10 Pristine Oceania Archipelagos Where Time Stands Still

2. Torres Strait Islands, Australia

Set between northern Australia and Papua New Guinea, the Torres Strait Islands bring together more than 270 isles where distinct Indigenous cultures have flourished for thousands of years. Thursday Island stands as the cultural and administrative hub, celebrated for vibrant art, traditional dance, and spirited community festivals. The islands remain relatively untouched by international tourism—visitors are often surprised by a warm local welcome, as well as the intricate blend of Australian and Melanesian influences. Natural beauty abounds; think turquoise shallows, mangrove channels, and abundant seabird colonies. Travel here calls for intention: flights are available from Cairns, and local guides can help unlock insight into island life. Simple guesthouses and regional ferries deliver practicality and adventure in equal measure, while the sense of history and communal belonging lingers in every encounter.