Most people dream of taking a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to somewhere far away and exotic. Whether you’ve been squirreling away cash for more than a decade or are just starting to consider a trip, here are some exotic South Pacific vacations that are sure to wow.

South Island, New Zealand

New Zealand’s larger island has less than half of the country’s population, so if you want to get away from it all, this is definitely the spot. You’ll find wildlife and scenery here that’s unlike anything else in the world. Mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, and pristine coastlines make the South Island’s landscapes some of the world’s most picturesque. Skiing, scuba diving, and hiking await the adventurous, while world-famous vineyards, glamorous boutique hotels, and relaxing spas are in store for those who need some pampering.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s majesty would set it apart from all other states, even if the Pacific hadn’t already done the job. Stunning landscapes, rich underwater worlds, and a noble history—this is one tropical paradise with serious depth. Vitamin D deficiencies melt away under the Hawaiian sun, all without the hassle of a passport. You won’t need to convert currency to take surf lessons, explore active volcanoes, or go whale watching. Really, the only difficulty is choosing which island to visit: Do you prefer the pristine beauty of Kauai, the modern luxury of Oahu, the award-winning beaches of Maui, or the natural wonders of the Big Island? Willing to get farther off the beaten path? Then Molokai or Lanai might be worth a visit.

Tasmania, Australia

In 2013, Tasmania, Australia’s southernmost state, will celebrate its 30th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Join the festivities on the wild island, where wombats and wallabies roam free. The island offers an unspoiled Australian adventure like no other. Check out Cradle Mountain National Park’s diverse wildlife and catch a peek of the eponymous Tasmanian devil. Or dive the coast’s calm waters and explore shipwrecks, exotic aquatic life, and crystal-clear Wineglass Bay.

Tahiti

Five amazing archipelagos, 118 islands, one paradise. Tahiti is less than eight hours from Los Angeles, but it may as well be in an entirely different universe. The South Seas islands promise emerald waters, white-sand beaches, and, oh yeah, overwater bungalows. Embrace leisure with a unique banana-tree-leaf body wrap, culture on a tour of small villages, or adventure on a shark-feeding expedition. Or, simply start out the day in your overwater bungalow with breakfast delivered by canoe.

Adelaide, Australia

Often considered one of the world’s most livable cities, Adelaide celebrates year-round with food and art festivals, as well as major sporting events. As the wine capital of Australia, the city’s reds and whites get high praise. Adelaide is also the jumping-off point for Kangaroo Island, which is one of the prime places in Australia to see animals in their natural habitats.

Which of these destinations would you like to visit right now? Tell us about your dream exotic vacation!

Source: Yahoo Travel

Image: Smarter Travel