Map of Polynesia

Polynesia is a large grouping of over 1,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. The Polynesian people are thought to have originated in Southeast Asia, and they began migrating to the Pacific islands around 3,000 years ago. Today, Polynesia is often divided into three main subregions: Micronesia, Melanesia, and Polynesia proper. Polynesia proper is further divided into five main cultural groups: Tahiti and French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands, and Easter Island. Each of these island groups has its own unique geography and culture. Polynesia is a beautiful and varied region of the world that is well worth exploring.