Explore the Best Destinations in French Polynesia

How do you envision yourself on your dream vacation? Perhaps lounging on the deck of an overwater bungalow, or scuba diving amidst dolphins, sharks, and rays? In French Polynesia, you can indulge in all these experiences and more.

Often associated with luxury travel and high-end resorts, French Polynesia offers much more than just lavish accommodations. Whether you are an adventure seeker, an ocean lover, or a cultural enthusiast, here are some remarkable places to visit in French Polynesia.

Bora Bora

The Best for a Luxury Escape

Bora Bora stands out as the most romantic of French Polynesia’s islands. Renowned for its luxurious resorts featuring overwater bungalows, it is a top choice for honeymooners.

For an authentic luxury escape in Bora Bora, choose a resort located on one of the motus surrounding the main island. This offers postcard-worthy views of the azure lagoon alongside Mount Otemanu. The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is notable for these camera-friendly vistas, plus, if you’re looking to splurge, their overwater bungalows come with private pools and decks, allowing an enchanting experience directly from your balcony.

Insider tip: Bora Bora’s resorts can be pricey; however, traveling outside of the high season may yield better deals.

Mo’orea

The Best Place to Swim with Whales

Among the incredible experiences French Polynesia offers, swimming with humpback whales in Mo’orea is a highlight. From July to November, humpback whales frequent the area, sometimes even venturing into the lagoon.

Local companies in Mo’orea facilitate safe swimming opportunities, ensuring that regulations are followed to protect these majestic creatures. Witnessing these massive mammals up close is an unforgettable experience, and if you’re lucky, you might hear their songs as well.

Insider tip: The best time to observe whales is between August and October, especially when mothers and calves are present.

Huahine

The Best Island for a Road Trip

If you’re considering a scenic island drive, Huahine is perfect for exploration. Despite being one of the larger Society Islands, it can be easily navigated by car in a day, offering a rich assortment of attractions from archaeological sites to stunning beaches and lush vanilla farms.

A visit to Avea Bay is essential, as is stopping at the Panorama de Tefareii for remarkable views. One unique highlight is meeting the sacred blue-eyed eels in Faie, which, from being fed by locals over the years, are accustomed to human interaction.

Insider tip: If you plan on renting a vehicle in French Polynesia, be prepared to drive a manual; automatic cars are quite rare.

The Marquesas

The Best Islands for History and Culture

Situated four hours north of Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands are among the most remote yet captivating islands globally. Known as ‘The Land of Men,’ they are celebrated for traditional Polynesian tattoos and artistry.

For those seeking authentic souvenirs from French Polynesia, the local artisan markets in the main villages are a treasure trove. Here, you can discover everything from seed necklaces to intricately carved artifacts.

The dramatic landscapes of the Marquesas are equally stunning. Unlike many other islands, they lack lagoons, featuring instead towering cliffs that drop into the ocean, creating a wild and untouched atmosphere.

The two main islands, Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa, are both captivating. Nuku Hiva showcases striking scenery, while Hiva Oa features the highest concentration of tikis in French Polynesia, including the impressive Tiki Takaii.

The Tuamotus

The Best Islands for Scuba Divers

The Tuamotus comprise a chain of islands renowned for their stunning scuba diving opportunities. Tikehau, Fakarava, and Rangiroa are the three primary islands that cater to divers.

Rangiroa is particularly famous for its resident dolphins. At Tiputa Pass, a pod of approximately 30 dolphins can be observed year-round, and several of them are known for their playful interactions with divers.

Fakarava is recognized for its diverse shark population. Two significant passes, Tumakohua (south) and Garuae (north), offer exceptional diving experiences, with the south pass being renowned for its impressive shark sightings.

In Tikehau, Jacques Cousteau famously called it the fishiest atoll in the world, evident as you descend to find yourself surrounded by vibrant marine life, including schools of colorful fish and curious sharks.

Insider tip: Early reservations for diving are crucial due to limited spots and dive shops available on the islands.