Celebrated for its relaxed pace, French Polynesia is the perfect place to slow down. Here, time revolves around food, drink, culture and revelry, inviting guests to embrace a more leisurely way of living — even if only for a few days.
The Islands of Tahiti, including gems like luxurious Bora Bora, are treasures waiting to be discovered, each with its own signature style, promising unique and unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the top spots to visit among its 118 islands and atolls.
Tahiti
The largest of the Society Islands, Tahiti was formed by two volcanoes — the older, larger Tahiti-Nui in the northwest, and Tahiti-Iti in the southeast — resulting it its distinctive figure-eight shape and mountainous terrain.
Tahiti is the economic, cultural and political center of French Polynesia. The island has a beautiful waterfront where yachts, ferries and cargo boats come and go, and a thriving market full of South Pacific atmosphere. Those who fly commercially typically begin their journey in Tahiti by landing in Papeete.
Moorea
Moorea is close to Tahiti and offers its coral reefs as a distinguishing characteristic popular with tourists. While snorkeling or diving, you can see the beautiful and vibrant colors of the reef fish in their natural habitat. Moorea’s topography includes Mount Rotui which lies between two enormous inlets, Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.
Raiatea
The second-largest island in the Society Islands chain, Raiatea is a popular destination for sailing and deep-sea fishing and shares a coral reef and lagoon with neighboring island Taha’a.
Taha’a
Taha’a is known for its spice production. It is commonly known as the Vanilla Island because of the many fragrant vanilla orchids. The island is mostly dense forest and shaped like a flower.
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Book NowTetiaroa
Tetiaroa is the private island that was home to actor Marlon Brando. The island is now home to The Brando, the resort that carries his namesake, which celebrates and preserves Tetiaroa’s pristine beauty, offering the ultimate sustainable luxury for discerning travelers.
Huahine
A natural wonderland steeped in authentic Tahitian tradition, Huahine is home to copious marine life and is surrounded by coral. Culturally preserved and surrounded by lush vegetation, there’s an assortment of hidden temples scattered throughout the island.
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is the Society Islands’ honeymoon retreat. It is also where the overwater bungalow style of residence originated. The lagoon on Bora Bora is pristine, a veritable paradise where snorkeling and diving are common pastimes. With a romantic atmosphere popular with couples and newlyweds, the beaches of Bora Bora offer year-round opportunities for watersports and a relaxing scene for lounging in the tropical sun.
Rangiroa
Rangiroa is the largest atoll (a low tropical island created by coral rising up above the sea level) in the Tuamotu islands and the second largest in the world. From the air, it appears like a pearl necklace laid upon the water. More than 200 tiny motus (islands) wind along a fragile reef where infinite schools of marine life fill the iridescent waters.
Tikehau
Approximately seven miles from Rangiroa, Tikehau is an oval-shaped atoll that consists of a series of flat motus, surrounding a pristine, magnificent lagoon packed with thriving and varied species of marine life. The real draws here are the fishing, beaches and incredible snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. If you enjoy miles of beautiful pink sand beaches, sparkling turquoise water and a peaceful atmosphere, you will love Tikehau.
The Marquesas
The Marquesas are considered some of the most remote islands in the world. Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands, is a mountainous bounty of forests and stunning beaches. With the Vaipo waterfall, one of the tallest in French Polynesia, and a volcano, Nuku Hiva is difficult to beat for adventure and sights.
Visiting Multiple Islands
While some travelers prefer to stick to one island and make the most of resort living, others prefer to spend their visit island hopping. With ample air and sea transfers available, you can see as much as French Polynesia as you desire. If you enjoy cruising, you can book one of several cruise lines offering French Polynesia itineraries through Pleasant Holidays.
Where to Stay
Make the most of your time on the Islands of Tahiti with a stay that captures French Polynesian tranquility and charm. Book now and save.
This resort recently completed a multi-million dollar refurbishment and features 122 rooms and overwater suites, six restaurants, spa, fitness center and Kid’s Club. The King Pool Overwater Villas are 1,302 square feet with a private pool and incredible sunset views.
A prime waterfront location just five minutes from Faa’a International Airport, the city center and the maritime port. The The Hilton Hotel Tahiti’s restaurants and bars offer convenient spaces to indulge in local and international cuisine, while its casual marketplace makes it easy for guests to stock up on snacks and supplies before a day of adventure. The resort also features a spa and the largest outdoor pool in French Polynesia.
This secluded resort features a garden, beach and overwater bungalows on the edge of the second largest lagoon in the world. The restaurant offers continental cuisine with barbecues on Wednesdays and Sundays with a Polynesian dance show.
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Set at the edge of a lagoon (ideal for snorkeling) on the longest white-sand beach on Moorea, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is a perfect place for honeymooners and anniversaries. Overwater, beachfront and garden bungalows embody the pristine beauty of the destination with natural materials and luxurious amenities. The resort also boasts an on-site restaurant, a spa, two shops, an excursions desk and diving and nautical center.
Located on the secluded Motu Tautau facing the island of Taha’a on one side and stunning views of Bora Bora on the other, Le Taha’a is a luxury hideaway inspired by Polynesian architecture and style. Its overwater bungalows feature wrap-around decks with steps down to the crystal-clear waters below. Surrounded by tropical gardens, 12 beach villas include plunge pools and direct beach access, while affording privacy within their walled gardens. Three restaurants, a spa, fitness center, tennis court, outdoor swimming pool, scuba diving center and a helipad are also among the standout amenities.
This Polynesian-style resort offers 37 very spacious beach bungalows, overwater bungalows and suites with access to isolated pink-sand beaches and a lagoon teeming with tropical marine life. The bungalows are constructed with natural wood and feature private verandahs. The bar and restaurant are located poolside with views of the translucent lagoon.
Start planning your Tahiti vacation! Ask your AAA travel advisor for your $50 per booking discount at time of booking.
Featured image: Conrad Bora Bora Nui. Photo courtesy of Pleasant Holidays.
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