The islands of the Pacific Ocean are impressive yet mystical and very intriguing! There is a lot that most of us don’t know about the islands in the Pacific Ocean and in this article I will tell you some of the most interesting facts. Are you ready to learn more about the islands of the Pacific Ocean? Then read on…
- Facts about the islands of the Pacific Ocean
- 1. Tahiti – Origin of Overwater Bungalows
- 2. Hawaii – One of the World’s Longest Island Chains
- 3. Taiwan – A Spiritual Hub with 15,000 Temples
- 4. New Guinea Owns World’s Third Largest Rainforest
- 5. Bora Bora – Known for Producing Rare Black Pearls
- 6. Vancouver Island – A Home to Diverse Ecosystems
- 7. Yoron Island’s Akasaki Cave – A Natural Wonder
- 8. Easter Island – Home to Nearly 900 Ancient Statues
- 9. Lanai Island – The Birthplace of Cliff Diving Sport
- 10. Tanna Island – Has World’s Most Accessible Active Volcano
- 11. Fiji – Scuba Divers’ Paradise
- 12. Prison Island – The Fabled Home of a Mermaid
- 13. Malpelo Island – A Shark’s’ Paradise
- 14. Santa Cruz Island – A Favored Film Destination
- 15. San Miguel Features One of the Largest Wildlife Congregations
- Islands of the Pacific Ocean: To conclude
Facts about the islands of the Pacific Ocean
Did you know the Pacific Ocean is home to a staggering 25,000 islands, each with a captivating story? From the rare black pearls produced at Bora Bora Island to the mysterious status of Eastern Island, there are many intriguing things to explore.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or an armchair adventurer, prepare to embark on a journey of discovery as we uncover some fascinating facts that make the islands of the Pacific Ocean so special.
1. Tahiti – Origin of Overwater Bungalows
Overwater bungalows or water villas are a top accommodation choice for nature enthusiasts. One reason they are a tourist attraction is the stunning views of surrounding crystal clear lagoons and marine life. Additionally, you can go swimming or snorkeling directly from your hotel room. Or simply sit beside the waters and immerse yourself in a serene ambiance.
But do you know where this concept originated from? It was on Tahiti, one of the islands of the Pacific Ocean in French Polynesia, when three expatriates running a resort got inspired by fishermen. They decided to create a unique experience for their guests. Their idea was a hit, which can be seen with overwater bungalows being an iconic part of many tropical destinations now.
2. Hawaii – One of the World’s Longest Island Chains
Hawaii is widely recognized for its chain of beautiful islands of the Pacific Ocean that span over a distance of 1,500 miles. Not just islands; this archipelago comprises hundreds of islets as well. The volcanic origin of this region has given rise to diverse landscapes. Multi-coloured sand beaches, tall-standing sea cliffs, lush rainforests, and iconic volcanoes are to name a few.
A visit to Hawaii can be enough to satisfy your inner adventurer with a plethora of activities to explore. You can swim, hike, ride a horse, sightsee lava, scuba dive, snorkel, stargaze, swim with dolphins, or surf on the Big Island. We guarantee you will get multiple adrenaline rushes on your trip to the Hawaiian Islands.
3. Taiwan – A Spiritual Hub with 15,000 Temples
Taiwan, one of the western islands of the Pacific Ocean, is known as a spiritual hub with its collection of almost 15,000 temples. Every religious building in the region belongs to different folk cultures, with Chinese, Buddhist, and Confucian being the most prominent ones. The vibrating infrastructure of these temples is sure-shot fascinating, especially if you are a history lover.
The Taiwanese temples boast intricate architectural designs adorned with colorful paintings, carvings, and sculptures. Each one has a meaningful stance, depicting interesting religious stories and beliefs.
One of the best ways to capture the essence of these temples is through photography. As you snap pictures of the stunning buildings, you will be in awe of their beauty. The soft light filtering through the temple’s window will work just as an aesthetic backdrop.
4. New Guinea Owns World’s Third Largest Rainforest
As the third largest in the world, the Papua New Guinea rainforest occupies 70% of the region. Its breathtaking landscape includes rugged mountains, sprawling lowland plains, and peaceful river valleys. Moreover, it is also home to thousands of wildlife species, many of which are still to be discovered.
Although it is one of the undeveloped and unexplored islands of the Pacific Ocean, a trip here can give you a truly enriching experience. You can trek to its remote areas and explore the rainforest’s diverse flora and fauna. Also, there is a high chance that you will spot one or two wildlife species in their natural habitat. Kangaroos, birds, and cassowaries are among the most seen ones.
After hiking, you can end your day fresh by going on a river cruise. There are plenty of rivers in the region that provide you with an opportunity to experience the rainforest’s crystal clear and unpolluted waters.
5. Bora Bora – Known for Producing Rare Black Pearls
Bora Bora Island, one of the tropical islands of the Pacific Ocean in Polynesia, is a popular honeymoon destination. However, its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and gorgeous landscapes also attract tourists seeking relaxation.
Besides its natural beauty, this island of the Pacific Ocean offers many fun-filled activities. Some include snorkeling, scuba diving, skiing, biking, and paddleboarding. And if you are visiting between July and November, do not forget to embark on a humpback whale excursion. You will likely get to swim with these friendly creatures.
Bora Bora Island is heaven for tourists who love collecting fine jewellery, as it is one of the largest producers of rare black pearls. These pearls are cultivated in oysters and found in the island’s lagoons. Their rich color and radiating luster make them one of the most valuable jewellery items.
6. Vancouver Island – A Home to Diverse Ecosystems
Nestled off the west coast of Canada lies the stunning Vancouver Island, a place known for its diversity of ecosystems. It is among those islands of the Pacific Ocean that boasts an array of contrasting landscapes, including rocky coastlines, snow-capped mountains, and secluded beaches. Its lush temperate rainforests boast tall trees with elusive wildlife, including the bald eagle, black-tailed deer, black bear, etc.
No visit to Vancouver Island is complete without exploring the Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada. With its impressive collections of floral displays, this beautifully manicured garden will have you forget your everyday worries.
7. Yoron Island’s Akasaki Cave – A Natural Wonder
Yoron is another tourists’ favourite destination among the islands of the Pacific Ocean for its tranquil waters and vibrant coral reefs. You can indulge in various water-related activities here, including snorkeling or scuba diving. After getting tired of the water, the scenic Mount Takakura awaits you for hiking.
But what makes Yoron Island special is its Akasaki Limestone Cave. This geological formation features stalactites and stalagmites of various sizes, shapes, and colors. And, since the region has no commercial development, its natural side is displayed at its best.
To explore this natural wonder safely, you can take a guided tour with a local guide. You are going to get fascinated by interesting and informative commentary throughout.
8. Easter Island – Home to Nearly 900 Ancient Statues
The statues found on the Easter Island of the Pacific Ocean are one of the most mysterious archeological wonders in the world that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Natively known as moai, these statues are made of volcanic tuff and can be up to 30 feet tall and weigh as much as 14 tons. Most of them face inland, while a few are faced toward the sea.
The statues’ sheer size and mysterious aura make them an awe-inspiring sight to behold. Moreover, you can explore many sites around these statues, like ceremonial platforms and quarries.
After exploring the island’s rich history and culture, you can embark on hiking towards Rano Kau, a volcanic crater located towards the island’s southwestern end. Or tourists also love going to the Anakena, a beautiful white sand beach, to swim and chill.
9. Lanai Island – The Birthplace of Cliff Diving Sport
Lanai is one of the most secluded islands of the Pacific Ocean, with a population of around 3,000. Like other Hawaiian Islands, it has beautiful landscapes, stunning beaches, and lush forests. Besides immersing in its natural beauty, tourists can also enjoy staying in one of the best resorts of Hawaii on this island.
You can indulge in the thrilling sport of cliff diving here in multiple spots. For example, there is Puu Pehe, the Sweetheart Rock, where you can jump from 20 to 80 feet according to your comfort level.
Another region is Kaunolu Bay which is also the birthplace of this sport. It was initiated by Hawaiian soldiers who displayed courage by jumping into the ocean from an 80-foot ledge. Every August, a cliff diving competition is organized here.
10. Tanna Island – Has World’s Most Accessible Active Volcano
Like other islands of the Pacific Ocean, Tanna is a source of tourist attraction for many reasons. But, what sets it apart is the Yasur Volcano at its Southeastern tip. It is accessible for tourists by a short hike and displays spectacular views of lava explosions and eruptions reaching high in the sky.
The mountain has erupted for almost 800 years but with relatively smaller intensity; hence a safe tourist spot for visitors. Experiencing this view at night time can be a one-of-a-lifetime thrill. The glow of molten lava spreading in the backdrop of the dark sky is sure to create an unforgettable experience for visitors.
11. Fiji – Scuba Divers’ Paradise
Fiji is also known as the soft coral capital of the world for its abundance of coral reef spots spread throughout the island. Especially scuba diving enthusiasts from all around the world flock to Fiji for an exceptional experience. The most popular dive sites include Rainbow Reef, the Great Astrolabe Reef, and the Beqa Lagoon.
Diving in Fiji’s coral reefs, you can also encounter various marine wildlife, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. At the same time, they are also an ideal habitat for smaller creatures like shrimp. For extra fun, you can go white-water rafting in the Navua river or surf in the Islands of Yasawa.
12. Prison Island – The Fabled Home of a Mermaid
Prison Island is famous for its beautiful beaches and is home to a population of giant-sized tortoises. However, the mermaid story of its local folklore is what fascinates you.
According to Cocos Malay people, a mermaid lives on the island and has a special connection to the people who took birth there. They think the mermaid will call them back home if a Cocos-born person leaves the Island.
This adds to Prison Island’s mystical and magical reputation, making it a fascinating destination for folklore enthusiasts. However, there is no truth to it. It is just a fable passed through generations as a part of local tradition.
13. Malpelo Island – A Shark’s’ Paradise
Are you a shark lover? Then Colombia’s Malpelo Island should have a top spot on your bucket list. It is one of those islands of the Pacific Ocean that may look like a piece of rock at first glance. But, in actuality, it boasts a true treasure with one of the largest shark populations in the world.
Some common sharks found in Malpelo Island’s waters include hammerhead, whale, silk, tiger sharks, tuna, and sailfish. This uninhabited island is a marine-protected area, and UNESCO recognizes it as a World Heritage Site.
14. Santa Cruz Island – A Favored Film Destination
The stunning beauty of Santa Cruz Island not only attracts tourists but also manages to impress filmmakers and producers. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of this Island on screen in multiple movies, TV series, and documentaries, including:
- The Battle of Hearts
- Oil and Water: A Portrait of Gloriane Harris
- The Mentalist
- California’ Gold
- Bosch
Santa Cruz, one of the islands of the Pacific Ocean, is home to various ecosystems, including lush highlands, arid deserts, and pristine beaches. And almost all of these are explored in cinematography.
In addition to its natural scenery, the diverse array of wildlife is also behind this Island’s popularity. It includes various species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. At the same time, you can also spot porpoises, dolphins, and whales near the Island’s shores.
15. San Miguel Features One of the Largest Wildlife Congregations
San Miguel, one of the Channel Islands of the Pacific Ocean, hosts multiple places of tourist attractions. The most popular one includes one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal, the Lagoa Sete Cidades. It is worth visiting twin lake, which displays breathtaking views of green and blue waters. The ruins of the Monte Palace Hotel at lake’s one of the highest points is also a popular exploration spot.
Tourists visiting San Miguel Island go for a 14-mile round-trip hike to Point Bennett. The struggles of hiking this long-distance become worth it with the display of one of the world’s largest wildlife congregations. It consists of almost 30,000 animals from five different species, including northern elephant seals, California sea lions, harbor seals, and northern fur seals.
Islands of the Pacific Ocean: To conclude
The Islands of the Pacific Ocean are truly fascinating and diverse, being some of the world’s most popular tourist attractions. Whether you are looking to relax on a pristine beach, explore ancient ruins, or witness vibrant marine life, the Pacific Islands offer endless possibilities.
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