In this episode we talk about escaping the beaten path to discover lesser-known but spectacular spots for swimming with whales in the South Pacific. From the rugged coastline of Niue to the untouched coral gardens of Lifou Island, this guide is perfect for adventure seekers and wanderlusters craving intimate, awe-inspiring experiences with nature.

Discover when to plan your trip—typically between July and October—and which islands offer the most rewarding interactions with humpback whales. We cover five key destinations: Tonga’s Ha’apai and Vava’u islands, Moorea and Rurutu in French Polynesia, Niue’s unique limestone terrain, the tranquil Cook Islands, and the Loyalty Islands of New Caledonia.

Each location promises its own adventure. Swim in open waters with mother-and-calf pairs in Tonga, explore the dramatic underwater cliffs of Rurutu, or enjoy a quiet moment with a breaching whale off the shores of Aitutaki. This episode also offers insider travel tips, like the best time of day for encounters and how to choose ethical, conservation-minded tour guides.

More than just a travel episode, this is a guide to transformative encounters—moments where you're not just an observer, but part of the marine world. Let this episode transport you far and away to the heart of the Pacific, where whales roam freely and memories are made beneath the waves.