The South Pacific island should be at the top of your wish list if you want to plan the exotic trip of a lifetime. Every individual traveler will have an opinion on the best Pacific Islands, but no matter where you go, you will be greeted by friendly locals, stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to really relax. Escaping to a tropical island in the Pacific will be unlike any trip you’ve taken before, so whether you choose Fiji, Tahiti, or French Polynesia you are sure to be impressed by the local culture and exotic surroundings of the world's islands.

Some travelers will be surprised to learn that there are many different ways to travel to the South Pacific islands. While a trip to a tropical island in the Pacific might sound like something for the rich and famous, this isn’t the only way to experience this corner of the globe. Budget travelers will also have access to the best Pacific islands thanks to all inclusive packages, reasonable hotel rates, and off-season deals. Savvy travelers know that with a little research and flexibility, just about any trip can be planned affordably.

That being said, the South Pacific Islands are ideal for traveling without a budget. Private islands elevate resorts to new levels of service and enjoyment. For example, Turtle Island in Fiji is a private island with just 14 villas for 14 couples. This adults-only property has 14 beaches, one for each couple on the island. An all inclusive resort, Turtle Island offers the highest quality service to its few guests. Many people reserve such a splurge for a memorable trip such as a honeymoon, while others return year after year to enjoy the unique experience of Fiji.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly vacation in Fiji, then the best Pacific islands here would be Viti Levu, Yasawa Island, and Kadavu. These also have high-end resorts, but there are many more options for cheaper island hotels, and just as much access to the great beaches, scuba diving, and snorkeling that draws thousands of visitors to Fiji each year.

To decide the best Pacific islands, take a tour of the region. Many travelers feel if they are going to travel so far around the globe, they might as well visit a few destinations. While Fiji has some of the best international press, Tahiti is also a popular place among vacationers, who often visit Bora Bora, Moorea, and Rangiroa. Matira Beach in Bora Bora is especially famous, with its beautiful white sand, and there is plenty of great diving and surfing in this part of the world as well. One of the most popular things to do in Tahiti is to swim with the dolphins, and if you can fit this into your vacation budget, it will be unforgettable.

Other quality island locations include the Solomon Islands, Samoa, and French Polynesia. Flights are available between many of the islands, although this type of trip will require significant planning. One benefit of traveling luxury is that the concierge of individual hotels will help you make your travel arrangements. If you’re planning a budget trip, a little more research and time spent will get the job done.

If a tropical island in the Pacific is truly out of your budget, consider island vacations that are closer to home. The Caribbean is home to a variety of affordable options, including many all inclusive packages. Cruises are another way to see a few places while keeping the overall cost of your trip down. Travelers that love the South Pacific typically also enjoy a trip to Hawaii. There are many faces to these exotic islands that bring travelers many times. Wherever you plan your beach trip, don’t forget to bring along your sunscreen!