What activities to do in French Polynesia?

I recently resumed writing articles on the Polynesian territory because I realized that there were still some gaps! Even after writing more than 50 articles on French Polynesia, I still receive many email requests, especially on topics I haven’t covered yet. Which one comes back the most? Which activities in French Polynesia to choose for my trip? So yes, FINALLY, I decided to write my own “bible” including, island by island, all the activities in French Polynesia.

So, I want to specify from the beginning that I am not going to list all the possible activities by islands, because depending on the islands, there are too many. But I will try to give you what I consider as the most interesting ones to consider during your vacations in French Polynesia. We have recently spent more than six years on these islands of French Polynesia and have visited the 5 archipelagos of the territory several times. In other words, we are in a position to talk about the activities on the islands!

In this article, I will rely on our experience, our six years on the islands and all the activities we had the opportunity to try, even with the blog created in 2017 (since we arrived in 2015). I will also add other activities that were recommended to me by friends living there, some of whom have been living there for decades. Finally, many of you have sent me feedback by email or comments about specific activities in some islands. So I will try to include as many interesting activities as possible for everyone. Everyone’s taste is different, and even if I’m not a fan of jet skiing, I’ll tell you where to do it!

Of course, whether you decide to go to French Polynesia with a travel agency or not (useful article if you hesitate), it will be impossible to do all the activities in all these islands. The budget would be far too high. In this article, we will mainly talk about paid activities to do on the islands. This doesn’t mean that this is all you should do, and on many islands (especially on remote ones), there will always be free activities to do that can be just as nice, or even better. I’m thinking of hiking, snorkeling, walking in villages, visiting archaeological sites, etc. We wrote a complete guide to travel cheaply on the Polynesian territory.

Melanie and I are not fans of paid activities. But we have to admit that in French Polynesia, there is a lot to enjoy with the paradisiacal landscape and especially that some discoveries can only be made during a paying trip. One of the first ones coming to my mind was my flight over Bora Bora and Tupai atoll by seaplane! I would miss adjectives to describe the beauty of the place and the sensation you get in the air to observe one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world!

Of course, we will not be able to detail everything, but I will try to give you as much information as possible so that you can choose the perfect activity or activities for your trip in French Polynesia. I might as well say it right away, this article required a huge work of compilation, like the one that summarizes all the accommodations where to stay in French Polynesia that we recommend. Due to the demand from French and English speakers, we will even write a more complete guide on all the possible activities in Bora Bora.

Here we go. I’m giving you a large table of contents to make things easier for you. I deliberately wanted to split the article in two. First, you can choose to click on the island you are interested in and check the activities you could do during your vacation. Or, you can simply click on an activity that interests you in the table of contents and look at where you might consider doing it. In this section, we give our opinion on the subject. Indeed, it is quite possible to do a lagoon trip or 4×4 trip inland as well in Bora Bora, Moorea or Tahaa. It’s a matter of taste, choice and budget. Even if, finally, depending on the type of activity, we could recommend you to do it again in several islands, of course, this is only our opinion and you might not agree, but it’s always good to have an enlightened opinion from people who know the territory very well, right?

Small clarification: I often refer to the article on Manawa’s website. It’s a serious activity website that I’ve been using for years and that I particularly recommend. I use it now here in Guadeloupe to test activities! You can go there with your eyes closed, no worries. By going through the links on this page, you contribute to support our blog since we earn a small commission on the sale. For you, the price will not be more expensive in any case. Thanks for your support and I hope you’ll like the article!

I wanted to give my personal opinion on the subject. From my experience there and from the dozens of emails I receive every day, I know that for many people, French Polynesia is a dream and the trip of a lifetime. Clearly, people don’t want to miss out on something and I understand it quite well. Knowing that most of you try to plan your itinerary in advance, I find that it is finally the most logical thing to book your activities on each island.

It ensures that you have enough places, and allows you to start dreaming of a boat ride in Moorea or a helicopter flight over Bora Bora. Of course, you don’t have to do it, but for less classical activities, I would say that it is really better to do it.

A few quick words. Being the most visited archipelago during classic itineraries in French Polynesia, you will find the most activities on this archipelago, whether it is by land, sea or air. High islands are numerous and it will be an opportunity to visit the inner islands, for example by 4×4. But the lagoon trips, and even more the flights over the islands from the sky remain magical on some spots.

Even if the island of Tahiti is clearly not the most visited island during a trip to French Polynesia, you will still find many activities to do for those who will spend three or four days here. I particularly recommend land oriented activities on a high island (fly over the interior of the land, quad, 4×4, etc.)

Here is the table below, summarizing activities that we recommend on the island of Tahiti.

If someone asks me what activity to do in Tahiti, I would definitely say a canyoning session in the lava tubes. I also realize (shamefully) that I didn’t take the time to publish the article on the subject which is ready. I had indeed had the opportunity to test (by my own means) this activity, and honestly, it was extraordinary. It is the only way to do this canyoning activity in Tahiti with an official guide!

The program of my full-day: a lot of walking in the river and in the lava tubes (caves made in the basaltic rock), abseiling, jumps in the river in the dark, all in a wet, exuberant, natural scenery, in the depths of the island of Tahiti. Honestly, if you are sporty and if you like nature, this is the best activity to do on the island of Tahiti in my opinion. You can’t regret it.

BOOK MY CANYONING TRIP FOR MY VACATIONS

For those preferring a calmer activity on Tahiti and if you want to get a great different view of the island and its grandeur, then why not consider a helicopter flight over the island? The cost is a bit higher, but honestly we would expect worse in French Polynesia.

You will be able to choose what kind of landscapes you want to fly over as a bonus: turquoise lagoon, green valley, steep lands, vertiginous peaks. Plenty to see. Personally, if you like aerial views (who doesn’t?), I think it’s a perfect gift for a birthday for example. Between 10 and 30 minutes of flight, depending on the route.

FLY OVER THE ISLAND OF TAHITI BY HELICOPTER

This is an activity that I regret not having done when we lived there. We could see them flying over us while we were at the beach with the kids and I must admit that it makes you want to do it. Perfect for thrill seekers, a paragliding flight allows you to discover the beauties of the island, both on the land and on the sea side (Punaauia lagoon, flying over the beaches, Matatia valley, waterfalls, etc.).

During 1h30 to 2h of flight, depending on the route, it is a very nice way to observe the island from the sky, in a calm atmosphere, since you won’t have any engine here. Only the winds will make you drift in the Polynesian sky. As a bonus, you will be offered a free video of the trip!

ENJOY THE AERIAL VIEWS IN PEACE AND QUIET BY PARAGLIDING

This is an activity that we had the opportunity to do several times, with family or friends, each on our own. This is an occasion to get to know the interior of a tropical island like Tahiti. During the day, you will discover luxuriant vegetation, waterfalls, river crossings, peaks in the clouds or steep cliffs!

Many service providers exist in Tahiti, we have tested several of them, but the one that comes up often is Tahiti Safari Islanders. There are other possibilities, of course! If you are looking for a way to discover a high island and all its secrets, this is a good way. Be careful, you’ll have to drive a lot during the day anyway!

GO ON A 4×4 TRIP IN TAHITI

As I said in the introduction, I’m not a big fan of jet skiing, but I know that a lot of people like it! However, if you enjoy this kind of thrill on the water, taking a jet ski tour on the lagoon is clearly a good idea. You get to choose between 30 min and 2 hours, but you can also do a sunset tour.

You are with Olivier, your guide, and discover the lagoon. On the tour program: discovery of several coral gardens, local surf spots or (if you are lucky), a ride with dolphins or whales during the season. As a bonus, you get a cup of coffee/tea on your way back and can enjoy the beach at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa. The company and the instructor have a very good reputation locally!

JET SKI EXCURSION IN TAHITI

Here is another activity that is really worth a look if you take the time to stay a few days in Tahiti. It is an alternative way to the 4×4 day trip to discover the beauties of the interior of Tahiti. The level of sensation will obviously be higher since you will be driving a quad while you are “simply” transported in the 4×4 trip.

Melanie and I have tried this quad ride in Tahiti and we honestly loved it. The excursion lasts half a day, and you get to explore the inner part of the island up to the famous lake Vaihiria. A guide explains a lot about the local life, fauna/flora, legends… and you will have the opportunity to have a little “fruit” break in a beautiful place!

EXPLORE LAKE VAIHIRIA BY QUAD

Here is a great excursion to consider for nature and off-the-beaten-track discovery fans. While I am not sure I would recommend a “classic” trip on the Tahitian lagoon (there are much better places for that), a half-day or full-day boat trip around the peninsula, I would recommend it 100%. As an added bonus, the company that offers it has a very good reputation locally.

On the agenda: discovery of the Tahitian peninsula region starting from the Teahupoo marina. You will leave for the “Teahupoo wave” area, reputed to be one of the best surfing spots in the world, then you will discover the area known as “Fenua Aihere”, the only area cut off from the road on the island of Tahiti, accessible only by boat. You will also be able to swim in the Vaipoiri cave, a great experience, personally tested! I did the walk in the area and the views of the coast and the green mountains in the distance are just breathtaking! If you want to discover Tahiti and its beautiful landscapes from the sea, this is the way to go!

ENJOY THE PENINSULA BY BOAT

When it comes to surfing, the island of Tahiti is the place to be. There are quite a few surf spots for beginners or intermediates and if you want to take some private or group lessons, I think you are in the right place!

I unfortunately didn’t have the opportunity to get back into it during my time here in Tahiti, but it’s clearly something I enjoy, even though I started when I was living in New Caledonia. Tahiti is a mythical surfing spot and I think it’s really worth it to come and try it!

GO FOR A SURFING LESSON!

Here is a peaceful activity to do when you are on the island of Tahiti. Many of you asked me how to book this trip in advance. Well, it’s here! You’ll have to go to the marina of Teahupoo, to embark in the boat which will take you to the famous wave of the area, one of the most dangerous in the world.

You won’t be there to get in the water or to surf, but to observe this giant of the sea! The guide will tell you why this wave is world famous and depending on the season and the size of the “monster”, you will probably have the opportunity to observe local surfers, facing the wave! It’s a small activity that will only take you an hour and won’t cost much. In addition, you will have the opportunity to see the beautiful coastline which (in my opinion) is the most beautiful in Tahiti around here: wild, calm, green. In short, magical places.

OBSERVE THE WAVE OF TEAHUPOO

I gave you the activities that I thought were really interesting to consider above. You won’t do them all, but among them, there are some very nice things worth doing here in Tahiti. What you can also do in Tahiti:

• Scuba diving: with Eleuthera or Mobydick Tahiti (more remote)
• Skydiving: for those who love aerobatics and breathtaking views
• Take a whale watching tour
• Learn to kite surf

This is a change of scenery on the island of Moorea. It is, as I often say, the closest and easiest postcard to reach from the island of Tahiti. A short half-hour boat ride and you experience a change of scenery and rhythm. Moorea is an island that has been developing a lot in the last few years, and you will find a lot of activities to choose from. Here is the one I particularly recommend.

You will find a summary of the 10 activities I particularly recommend in Moorea in the table below.

As much as I did not really recommend a whale watching trip on the lagoon of Tahiti, but considering the excellent reviews I got from this trip, it is really something I want to suggest to you on the island of Moorea. Of course, if you want to see whales during your trip in French Polynesia, you will have to be here between July and October. But if you are, you will not regret this trip.

This outing will allow you to discover the fauna and flora of Moorea’s lagoon. Out of the whale season, with which you may be able to swim, you will be able to observe and/or snorkel with other marine wildlife of the area, such as rays, dolphins and sharks! The excursion can be done for half-day or full-day, which I recommend to really enjoy your day on the lagoon. As a bonus, drinks and fruits are offered during the excursion!

DISCOVER THE FAUNA / FLORA OF MOOREA

This is really an excursion that we loved and that I recommend 100% to all the people who spend a few days on the island of Moorea. For me, it only has advantages: the price is acceptable, it is not too long, and above all, it allows us to discover Moorea lagoon in a peaceful and ecological way. For me, it is the best of the best.

During your outing, you will be supervised by a professional guide and you will be able to get into the water in various places of the lagoon, all as beautiful as the others. The real advantage of this type of outing, according to me, is to be able to discover things in a peaceful way, without noise and at your own pace. The company, which has an excellent reputation locally, offers different packages. However, I have a crush on the three-hour morning kayak tour and the two-hour sunset tour. What about you?

DISCOVER THE MARINE LIFE QUIETLY IN MOOREA

This is a complete change of style. If you are a fan of extreme sensations and you want to get a good view of it, flying over Moorea by parachute must be an extraordinary experience. I don’t know if I would have the courage to do it, but I really wanted to try it. When I see the beauty of the landscapes I had from my seaplane flight, I think that flying over an island as beautiful as Moorea from 3000 m of altitude must be superb.

You will enjoy the time to go up to this altitude of a flight over the island and I sincerely think that it must remain in memory for life. Then it’s off for 40 seconds of free fall before the parachute ride! So yes, this activity is clearly not for everyone, but if your better half has already told you about it (or you want to enjoy it alone!), I think it would make a great birthday present.

DISCOVER MOOREA FROM 3000 M HIGH BY PARACHUTE!

Do you want to discover this beautiful island of Moorea from the sky? You have a smaller budget, but you want to enjoy this experience longer in the sky? Then I think a helicopter tour in Moorea can clearly be the best solution. I think between us that if you had to choose an island to do a helicopter flight, I would surely choose Moorea or Bora Bora for their beautiful lagoon.

The 20 minute flight will allow you to observe the inside of Moorea Island, passing by Opunohu and Cook bays, the two famous bays of the island. You will also discover the wonderful pineapple plantations and the famous Mount Cook. I didn’t have the opportunity to take a helicopter tour when I lived there, but the aerial views are always beautiful. You can’t regret it.

FLY OVER MOOREA BY HELICOPTER

Here is a great classic that we had the opportunity to test several times. The island of Moorea is full of very interesting places to discover and I sincerely think that a 4×4 excursion on the island is very good. Franck, the guide, is really passionate and you will enjoy this half-day in 4×4. On the program of the day, several very interesting places among the great classics of the island: the Belvedere, but also the magic mountain which offers a breathtaking view on the lagoon.

The next part of your visit will be the Moorea Tropical Garden, a really interesting place, where we often enjoyed eating with Melanie. The surroundings are splendid and you will have here the opportunity to learn more about the local flora. You can also taste a lot of local products like jams, home-made juices and many other things. You will also visit a local distillery and end the tour in the pineapple fields! A must in our opinion for a very good price!

DISCOVER MOOREA BY 4×4

Even if I never had the opportunity to try this activity, I heard nothing but good things about it. That’s why I particularly recommend it. It is clearly not a classic lagoon tour. You will be with two enthusiasts who have built with their own hands a double canoe inspired by the ancient Polynesian navigators.

The main purpose here is to discover Moorea’s lagoon while learning about traditional sailing and listening to Polynesian legends. It is a very nice and alternative way to discover the island of Moorea. During your half-day on the turquoise water, you will have the opportunity to taste several local specialties. The reviews are excellent, you can’t be disappointed.

DISCOVER DIFFERENTLY MOOREA

Clearly, it is a change of style and we move on to a thrilling activity. Just like for the island of Tahiti, I sincerely think that a quad ride (if you like the idea) can be a very good way to discover this beautiful tropical island. It is more or less the classic tour of the island, the same one you could do in 4×4 (the one I mentioned above).

I would recommend this tour to younger people, in shape and looking for more sensations and fun. It’s a different way to discover the island, but just as nice. On the program: pineapple fields, visit of an agricultural high school, the Belvedere and the magic mountain!

EXPLORE MOOREA BY QUAD BIKE

Of course, this is not really an activity in itself, but rather a possibility. Not everyone is a big fan of discovering beautiful tropical islands by 4×4 or quad bike, which is understandable. So, there is indeed a possibility to rent electrically assisted bikes (EAB) for a half-day or a full-day.

It is a really nice, quiet and ecological way to discover this beautiful island. With these bikes, you can easily ride around the island during the day without (too) much effort. Of course, E-bike Moorea offers to deliver the bike and to pick it up wherever you want on the island. A good plan in my opinion!

RIDE AROUND THE ISLAND OF MOOREA ON AN E-BIKE

Moorea is an island full of hiking trails. Of course, most of the tourists don’t come here to discover hiking, but I think it’s a shame. Indeed, there are really many trails to discover and it allows without any doubt to get different points of view of the island and another vision of it.

Mana’hau Boat is a local company that offers this possibility. With its excellent reputation on the island, you will leave to discover several areas of your choice. Many choices are possible, but the great classic and the most accessible is the excursion in the valley of Oponohu and the “Col des 3 Pinus”. The program includes a stroll in the forest, the discovery of marae (archaeological sites), several panoramas, the 3 Pinus Pass and a visit to the pineapple fields. A superb 4-hour walk that will offer you a vision of French Polynesia!

EXPLORE MOOREA BY HIKING

Here is an activity that will really interest a lot of people. Indeed, French Polynesia is a great playground and a real possibility to discover for the first time the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. So, yes, let’s be clear, Moorea is not the most beautiful underwater place in French Polynesia, but for a first dive, I think it’s a very good choice.

I particularly recommend Moorea Blue Diving which offers this possibility of a first dive in the beautiful Cook Bay. The moment you arrive in this bay by boat in good weather will remain engraved in your memory. The spot is calm, shallow and ideal for beginners to learn scuba diving. In my opinion, it is much “safer” and less “difficult” than a first dive in the Tuamotu.

DIVE MOOREA UNDERWATER!

I sincerely think that I have covered all the activities that I thought were really interesting to recommend to you. However, as I said at the beginning of the article, there is something for all tastes and budgets and I can’t detail all the possible activities on the island of Moorea. However, I wanted to list a few other interesting possibilities in my opinion:

• Jet Skiing in the bays of Oponohu and Cook: a few hours of wonders for those who love sensations in a breathtaking lagoon!
• Sailing sunset on the lagoon: a great activity, for a reasonable price, for 1h30 of happiness in love at sunset!
• Sea scooter excursion: a very nice trip to consider to discover the underwater world in another way!
• Combo day hike and cruise in Moorea: a beautiful day that includes a half-day of discovery on the land side (hiking and discovery of pineapple fields) and the other on the sea side (snorkeling, swimming).
• Big game fishing: for fans of fishing, I particularly recommend this half-day or full-day activity on the lagoon!

Tetiaroa atoll is the only atoll of the Windward Islands. Very well-known locally but also by tourists, it is really a wonderful excursion that I recommend from the city of Papeete. For those who don’t have the time or the budget to go to the Tuamotu archipelago, I really recommend you to spend a full-day on a catamaran towards this magnificent atoll, with its crystal clear waters. Here is our article detailing what to do in Papeete.

If you click on the link below, it will give you our impressions on the day we recommend the most to everyone, the day trip with Poe Charter. We have been recommending this trip for years and you will not be disappointed. The day’s program includes: breakfast at the port of Papeete, a few hours of sailing in the middle of the ocean, discovery of the Tetiaroa atoll for several hours (walk inside the motus, swimming, snorkeling, bird watching), local meal on the boat and return. A day I would recommend to anyone coming to Tahiti.

In addition, I can offer you 10% with the special code Les Deux Pieds Dehors “les2pieds”.

BOOK MY TRIP WITH POE CHARTER

It is also possible to spend a full weekend on the atoll. Why not consider it?

This part of the Society Archipelago is the most visited during a trip to French Polynesia. The Leeward Islands are superb and allow the traveler for a first stay to observe a part of the beauty of French Polynesia. A part, because in my eyes, the remote archipelagos I talk about below (Marquesas, Australes and Gambier) offer another experience that unfortunately few tourists will try. Even if I realize that more and more people coming for a second trip are looking for something else, something different and more authentic in these archipelagos at the end of the world.

I am not going to go into detail here about the island of Maupiti, because as I said in my complete article on the subject (link above), there are not really that many paid activities to do on the island. I will only mention the 2 main activities: scuba diving and the lagoon trip.

I had the opportunity to dive several times in Maupiti and I always really enjoyed it. Not everybody will choose to dive on this island, but if you like diving, I think it’s really worth it to try it! The club is really cool, and they can pick you up at your accommodation. You will have the choice between a morning trip to the beautiful manta ray spot or in the afternoon (if the weather allows it) a dive on the ocean side (which I personally loved). You can book your dive by calling them or by contacting them on their Facebook page.

DIVING ON THE ISLAND OF MAUPITI

Here is the most classic trip that all tourists will never miss during a visit to the island of Maupiti. And clearly, this is an outing not to be missed. I did it several times during my visits to Maupiti and I always enjoyed it. To my knowledge, only Samy Tours offers this lagoon trip. But yes, all the guesthouses on the island also offer their own lagoon tours and it’s a matter of choice on your side. On the program of the day, a trip to the lagoon, swimming with manta rays, discovering the underwater world in several areas and a local meal on a motu. In short, a wonderful day.

OUTING WITH SAMY TOURS ON THE LAGOON

As for the islands of Bora Bora, Huahine and Raiatea, a new operator is now offering a superb activity on the island of Maupiti, a flight in a microlight. The view from the top must be magical! The best part is that the flight starts from Maupiti, so it’s really magical! On the programme is a 45-minute flight over one of the most beautiful lagoons in Polynesia!

Any advice? Don’t hesitate!

OVERFLYING MAUPITI

Here is an island that we love with Melanie for its calm and authenticity. We went to Huahine many times and we had the opportunity to do some activities. We also had a lot of feedback from other activities! In our opinion, these are the activities that you can consider on the island.

Here are the activities summarized in the table below.

This is a very nice activity to do to discover Huahine. It is a peaceful and easy way to enjoy all the interesting places to see around the island, including: visit the different villages, visit the ancestral fish traps (great place to take pictures), the sacred eels, the different viewpoints of the island, various maraes, etc.

In my opinion, this is one of the very nice activities to do during your stay on the island. You can consider the half-day trip, or (even better in my opinion to enjoy) the full-day with a local meal of course! You are in the hands of a local who knows his island like the back of his hand. A good point!

DISCOVER HUAHINE BY 4×4

For those who don’t really like organized tours like the one in 4×4 and if you prefer to discover Huahine on your own, then this possibility is perfect for you. E-bike Huahine indeed proposes the daily rental of an electrically assisted bike. It’s a nice, slow and ecological way to visit Huahine peacefully.

The main advantage of this option is that you can take your time and it is different from renting a car or taking a 4×4 trip. It won’t be for everyone, but if you like to do some sport, discover things slowly and at your own pace, then renting an electric bike to drive all 55 km will be a very good option!

DISCOVER HUAHINE AT YOUR OWN PACE ON AN E-BIKE

There are several service providers who obviously organize a trip on Huahine lagoon, but the one that comes up most often and that we particularly recommend is Huahine Nautique. The company has an excellent reputation locally and offers different tours according to your wishes. The most classic is the motu day (#Tour 4 on their website).

The tour allows you to discover the lagoon, to observe the underwater fauna and flora of Huahine with several stops on different snorkeling areas, visit a pearl farm, the tour of the island of Huahine Iti, and of course, a very good local lunch on one of the motus of the island. Considering the price and the day on the lagoon, I think it’s a great plan!

VISIT HUAHINE BY SEA!

As far as I know, there are two diving clubs on Huahine which offer diving trips. I had overall very good feedback from both clubs so it is quite difficult to advise you one more than the other. Still, Huahine is an island less visited than the others and even if I never had the opportunity to dive there, several friends told me good things about it. In my opinion, it is surely worth trying!

Here is an unusual activity that you can do in Bora Bora, Maupiti, Raiatea and now Huahine: fly over the island in a microlight.

I won’t say more, it has to be extraordinary, quite simply.

HUAHINE FROM ULM

Here is an island that I personally love with Melanie and the children. People come here for its calm, its authenticity, to visit vanilla plantations, to explore its lagoon and to hike a little! However, few tourists decide to spend a few days here during their vacations in French Polynesia. It’s a shame in my opinion because many people only spend one day there on an excursion from the island of Raiatea. It is certainly very good, but the island of Tahaa is full of nice things to do! For the moment, there are still few paid activities to recommend from the island of Tahaa itself.

Here are the activities summarized in the table below.

I have only found one company that offers lagoon tours from Tahaa island. Its reputation is excellent locally. This half-day tour will take you to discover the island of Tahaa in depth.

The trip brings you to visit Tahaa’s lagoon only, which is really good to go around. On the agenda for a few hours: snorkeling in different parts of the lagoon, walking in the coral garden, swimming with rays and sharks and even tasting seasonal fruits. I had great feedback from this trip!

DISCOVER THE LAGOON OF TAHAA

Unfortunately, flying over the island cannot be done from Tahaa. However, I don’t think it’s a problem, and even if you decide to stay 3 days on the island (which I recommend), you can easily get a shuttle to Raiatea to do this wonderful flight over Tahaa from Raiatea.

I did not have the opportunity to fly over Tahaa by helicopter but I had the opportunity to fly over the beautiful island of Bora Bora and the atoll of Tupai from the air. I have never seen anything so beautiful. The blue contrasts, the coral reefs, the details in the lagoon, the tropical vegetation and the shapes of the relief. Everything changes in another dimension from the sky. A piece of advice, don’t hesitate. Even if it costs a lot, you can’t regret one of the most beautiful things you will see! Several possibilities exist depending on the time you have and your budget, from the discovery of Tahaa, to the tour of Tahaa and Raiatea, and finally to the tour and visit of the interior of both islands (the most expensive, but also the longest and surely the most grandiose).

DISCOVER TAHAA FROM THE SKY

To my knowledge, there is only one diving club on Tahaa: Tahaa Diving. The feedback I got from the club is quite good and the marine life is really nice around Tahaa and Raiatea. If you want to come and discover the underwater world during your visit to Tahaa, this is the opportunity.

You also have the possibility to dive in Tahaa from the clubs of Raiatea which offer diving trips of course. The Tahaa Diving center is a small club, with a human size and pick-up from your hotel/pension is possible depending on where you are located. A nice experience to consider!

DIVING IN TAHAA

I finally decided to add this activity before publishing my article which I think is the best for many people. We often want to do something in the late afternoon or early evening and what could be better than an outing on Tahaa lagoon with a great local company with an excellent reputation?

Samuel will take you for two hours on the lagoon of Tahaa to admire the beautiful colors of the place and enjoy a great moment. All this will be accompanied by a good cocktail and some local music. If you love these little moments, you’ll love it!

ENJOYING THE SUNSET IN TAHAA

Tahaa Island is full of beautiful spots to discover on the land side. And yes, even if many tourists come to French Polynesia for its beautiful lagoons, turquoise waters and scuba diving, there are other things too. This small local company offers a half-day tour of the interior of the island of Tahaa.

On the agenda of the 4×4 trip: the discovery with Brian and Moeata of the vanilla valley (superb), the visit of a rum distillery and a pearl farm, as well as the discovery of the local flora. You will even have the opportunity to taste some fruits during your visit! A nice short excursion, not expensive and which will allow you to discover the beauties of the island of Tahaa.

DISCOVER TAHAA BY 4×4

Neighboring island of Tahaa, we learned to love it over time, during our many visits to the island. The island of Raiatea is not the most visited. However, it is full of activities, very nice hikes, a beautiful lagoon and magnificent white sand motus off the coast. 3 to 4 days on the island will not be too much. So, what activities to consider in Raiatea?

Here are the activities available in Raiatea summarized in the table below.

This activity is the first one because I think it is the best one to do in Raiatea. I had the opportunity to go up the Faaroa river during my numerous visits on the island and I have to say that it is really a great activity, not expensive and which allows you to discover another vision of the island and French Polynesia in general. To my knowledge, it is the only navigable river available in French Polynesia.

The trip lasts 3 hours, but honestly, you won’t realize how long it takes. You will enjoy discovering the local fauna and flora thanks to a passionate guide. The landscapes are breathtaking and several narrow passages are really nice. The company can pick you up if you are in an accommodation at less than 20 km. In my opinion, no need to think twice about it. If you are visiting Raiatea and you are a nature and landscape lover, this is the activity you need. You can also choose to visit the marae of Taputapuatea (by car) with the guide, which is a plus too!

DISCOVER RAIATEA BY KAYAK

I have already talked about this activity above in the activities you can’t miss on the island of Tahaa. This is the same activity, organized by Tahiti Nui Helicopters from Raiatea Island. As I said, it’s the opportunity to discover these beautiful tropical islands from the sky. This is a beauty that I recommend at least once in a lifetime to everyone. You have the choice between flying over Tahaa and Raiatea, both around and inside!

DISCOVER THE ISLAND OF RAIATEA FROM THE SKY

As for Tahaa and the helicopter flight mentioned above, it is the same activity. The advantage is that the departure is from Raiatea, the most visited island of the two. If I recommend this lagoon trip, it’s because it’s the best one and the one I had the most positive feedback from. Check it out for yourself and you’ll be amazed at the excellent reviews of this lagoon tour in Raiatea.

With a local guide, you leave for the day to discover the wonders of the island with a visit to a pearl farm, a vanilla plantation, a coral garden for a snorkeling stop and, of course, a great meal on a white sand motu. In short, you’ll have a great time and I’ll see you in the comments to tell me how it went!

ENJOY THE LAGOON OF RAIATEA AND TAHAA

I have to admit that I had the opportunity to do several hikes on Raiatea Island, but every time I was alone, with my GPS and my .gpx track downloaded from Wikilocs. I know globally how to find my way, so it’s ok. But, I don’t particularly advise going hiking alone in the deepest part of the island, especially if you are not used to it.

I found two service providers (see below) that you can contact to organize hikes on Raiatea. If you want to discover the inner beauty of the island, I strongly recommend it. The prices are similar: 5000 xpf/pers for the 3 waterfalls hike and 9000 xpf/pers for the Temehani plateau (full-day with transfers and a picnic)

Go hiking with

Raiatea Randonnées : [email protected] / 87.77.91.23
Temehani Randi : [email protected] / 87.27.23.00

Don’t hesitate to give me feedback if you test the activity with one of them!

There are two diving clubs that I know of on the island and I had very good feedbacks from both of them: Hémisphère Sub and Te Mara Nui Plongée. I have a friend who spent a lot of time diving on the island with his job and clearly, for him, Raiatea is a great diving spot. He is an MF1 and knows what he is talking about, so I trust him.

I couldn’t recommend you one club rather than the other, as I don’t know them and the feedbacks are good, so I let you test it and come back to tell me in comments what you thought about it! See you soon!

Here is a new service provider. They have just opened microlight departures from the island of Raiatea. I’ve had the opportunity to go seaplaning in Bora Bora and fly over its beautiful lagoon (it’s different) and I still think it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve seen in Polynesia. The views from the air are magical. Contrary to what you might think, the microlight is not that expensive and you get a great view.

Four flight options from Raiatea are offered by the company:

• Flying over Raiatea (30 min)
• Microlighting over the Motus of Taha’a (45 min)
• Microlight flight across Bora Bora, Raiatea and Taha’a (2 hours)
• Microlighting over Raiatea and Taha’a (1h30)

AERIAL VIEW OF RAIATEA, TAHAA’A OR BORA BORA FROM THE ULM (DEPARTURE FROM RAIATEA)

Let me finish this tour of the Leeward Islands with the most famous island in the world: Bora Bora. Of course, the island being touristy, the number of available activities is huge and I will detail all of them in a more complete article. But for the moment, I wanted to tell you first what are (according to me) the best activities in Bora Bora. I only mentioned paid activities here, but by clicking on the link above, you will of course find other free activities to do on the island.

Here are my top 10 activities on the island of Bora Bora summarized in the table below.

If you are planning a trip to French Polynesia, chances are you will spend a few days on the Pearl of the Pacific, the island of Bora Bora. You may or may not like this island, but no one will deny that its lagoon is one of the most beautiful in the world. Indeed, seen from the sky, it is the most beautiful thing I have seen during my six years in French Polynesia.

So yes, if you only had one paid activity to consider and if you can afford it, discovering Bora Bora from the sky is extraordinary. I flew over it by microlight, but the helicopter tour is just as wonderful. You have the choice between 3 flights, between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on the places you want to see, knowing that the longest flight also flies over the gorgeous uninhabited atoll of Tupai. A delight for the eyes!

WATCH BORA BORA FROM THE SKY

Rightly considered as one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world, it seems obvious to me to consider a lagoon trip on Bora Bora. You will find many service providers who propose sea outings and I had to make a choice based on my experiences and the feedback I got. I choose to recommend this very nice day trip including the guide, drinks, snorkeling equipment and lunch!

The day is marked by different classic but remarkable stops, a stop at the stingrays site, the one in the coral garden where you will be amazed, or finally why not swim with the sharks of the lagoon! You will then go to eat a good local meal on a beautiful white sand motu. I also decided to highlight this activity because of the use of a traditional pirogue, which is clearly different from a simple boat! A wonderful day!

SPEND THE DAY ON THE LAGOON OF BORA BORA

If you decide to come during the “good months” in French Polynesia, that is from August to November, which is often recommended to avoid the rainy season and the heat, there is a good chance that you will be there during the whale season. I had the opportunity to swim with them several times in French Polynesia, in Mayotte or in other places, and each time, it is always the same remarkable experience.

So, I could only advise you to go on a whale watching trip in Bora Bora. You will discover these marine mammals during 3 to 4 hours and with a little luck, you will even have the opportunity to go in the water with them! There are less providers in Bora Bora for whale watching, which is really appreciated. A must-see in my opinion!

WHALE WATCHING IN BORA BORA

For those who don’t have enough time but want to go on a small snorkeling trip to observe the sharks/rays of Bora Bora, I have selected this nice short 2h30 trip in the lagoon. It will be an opportunity to enjoy the lagoon and its beautiful underwater world in a simple and responsible way.

On the program, two stops: the first one on the famous spot of the coral garden, and the second one to the “lagoon” of Bora Bora. In my opinion, this type of excursion is really interesting for those wishing to spend a morning on the lagoon without necessarily doing a whole day. The feedback is very good, you’ll tell me about it!

A FEW HOURS UNDER WATER IN BORA BORA

Even if I recognize that Bora Bora is perhaps not (?) the most interesting destination for scuba diving, it is still true that the underwater world can be locally superb. And then, once again, everything will depend on what you have already seen or if it is for example your first dive.

As often for this kind of activity, there are several providers who propose to bring you underwater on the island of Bora Bora. So I had to make a choice and after a lot of research and opinions around me, I particularly advise you to try your first dive with the Eleuthera Bora Diving Center which has an excellent reputation on the island. You will be amazed if it’s your first time!

MY FIRST DIVING EXPERIENCE IN BORA BORA

As I said above, I am not necessarily a big jet ski fan, but there is something for everyone, and if there is a really nice place to do this kind of activity, it can be Bora Bora. The superb lagoon, the transparent water, and Mount Otemanu in the background… In short, there is enough to enjoy!

The jet ski ride lasts 2 hours and will allow you to go around this beautiful lagoon. From what I heard, the guide adapts the jet ski tour according to the level you might have, so no worries there! For thrill seekers, it will surely be a pure pleasure in this end of the world environment!

DISCOVER BORA BORA BY JET SKI

When we think about the island of Bora Bora, we immediately think about its beautiful lagoon and its turquoise waters. However, I know the interior of the island very well and it is full of beautiful places to discover. This nice 3 hour quad ride could be clearly a nice way to see all that!

Feedback of this activity and of the local guide are excellent, so no worries to recommend this trip. The quad ride will lead you to the discovery of several beautiful viewpoints (the famous WWII cannons), but also stops on a marae, while not forgetting to go along the beautiful beaches of the island. A last stop on a family field will allow you to refresh yourself with tropical fruits and coconut water!

VISIT BORA BORA BY QUAD

So, I almost didn’t include this activity, knowing that not many people would go for this beautiful adventure! I admit it, I have never skydived, but I still want to. And I know that a parachute jump at more than 3000 m from a plane over Bora Bora must be magical. And even if I didn’t have this chance, I think that mentioning it here might give someone the idea to do it or to offer it to their husband/wife who is an extreme sport lover?

I think this is surely one of the best places in the world to do this kind of jump! Just going up and flying over Bora Bora by plane is great (I did it by microlight) so if you’re a thrill seeker, I think it’s something you’ll never forget!

SKYDIVING OVER BORA BORA

I will end my top 10 activities to do on the island of Bora Bora with a great classic for couples and beautiful moments’ lovers. This outing, offered by Moana Adventures Tours, will allow you to discover the lagoon at sunset and to have a very good meal on the water.

For all couples who dream of a great moment with their half, on a traditional pirogue, I am sure that this type of trip, starting in the late afternoon, will delight you!

TO OFFER A CRUISE AND MEAL AT SUNSET

I end my tour of the best activities to plan in Bora Bora with a wonderful catamaran tour on the lagoon. Again, there are many options, but opinions are unanimous about this trip and this local company: you can’t be disappointed! It is a very nice and quiet way to discover Bora Bora.

You have several possibilities: spend a few hours on the catamaran, half a day, a full-day, or even privatize the catamaran for the day. If you are a large family or if you are visiting Bora Bora with friends, this could clearly be a great option to have your own little home for half a day!

CATAMARAN SAILING ON THE LAGOON OF BORA BORA

On the island of Raiatea, a new service now offers microlight flights over the beautiful island of Bora Bora and the Tupai atoll from Bora Bora. There are two options on the programme:

• Microlight flight over the island of Bora Bora (40 min)
• Flight over the island of Bora Bora and Tupai by microlight (1h)

I did it by hydroplane, I recommend it 1000%.

FLY OVER BORA BORA AND TUPAI BY ULM !

We’re at the end of what I consider the most beautiful activities to plan in Bora Bora. There would be others of course. To name a few other options:

• Parasailing, for the thrill seekers!
• Kite surfing lessons, to practice in a dream location,
• A few hours of stand up paddle the lagoon
• A wakeboarding session!

Here, this is a complete change of scenery and archipelago, as we come to discover the famous Tuamotu atolls, these pieces of land, always impressive from the sky! Besides, in your itinerary in French Polynesia, I recommend you to come and discover, at least for a few days (3 or 4), one of the famous atolls included in the Air Tahiti Pass: Fakarava, Rangiroa or Tikehau. I had the opportunity to discover other atolls such as Mataiva, Ahé or Kauehi, but these are not included in the classic tours.

I had the opportunity to go to Rangiroa atoll several times, but I could not do all the excursions that are usually recommended to tourists. However, I know a lot of people who have done them, so I can tell you a few things. I know however that you will have to choose and you will not necessarily make several excursions! You should also know that anyway, most of the guesthouses and hotels on the atoll offer more or less the same classic excursions that I talk about below: pink sand, reef island, green lagoon, blue lagoon and snorkeling with dolphins. The great classics.

Here are the activities I recommend in Rangiroa in the table below.

No doubt about it, this is Rangiroa’s most famous excursion, and there is a lot to be said for it! If you only had time to do one excursion, I would really recommend this one. Located in the west of Rangiroa atoll, this little piece of paradise is a mini lagoon inside the atoll’s lagoon. The place is surrounded by small white sand motu and the landscape is breathtaking!

A one-hour boat ride will get you there, but as soon as you get there, you will not want to leave, haha. Take the time to enjoy this beautiful spot with very shallow water, plenty of sharks and some really nice snorkeling places around! You will have the opportunity to eat a good local meal on the spot, to enjoy swimming and lazing around and for those who want to, to get in the water with black tip and lemon sharks! I was delighted with my day with this provider! As very often, you will have the opportunity to stop at the famous Tiputa Pass to watch dolphins jumping in the waves!

DISCOVER THE BLUE LAGOON OF RANGIROA

Located “on the other side” of Rangiroa’s main village, Reef Island (“l’île aux récifs” in French) is the other excursion often recommended. According to the providers, it is organized in conjunction with the visit of the ancient village of Otepipi. The only building still present is the old catholic church of Sainte-Anne. You will then enjoy the very beautiful sandy beach of the place, which strangely enough is largely higher than the rest of the area.

Once the visit of the village is over, you will leave in the direction of the reef island which offers a view of ancient dead corals rising several meters above the actual ocean level. Walking through these small channels surrounded by coral reefs is really a great experience. It reminds me of the walks in Mataiva in the same kind of scenery! In my opinion, this is clearly another boat trip to do during your stay.

CHECK OUT THE REEF ISLAND!

Change of scenery and location, since you will go to the extreme east of Rangiroa atoll, at the tip of the atoll one could say, called “Vaituri”. I did not have the opportunity to do this trip personally, but friends who did it gave me excellent feedback. It will take you about 1h30 by boat to get there and enjoy a dream day in a paradisiacal area.

After a walk around a bird island, you will have the opportunity to discover the beauty of the place which is composed of pink sandbanks, each one as beautiful as the other. Swimming in this place is always impressive and you feel alone in the world in this small part, which according to me, remains a very nice sensation!

DISCOVER THE PINK SANDS OF RANGIROA

You are free to judge the interest of this trip or not, but in my opinion, it can clearly be a great plan to have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins of Rangiroa. The 6 Passengers diving club offers this possibility. You go for a nice 1h30 trip.

On the schedule, some snorkeling in the famous spot of the Aquarium of the atoll, looking for dolphins and a possible swim (I say “possible” because it’s not a zoo!). And finally, you will drift, if the conditions allow it, in the Tiputa pass with fins, mask and snorkel, hoping to observe “big fish”. In my opinion, this is a nice trip for people who do not dive and who want to observe a lot of things too! In addition, the guide offers coffee/tea and will pick you up at your accommodation!

SNORKELING TRIP IN RANGIROA

This is a trip that we don’t hear much about and that I didn’t know, personally. However, I had some recent feedback and the pictures of the place are great. It is a natural cove with sublime colors, located only a few miles away from Avatoru Pass. The trip lasts half a day and allows the discovery of this paradisiacal place, less known than the other classic trips mentioned above.

I think it can be a very nice trip, especially if you spend several days in Rangiroa and if you have already visited the reef island, the blue lagoon or the pink sands. In any case, it is worth trying this outing, which, knowing the atoll, cannot be disappointing!

DISCOVER THE GREEN LAGOON OF RANGIROA

Many tourists who decide to visit the Tuamotu come mainly for scuba diving. Rangi’, as it is called locally, and Faka’ (for Fakarava) are the two most famous spots in French Polynesia for scuba diving. And for that, we can’t blame them, haha. I had the opportunity to dive several times and it is always a pleasure.

Afterwards, as often, it depends on what you already experience in terms of diving. Rangi is not necessarily the most beautiful spot I have seen underwater, because I think it lacks diversity, but if you are looking for big fish, you will be pleased! Clearly, you can dive with a hammerhead shark bank passing over you, manta rays circling you and dolphins dancing around you, haha. Not bad, right? Several clubs exist in Rangi, but I recommend “Rangiroa Diving Center” for their professional approach. On the program, a first dive (lagoon side) or for the more advanced, a drift in the Tiputa pass.

Note that Rangiroa Excursion also offers a snorkeling trip in the superb Tiputa Pass, a drift trip in a magical setting.

I had the opportunity to visit the Tikehau atoll during one week some time ago. It is really a beautiful place that I appreciate, which remains in my opinion a very nice alternative to Rangiroa and Fakarava if you do not dive. However, friends who have dived there have given me excellent feedback about it. Captain Jacques Cousteau called it “the most abundant and fishy atoll of the Tuamotu Islands” for a reason. To my knowledge, there are 3 diving clubs on the island.

I don’t have a personal reference to give because I didn’t have the opportunity to dive there, but I had excellent feedback from dives with Tikehau Diving, formerly (unless I am mistaken) “Tuamotu Diving”. It is the club with the best feedback in my opinion and from the information I have been able to glean recently, the underwater world is really very rich, full of fish and very interesting, and for some, as good as Rangiroa or Fakarava. I think that if you are passing by and you are a fan of scuba diving, you should go and try some dives!

DIVING WITH TIKEHAU DIVING

As on all atolls I want to say that, if there is an activity to consider, it is a day trip on the lagoon. So yes, as often, most of the guesthouses will propose their own day tour with more or less success. I did my own tour with the pension where we were staying, but I had excellent feedback recently from a provider that I want you to discover!

“Tikehau Ocean Tours” offers two tours, depending on whether you want to go for a full-day (which I recommend) or a half-day. I think that in half a day, you won’t really have the time to see the place. I really recommend 100% to do a nice day tour of the lagoon which will bring you to the different interesting spots of the atoll, especially the superb spot of the manta rays (magical!), but also to a coral garden, and other places like the pink sands! In my opinion, this is a must-see. Note that big game fishing tours are also available.

GOING OUT FOR THE DAY ON TIKEHAU LAGOON

Shamefully, I should say, I have not yet written an article about Fakarava, although I have been there twice, but on a whim. I have to get to it. If you are a fan of scuba diving, there is no debate, you must come to this atoll!

I must say that this is probably my biggest regret during my 6 years in French Polynesia, not to have dived in Fakarava. However, I went there twice. I certainly had the opportunity to do some nice snorkeling, which is already great, but no diving. A large majority of people coming here also come for scuba diving and the atoll is extremely well known for this.

It will be difficult for me to recommend one club rather than another and you will clearly have choices, both on the North Pass (where most of the clubs are) and on the South Pass of Fakarava. From what I could see of the South Pass (which is extraordinary, between us…), I would advise all divers to go there at least once, even if it means doing a day trip from your pension to the North Pass. You do not have to stay at the South Pass to dive there! I had good feedback from Dive Spirit Fakarava and O2 Fakarava.

This is one of the few atolls that I think you will be able to discover by quad. Yes, it’s a change from the high and mountainous islands (since it’s a flat atoll), but it’s a way to discover the atoll during a few hours. On the program, the discovery of the atoll through the visit of the lighthouse of Topaka, the visit of the village, some stops on beautiful beaches, all accompanied by a nice punch/local beers at your arrival. You will have the choice between a 2 or 3 hour trip.

DISCOVER FAKA BY QUAD

The same company, Fakarava Adventure, also offers nice jet ski trips on Fakarava atoll. This is obviously something different since it allows you to discover the beauties of the lagoon and the thousand shades of blue of the atoll. You can consider a 1h30 or 2h30 trip, always accompanied by a cocktail! For those who like pleasure, sensations and discovery of a splendid place.

JET SKIING IN FAKARAVA

This is one of the classic excursions when you spend a few days in Fakarava. It is one of the two (with the blue lagoon) that I recommend to everyone. Here too, you will find a lot of service providers and guesthouses that will propose you this tour in a general way that will lead you to the discovery of the famous “pink sands” of the atoll but also to the visit of the island of Tetamanu on the South Pass of Tumakoua.

On the program of your wonderful day, the discovery of this small island at the end of the world (it really is), a great snorkeling in clear waters (with rays, sharks, napoleons, etc.). The lunch break will take place in the pink sand area with a good local lunch as the Paumotu, the inhabitants of the archipelago, are so used to do. In short, a memorable day, with a return to the North Pass at the end of the afternoon.

DISCOVER THE SOUTHERN PASS / THE PINK SANDS OF FAKARAVA

Here is another classic outing that all accommodations offer in Fakarava, the discovery of the famous blue lagoon of the atoll. Called “Teahata”, it is like on Rangiroa atoll, a lagoon within the lagoon of Fakarava. It is finally something that we find in many atolls in French Polynesia, but that tourism providers have obviously developed in the atolls visited by tourists!

On the program, the discovery of the place, swimming and snorkeling in the waters with the colors of a swimming pool and as with all the outings, a good local meal composed of fruits and grilled fish! If you spend a few days in Fakarava, this trip is a must!

SPEND THE DAY AT THE BLUE LAGOON OF FAKARAVA

I also need to find out about other excursions, including a small half-day trip to the “Pufana” spot. I will come back to you soon! Here I am, I’ve done a general overview of the unmissable activities in Fakarava.

We’re finally here in the remote archipelagos, the ones that made me fall in love with French Polynesia. The Marquesas Islands are extraordinary to me and really deserve to be visited once in a lifetime. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, the archipelago remains very little visited compared to the Society Archipelago and the Tuamotu. Why is that? There are far fewer “postcard” places as people think of them (white sand/coconut trees) and also the cost to get there. I actually wrote a full article if you want to know how to get to the Marquesas Islands.

Unlike other archipelagos and islands, I am not going to detail the paid activities to do on each island because honestly, it makes little sense to me. Let me explain. Yes, you will (and should) be able to do 1 or 2 excursions with your pension or hotel, but this is not what you will remember about the Marquesas. I also advise you to take the time to simply visit the islands, to get lost in the valleys, to go and talk with the people and simply live this experience.

I think that usually, no matter which island you are going to go to in the Marquesas, a 4×4 day trip will be proposed to you to explore with a guide the local legends and the beauties of the island. And yes, I recommend it 100%. It’s not that easy to find service providers apart from the excursions offered by the guesthouses. I’ll try to find out more about that.

In the meantime, I wrote 3 complete articles about Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva and Ua Pou, three islands that I had the opportunity to visit several times and that remain in my heart. The articles will anyway give you all the things to do on each island! If I find in the near future independent service providers with excellent feedback, I will come back to add them here!

This is another archipelago that I particularly like even if I have to admit that I don’t know it entirely! It is a corner of French Polynesia even less visited than the Marquesas and much less known. It is composed of the island of Rurutu (that I know by heart or almost for having been there 7 or 8 times), of the island of Raivavae (that we visited with Melanie), of the island of Tubuai (that I don’t know much about), of the island of Rimatara (that I don’t know) and finally of the most southern island of French Polynesia, the island of Rapa, which is only accessible by boat.

You will notice that I only wrote about the island of Rurutu. However, with a lot of recent feedback and opinions from everyone, we decided to write an article about all the Austral islands. We just need some time, but it will come.

Like the Marquesas Islands, it is difficult for the moment to recommend external service providers to do activities in the Austral Islands. What I can already tell you, especially for Rurutu, is to plan a whale watching trip if you are there during the good season. You can organize it with your guesthouse who knows local people doing it. A day trip to discover the taro fields, the marae and the beautiful beaches of the island could be interesting with a local guide, but not necessarily mandatory, knowing that you can rent a car and drive alone easily.

On the other islands, I am currently looking into other paid activities that you could consider. I’ll come back to share my findings here without any doubt!

I end my activities tour with the archipelago that is the most dear to my heart, the one I enjoy the most, the Gambier archipelago. I had the opportunity to spend a total of two complete weeks (in two separate times) on the island of Mangareva, and I could only recommend it to all the people in search of authenticity, of the “true” French Polynesia (as I like to call it), of simplicity, of varied and splendid landscapes, etc.

I’m not going to go into detail here, because you don’t really come to a place like this for a helicopter ride or jet skiing. And I also know for a fact that 99.9% of the people who will read these lines will never decide to go there, so well!

Still, you will have the choice in the guesthouse where you will stay to do 1 or 2 trips on the lagoon, generally on the beautiful rocky islets of the lagoon but also on the motus offshore. We did both, it is superb. The only thing I would say here is that, if you set foot there one day, don’t hesitate to do these excursions. For those who are interested, I invite you to read our first article about Mangareva, and the second one here.

Finally, I’ve done an overview of the best activities in French Polynesia.

Well, I grant you, the title is not very “correct”, but I couldn’t find anything better! Nevertheless, I thought I would end this article with some very personal opinions and present to you the best islands to practice a specific activity.

So, for each type of activity, you will find a small table showing the different possibilities in French Polynesia.

Here, things are clear for me. There are two ways to see things. If you already scuba dived and want to see the best, I recommend you to go to the Tuamotu, mainly to see big fish. Either you are a beginner or you want to do a first dive and in this case, I think that the Leeward Islands are also well adapted, like Bora Bora, Raiatea, Maupiti or Moorea. Here are the different recommendations mentioned above concerning diving in French Polynesia.

This is the most difficult activity to talk about here. You can obviously do a lagoon trip on any of the islands mentioned above, more or less. I would advise you to consider 2 to 3 lagoon trips if you can afford it. I would recommend a trip to a Tuamotu atoll, on a classic lagoon trip like the Blue Lagoon of Rangiroa, or the South Pass of Fakarava. Then, there is a good chance that you will discover the Leeward Islands. My favorites would be Bora Bora and Raiatea-Tahaa. Keep in mind that the other lagoon trips can be just as beautiful, it’s just my own suggestion. Here is the summary of the lagoon trips mentioned in the article.

The must of the must according to my experience in French Polynesia remains the island of Rurutu, in the Austral Islands, to be booked directly with your pension. Otherwise, I would recommend without any doubt Tahiti’s peninsula or Moorea in a small facility.

Here, I would particularly recommend Tahiti and Bora Bora. There are obviously other places I don’t know to take lessons, but these two islands seem to be pretty good!

My favorite activities are the Faaroa river trip on the island of Raiatea and the transparent kayak in Moorea.

I am not a specialist, but I have had good feedback in Moorea and I think in any of the Tuamotu atolls, even if I have not necessarily quoted any providers. Ask your local guesthouse, they will often be able to organize it for you.

For thrill seekers, I would recommend the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora and why not an atoll.

Here, without any doubt, I would recommend Bora Bora first (for its lagoon), but also Tahiti, Moorea (for the relief) or Raiatea and Tahaa. Here are all the possibilities summarized below.

I only know of one possibility in Tahiti, which must be awesome anyway, considering the spot!

Three possibilities exist to my knowledge: Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. I would advise Bora Bora for the view on the lagoon which, at 3000 m altitude, must be crazy. But at the same time, Moorea and Tahiti surely can’t disappoint. Here are the 3 possibilities summarized in the table below.

For 4×4 tours to discover the Polynesian islands, I particularly recommend the high islands. I would say Tahiti, Moorea in priority. But you can also do this kind of tour on other islands like Bora Bora or Tahaa.

I found this possibility on Moorea and Huahine. There may be others!

I’ll stop here, I’ve already written too much. I hope that this article on activities in French Polynesia will be interesting for you and that it will allow you to find all the possibilities in the same place!

Once again, as at the beginning of the article, I invite you to come and read all our articles on French Polynesia if you are preparing for your trip there!

Don’t hesitate to give me feedback in the comments if you have tried a specific activity or if you think I should include other activities in some islands. It will always be interesting to have feedback and to adjust my recommendations if necessary.

See you soon,

Sylvain