Nimble travellers will be able to visit more than one of these countries on the same trip, but you'll need to do some careful planning and some flying (or buy a yacht). Where you go depends on your interests: Rarotonga is ideal for families and those looking for a relaxing resort stay; the Samoas offer mountains and beaches for nature lovers to propel themselves up and onto; and Tonga is geared for activities like sea kayaking, diving, sailing and kitesurfing. But wherever you go, island culture will work its magic on you – even if you do only get to one of these countries, you're sure to return to the South Pacific.
Explore Rarotonga's mountainous interior before discovering your own slice of Pacific perfection sea kayaking to tiny motu (islands) around amazing Muri Lagoon. On isolated 'Atiu, Ma'uke and Mangaia, rugged sea cliffs conceal impossibly compact beaches.
Be surprised by Rarotonga's dining scene. There's a growing emphasis on things organic and traditionally grown here: a highlight is trawling the easy-going food stalls at Saturday morning's Punanga Nui Market.
Discover the spiritual and historical significance of Avana Harbour – departure point for the 14th-century 'great migration' to New Zealand. The burial caves on Mangaia and ’Atiu are equally fascinating.
Beaches here come in a spectacular number of shapes and sizes. Choose from wide white beauties that tumble into aqua lagoons or pockets of heaven wedged between black-lava formations.
Hike to spectacular waterfalls and along lava-sculpted coasts, and explore the lush grounds of Robert Louis Stevenson’s villa. Or head underground via extensive lava tubes that gush with subterranean rivers.
Independent, and proud of their Polynesian culture, Samoans have Facebook and mobile phones but adhere to old values, living in villages with meeting houses, chiefs and strict customs. And they’ll welcome you with genuine warmth.
National parks are rare in the South Pacific, but the National Park of American Samoa covers a huge swathe of the country. There are well-maintained trails here, from short jaunts to all-day adventures from mountain to sea.
The sky-piercing peaks here look more like a Disney paradise than reality. Surrounded by lava-formed coves, blue water and ribbons of sparkling cream-coloured beach, they're hard to beat!
Travel beyond Pago Pago and the airport to where small-town American Samoa is all about church bells and traditional village customs…all in sublime natural surrounds.
Postcard-perfect tropical islands abound in Tonga. Book yourself into a luxurious beach resort (they're few but fabulous) or beach-bum it in a breezy waterside fale (house).
Tonga is close to heaven for those who love playing in/on warm, crystal-clear water. Take your pick from sublime sailing, sea-kayaking, swimming, snorkelling and diving opportunities.
Nothing happens in a hurry in Tonga! Slow down to island time with a few cold local lagers at the waterfront bars in Neiafu, or along Nuku'alofa's main drag.