French Polynesia: Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Beyond

Embark on a journey to the breathtaking islands of French Polynesia, where sun-drenched white sand beaches, turquoise clear water, lush landscapes, and luxurious resorts await.

From the vibrant culture of Tahiti to the iconic overwater bungalows of Bora Bora and the untouched beauty of Moorea, each island offers a slice of paradise like no other.

Let’s talk about the best times to visit, top activities, and our favorite resorts.

Best Time to Visit French Polynesia

French Polynesia enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season, from May to October, offers sunny days and lower humidity, making it an ideal time to visit.

November to April brings the wet season, with occasional showers and lush green landscapes. However, keep in mind that French Polynesia is a popular destination, so be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak travel months.

Tahiti: The Gateway to Paradise

Begin your French Polynesian adventure in Tahiti, the largest and most populous island in the archipelago. All international flights land and depart from Faa’a Airport in Papeete on the island of Tahiti. From there, you’ll be connected to domestic interisland flights. But we recommend a day or two on Tahiti to explore the vibrant capital of Papeete, where bustling markets, art galleries, and cultural landmarks await.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Paul Gauguin Museum, dedicated to the renowned French artist who found inspiration in the islands’ beauty.

Top Resort Recommendation for Tahiti Island

InterContinental Resort Tahiti

For a luxurious stopover, indulge in the world-class amenities of the InterContinental Resort Tahiti, offering stunning views of Moorea across the turquoise lagoon. Conveniently located near the airport, it’s a blessing after a long day of flying. The resort provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak in the beauty of French Polynesia before continuing your island-hopping adventure. We also recommend getting a day pass here on the last day since your departing flight will most likely depart late at night.

Bora Bora: The Jewel of the South Pacific

No trip to French Polynesia is complete without experiencing the iconic beauty of Bora Bora.

Bora Bora is renowned as the ultimate destination for experiencing the iconic overwater bungalow stay. Originating in French Polynesia, these unique accommodations seamlessly blend into the breathtaking landscape, making a trip to the islands synonymous with indulging in an overwater bungalow experience. With its pristine turquoise lagoon and majestic Mount Otemanu as a backdrop, Bora Bora boasts the largest selection of 5-star overwater bungalow options among all the Tahitian islands, ensuring a truly luxurious and unforgettable escape.

Top Resort Recommendations in Bora Bora

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Perched on a private motu (islet), the Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers unrivaled views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Immerse yourself in luxury with spacious overwater bungalows featuring glass floors, private plunge pools, and stunning sunset vistas. Indulge in world-class cuisine at the resort’s gourmet restaurants or rejuvenate your senses with a pampering treatment at the hilltop spa. With its secluded location and impeccable service, the Conrad promises an unforgettable escape.

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Nestled along the pristine shores of Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon, the Four Seasons exudes timeless elegance and tranquility. Stay in luxurious overwater bungalows or beachfront villas, each meticulously designed for ultimate comfort and privacy. Dine under the stars at the resort’s acclaimed restaurants, unwind with a signature spa treatment, or embark on an underwater adventure with the resort’s on-site marine biologist. With its unparalleled service and breathtaking surroundings, the Four Seasons promises a truly unforgettable stay.

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa

Experience eco-luxury at its finest at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa, nestled between the turquoise lagoon and the lush hills of Bora Bora. Indulge in the resort’s renowned Thalasso Spa, featuring treatments using nutrient-rich seawater harvested from the depths of the Pacific. Stay in spacious overwater villas with private terraces and glass-bottom floors, offering mesmerizing views of the marine life below. With its commitment to sustainability and authentic Polynesian hospitality, the InterContinental offers a truly unique and rejuvenating retreat.

St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Step into paradise at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, where luxury meets legendary service amidst the stunning beauty of Bora Bora. Stay in elegantly appointed overwater villas or beachfront suites, each featuring luxurious amenities and breathtaking views of the lagoon. Indulge in world-class dining at the resort’s gourmet restaurants, unwind with a signature treatment at the Miri Miri Spa by Clarins, or simply relax on the pristine white sands of the private beach. With its unrivaled elegance and attention to detail, the St. Regis promises a truly unforgettable island getaway.

Exploring the Other Society Islands in French Polynesia

While Tahiti and Bora Bora may steal the spotlight, the other Society Islands offer their own unique charm and allure, waiting to be discovered.

Moorea: Nature’s Playground

Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti lies the idyllic island of Moorea, renowned for its lush mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Explore the island’s rugged interior on a 4×4 safari tour, hike to panoramic viewpoints for stunning vistas of the surrounding lagoon, or snorkel alongside colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.

Tetiaroa: The Private Paradise

Tetiaroa, once Marlon Brando’s private retreat, is a secluded haven of pristine beauty and exclusivity. Home to the luxurious eco-resort, the Brando, this private island offers unparalleled tranquility and natural splendor. Indulge in barefoot luxury, immerse yourself in the island’s rich biodiversity, and experience sustainable luxury at its finest.

Raiatea: The Sacred Island

Raiatea, known as the ‘Sacred Island,’ is steeped in Polynesian history and culture. Explore ancient marae (temples), embark on a guided tour of the island’s archaeological sites, or hike to the summit of Mount Tapioi for panoramic views of the surrounding lagoon. Raiatea also serves as the gateway to the stunning island of Taha’a.

Taha’a: The Vanilla Island

Adjacent to Raiatea, Taha’a is known as the ‘Vanilla Island’ for its lush vanilla plantations and intoxicating aroma. Discover the island’s rich agricultural heritage with a visit to a vanilla farm, embark on a guided snorkeling excursion to explore vibrant coral gardens, or simply unwind on secluded beaches fringed by swaying palms. Taha’a offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, where time seems to stand still amidst the natural beauty of the South Pacific.

Exploring Beyond: Cruising French Polynesia

To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of French Polynesia, consider embarking on a cruise to explore multiple islands in one seamless journey. Windstar and Paul Gauguin Cruises offer exceptional itineraries, allowing you to discover hidden gems and remote atolls while enjoying the comforts of a luxury yacht or small ship. From snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons to dining under the stars, a cruise through French Polynesia is a voyage of a lifetime.

What To Do When You Get There

Snorkeling and Diving: Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of French Polynesia, home to colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and majestic marine life. Snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons or embark on a scuba diving adventure to explore hidden caves and underwater canyons.

Water Sports: From kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skiing and kiteboarding, French Polynesia offers endless opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Glide across pristine lagoons, ride the waves of legendary surf spots, or embark on a thrilling parasailing adventure high above the azure waters.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of French Polynesia with cultural experiences such as traditional dance performances, handicraft demonstrations, and visits to ancient marae (temples). Learn about the art of Tahitian tattooing, sample local delicacies at bustling markets, or participate in a traditional outrigger canoe race.

Hiking and Nature Exploration: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the lush landscapes of French Polynesia on scenic hiking trails. Trek through verdant rainforests, scale rugged mountain peaks, or discover hidden waterfalls tucked away in secluded valleys. Nature lovers will delight in the diverse flora and fauna found throughout the islands.

Romantic Escapes: French Polynesia is synonymous with romance, making it the perfect destination for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Enjoy sunset cruises, private beach picnics, and candlelit dinners under the stars. Renew your vows in a traditional Polynesian ceremony or indulge in a couples’ massage overlooking the lagoon.

Adventure Tours: Get your adrenaline pumping with adventure tours such as 4×4 safari expeditions, helicopter tours, and zip lining adventures. Explore the rugged terrain of the islands, soar above breathtaking landscapes, or embark on a thrilling off-road adventure through remote valleys and forests.

French Polynesia captivates with its natural beauty, rich culture, and luxurious accommodations. Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or relaxation, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, and beyond offer endless possibilities for an unforgettable getaway. So, pack your bags and escape to paradise – adventure awaits in French Polynesia.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Ready to embark on your journey to French Polynesia and create unforgettable memories? We’re here to turn your dreams into reality. With our expertise in crafting tailor-made experiences, we ensure that every aspect of your trip aligns perfectly with your desires, providing you with the ultimate convenience and peace of mind.

Leave the logistics to us – from handpicking the ideal accommodations to arranging seamless transportation, we handle every detail with precision and care. With our concierge service, you can sit back and relax while we take care of your spa appointments, activity bookings, and dining reservations, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable vacation.

As a bonus, our clients often enjoy exclusive perks and amenities, including complimentary upgrades and daily breakfast, adding an extra layer of luxury to your journey. So why wait? Get in touch with us today and let’s start planning your extraordinary adventure in French Polynesia.

“Loved working with Rose who helped plan our dream vacation to Bora Bora to celebrate our 30 year wedding anniversary. She made the process easy and was very thorough. She checked in often and made sure we had everything ready and planned so we could enjoy our wonderful trip. I highly recommend counting on Rose and Where to Go Travel for all of your travel and vacation needs.” – D. Beaman