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It’s time explore the world with some of the best island experiences on earth. Explore all of the natural beauty and intriguing culture of these island paradises with our top South Pacific escapes.
By Rina Chandarana for Quest Magazine
The Best South Pacific Escapes
New Zealand, Hawaii, Easter Island, Tahiti, and so many of the South Pacific islands have offered inspiration and escape for centuries. Brimming with natural beauty, the islands are home to ancient cultures and a soulful way of life that is deeply connected to the rhythms of the world’s vastest ocean. There are plenty of reasons to lose yourself in these island idylls. Read on to dive into our favorite South Pacific escapes. You can also experience them all on our Path of the Polynesians suggested itinerary.
Tahiti
The biggest French Polynesian island delivers surreal sunsets with silhouettes of swaying palms and peaked islets against a pink and purple-streaked sky. It may be a dot in the vast Pacific, but its natural beauty and cultural contributions are boundless. Enjoy a delicious dinner with the sizzling sunset backdrop as traditional Tahitian dancers shake their hips in frilly skirts and elaborate headpieces. Their coordinated dance performances are energetic and accompanied by fast drum beats.
Marquesas Islands
This South Pacific escape is just about as far-flung as you can get. Indeed, The Marquesas boast barely a footprint on their white sand beaches, lush jungles and clear, calm lagoons. Once you arrive, you will feel like you have discovered paradise. Jump into a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and explore the winding coast. Then visit an archaeological site in Puamau on the tip of Hiva Oa where archaeologists unearthed unique Tiki. Takai is the tallest known Polynesian stone.
Easter Island
There aren’t many places that feel as completely detached from the rest of the planet as Easter Island. Also known as Rapa Nui, the island is one of the most isolated in the world. As such, its population rests under 6,000 inhabitants. The allure of seeing the massive stone statues, called moai, draws adventure seekers to this remote South Pacific escape. At least 900 moai sit scattered around the island. Some of them even stand 32 feet tall. While here, explore the archaeological and anthropological sites and enjoy a picnic in the shadow of the looming figures.
Hawaii
One of the more popular South Pacific escapes, Hawaii promises both beauty and insight. When the Polynesians arrived in Hawaii, they brought their food, medicines, and tradition of making leis. Learn how to make these wreaths of flowers and vines often given to visitors as a symbol of peace and greeting.
New Zealand
There’s a serene feeling among the lofty trees near Tane Mahuta, God of the Forest, a giant kauri tree estimated to be between 1,250 and 2,500 years old. Cape Regina, the northernmost tip of New Zealand’s North Island, is considered a spiritual place for the Maori who believe that it’s where the spirits of the dead enter the underworld. Feel immersed in Maori culture in the Te Whakearewarewa Thermal Valley of Rotorua. This South Pacific escape is a wonderland of gushing waters, steaming vents, boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers. Follow a Treetops Lodge & Estate chef on a Maori food trail and enjoy a delicious lunch afterward.
Pro Tip! Plan ahead to go to Easter Island in February when the Tapati Festival recreates ancient royal traditions. – Catherine Brown, Designer
South Pacific Escapes with Ker & Downey
Enjoy our South Pacific escapes, customized just for you by our travel experts. Contact the Ker & Downey designers when you are ready to explore. And for even more daily travel inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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