Island Hopping - South pacific

Hello

WE have 2 weeks to island hop around the south pacific we would like to stay at least two nights at each place.
Is there a particular country that has lots of islands that we can visit? Is that the case with the Cook islands?

Cheers

Most of the nations in the Pacific are made up of multiple islands, so island hopping is generally possible. In many countries, however, you are reliant on very slow ferries or travelling by air, so ease of island hopping can depend on your budget.

The Cooks are lovely with beautiful seas and lovely beaches, but very spread out; it is very expensive to fly from island to island. Most people just make it to Rarotonga, and maybe Aiutaki. Going farther afield is pricey.

Fiji is a fairly easy place to get around, and gives the cheapest and easiest options by boat. If you are on a tight budget, the Yasawa flyer will get you around the Yasawas and Mamanucas- from peaceful retreats to party islands. It runs regularly, and you can find a huge range of accommodation options. The snorkelling is generally good and the diving reasonable. Many of the resorts are near villages so cultural experiences are possible, if rather staged. Beaches range from nice to wonderful (Octopus Resort on Waya). If you have a little bit more money to play with and can get a few flights, there are lots of options- Vanua Levu, Taveuni, my personal favourite Kadavu... Check out Air Fiji's website for prices.

A bit more off the beaten track is Tonga- in two weeks you could spend a couple of days on Tongatapu (that's enough time there), then split the remaining time between the Ha'apai chain and the Vava'u chain. Dress is rather conservative but people are friendly and welcoming, the islands are beautiful, and the snorkelling and diving are pristine. By and large, 'perfect' beaches are easier to find on Fiji and the Cooks, but Tonga is the least touristy option- it depends on what you are after (you may get more help from others if you supply a bit more detail about your wants and your budget!).

Vanuatu may be a convenient option from Aussie- though like the Cooks, inter-island flights are pricey. Can't give much information as it is still on my 'to-go-to' list, but I am drawn by the contrasts of a rich culture, great beaches, lively volcanoes and amazing diving... Perhaps some of the others can add some more practical info. Or check out Lonely Planet's South Pacific guide, which takes you through most of the islands, from Tahiti to the Pitcairns to New Caledonia.

Solomon Islands has many islands, and is a 3-hour flight from Brisbane. You can get to most parts of the country by either plane or boat (many of the boats are pretty basic, and the flights are relatively expensive.) The "Express" boats that go to Malaita and Western province are a good compromise between the two.
It would depend whether you are interested in resorts mostly, or culture. Solomon islands has manny diverse cultures, lots of village possibilities, and a few more resorts appearing.

Hello kp21,

While I agree with post #1 and his feelings on the Cook Islands. The Southern Group of the Cooks are only approximately one hour flight time from the capitol of Rarotonga. In two weeks you could visit Aitutaki, Atiu, Mitiaro, Mauke and Mangia. The only problem is that you will need to return to Rarotonga after each of the last three, as their is no inter island flights between any of those last three. Contact Air Rarotonga for specific flight information as not all islands have daily flights.

Papa Mike
www.mikehollywood.com

The islands of PNG are another option.

The islands of New Caledonia is another choice - by ferry or airplane.

The islands of just about anywhere would make a good choice, I think.