Tahiti Travel Guide
The islands of romance, lagoons and legend.
Moorea
Moorea sits just across the lagoon from Tahiti yet feels worlds away. A short ferry or scenic flight brings you to an island of dramatic green peaks, crystal lagoons and a pace of life that invites you to slow down and breathe in the beauty of French Polynesia.
Often described as the most naturally beautiful of the Society Islands, Moorea is known for its striking volcanic mountains, lush valleys and two magnificent bays – Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay – where jungle-covered peaks rise sharply from the sea.
The island is a paradise for those who love the water. Calm lagoons provide ideal conditions for snorkelling, kayaking and lagoon excursions where encounters with rays and reef sharks are common. Beyond the lagoon, Moorea’s interior offers rewarding adventures, from scenic drives and hiking trails to visits to pineapple plantations and panoramic viewpoints.
With a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful resorts and welcoming Polynesian hospitality, Moorea offers the perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity — an idyllic island retreat just moments from Tahiti.
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is the jewel of French Polynesia, renowned for its breathtaking lagoon and iconic overwater bungalows. Encircled by a coral reef and dotted with tiny islets known as motu, the island is a vision of turquoise waters, white sand beaches and dramatic volcanic peaks rising from the heart of the lagoon.
Often regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, Bora Bora is dominated by the towering presence of Mount Otemanu, an ancient volcanic peak that forms a spectacular backdrop to the island’s famous lagoon.
Life here centres around the water. Lagoon excursions reveal vibrant coral gardens, colourful marine life and opportunities to swim with rays and reef sharks in crystal-clear waters. Sunset cruises, paddleboarding and snorkelling are all part of the relaxed rhythm of island life.
With world-renowned luxury resorts, intimate beachfront retreats and some of the most romantic scenery in the South Pacific, Bora Bora is a destination that truly lives up to its legendary reputation.
Huahine
Huahine is often described as one of the most authentic islands in French Polynesia, where lush landscapes, quiet villages and a deeply rooted Polynesian culture create a peaceful island escape. Far less visited than its neighbours, Huahine offers a glimpse of the islands as they once were.
Separated into two islands, Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, and surrounded by a tranquil lagoon, the island is rich in natural beauty. Dense tropical forests, hidden bays and ancient archaeological sites are scattered across the landscape, revealing a fascinating cultural history.
The calm lagoon provides excellent opportunities for snorkelling, fishing and leisurely boat excursions, while inland roads lead to traditional villages, vanilla plantations and sacred marae temples that tell the story of ancient Polynesian life.
With its relaxed pace, friendly local community and unspoiled scenery, Huahine is the perfect destination for travellers seeking a quieter and more authentic Polynesian experience.
Raiatea & Taha’a
Raiatea and Taha’a share one of the most beautiful lagoons in French Polynesia, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture and relaxed island life. While connected by the same lagoon, each island has its own distinct charm and character.
Raiatea, known as the cultural heart of Polynesia, is home to the sacred Marae Taputapuātea — one of the most important historical and spiritual sites in the Pacific. Surrounded by lush mountains and deep bays, the island is also a favourite starting point for sailing adventures through the Society Islands.
Just across the lagoon lies Taha’a, often called the Vanilla Island. Fragrant vanilla plantations, quiet villages and coral gardens make this peaceful island a true tropical retreat. Its surrounding motu are home to intimate resorts and some of the most beautiful lagoon scenery in Tahiti.
Together, Raiatea and Taha’a offer a wonderful balance of culture, adventure and tranquillity, making them a rewarding addition to any Tahiti island journey.
Rangiroa / Tikehau
Rangiroa and Tikehau lie within the Tuamotu Archipelago and offer a very different experience from the volcanic islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora. These low-lying coral atolls are surrounded by immense lagoons of brilliant turquoise water and are renowned for their extraordinary marine life.
Rangiroa is one of the largest atolls in the world and is famous for its spectacular diving. The Tiputa Pass is particularly well known, where strong currents attract schools of fish, reef sharks and even playful dolphins, making it one of the most exciting dive sites in the South Pacific.
Nearby Tikehau offers a more tranquil island escape. Known for its pink sand beaches and calm lagoon waters, it is a haven for snorkelling, fishing and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Tuamotu islands.
Together, Rangiroa and Tikehau provide an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking pristine lagoons, remarkable marine life and the simple magic of remote Polynesian islands.
