Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020 |

# Pacific Islands Holiday Destination Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea
mattjenny 07:52 UTC 21 Jun 2008 | My wife and I went to the Cook Islands (Raratonga) 4 and a half years ago and had an absolutely great time, it was peaceful , quiet and not touristy. The locals were friendly and it was easy to get around. The beaches were great and the resort we stayed at was very very nice. Does anyone know of any other pacific islands that are similar to this? We have thought about going back to the Cook Islands but would first like to consider going somewhere else first. Any advice would be appreciated. mattjenny. |
raro 22:43 UTC 21 Jun 2008 | I don't think the main island of Tonga would do, but maybe Ha'apai for its beaches. Fiji is about 1000 times larger than Raro, so lots of good places, but you need to pick maybe one little island and spend a lot of time there. Maybe Ovalau, or around Savusavu. Tahiti and Fr. Polynesia are similar in geography and beaches, but twice the price, and hard to meet locals unless you speak French or Tahitian. I'd focus on Fiji. I haven't been to Samoa, but that might be similar. | 1
Laszlo 08:15 UTC 24 Jun 2008 | I'd also say Fiji is a good option, and most of the hundreds of islands there are certainly not touristy. Cheap and easy to get around. Or for something more adventurous, try Vanuatu! Less easy to get around than Fiji (but easier than the Cooks, I think), but also more adventurous, more traditional, and the friendliest place I found in the region! Sadly, pricier than Fiji, too... | 2
easterislandspirit 02:47 UTC 29 Jun 2008 | Have you thought about Easter Island? It certainly doesn´t feel touristy, and is super easy to meet and interact with the locals. World famous archaeology, great music and culture...few people ever leave here disappointed. Enjoy. | 3
raro 09:00 UTC 29 Jun 2008 | I'd second that EI recommendation, very nice place, friendly people, lots to see and do. Only one real good beach, a bit out of town. But it may cost a lot more to get to EI and back, unless you are coming from Santiago, Chile. | 4