Overseas Territory in France
Paradise of Crystal Clear Lagoons
Weather is drier and less humid from May to October across the 118 islands of this territory. Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora in the Society Islands are the easiest to combine. Couples can add the Tuamotus for diving in clear lagoons or the Marquesas for hiking.
Island in French Polynesia
Turquoise Lagoons, Overwater Dreams
Polynesian navigators settled this island in the Society Islands long before European ships arrived. A shallow turquoise lagoon surrounds the tall volcanic peak of Mount Otemanu. Overwater bungalows, private boat picnics and snorkelling with rays and reef sharks make it a classic choice for honeymoons.
Paradise within Great Barrier Reef
About 74 islands lie off the coast of Queensland, close to the Great Barrier Reef. Sailing charters link them, so couples can anchor in quiet bays for a few nights. Whitehaven Beach has soft white sand. Snorkelling trips to the outer reef start from Airlie Beach.
Wildlife, Wonders and Rugged Coast
Farm gate stops with honey, wine, gin and fresh seafood are part of daily life on this island near Adelaide. Local producers welcome visitors for tastings in a quiet countryside setting. Couples can walk beside sea lions at Seal Bay and watch the sunset at Remarkable Rocks.
Alpine Adventure, Lakeside Serenity
Compared with nearby Queenstown, this lakeside town in the Southern Alps feels smaller and quieter. Lake Wanaka has a famous lone willow tree in the water that visitors photograph at sunrise. Couples can hike Roys Peak, paddle on the lake or visit nearby vineyards. Mount Aspiring National Park is close by.
Adventure capital with alpine beauty
A gold rush in the 1860s turned this small settlement on Lake Wakatipu into a busy town. Today the town is surrounded by mountains, wineries and scenic viewpoints. Couples can ride the gondola, taste Pinot Noir in Central Otago or take a day trip to Milford Sound.
Tropical paradise with cultural diversity
Traditional kastom ceremonies are still part of daily life on many islands in this South Pacific nation. Couples can watch glowing lava from a safe viewpoint at Mount Yasur on Tanna. Santo has blue holes for swimming. Port Vila offers markets, cafes and small seafront resorts.
Wilderness, Wildlife and Wild Coasts
A large island south of mainland Australia holds national parks and wine regions. Hobart, its small capital, has a lively food scene. Couples can walk to Wineglass Bay, drive to Cradle Mountain or visit the art museum MONA in Hobart. Cool, clear air and uncrowded roads suit an easy road trip.
Secluded paradise with crystal reefs and cliffs
Compared with most reef islands, this small island 600 kilometres off Sydney limits visitors to 400 at a time. Cars are few on the island, so couples cycle between beaches and snorkelling spots. Climbing Mount Gower and feeding fish at Ned's Beach are popular shared activities for couples.
Pristine paradise with underwater wonders
A small island nation in the western Pacific lies east of the Philippines and is known for its clear water. The Rock Islands are green limestone domes with hidden lagoons and quiet beaches. Couples can swim in Jellyfish Lake, kayak between islets or dive on rich coral walls.
Tropical paradise with diverse landscapes
More than 300 islands make up this South Pacific nation. Many of them have only a single resort on the whole island. Adults only retreats, private island stays and small boat transfers are common. Couples can choose a quiet beach in the Yasawa or Mamanuca groups for snorkelling and sunsets.
Tropical paradise with year-round warmth
A relaxed South Pacific island nation has fifteen islands spread across a large area of ocean. Rarotonga has a ring road, small cafes and a reef lagoon, so couples can easily explore by scooter. Aitutaki is a short flight away and is known for its shallow blue lagoon.
Tropical paradise with volcanic islands
Weather is warm and drier from May to October in this quiet kingdom of more than 170 islands. Humpback whales arrive from July to October to calve. Licensed operators offer swimming trips. Couples can stay in small beach huts on Vava'u, which is a good base for sailing.
Tropical paradise with volcanic mountains
Village life is central in this friendly South Pacific nation, where family and tradition are called fa'a Samoa. Beach fales are open sided huts right beside the sea and give a simple and romantic stay. Couples can swim in the To Sua Ocean Trench or walk through waterfalls and rainforest.
Sunlit coves echo with ancient legends
A sheltered bay on the northeast coast of New Zealand's North Island holds more than 140 small islands. Couples can take a dolphin watching cruise, sail between quiet coves or stay in the small town of Russell. Paihia is the busy base for boat trips to Hole in the Rock.