Pacific Island cuisine, as expected, is mainly focused on seafood. However, visitors will find a wide and diverse range of cuisine throughout the various islands. There are also outside influences, especially on the island nations that were colonized by western powers, such as French Polynesia, Fiji, and Guam. Food is an integral part of Pacific Island culture, and locals take pride in their cuisine and are keen to share it with visitors. Many of the local dishes use coconuts, seafood, pork, fruits, and nuts. Generally, starchy foods are the staple among Pacific Islanders. Visitors should be sure to venture out from their resorts and try some local food.

Bars and Pubbing in Pacific Islands

Visitors will find decent he nightlife at most of the resorts of the various Pacific Islands. On the smaller island resorts, the pickings may be slim, but, on the larger Pacific Islands, there are many more options. Most big venues stay open until 3:00 a.m. or 4:00 a.m.

Visitors will find the most diverse mix of nightlife in Hawaii. From bars and pubs aimed at the younger crowd, to sophisticated clubs, there is something for everyone here. The Mai Tai Bar (1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, Suite 3247, Honolulu, HI 96814, Hawaii) is a popular spot among locals, with great cocktails and good music. For an unusual night out, head to the Honolulu Museum of Art (900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96814, Hawaii) every last Friday of the month to enjoy drinks and dancing at the ARTafterDARK event.

There are also plenty of options, from resort bars to nightclubs, in Fiji. The most popular night time destination in Suva is Traps (305 Victoria Parade, Suva), a huge bar and club complex. For great views, head to the sophisticated Royal Suva Yacht Club Bar (Suva Harbor, Suva). Thankfully, you don’t have to own a yacht to enjoy an evening out here!

Visitors to Tahiti will find fewer nightlife options than on the larger Pacific Islands, but there are still some gems to enjoy. For live concerts and good drinks, head to the Le Morrison’s Café (Vaima Shopping Center, Tahiti). For karaoke and Tahitian-themed evenings on Thursdays, head to Le Paradise (Seafront, near Moorea ferry, Tahiti).

Dining and Cuisine in Pacific Islands

Visitors to Hawaii should make sure to try some local fare. This includes Loco Moco (minced beef steak with eggs and rice), Pupu (selected appetizers), and Shave ice (shaved ice with syrup, ice cream, or sweet beans). Those wanting to dine right on the famous Waikiki Beach should head to Duke’s Canoe Club (2335 Kalakaua Avenue #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, Hawaii). A newcomer, but one that is quickly rising in the ranks, is the Tiki’s Grill & Bar (2570 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, Hawaii). The menu boasts lots of local favorites, and there is live music to enjoy as well.

In Fiji, visitors can enjoy a nice range of local, Australian, and international cuisine. For excellent local fare and seafood, head to Surf ‘n’ Turf (Copra Shed, Sausavu, Fiji). Another local favorite is Old Mill Cottage (47-49 Carnavon Street, Suva, Fiji), which serves up a combination of British and local cuisines at very affordable prices. Indian and South Asian influences are the most recent culinary trend to reach Fiji. Some of the best examples of this can be sampled at Saffron (Nadi Town, Fiji). Indian cuisine is also a good option for vegetarians.

In Tahiti, visitors can find a wonderful blend of local and French cuisine. The island’s French colonial past has significantly influenced the food, and visitors will find some excellent French restaurants here. Known for its great food and beautiful views, Le Lotus (inside InterContinental Resort Tahiti, Faa’a, Tahiti) offers it all. This restaurant is great for romantic dinners, but reservations are a must! Casa Bianca Cocktail Restaurant (Punaauia, Marina Taina, Tahiti), is a casual Italian restaurant, popular among locals on weekends. Formerly called the Casablanca Cocktail Restaurant, it also has live music on weekends.