French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France and is comprised of 118 islands and atolls, spread out over several archipelagos in the South Pacific Ocean. Some of the most popular travel destinations in French Polynesia include Bora Bora, Moorea, the Marquesas Islands and many more. These destinations offer a wide range of experiences, from relaxing on pristine beaches and exploring vibrant coral reefs to discovering the rich cultural heritage of the islands and participating in a variety of water-based activities. Here are 11 travel destinations to choose from in French Polynesia, making it a popular and diverse travel destination.
1Moorea
Moorea is a beautiful island in French Polynesia, located in the Society Islands archipelago. It is located about 17 km northwest of Tahiti and is famous for its stunning scenery, including lush green mountains and stunning blue lagoons.
Moorea is a popular travel destination for tourists seeking a tropical paradise. The island offers a range of activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving in its coral-filled waters, hiking in its lush mountain forests, and relaxing on its beautiful beaches. Additionally, visitors can also explore the local culture, visit traditional Polynesian villages, and sample the local cuisine, which features a mix of French and Polynesian flavors.
2Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a stunningly beautiful island in French Polynesia and is often considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. It is located in the Society Islands archipelago, about 260 km northwest of Tahiti. Bora Bora is known for its stunning scenery, including crystal-clear waters, pristine white-sand beaches, and a stunning volcanic peak at its center. The island is also surrounded by a magnificent coral reef.
In addition to its natural beauty, Bora Bora is also renowned for its luxurious resorts and overwater bungalows, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island’s breathtaking beauty. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities on the island, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and more.
3Raiatea
Located in the Society Islands archipelago. Raiatea it is considered one of the most sacred islands in Polynesian culture and is known for its stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage. The island is also home to lush tropical forests and several waterfalls, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the local environment.
Raiatea is also known for its cultural heritage, including several ancient maraes (temples) and the Taputapuatea marae, which is considered one of the most important in Polynesian culture. Visitors can also learn about the local culture and traditions by visiting traditional Polynesian villages, experiencing local music and dance, and trying the local cuisine.
4Maupiti
Maupiti is a small island in French Polynesia, located in the Society Islands archipelago. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and its relatively undeveloped and unspoiled state, making it a popular destination for those seeking a more authentic and relaxed tropical island experience. The island is surrounded by a stunning coral reef, making it a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and exploring the local environment, including its lush tropical forests and pristine beaches.
Maupiti is also known for its traditional Polynesian culture, with visitors able to experience the local way of life by visiting traditional villages and participating in cultural events and activities.
5Tuamotu Islands
Tuamotu Islands in French Polynesia are considered to be a great travel destination for those who are looking for a tropical island getaway. These islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, making them a popular spot for activities such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing.
In addition, the Tuamotu Islands are also home to a number of historical sites and cultural attractions, such as traditional Polynesian villages and ancient stone temples. The local cuisine, which is a blend of French and Polynesian influences, is also a highlight for many visitors.
6Rangiroa
Rangiroa is one of the largest atolls in the world and is located in the Tuamotu Islands of French Polynesia. It is known for its stunning beauty, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Rangiroa is also home to several unique and interesting attractions, such as the Tiputa Pass, which is considered one of the best diving spots in the world. Here, you can see large schools of colorful tropical fish, dolphins, manta rays, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Rangiroa is also a culturally rich destination, with a strong Polynesian heritage and traditional villages that offer a glimpse into the island’s history and way of life.
7Tikehau
Tikehau is a small atoll located in the Tuamotu Islands of French Polynesia. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, lush tropical vegetation, and abundant marine life. This makes Tikehau a popular destination for water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins and manta rays. Tikehau is also known for its unique and luxurious accommodations, including overwater bungalows and beachfront villas. These accommodations offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of Tikehau and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating stay on the island.
Other popular activities on Tikehau include exploring the local village, visiting the historic church, and experiencing the local culture and traditions of the island’s residents. The island is also a great destination for bird-watching, with a number of species of seabirds and shorebirds found on the atoll.
8Manihi
Manihi is worth visiting for those who are looking for a remote and unspoiled tropical island getaway. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique black pearl industry, Manihi offers visitors a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Manihi is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing. In addition, the island’s thriving black pearl industry offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and process of pearl cultivation and even purchase their own pearls.
The island is also home to luxurious accommodations, including overwater bungalows and beachfront villas, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of Manihi and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating stay on the island.
9Fakarava
Fakarava is a popular destination for water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins and manta rays. The atoll is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourists and those interested in learning about the unique and fragile ecosystem of a tropical atoll.
Fakarava is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a local village, historic church, and unique Polynesian customs and traditions. Visitors to Fakarava can experience the local culture and learn more about the history and way of life of the island’s residents.
10Marquesas Islands
The Marquesas Islands are considered one of the most remote and unspoiled destinations in the world, with towering volcanic peaks, lush tropical forests, and pristine beaches. This rugged beauty and sense of isolation make the Marquesas Islands an attractive destination for adventure travelers, nature lovers, and those who are looking for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experience.
The Marquesas Islands are also home to a rich Polynesian culture, with traditional villages, ancient stone structures, and unique art and dance styles. This cultural heritage adds another layer of interest and depth to the islands, and makes them a fascinating destination for those who are interested in learning more about the Polynesian way of life.
11Austral Islands
The Austral Islands are a remote archipelago located in French Polynesia and are considered one of the most remote and least visited destinations in the world. The Austral Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, with rugged volcanic peaks, lush tropical forests, and pristine beaches. This remote and unspoiled beauty makes the Austral Islands an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure travelers.
The Austral Islands are also home to a rich Polynesian culture, with traditional villages, ancient stone structures, and unique art and dance styles. The Austral Islands offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience for those who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in a remote and stunning tropical paradise.