10 Pristine Oceania Archipelagos Where Time Stands Still

3. Lau Islands, Fiji

The Lau Islands, draped along Fiji's far eastern edge, remain largely untouched by tourism and relentless modernization. Volcanic peaks rise above lush jungles, encircled by reefs often visited only by fishermen and migrating seabirds. Settlements are small, with villagers preserving Fijian rituals—pottery making, woven pandanus crafts, and communal feasts. To stay overnight, travelers must ask permission from the chief, a gesture that opens doors to heartfelt hospitality and traditional ceremonies. Most islands have minimal facilities; electricity may be limited, and infrastructure is best described as practical rather than polished. Popular stops include Koro and Lakeba, both celebrated for their scenery and living culture. Adventurers looking for authenticity over convenience will find time here marked not by the hour, but by the ebb and flow of the village cycle.