Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuato..?

Hey guys,

I'm backpacking in New Zealand right now and I'd like to visit one of the pacific countries before I come back home. I'll be spending a week (5 to 7 nights) and all I want is a relaxing place with a nice white sand and crystal clear water beach to lay down every day. Is there any place with a cheap and good backpacker near the beach? I'll be travelling at the begging of september.

Thanks in advance,
Marcelo

If that's all you want, go to Fiji - easily the cheapest and most backpacker-oriented of the four countries. Note that the best beaches there are on smaller islands, while the cheaper places are on the main island of Viti Levu.
However if you don't prebook your accommodation, you can usually get a good discount on stays at the island places as well (as they otherwise have to pay a 30% commission to the agent you booked with).

Want more! Really! There are coral reefs to see, rainforests, waterfalls, Pacific cultures, art, food and new friends to meet.

You have plenty of time to research the web and discover facts about the places you mention. A couple of dollars at the internet cafe will pay off in the end.

In fact Lonely Planet is a great place to start your search. After that; google.

Be a 21st century traveler!

From Pago Pago, American Samoa

John Wasko @busycorner

Hi
I would say....from what I saw of the 7 Pacific islands I visited..........TAHITI ITI. (It's attached to Tahiti proper) but is a world away in laid-back vibes. Village of Teahupoo, [CHOE' poe ] Population 50. is remote, but it's on a newly paved road. A true Surfie mecca. Check it out. Plus, Papeete,Tahiti is the Gateway Airport for everywhere Polynesian...if that matters to you $$cost-wise$$ as everything is insanely expensive once you get beyond a hammock in someones backyard. We were there in March,2011.
Locomotiveman