Polynesia
Polynesia is the most far-flung, easterly region of Oceania.
Regions
Polynesia is comprised of the following island nations:
| Cook Islands
Fifteen islands spread out over 2.2mn kilometers |
| Kiribati
The eastern two thirds of this sprawling island nation fall within the scope of Polynesia. Remote and poor, the sun rises first here every day. |
| French Polynesia
Includes three islands with a strong claim to being the most beautiful island in the world, Bora Bora, Tahiti and Moorea, but also Mururoa where the French carried out nuclear tests until 1996. |
| Niue
Just one flight a week, from Auckland. |
| Samoa
Two main volcanic islands with luxuriant vegetation, traditional culture and wonderful open-sided houses. |
| Tonga
The so-called “Friendly islands” and a Kingdom. But traditional and modern cultures are now clashing. |
| Tuvalu
One of the smallest countries in the world in terms of population. |
It also includes smaller overseas territories of larger nations, including:
New Zealand is often considered part of Polynesia both culturally and historically, but owing to its size, is covered in a separate article.
Cities
Other Destinations
- Aitutaki — the classic picture postcard of a palm tree fringed tropical island with turquoise waters, in the Cook Islands.
- Bora Bora — the most beautiful lagoon of French Polynesia, but incredibly pricey.
- Moorea — budget alternative to Bora Bora with beautiful scenery.
- Vava'u — group of more than 50 islands in Tonga, a common destination for yachters.
Polynesia Hotels
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Top Destinations in Polynesia
Kiribati is an island group in Micronesia straddling the equator and, until 1995, the International Date Line.
Kiribati Travel Guide »
Within Polynesia
Tonga, the "Friendly Islands", is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean. The country is divided into four island groups, or regions.
Tonga Travel Guide »
Easter Island is one of the most isolated islands on Earth. Early settlers called the island "Te Pito O Te Henua".
Easter Island Travel Guide »
The Pitcairn Islands are a loosely grouped handful of tiny islands in the remote South Pacific, farther from any continent than any other inhabited island.
Pitcairn Islands Travel Guide »
Tuvalu is a group of low-lying islands and atolls in the South Pacific that form the fourth smallest country in the world.
Tuvalu Travel Guide »
Tokelau is in Polynesia, a group of three atolls about half way between Hawaii to New Zealand.
Tokelau Travel Guide »
Baker Island is an uninhabited, unorganized and unincorporated territory of the United States - one of the smallest U.S.
Baker Island Travel Guide »
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Further Information
