Dinogo Readers' Top 5 Resorts in the South Pacific for 2024

The South Pacific boasts some of the world's most breathtaking natural vistas — from the striking Gatorade-blue lagoons of French Polynesia to the majestic volcanic peaks of Fiji, not to mention the countless white-sand beaches in between. These stunning settings are perfect for luxury hotels, making the competition for the best resorts in the region incredibly fierce. This year, hotels in Fiji claimed the top two positions, a notable shift from last year. However, the much-loved Bora Bora, one of French Polynesia’s prime islands, still shines through, with hotels ranking at No. 3 and 4.

How the Voting Process Works

Annually, for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their travel experiences from around the globe, offering their insights on the finest hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2024, over 186,000 T+L readers participated in the survey, casting a total of more than 700,000 votes across over 8,700 properties, including hotels, cities, cruise lines, and more.

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, inns, or safari lodges based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically evaluated according to the criteria listed below:

Room and facility quality
Location
Customer service
Culinary options
Overall value

Respondents were able to rate each feature as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores represent the average of these ratings.

What Our Readers Appreciated

In a region filled with countless resort options, what makes a hotel truly exceptional? According to our readers, it’s the feeling of being at home. One voter remarked about No. 2 resort, Nanuku Resort Fiji, saying, “I’ve visited multiple times, and each visit leaves me feeling at home.” Another voter shared their experience at the top-rated Tokoriki Island Resort, stating, “This place fostered such a sense of family and comfort that I actually cried when it was time to leave.” (They weren't alone in their tears upon departure.)

This sense of warmth and hospitality, especially in such a secluded area, is primarily attributed to the resort staff, as noted by the voters. One reviewer said of Tokoriki Island Resort, “I can’t stress enough how friendly and welcoming the staff is. From the gardener to the chef, you are greeted every time with a big smile and 'Bula!'” (Bula is the Fijian word for hello or welcome.) That same guest affectionately referred to the staff as their “new Tokoriki family.”

Naturally, many readers highlighted the iconic overwater accommodations that the South Pacific is famous for. One guest at Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa, ranked No. 5, shared, “We stayed in the farthest overwater bungalow and enjoyed some of the best snorkeling of our lives right off our private deck.” There was also abundant praise for the vibrant sunsets, picture-perfect waters, and diverse marine life found at many properties. While these factors are certainly appealing, it’s ultimately the personal experiences that elevate these resorts to the top in the South Pacific.

The Champion

Tokoriki Island Resort

Image courtesy of Tokoriki Island Resort

What sets Tokoriki Island Resort apart from the other winners on this list is its adults-only policy. The resort emphasizes a romantic ambiance with features such as couples spa treatments, floating breakfast in-villa, and private picnics on the beach. A reader shared, "Tokoriki was the perfect spot for our honeymoon. We can't wait to return for our anniversary!" Additional activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, basket weaving, traditional kava ceremonies (Fiji's national drink), and guided tours, including one to the island featured in the movie 'Castaway.' Thankfully, you can enjoy the seclusion reminiscent of the film without leaving the beachfront infinity pool.