No matter how much you hear about the 118 islands that comprise the 5 idyllic archipelagos that make up French Polynesia, nothing can prepare you for the breathtaking scenery of the islands’ towering volcanic peaks, rugged cliffs, emerald lagoons and stunning palm-fringed beaches. Despite being heavily influenced by French culture, the region has managed to retain its own colourful and distinctive culture through its traditional food, music, and local handicrafts. Divers and snorkelers can marvel at the area’s extraordinary range of marine life, while hikers explore the islands' lush jungle-clad volcanic mountains. History enthusiasts are equally well sated with numerous archaeological sites revealing traces from its Pre-European past. With all of this remarkable scenery, diverse marine life and fascinating culture on offer, it is no wonder that French Polynesia has become one of the Pacific’s most exclusive and popular tourist destinations
Tahiti is the stuff of legends and Gauguin paintings, and with good reason. the island’s scenery is second to none: spiked volcanic mountains blanketed with lush jungle, deep valleys, and pristine black-sand beaches melting into aquamarine ocean. But R&R is not all Tahiti has to offer - leisure activities on offer include taking a 4x4 safari into the island’s mountainous interior, world-class surfing at Teahupo’o and Tahiti Iti, and exploring the ancient archaeological sites at Huahine. And for those looking for entertainment, the island’s capital, Papa’ete, has a vibrant waterfront area and a lively nightlife. The most festive time of the year is during the Heiva festival in July, whihc is celebrated with drumming, dancing and widespread exuberance.
Dubbed ‘the world’s most beautiful island you’ve never heard of’ by Huffington Post, Mo'orea forms part of the Society Islands archipelago in French Polynesia. It is indeed arrestingly scenic - an interior of jagged volcanic peaks blends into sandy beaches surrounded by calm, crystal clear waters protected by a coral reef. In this tranquil lagoon you can dive with manta rays, sharks and vividly coloured fish, go paddleboarding or fishing, or enjoy a scenic sunset cruise. Alternatively, go hiking along rainforest trails leading up the slopes of Mo’orea’s interior mountains, or head to the Belvedere Lookout point to enjoy breathtaking views over the island and Tahiti beyond.
Travellers looking to escape the crowds and relax in a secluded little pocket of paradise should head to the Tahitian island of Raiatea. Dubbed 'the sacred island', Raiatea is rich with history and ancient legends. This fascinating heritage gives Raiatea her unique charm and an intriguing sense of place. The large protected lagoon around Raiatea and her smaller sister island of Tahaa, makes the area a dream destination for sailing, deep sea fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts. The calm waters are brimming with marine life and are dotted with numerous tiny islets boasting gorgeous white-sand beaches. Whether you are looking to explore her inner jungles or sail the sapphire blue waters on a chartered catamaran, Raiatea is an ideal spot for a romantic getaway.
Aptly dubbed ‘The Vanilla Island’, the small, tranquil island of Tahaa is famous for its abundance of sweet-scented Tahitian vanilla orchids and is arguably the quietest and most unspoiled of The Society Islands. Along with Raiatea, Tahaa’s larger and more developed sister island, the island is surrounded by a single continuous coral reef which encloses a magnificent translucent lagoon dotted with some spectacular, secluded little islets blessed with pristine, secluded beaches. The waters surrounding Tahaa are home to a number of caverns, shipwrecks, and shallow coral gardens creating a paradise for avid scuba divers and snorkelers. Visitors can also enjoy jet skiing, fishing, sailing or hiking the island’s fertile valleys and sloping hillsides covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves.
Holiday destinations don’t get much more idyllic than Bora Bora. Known as the ‘Jewel of the South Seas’, it has been consistently voted among the best islands of the world. Its mountainous interior is swathed by verdant jungle and encircled by a vividly turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef. Bora Bora’s setting lends itself to a host of aquacentric activities, with snorkelling and scuba diving at the top of the list due to the rich marine life supported by the surrounding barrier reef. Other popular leisure options include jet-skiing, boat cruises, kitesurfing and - for more adventurous travellers - parasailing and sky-diving. The island’s main settlement, Vaitape, is dotted with boutiques and restaurants, where you can indulge in retail therapy or sublime cuisine respectively.
Only a short 35-minute flight from French Polynesia's capital, Papeete, lies the quiet, secluded island of Huahine, one of the leeward islands of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. This tropical paradise features stunning scenery, magnificent indigo lagoons, empty beaches and isolated coves, as well as great diving and snorkelling. The island is also home to the most extensive complex of pre-European marae in French Polynesia. Known as the ‘Garden of Eden’, Huahine is still one of French Polynesia’s best kept tropical secrets. The main township of Fare consists of a tiny strip of shops and cafes where the locals come to buy groceries or grab lunch. There is little in the way of souvenirs and certainly no touts. It also has a noticeable lack of luxury resorts, which allows the island it retain its authentic, untouched, island atmosphere.
As previously described
As previously described
