List of the 14 Oceanian Countries and Their Capitals

Oceania — the smallest continent by landmass, yet one of the most fascinating in its diversity — is a stunning collection of island nations scattered across the vast Pacific Ocean. Stretching from Australia and New Zealand to the remote archipelagos of Micronesia, Polynesia, and Melanesia, this region offers a rich mix of indigenous cultures, colonial legacies, volcanic landscapes, and turquoise coastlines.

Though Oceania is sometimes overshadowed by larger continents, its countries play vital roles in global biodiversity, tourism, climate change advocacy, and cultural preservation. Each Oceanian country boasts a capital city that reflects its unique heritage — from the modern urban life of Canberra to the lush, laid-back charm of Apia.

In this guide, we provide a complete, alphabetized list of all 14 independent countries in Oceania along with their capitals, regional groupings, and helpful information for students, travelers, and curious learners.

Oceanian Countries and Their Capitals

1. Australia – Canberra
2. Fiji – Suva
3. Kiribati – South Tarawa
4. Marshall Islands – Majuro
5. Micronesia (Federated States of) – Palikir
6. Nauru – Yaren (de facto capital)
7. New Zealand – Wellington
8. Palau – Ngerulmud
9. Papua New Guinea – Port Moresby
10. Samoa – Apia
11. Solomon Islands – Honiara
12. Tonga – Nukuʻalofa
13. Tuvalu – Funafuti
14. Vanuatu – Port Vila
     

1. What is Oceania?

Oceania is a geographical region that includes Australasia (Australia and New Zealand), Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.

2. How many countries are in Oceania?

There are 14 independent countries in Oceania.

3. Which is the largest country in Oceania?

Australia is the largest country in Oceania, both in land area and population.

4. Which country has the smallest capital city in Oceania?

Nauru, with its de facto capital Yaren, has one of the smallest administrative centers in the world.

5. Is Oceania the same as Australasia?

No. Australasia is a subregion within Oceania that includes Australia, New Zealand, and nearby islands.

6. Which Oceanian capital is furthest south?

Wellington, New Zealand, is the southernmost national capital in the world.

7. Do all Oceanian countries have capital cities?

Yes, though in Nauru's case, Yaren is considered a de facto capital despite not being officially designated as such.

8. What languages are spoken in Oceania?

English is widely spoken across many Oceanian countries, alongside native Pacific Island languages, French, and others.

9. Are all countries in Oceania island nations?

Yes, except for Australia which is a continental landmass.

10. Is Papua New Guinea part of Oceania?

Yes. Papua New Guinea is in Melanesia and is one of the most linguistically diverse nations in the world.
 

Oceania may be the smallest continent, but it’s one of the richest when it comes to cultural diversity, ecological beauty, and island heritage. Whether you’re exploring the volcanic highlands of Papua New Guinea, the lush forests of Vanuatu, or the urban energy of Sydney and Wellington, the countries of Oceania each offer something uniquely unforgettable.

This list gives you a helpful snapshot into the political geography of this incredible region. From travelers to educators, anyone with a curiosity about the world will find Oceania a place of endless fascination.