By Moana Compass For many travellers, a first Cook Islands trip begins with Rarotonga and Aitutaki. It is easy to see why. Rarotonga offers reef swimming, mountain tracks, markets, food and a relaxed island pace, while Aitutaki adds its unforgettable lagoon and small-island calm. But the Cook Islands has far more to discover for travellers with the time to go a little deeper. Beyond Rarotonga and Aitutaki are smaller islands with caves, forest, gardens, freshwater pools, coff

When people say they are thinking about Fiji, most of us picture the same thing first: warm water, palm trees, a pool, a cocktail and a few very easy days by the beach. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Fiji can do a relaxed resort holiday really well. But Fiji is not one holiday. The more I look into the islands, the more I think the best Fiji trip depends on what you actually want to feel when you get there. You might want a simple family base with a beach an

The Cook Islands has a way of slowing you down. You arrive thinking about the lagoon views, the warm water and the sunsets, then you put a mask on and realise there is a whole other world just a few metres from shore. For me, snorkelling around Rarotonga was one of those moments where I forgot about everything else for a while. I had been in the water at Black Rock and there was life everywhere: schools of fish moving through the lagoon, sea cucumbers on the bottom, colourful

Beyond the lagoon, discover the inland side of French Polynesia on a guided ATV adventure in Tahiti, Moorea or Bora Bora—lush valleys, pineapple fields, mountain lookouts and local stories. When most people picture French Polynesia, they picture the right things: an overwater bungalow, a cold drink, water so clear it barely looks real, and Mount Otemanu rising over Bora Bora’s lagoon. But there is another side to these islands that too many travellers miss. Leave the water fo

There are places in Rarotonga that look beautiful in a photo, and then there are places you feel before you properly understand why. Black Rock is one of those places. Known in Cook Islands Māori as Tuoro, it sits on Rarotonga’s north-west coast, where dark basalt rises out of the sand beside the lagoon. It is easy to see why people stop there for a swim, a snorkel or sunset. The contrast is unreal: black volcanic rock, white sand, reef water and the afternoon light dropping

By Greg — Moana Compass When people think of the Cook Islands, they usually picture the blindingly white sands of Rarotonga or the impossible blues of the Aitutaki lagoon. And while those iconic spots are every bit as spectacular as the postcards promise, the true magic of the Cook Islands often lies just out of sight, tucked away where the tour buses don’t go. As a travel advisor with deep Polynesian roots, I’ve always believed that the most memorable travel experiences aren

Kia Orana! There’s something truly magical about gliding across the South Pacific on a luxury cruise ship. The gentle sway of the ocean, warm trade winds, and the sight of emerald islands rising on the horizon — it’s the kind of experience that stays with you forever. At Moana Compass – Pacific Pathways, we specialise in crafting unforgettable journeys through the Pacific Islands. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape or a multi-generational family adventure, a luxury

Tucked away in the heart of Melanesia, Vanuatu is often called one of the Pacific’s best-kept secrets. Far from the busy crowds and towering resorts of more famous destinations, it offers a rare mix of dramatic nature, rich culture, and that relaxed island pace we all dream of. And for those in Australia, it’s surprisingly close — just a short flight from Sydney. ✨ What Makes Vanuatu So Special? 🌋 Nature’s Most Dramatic Displays Vanuatu is home to some of the most unique

There are places that look beautiful in photos. Then there are places that feel like they belong in a dream. The Cook Islands fall firmly into the second category — a Polynesian archipelago of 15 islands scattered across the South Pacific, where turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks, and genuine cultural warmth create an experience that lingers long after you've boarded your flight home. If you're searching for a destination that balances barefoot luxury with authentic adventure,

Kia Orana! Just a short flight from mainland Australia lies one of the South Pacific’s best-kept secrets — Norfolk Island. With its rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and rich Polynesian and convict history, this tiny island feels like stepping into a different world. As someone who now calls Norfolk Island home, I love sharing its magic with travellers looking for something authentic and relaxed. Here are some of the highlights that make Norfolk Islan

Kia Orana! 🌴🏝️ With crystal-clear lagoons, warm Polynesian hospitality, and a pace of life that feels like a reset button, the Cook Islands are one of the most authentic and beautiful destinations in the South Pacific. Here’s why I always recommend them: 1. Aitutaki Lagoon – One of the Most Beautiful in the World Often called the jewel of the Cook Islands, Aitutaki’s lagoon is famous for its impossibly turquoise water, shallow sandbars, and vibrant marine life. Day trips fr

Every week, someone asks me: "Should I go to the Cook Islands or Fiji?" And every week, I give the same honest answer — it depends on who you are, what you want, and what kind of traveller you want to be when you get home. I've got roots in Rarotonga. I've walked the beaches of Fiji with my own kids. I've sent hundreds of travellers to both. And here's what nobody tells you: they're not interchangeable. One will feel like coming home. The other will feel like the best holiday

A Family Adventure in the Heart of Polynesia\n\nKia Ora, adventurous families! If you’re seeking a tropical getaway infused with cultural richness and thrilling activities, the stunning island of Rarotonga awaits you! Nestled in the enchanting Cook Islands, Rarotonga offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families looking to create unforgettable memories together. #### Embrace Polynesian Culture\n\nAs you step onto this pictures

French Polynesia is one of the most magical places on Earth for a family holiday. Crystal-clear lagoons, soft white-sand beaches, friendly locals, and adventures that feel like stepping into a storybook. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, school-aged kids, or even teenagers and grandparents, the islands here offer the perfect mix of relaxation, gentle adventure, and unforgettable memories. Here are our top 10 family-friendly islands in French Polynesia, ranked with prac

Kia Orana! If you’re looking for the perfect family adventure where crystal-clear lagoons, soft white sand, and gentle Pacific breezes come together, French Polynesia is hard to beat. As someone with Rarotongan (Cook Islands) and Bora Bora heritage, I’ve spent years exploring these islands, and I can honestly say there’s no better place to create lifelong memories with your kids. Island hopping in French Polynesia doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. With the right pa

kia Orana — I’m Greg Australia’s Pacific coast is one of those places that still feels like a well-kept secret. From the golden stretches of northern New South Wales up through Queensland’s tropical islands, there are beaches and islands here that are perfect for families who want beautiful water without the crazy crowds of Bali or Fiji. Here are some of my favourite family-friendly spots along the Australian Pacific coast: 1. Byron Bay & surrounds Iconic, but head just a lit

Kia Ora — I’m Greg Fiji with kids is pure aloha energy — warm water, easy smiles and adventures that suit all ages. Here are the best family things to do, simple and unforgettable. Beach and snorkel in the Mamanucas/Yasawas: Calm lagoons, shallow reefs for first snorkelers, glass-bottom boat trips and island picnics. Great for toddlers and teens alike. - Island-hopping day trips: Short boat rides between islands keep travel light and exciting. Pack a picnic and find your own

Kia Ora — I’m Greg North Island highlights Start in Auckland, then head east to the Coromandel. Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove are the island’s postcard moments—dig your own thermal pool at low tide, then paddle in crystal bays. Raglan and Piha offer surf and dramatic black-sand shores. Rotorua’s geothermal parks and Māori experiences are cultural musts, and Waitomo’s glowworm caves feel quietly magical. South Island highlights Cross to the South and the scenery turns cin

Kia ora, I’m Greg from Moana Compass. French Polynesia is pure magic — warm turquoise lagoons, dramatic volcanic peaks, and that genuine Polynesian welcome that makes you feel like family. After spending time there and helping many families plan their trips, here’s my practical guide to the best islands and things to do. 1. Tahiti – The Gateway Start here. Visit the bustling Papeete market, hike to waterfalls, or relax on black-sand beaches. It’s the perfect place to recover

Kia ora, I’m Greg from Moana Compass. One of the most common questions I get is: “How do we do a multi-island trip with the kids without it becoming stressful?” After helping many North American families plan exactly this journey (and doing it myself with my own crew), here’s my practical step-by-step guide to making it smooth, fun, and unforgettable. 1. Choose the Right Starting Point Most families from the US west coast start in Tahiti (short direct flights from LA). It’s t