Romantic Hideaways in the South Pacific Islands
The beauty and seclusion of the Pacific Islands are right on our doorstep, so pack your bags and find your own romantic hideaway for this Valentine’s Day.
Fiji
If sitting under a star-showered sky, dining on crayfish with your toes in the sand and the waves lapping just metres away sounds like your idea of romance, then you’ll be spoilt for choice in
Fiji.
The idyllic
Yasawa Group, Fiji’s northernmost group, has maintained an enduring reputation for romance. Stretching for some 90km, the island group is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and rugged volcanic landscape. Since they sit in the lee of
Viti Levu, the Yasawas are dry and sunny, and their remoteness has ensured that the many stunning beaches, cliffs, bays and reefs have remained unspoiled.
Beautiful Turtle Island (Nanuya Levu), with its private white sand beaches and steep volcanic cliffs, is the epitome of a romantic retreat. This lovely island served as a location for both Blue Lagoon movies: the 1980 version starring Brooke Shields, and the 1949 version starring Jean Simmons. The island’s luxury all-inclusive resort is one of the country’s best. Once you’re settled into your private bures, you can enjoy snorkelling, horse riding, sailing, fishing, kayaking, crafts, village visits and beach walks, or just find your own secluded spot to relax on the beach with a champagne picnic.
Nanuya Lailai (Mystery) Island, also in the Yasawas, is a favourite hideaway spot for yachts and often included on cruise ship itineraries. The western side of this lovely island is the location of the famous Blue Lagoon Beach. The island has a few family-run bungalows, so if you’re looking for a romantic break that won’t break the bank, then it’s well worth considering.
Tahiti
If you’re a true romantic, then
Tahiti and her islands are sure to appeal. Dubbed the Garden of Eden by early European explorers, Tahiti’s natural beauty has inspired famous artists such as Gaugin and Matisse. Today, the lure of turquoise lagoons, sandy beaches and French-influenced culture continue to make Tahiti a favourite romantic destination.
Bora Bora, 259km northwest of Tahiti, is French Polynesia’s most famous honeymoon destination. Known as the Pearl of Polynesia, it is legendary for its magnificent blue lagoon. Scattered offshore are many tiny motu (islets) fringed by coconut palms, so it’s easy to find your own island hideaway for a day. The island’s resorts nestle on stunning white sand beaches, and the more luxurious offer overwater bures and even glass-topped coffee tables for viewing the lagoon! There are plenty of activities for guests as well, including shark/ray feeding excursions, motu picnics, snorkelling, diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, horseback riding, sunset cruises and relaxing massages.
The rugged island of
Moorea, just 17km from Tahiti, also beckons romantics with its jagged peaks cloaked by lush greenery and a translucent green lagoon. Moorea is French Polynesia’s second most popular tourist destination after Tahiti, and boasts some dazzling black and white sand beaches. For one of the most magical views you’re ever likely to see, climb to the dramatic hilltop lookout between towering Mount Rotui and Mount Tohivea. On one side lies exquisite Cook’s Bay, and on the other, the sparkling waters of Opunohu Bay. Resorts on Morea offer fine French cuisine, Tahitian entertainment and dancing, sunset cruises, snorkelling, diving, sailing and windsurfing, and if you’re at an overwater bure, you can even have your breakfast delivered by outrigger canoe!
Did You Know?
* Fiji was recently voted the number two spot as 'the most secluded honeymoon destination in the world' by travel agents surveyed by the Condé Nast Bridal Group. (It also won the Red Hot Romance and Breathtaking Beaches categories.)
* The French impressionist Gauguin came to live in Tahiti in 1891, in search of a peaceful place where he could create a 'simple art'. He died in 1903 at his home in Tahiti's Marquesa Islands. After his death, a local civil servant wrote that there was little hope of repaying his debts: 'The few pictures left by the late painter . . . have little prospect of finding purchasers.'
5 Ways to Add Romance to Your Pacific Holiday
- Picnic on your own motu
Request a special picnic hamper with champagne on ice and lobster and have the hotel staff drop you off to an uninhabited islet for your own luxury castaway experience.
- Leave the kids behind
Book into a 'child-free' resort, and enjoy some time alone together.
- Sail away!
Treat yourselves to a romantic sunset cruise to enjoy those vivid tropical sunsets, or take a multi-day cruise to some of the offshore islands.
- Dine out in style
Pick the local restaurant with the best reputation and make a booking for Valentine's Day. If you’re going to celebrate love, you might as well do it in style!
- Renew your vows
Many resorts host vow renewal ceremonies, and staff can help you make the event as personal or informal as you like.
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