From hiking through dense jungles to hopping into a kayak, these islands offer thrilling experiences. Explore underwater wonders, ride the waves, or soar above it all.
Swim through underground caves where the water is clear as glass. Or, take a plunge with cliff jumping on the stunning island of Aitutaki.
1. Ziplining
If you’re in search of a heart-pounding adventure, ziplining is an amazing way to get your thrills while soaking up stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Originating as a highly practical means of transporting supplies or observing wildlife in the rainforest, modern zip lines are a fast-growing outdoor activity that millions participate in.
Embark on your ziplining experience with a reputable tour company to ensure your safety and comfort. Listen to your guides, and remember to keep your hands away from the cable to avoid injury. Some facilities even offer eco-tours, such as Skyline’s Hawaiian Islands adventure, which allows visitors to enjoy the spectacular scenery without impacting or disrupting nature’s ecosystems.
2. Jungle Trekking
Jungle trekking, or hiking in the jungle, is a thrilling adventure activity that can be done in many tropical islands. The terrain can be very challenging, but the scenery is breathtaking.
Jungles can be full of exotic flora and fauna, from wild orchids to pitcher plants that gulp down insects and flies. Hiking in the rainforest also requires a lot of preparation, including knowing how to dress appropriately.
For an unforgettable experience, embark on a jungle trek in the Cook Islands. Explore the island’s luscious forests on the Cross-Island Track and admire cascading waterfalls. Or, take to the skies and witness the spectacular aerial vistas of the volcanic landscapes on a helicopter tour. Be sure to bring a camera to capture your epic journey.
3. Cliff Jumping
A tropical paradise isn’t just about gorgeous beaches and vibrant coral reefs, it can also offer a number of heart-pumping adventure activities. These thrilling island adventures will leave you feeling exhilarated and ready for more.
Cliff jumping can be intimidating, especially for those who have never done it before. However, you can increase your confidence by watching experienced cliff jumpers before taking the plunge yourself. During this time, you can ask questions about the spot’s conditions and what to expect.
Bruised feet, compound fractures, and paralyzation are all possible outcomes of a cliff jump. To minimize these risks, always check the water depth at your proposed jumping spot before making a leap. If the water appears too deep, you should wait for another day. Also, avoid jumping when there is a surge on. It can pin you to the rocks at the bottom of the cliff.
4. Kiteboarding
One of the fastest growing sports in the world, kiteboarding is an exhilarating experience that will get your adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re an expert or a newbie, there are plenty of spots around the world to enjoy this sport.
Jericoacoara in Brazil is a windy paradise, known for its vast uncrowded lagoons and great wave surfing during the winter months. It’s also home to a vibrant kitesurfing community, tucked away behind the sand dunes in a protected national park.
Another amazing spot is Dakhla in Morocco, located on the edge of the Western Sahara desert. It’s one of the best flat water kitesurfing destinations in the world, and just a few hours away from Europe on a 1-stop flight. It’s perfect for beginners thanks to its shallow waters and large flat surface. You can even try a hydrofoil, which gives you the sensation of flying above the sea.
5. Parasailing
Thrill-seekers who want to experience the feeling of flying while gliding over the water should consider parasailing. This activity requires no previous experience and can be safely enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. It is best to choose a location with calm waters, as choppy or wavy water can make the ride more nerve-wracking.
There are several different types of parasailing, including tandem parasailing, in which two people are attached to the same parachute and towed behind a boat together; and solo parasailing, in which a person is attached to the parachute and towed alone. Some companies even offer wakeboarding parasailing, in which the parasailer performs stunts and tricks while being towed by the boat.
New Caledonia is a tropical paradise with a wide variety of heart-pumping adventure activities. From exploring vibrant underwater worlds to scaling rugged mountains, the archipelago has something for every adrenaline junkie.
6. Snorkeling
Snorkeling is an easy adventure that allows participants to see marine life – from fish to sea turtles – in their natural habitat. It requires minimal equipment, including a snorkel tube and mask.
While snorkeling does not require any special training, it is important to understand the basic skills and safety precautions before embarking on a snorkeling expedition. This will allow you to enjoy this activity without worrying about a potential mishap that could ruin your experience.
Visiting Costa Rica or Vietnam is an ideal way to experience spectacular marine ecosystems. You can also swim with manta rays in Bora Bora, witness the incredible biodiversity in Isla del Cocos or explore the Devil’s Crown in the Galapagos Islands.
7. Scuba Diving
The ocean’s mysterious kaleidoscope of colors and marine creatures are bound to take your breath away. Whether you are exploring shipwrecks, underwater caves, or kelp backwoods, the pristine waters of Micronesia will transport you to another world.
Roatan, the largest island of the Bay Islands in Honduras, offers a variety of dive sites with spectacular drop offs and walls. There are a multitude of coral reefs bursting with color and sea life. You may encounter stingrays, dolphins, and even sea turtles.
If cavern diving is your thing, the Riviera Maya in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is brimming with flooded caves and caverns known as cenotes. This is a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers! Scuba diving can also be a great way to meet people and make friends. Many friendships and even marriages have been formed from scuba diving experiences.
8. Surfing
Surfers use a surfboard to ride on the forward section, or face, of a moving wave. It is a surface water sport that can be practiced on ocean shores, lakes, or riverine wave pools. The sport requires a high level of fitness, athleticism, and knowledge of oceanography and meteorology.
Oceanography is an important discipline for surfers because it helps them understand tides, currents, and water temperature, which all affect surfing conditions. Also, surfers must know about marine biology because the ocean is teeming with sea creatures that can threaten them.
Grenada’s Frigate Bay is an excellent spot for surfing, with mellow waves perfect for beginners and advanced surfers. The island’s west coast is home to the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park, where you can dive or snorkel and view dozens of growth-covered sculptures. Alternatively, you can explore Harrison’s Cave on a swim-through adventure through this natural wonder that is filled with picturesque stalactites and stalagmites.
9. Sailing
Sailing is a thrilling boating activity that uses wind to propel the sails and move the boat forward. It can be done competitively or non-competitively on lakes, rivers, and the open ocean.
Sailing can be a challenging sport for beginners but it’s a great way to get out on the water and relax. It’s also a great way to enjoy the views and wildlife around the coast.
Sailing can be a thrilling experience for thrill-seekers, especially when racing against other boats. A large sailing competition between different boats is called a regatta. You can race with other yachts, dinghies, or even powerboats. The anticipation of a bite, the struggle to reel in a big fish, and the sense of accomplishment when you land your prize are all exhilarating. Sailing is also a sustainable form of boating that doesn’t use any engine power.
10. Sky Diving
The Caribbean is known for its world-class stretches of beach but there’s much more to this tropical paradise than its tranquil waters and beautiful islands. Thrill-seekers can scale mountains, hike through jungles, and even sky dive, creating an unforgettable and adrenaline-fueled tropical adventure.
Rarotonga has plenty of great beachside boulders for rock climbers, with lots of moderate bolder routes – V5 and up. Thrill-seekers can also take to the skies and discover the island from an entirely different perspective with a helicopter tour.
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Cook Islands and their vibrant coral reefs, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. Strap into a harness and get pulled up in a parachute-like sail, experiencing the sensation of weightlessness as you soar above the stunning landscapes below. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that will make you feel like a superhero.
