Tourists who want a tropical escapade beyond Hawaii have other options in the ever-pristine Pacific Ocean. There’s the tourist-favorite Fiji or Vanuatu, often visited by cruise ships. However, those curious to explore least-traveled Oceania destinations should head to Niue, a humble island that is one of the largest raised coral atolls on the planet.Pronounced ‘New-ay,’ the island offers free Wi-Fi, but those visiting it would not need such technology once they’re lulled by the majestic scenery, from the crystal-clear waters to the lush vegetation. In welcoming Niue, logging off and getting out there means having a renewed outlook on life.

10 Visit A Museum

Upon landing on Niue, tourists would be eager to explore its pristine shores, but they should contain their excitement. Even if the breeze entices them to immediately explore the beach, they must be acquainted first with this tropical destination. The best way to do so is to visit the National Museum, where they will learn about the island’s rich history through World War I artifacts, woven wares, and artworks. The museum is still young and continues to build its collection, but it’s ready to welcome those who want an introductory tour of Niue.

9 Explore The Island

After a museum visit, tourists should continue their fun journey aboard a coach with a guide who will take them to the island’s best spots. There are two tours to choose from: the first trip leads passengers to various points of interest, and the second is a four-hour sojourn to natural wonders. The former is focused on history, tradition, culture, and local lifestyle, while the latter is perfect for lovers of the outdoors. Whatever experience tourists choose, they’ll be afforded memorable moments, with guides sharing with them how to best enjoy their stay.

8 Learn About The Wildlife

After learning about the culture and natural wonders, tourists can join a tour that will get them close to wildlife, specifically uga or coconut crabs – and they can touch these creatures if they dare. One tour lets travelers ride a four-wheel drive along rainforests and a plantation, where they will check out staple crops. Other journeys lead to gardens and an organic vanilla farm, where tourists can spot 30,000 vanilla vines. Indeed, Niue knows how to offer the sweet – or maybe the sweetest – escape.

7 Whale Watching

After keeping their hands busy playing with coconut crabs, but tourists want to do more, the whales of Niue await them. Those visiting the island from July to September should not miss the chance to spot migrating humpback whales. Watching these gentle giants in Niue means checking them out 100 meters from the shore, with some whales that can be as close as 20 m. If they want to get the most out of a whale experience, tourists should join a charter that will take them beyond the shore – to where the whales are best viewed.

6 Go Underwater

Whale watching will entice tourists to further explore the depths of the ocean. After all, they are in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so they might as well explore its marine world. Luckily, Niue is home to many amazing underwater features like coral walls and caverns. The water clarity in this tropical destination is one of the best in the world, so explorers will have superb views. From colorful coral reefs to playful schools of fish, scuba diving or snorkeling in Niue is a rewarding sojourn.

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5 Fishing Escapade

Tourists who want to stay afloat but are raring for action should join a fishing charter. From the calm bays of Niue, they will be taken offshore, where their angling skills will be put to the test. The island is near deep waters, where they could score marlin, tuna, bass, mahi-mahi, sailfish, trevally, and wahoo. Those who want a little calm can board a canoe for a traditional fishing experience, while tourists who want to stay by the shore can scale rocks and cast a line from there. The “fisherman’s secret paradise” awaits its challengers.

4 Enjoy The Dark Sky

Niue is the first country to become an official Dark Sky Place, an exciting prospect for stargazers. Lying on the beach or on the veranda of their accommodation, anyone will have an inspiring moment once darkness envelopes the island. Wherever tourists stay, they can just look up and see the stars – vivid as ever. However, if they want to get the most out of this Dark Sky experience, tourists should join a guided trip with an expert sharing knowledge about all things cosmos. What a good evening and good night.

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3 Have A Spa Day

Sure, Niue is almost paradise, but those exploring it will get tired every once in a while, especially after a hike. To ease their worries and relax their bodies, they can have a spa day. Doing so on this paradisiac island is like enjoying an oasis in an oasis. There are at least three spa destinations in Niue: the quiet Malulu that offers holistic services, Tui Na Clinic for a deep tissue massage, and Vilina for those who need quick pampering sessions. Really, just staying by the beach is already relaxing.

2 Taste Local Cuisine

Fruits abound in Niue, so tourists should not miss the chance to taste them. Niuean cuisine is also big on seafood like mahi-mahi, tuna, crayfish, barracuda, and even coconut crabs. They look intimidating, but coconut crabs are delectable, so they’re a must-try. The locals are also proud of nane (porridge), takihi (taro, pawpaw, and coconut cream), corned beef brisket, banana chips, and coconut bread. Those willing to introduce something new to their taste buds should try fai kai ika (fish, coconut cream, and ferns) and ota ika (raw fish in coconut cream). The tummy is happy in Niue.

1 Shopping Spree

A shopping spree in Niue means scouring village markets for unique and fresh finds because there are no malls or luxury retail destinations on the island. That’s not a setback because the lifestyle in Niue affords tourists the chance to experience what it’s like to live simply – organic yet awesome. The markets in the capital Alofi are home to fresh produce, tasty treats, handicrafts, and souvenirs. If tourists want to try cooking uga, they can buy live ones in the market. The best bargains are not in the malls but in small shopping destinations, where the experience is made better by mingling with locals.