54-Day South Pacific, Australia & New Zealand

Los Angeles, California, United States

Los Angeles is the place to visit for anyone interested in film and television and hoping to get a glimpse at some famous actors and artists. Set in Southern California, it is famous for its Hollywood Walk of Fame and Disneyland Park, as well as the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills and its upscale fashion street Rodeo Drive! Stroll down the Walk and enjoy the glamorous atmosphere and famous surroundings, or take a break on the Santa Monica pier and watch the sunset on the sea! The city is dubbed the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’ and the ‘City of Angels.’

Honolulu (Oahu) Hawaii, United States

Capital of Hawaii and a popular tourist destination, Honolulu is known for its vibrant surfing scene and adrenaline-pumping water sports. This stunning paradise is home to the vibrant Waikiki neighbourhood, famed for its iconic palm-fringed beaches and towering buildings. Waikiki Beach is second to none when it comes to surfing, and it’s all thanks to its rideable and gentle waves that allow novice surfers to easily get back on their feet when they stumble. After an action-packed day, cap off your night with a restful slumber in a high-rise hotel overlooking the breathtaking Diamond Head. There's more to the city than beach surfing and natural landscapes; with museums, the only royal palace in the country, and a mall, there's bound to be something of interest for any visitor.

Kahului (Maui), Hawaii, United States

Kahului is on the northern coast of Maui – the second largest of the Hawaiian islands, which is a hotspot for thrilling water sports and humpback whales! Sights and scenery are spectacular as you drive the scenic Road to Hana, stopping at waterfalls, bamboo forests and panoramic viewpoints along the way. Or perhaps head to Haleakalā National Park – meaning "house of the sun", and where, according to legend, demigod Maui lassoed the sun as he stood on the volcano’s peak to slow down its descent. This expansive national park is the gateway to the Haleakalā Crater, a dormant volcano that rises at 10,023 feet above sea level. Early risers can catch the spellbinding sunrise over the horizon, while the ever-changing swirl of colour and golden rays dance across the morning sky!

Nāwiliwili (Kaua`i), Hawaii, United States

Nawiliwili on Kauai is a scenic harbour village in Hawaii, idyllically between the verdant mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Whilst you’re here, swot up on how coffee is planted, grown, and manufactured – from seed to cup – at the Kauai Coffee Estate. Discover the natural beauty of Kauai with activities such as hiking the Waimea Canyon or along the Na Pali Coast – one of the most breath-takingly beautiful stretches of coastline in the world! With its rugged natural glory and stunning scenery, it’s easy to fall in love at first sight with its soaring green-clad cliffs, white-sand beaches, turquoise coves, and gushing waterfalls, which are best seen from above via scenic helicopter tour.

Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Papeete Market makes the perfect first stop for city tours in Papeete. This vibrant central market is lined with stalls laden with local crafts, including hand-woven baskets, colourful artworks, and jewellery featuring French Polynesia’s signature black pearls. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.

Moorea, French Polynesia

Moorea is one of the Society Islands of French Polynesia. This magical island is known for its fruit plantations and majestic volcanic peaks, which are reflected in the waters of Cooke’s Bay and Ophu-nohu Bay. When it comes to a slow-paced islander living with ultimate ocean views, settling in the luxury of an overwater bungalow is one of the unmissable experiences in French Polynesia! In Moorea, you’ll find these romantic hideaways on stilts, dotting the azure waters and punctuated by clear and sunny skies. Hiking or driving the Belvedere Lookout is an unmissable experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This is the highest viewpoint in Moorea, offering panoramic views of the island’s mountains and Tahiti beyond!

Raiatea, French Polynesia

Raiatea is the spiritual and cultural heart of Polynesia – known as ‘the Gods' Cradle’, hosting archaeological treasures and aeons of history and culture. Although often overshadowed by its famous neighbouring  islands like Bora Bora and Moorea, this island paradise offers no shortage of dramatic scenery  and awesome things to do. A fragrant trip to a vanilla farm and botanical garden is the perfect way to slow down. Arguably the most sacred island in French Polynesia, Raiatea is home to the UNESCO-listed Marae Taputapuatea – a rugged volcanic temple complex that offers a look back to a time when tribes ruled Polynesia.

Auckland, New Zealand

Dubbed the ‘City of Sails,’ Auckland is known for its impressive Viaduct Harbour, which is best viewed from the 328-metre-tall Sky Tower! The city is complete with beautiful beaches, winding hiking trails, notable landmarks, and quirky neighbourhoods.Swot up on history and culture in Auckland City Museum or Auckland War Memorial Museum or soak up some sunshine in the rugged beaches of Western Auckland – there’s plenty of things to do in New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city!a

Tauranga, New Zealand

The population centre of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing cities. Along with its neighbour, Whakatane, this seaside city claims to be one of the country's sunniest towns! Unlike most local towns, Tauranga doesn't grind to a halt in the off-season, because it has one of the busiest ports in the country, and the excellent waves at the neighbouring beach resort of Mount Maunganui—just across Tauranga's harbour bridge—always draw surfers and holiday folk. The Hobbiton Movie Set is located in Matamata, which is less than an hour from the port of Tauranga, so don’t miss out on taking a guided tour of this enchanting village as seen on the big screen!

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Bay of Islands, an enclave which encompasses more than 140 subtropical islands and has one of the bluest skies in the world, is a bucket-list destination in New Zealand! A paradise for beach lovers, Bay of Islands boasts fine white sand and crystal-clear waters! There are plenty of opportunities for active outdoor pursuits here, so these islands are the perfect place to roam for the adrenaline junkies. Enjoy big-game fishing and hunt out Maori cultural artefacts — these islands are host to an abundance of rich heritage. Be sure to drop by the 19th-century whaling port of Russell, where the waterfront promenade boasts endless historical reminders of its days as the country’s first colonial capital.

Hobart (Tasmania), Australia

Straddling the Derwent River at the foot of Mt. Wellington's forested slopes, Hobart is the second-oldest city in the country after Sydney, and it certainly rivals its mainland counterpart as Australia's most beautiful state capital. Close-set colonial brick-and-sandstone shops and homes line the narrow, quiet streets, creating a genteel setting for this historic city. Hobart sparkles between Christmas and New Year's—summer Down Under—during the annual Sydney-to-Hobart yacht race. The event dominates conversations among Hobart's citizens, who descend on Constitution Dock to welcome the yachts and join in the boisterous festivities of the crews. The New Year also coincides with the Tastes of Tasmania Festival, when the dockside area comes alive with the best of Tasmanian food and wine on offer in numerous cafés, bars, and waterfront stalls. Otherwise, Hobart is a placid city whose nightlife is largely confined to excellent restaurants, jazz clubs, and the action at the Wrest Point Casino in Sandy Bay. 

Sydney, Australia

Filled with beaches, buildings and barbecues, Sydney is a city not to be missed — Australia’s oldest city and one of the most ethnically diverse cities on the globe. This sprawling city is known for its magnificent harbourfront opera house and harbour bridge. Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about everything you could wish for — from famous beaches and wineries, to remarkable landmarks and world-class shopping. Sydney Harbour is the city’s crown jewel and Australia’s busiest waterway, welcoming thousands of recreational, passenger and working ships each year. Cruising under the Sydney Harbour Bridge will take your breath away, as you pass the iconic Sydney Opera House and soak in the unforgettable sights and scenic sunsets!

Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland and Australia’s sunshine state, is one of the most biodiverse and greenest cities in the country. Many beautiful timber Queenslander homes, built in the 1800s, still dot the riverbanks and inner suburbs, and in spring the city's numerous parks erupt in a riot of colourful jacaranda, poinciana, and bougainvillaea blossoms. Today, the Queensland capital is one of Australia's most up-and-coming cities: glittering high-rises mark its polished business centre, slick fashion boutiques and restaurants abound, and numerous outdoor attractions beckon, such as the popular South Bank and Mount Coot Tha!

Nouméa, New Caledonia

With its elegant urban infrastructure in a stunning natural setting, Noumea is a truly unique island and part of the New Caledonia archipelago. Noumea started as a penal colony, but has since evolved to a lovely metropolis and today has almost two thirds of New Caledonia’s population. While much of the archipelago of New Caledonia has a large percentage of Kanak people – the indigenous inhabitants who live in tribal areas across the country – Noumea is predominantly European with a strong French influence. The city’s center and Place de Cocotiers, the main park, are located close to the harbor and several churches date back to the late 19th century. Other attractions include a world-class aquarium at Anse Vata, several long beaches to the south, and a noteworthy collection of Kanak and South Pacific objects at the Museum of New Caledonia. The architectural gem of the city is the Tjibaou Cultural Center, the structure of which resembles sails, or the roofs of Kanak houses hidden behind mangroves.

Mystery Island (Inyeug), Vanuatu

The uninhabited Mystery Island is located at Vanuatu's southernmost end – where you can dig your toes into the white powdery sand, and breathe in the warm,  tropical air! Treat yourself to an island banana pie, enjoy a traditional Vanuatu massage on the beach and look out for clown fish, parrot fish, barracudas and majestic sea turtles as you snorkel.

Suva, Fiji

Fiji is a collection of tropical islands in the South Pacific and is well known for soft coral diving, white sandy beaches, and idyllic and peaceful surroundings. Suva is the capital of the Fiji archipelago, located on the southeastern coast of the island of Viti Levu and is the second most populated city of Fiji. It’s the port city in Viti Levu, steeped with British colonial buildings, lush parks and broad avenues. Sip on fresh pineapple juice as you explore Suva Municipal Market and for stunning photography opportunities, visit the palm-filled Thurston Botanical Gardens!

Dravuni Island, Fiji

Think island paradise anywhere in the world and you will almost certainly conjure up images of Dravuni Island. Shallow limpid seas surround palm tree fringed beaches that encircle the whole island bar the extremities. One of the 110 inhabited islands in the Kadavu archipelago with just 125 residents, Dravuni could be considered Fiji’s mischievous little brother. Smaller, much more manageable and far less touristy than Fiji, do not expect to find an infrastructure of hotels and car hire businesses. A village school and meeting house are perhaps the sum total of civilization here, but the exceptionally friendly welcome from the residents by far makes up for any lack of modern comforts. Instead this special little island has transparent seas that are unsurprisingly a snorkeller’s dream come true. A kaleidoscopic vision of colour thrives beneath the surface and is quite literally a visual feast for the eyes. However, for those who prefer their exploration to be land based, then the views from Hilltop Island are incredible, with the awe-inspiring panoramic vistas well worth the 20-minute hike. Dravuni also holds the auspicious title of being the northern most island of the Great Astrolabe Reef, where, according to legend there used to be a village that sunk into the sea. In order to honour the legend, villagers who fish here respect the story by not throwing garbage overboard.

Apia, Samoa

Samoa is a group of ten islands located in the South Pacific. The tropical climate and volcanic landscape create a picturesque location for visitors to explore, together with the experience of Fa'a Samoa, the three thousand year old way of life on Samoa. Apia is the largest of the Samoan Islands and the true epitome of the phrase “nature is your playground”. Plunge into refreshing waters as you glide down the natural Papa-seea Sliding Rocks and learn more about the Samoan culture and crafts on a traditional village tour!

Hilo, Hawaii, United States

Hilo is located on the lush and green east side of the Big Island in Hawaii. The town was formerly a farming and fishing village until it was transformed into a big and bustling town when the sugar plantation industry flourished in the 1800s. Famous for its Rainbow Falls at Wailuku River State Park, be sure to check out this mighty 80-foot waterfall and its colourful mist effects! Just a short drive from Rainbow Falls, you’ll reach the Boiling Pots — which are bubbling basalt-lava rock pools and truly an awe-inspiring sight that you must see to believe! Don your snorkel gear and explore the thriving underwater life at Richardson Ocean Park, home to the only black and green sand beach in Hilo. 

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, United States

Kailua-Kona is a town on the west coast of the Big Island. History buffs can visit Hulihee Palace, a former royal vacation home dating from 1838, and Mokuaikaua Church, which dates from the 1800s and is Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. For a culture-rich day out, why not visit Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park to learn more about Hawaiian culture and customs? On Kailua Bay, reconstructed thatched houses at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark mark King Kamehameha I’s residence. Colourful coral lies off Kamakahonu Beach and Kealakekua Bay, ideal for snorkelling and diving!

Los Angeles, California, United States

Los Angeles is the place to visit for anyone interested in film and television and hoping to get a glimpse at some famous actors and artists. Set in Southern California, it is famous for its Hollywood Walk of Fame and Disneyland Park, as well as the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills and its upscale fashion street Rodeo Drive! Stroll down the Walk and enjoy the glamorous atmosphere and famous surroundings, or take a break on the Santa Monica pier and watch the sunset on the sea! The city is dubbed the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’ and the ‘City of Angels.’