Fiji’s beaches, Vanuatu’s volcanoes, the Cook Islands’ turquoise lagoons, and tiny Tuvalu where life feels like it’s paused in the best way.

What makes it even better? The people. Across Oceania, folks are genuinely friendly, happy, and community-minded. It’s safe, relaxed, and there’s a real “look out for each other” vibe you won’t find anywhere else. Travel here is just fun.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, beaches, or a proper escape from the usual, Oceania delivers. Australia and New Zealand are your big-hitter hubs, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, and the Cook Islands offer that classic island escape, and French Polynesia - Bora Bora, Tahiti, Moorea - is just next-level paradise.

Far? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely.

Explore Oceania by country below.

Australia and Oceania Guides

Australia and New Zealand

Australia

Australia is huge, diverse, and unforgettable. From the red heart of the Outback to vibrant coastal cities, there is something for everyone.

Start in Sydney, home to world-famous landmarks like Sydney Harbour. Explore the historic Rocks, enjoy the beaches, and soak in the city’s energy. Just a short trip from Sydney are the Blue Mountains, perfect for hiking, waterfalls, and incredible views.

In Melbourne, experience culture, street art, and cafés. Take the Great Ocean Road drive to see the Twelve Apostles and stunning coastal scenery.

Queensland is all about sun and islands. Visit Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays for turquoise waters, sailing, and tropical escapes.

In the heart of Australia, Alice Springs and Uluru offer the classic Outback experience with red deserts, unique landscapes, and Aboriginal culture.

Other highlights include Bowral in the Southern Highlands for a relaxed pace and gardens, and major cities like Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, each with its own vibe.

Australia has it all: adventure, beaches, culture, and landscapes you will never forget.

New Zealand

New Zealand is a land of breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to sparkling lakes and fjords. Every corner of the country feels like a new adventure.

Start on the North Island with a visit to Hobbiton, where you can step into the magical world of The Lord of the Rings and explore the movie set surrounded by rolling hills and gardens.

On the South Island, Lake Tekapo is a must-see for its turquoise waters, the Church of the Good Shepherd, and some of the clearest night skies in the world. For dramatic fjords and waterfalls, Milford Sound is unforgettable - cruise the fjord or kayak under towering cliffs.

Other highlights include Queenstown for adventure sports, Rotorua for geothermal wonders, and the scenic drives along the Southern Alps. From volcanic landscapes to fjords and lakes, New Zealand is perfect for travellers looking for both adventure and stunning natural beauty.

Every stop shows why this country is consistently voted one of the world’s most photogenic and welcoming destinations.

South Pacific Islands

Fiji

Fiji is the ultimate tropical escape. With its turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and friendly locals, it’s the kind of place where time slows down and every day feels like a holiday.

On Viti Levu, you can relax and soak up the sun at Malamala Beach Club, the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just enjoying the stunning beach views.

Explore the island’s interior with the Best of Interior Nadi tour, where you can see waterfalls, sugarcane fields, and traditional Fijian villages.

At night, experience Fijian culture and entertainment on the Cultural Night Tour, featuring local music, dance, and cuisine.

Fiji isn’t just about beaches — it’s about experiences, friendly communities, and a pace of life that makes you forget the world outside.

Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a paradise of active volcanoes, turquoise waters, and rich island culture. It’s a place where adventure meets relaxation, and the locals make you feel truly welcome.

On Tanna Island, see nature in action with the Mt Yasur Volcano Afternoon Guided Tour, where you can watch one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes up close.

For a more relaxed pace, visit Hideaway Island and Blue Lagoon near Port Vila. Swim with turtles, snorkel in crystal clear water, or just enjoy the beaches.

Discover even more of Vanuatu’s islands with the Pele Island tour, where you can explore remote beaches, coral reefs, and traditional villages.

Vanuatu offers a mix of adventure, nature, and culture that makes it a must-visit in Oceania.

Tonga

Tonga is a laid-back island destination known for its turquoise water, rich Polynesian culture, and a slower pace that makes it easy to switch off and enjoy the moment. It feels warm, welcoming, and a little more untouched than many other Pacific destinations.

To experience the best of Tongatapu’s coastline, reefs, and surrounding islands, join the Snorkel and Explore Tongatapu’s Stunning Outer Reefs and Islands tour , which is a great way to see Tonga’s crystal-clear water and natural beauty up close.

For a deeper look at the country’s history and traditions, the Ancient Tonga Culture Tour and Tongan Food Tasting offers a mix of cultural sites, local stories, and traditional flavours.

Tonga is ideal for travellers wanting beautiful scenery, authentic culture, and a relaxed Pacific island experience.

Samoa

Samoa is a tropical paradise full of waterfalls, beaches, and vibrant culture. Life here moves at a slower pace, and the locals make you feel part of the community from the moment you arrive.

On Upolu Island, explore hidden waterfalls, lush valleys, and traditional villages with the Private Day Shore Tour , which combines nature, beaches, and culture in one unforgettable day.

For more of the island’s highlights, take The Jewels of Eastern Upolu tour to discover pristine beaches, viewpoints, and Samoa’s rich history.

Samoa is perfect for travellers looking for natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a welcoming community vibe.

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are a dreamy South Pacific escape known for their crystal-clear lagoons, white sand beaches, and warm Polynesian culture. Spread across 15 islands, the vibe is relaxed, uncrowded, and effortlessly beautiful, with Rarotonga offering lush mountains and local life, and Aitutaki delivering one of the most stunning lagoons in the world.

For a bucket-list experience, the Swim With The Turtles in Rarotonga tour lets you get up close with marine life in calm, clear water.

To experience one of the most iconic landscapes in the Pacific, the Aitutaki Lagoon Full Day Island Cruise takes you across turquoise lagoons, tiny islets, and postcard-perfect beaches.

For something more cultural, the Avarua Historical Walking Tour is a great way to explore local history, markets, and everyday island life.

The Cook Islands are perfect for travellers wanting a quieter, more authentic island escape with incredible scenery, culture, and that laid-back Pacific pace.

Polynesia / French Polynesia Islands

Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia and the main international gateway, but it’s far more than just a stopover. Known for its lush volcanic peaks, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and vibrant capital Papeete, Tahiti blends raw nature with Polynesian culture.

To explore the island’s rugged interior, the 4x4 Safari Tour in the Heart of Tahiti takes you through valleys, waterfalls, and off-road tracks you wouldn’t reach alone.

For something more local, the Culinary Tour in Papeete is a great way to experience Tahitian food, markets, and everyday island life.

Tahiti is perfect for travellers wanting culture, nature, and a more authentic French Polynesian experience alongside their island getaway.

Bora Bora

Bora Bora is one of the most famous islands in the world, known for its crystal-clear lagoon, overwater bungalows, and incredible marine life. The colours here genuinely don’t look real, with shades of blue that shift throughout the day.

To experience the lagoon up close, the Marine Flora and Fauna Lagoon Tour is one of the best ways to snorkel with rays, reef sharks, and tropical fish.

For something more adventurous, the Swim and Ride Combo Day Trip combines jet skis, lagoon swimming, and island views.

You can also explore beyond the resorts with the Tupuna 4x4 Safari Tour, which takes you to viewpoints and cultural sites across the island.

Bora Bora is ideal for honeymoons, luxury travel, and anyone wanting that iconic bucket-list island experience.

Europe and US Oceania

Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular Pacific destinations, combining tropical beaches with volcanoes, waterfalls, and American convenience. Each island offers something different, from the energy of Oahu to the natural beauty of Maui and the Big Island.

In Oahu, the Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour is one of the most searched and meaningful experiences, combining history with key landmarks.

For marine life and snorkelling, the Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkelling Adventure is a must-do, offering clear water, coral reefs, and sea turtles.

Hawaii is perfect for travellers wanting variety, easy travel, and a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture.

Guam

Guam is a unique Pacific island with strong US influence, known for its beaches, shopping, and mix of Chamorro culture and modern infrastructure. It’s one of the easiest island destinations to travel, with plenty of organised tours and activities.

For something different, the Jungle Riverboat Adventure Cruise takes you inland through rivers and cultural demonstrations.

On the water, the Dolphin Watching Cruise and Underwater Observatory is a popular experience for spotting marine life and exploring beneath the surface.

Guam is ideal for travellers wanting a tropical destination with convenience, activities, and a mix of culture and comfort.

Remote Pacific and Adventure Destinations

Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands are one of the least-visited destinations in the Pacific, known for untouched reefs, traditional villages, and significant World War II history. Tourism here is still developing, which makes it feel raw and authentic.

For a cultural experience, the Amazing Grace Cocoa Farm Tour offers insight into local agriculture and community life.

History lovers can explore the East Honiara WWII Battlefield Tour, which covers key sites from the Pacific War.

The Solomon Islands are best suited to travellers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, diving, and meaningful cultural experiences.

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is one of the most unique and least-explored destinations in the world, known for its incredible cultural diversity, remote landscapes, and raw, untouched adventure. Located just north of Australia, it shares the island of New Guinea with Indonesia, with Papua New Guinea on the eastern side.

For Australians, Papua New Guinea holds strong cultural and regional significance. The countries are close neighbours, and there are long-standing connections, particularly with Torres Strait Islander communities in northern Australia who share cultural and ancestral ties with people from Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 languages and hundreds of distinct cultural groups, making it one of the most diverse places on earth. Traditions remain central to daily life, especially outside major towns, where village communities, ceremonies, and local customs are still strong.

The landscape is just as diverse, with dense rainforest, rugged mountain ranges, active volcanoes, and some of the most untouched coral reefs in the world. Diving is a major drawcard, along with remote island experiences and cultural festivals.

For a broader introduction to the country, the Private Port Moresby City Tour offers insight into local life, culture, and history.

Papua New Guinea is known for its welcoming people, strong sense of community, and pride in culture. Travel here can be challenging and requires planning, but that is part of what makes it such a rewarding and memorable destination.

Papua New Guinea is best suited to travellers looking for meaningful experiences, cultural depth, and a true sense of adventure.

Kokoda Track

The Kokoda Track is a 96 kilometre jungle trail that runs through the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea. It crosses steep mountains, dense rainforest, river crossings, and remote villages, and is considered one of the most physically challenging treks in the world.

During World War II, the Kokoda Track became the site of the Kokoda Campaign in 1942, a critical battle in defending Australia. Australian soldiers were sent into extremely harsh jungle conditions to stop Japanese forces advancing toward Port Moresby.

The conditions were confronting. Thick jungle reduced visibility, the terrain was steep and unforgiving, and constant rain turned the track into deep mud. Soldiers faced exhaustion, disease such as malaria, limited supplies, and intense physical and mental strain.

Papua New Guineans played a vital role throughout the campaign. Many served as part of the Papuan Infantry Battalion, while thousands worked as carriers and guides, assisting Australian troops in extremely difficult conditions.

Often referred to as the “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels”, these local carriers transported wounded soldiers, carried supplies, and guided troops through the jungle. They worked under the same dangerous conditions, often without proper equipment, and were essential to survival on the track.

Around 3,000 Papua New Guineans served as carriers during the campaign, with hundreds believed to have died due to illness, exhaustion, and the harsh environment.

For Australians, Kokoda remains deeply significant. It is remembered as a moment of courage, endurance, and sacrifice, and a defining part of Australia’s wartime history.

Walking the Kokoda Track today is not just a hike. It is physically demanding, but also emotional and reflective. Many Australians choose to walk it to honour those who served and to better understand the conditions they faced.

If you’re considering it, the 11 Day Kokoda Trek with Australian and Local Guides is a structured way to experience the track, with both historical context and local support.

The Kokoda Track is best suited to physically prepared travellers looking for a meaningful, challenging experience with deep historical significance.