Islands
Bora Bora
So much has been written about Bora Bora that it’s hard to describe its magic. Novelist James Michener wrote that Bora Bora is “the most beautiful island in the world.” It certainly makes the most dramatic first appearance, especially if you arrive by air. Surrounding the small island is the most stunning multi-shaded blue and turquoise lagoon in all of the South Pacific.
Moorea
Many people have described Moorea as the most beautiful place on earth, and it’s this magical island that inspired James Michener to write about mythical “Bali Hai.” Moorea is only 11 miles from Tahiti, and one of the features that is so striking about this island is the jagged peaks and spires that give the island its unique profile.
Tetiaroa
Tetiaroa is part of the Society Islands in French Polynesia and is considered an extension of the Arue commune. Fittingly, the island name is a Polynesian word meaning “stands apart” or “at a distance.” The inner lagoon, which is only 3 miles wide, is completely enclosed and protected by 13 surrounding coral islets.
Huahine
Huahine is a spectacular island. The people are friendly, the forests are lush, and the mountains are beautiful. It’s as beautiful as Bora Bora or Moorea but far less crowded. Visitors have just recently discovered this quaint island, where you can experience a more traditional Polynesian way of life. The beaches are unmatched in beauty and the anchorages welcome you with charm and enchantment.
Tahiti
Tahiti, often called The Island of Love, is the largest and most well known of the 115 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. Crystal-clear water, spectacular coral reefs and black sand beaches surround Tahiti. Tahiti’s landscape consists of towering volcanic peaks reaching over dense rainforests of soft ferns and then plunging deep into the sea.
Rangiroa
Rangiroa, with its 42-mile long by 16-mile wide turquoise lagoon, is the largest atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago and the second largest atoll in the world. Only an hour’s flight from Tahiti, Rangiroa offers sunshine, white coral beaches and an immense playground for water sports and activities including some of the best diving in the world.
Raiatea & Tahaa
Raiatea and Tahaa are two neighboring islands that share the same beautiful lagoon.
Tikehau
About 200 miles northeast of Tahiti lies the Tuamotu Archipelago, composed of the largest collection of coral atolls in the world. The waters of the Tuamotu is a diver’s dream. Whether you opt for shallow, ocean or drift dives, the underwater scenery will be some of the most spectacular you’ve ever seen.
Manihi
If you’ve dreamed of being stranded on a deserted island with all of the modern conveniences, tiny Manihi could be the place for you.
Marquesas
Named “The Land of Men” by their original Polynesian settlers, the volcanic Marquesas Islands offer some of the most dramatic landscapes and mysterious native culture on the planet. A perfect destination for travellers looking to surround themselves in untamed beauty and exotic civilization.
Other Islands
French Polynesia consists of 118 islands, many of which have small resorts where travelers can experience nature and Polynesian culture.