Tahiti

Vacations in Polynesia start in Tahiti, the only island with an international airport, built in 1960. Tahiti's capital, Papeete, is home to most of Polynesia's economic activity, as well as the famous Papeete Market, which is well worth exploring.

Baptized the “New Kythera” by Bougainville, the island offers a marked duality between modernity and tradition. The more you explore the lush valleys, the more obvious this duality becomes. Tahiti's rivers, waterfalls, valleys and mountains retain an inalterable charm.

An exhilarating nature

Tahiti, home to Polynesia's highest peak, the Orohena, offers splendid hikes guided by professionals with a passion for Polynesian nature.

The Three Waterfalls of Tiarei and the magnificent Lake Vaihiria reveal the full splendor of the island. The Papeno'o Valley, the largest in Tahiti and Polynesia, is home to many natural treasures, including the Vaitu'oru River and spectacular waterfalls.

Hikes to Te Pari, a unique natural formation on the Tahitian peninsula, reveal an exceptional natural environment. The Vaipahi and Harrison Smith gardens, accessible by car, highlight the island's botanical assets.

Beaches such as Pointe Vénus, with its black sand, are ideal for relaxation or water sports. Every year, between August and October, whales and their calves can be admired in Polynesian waters.

Historical treasures

Tahiti's history lives on in sites such as Marae Arahurahu, an altar dedicated to ancestral divinities.

The Papeno'o valley, the subject of several years of archaeological excavation and restoration, reveals vestiges such as marae, housing sites and agricultural cultivation areas.

The home of James Norman Hall, author of The Mutineers of the Bounty, has been converted into a museum for literary enthusiasts.

The Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands traces the history of Polynesia, from its origins to today. Finally, the Black Pearl Museum, inaugurated in 1998, tells the story of this "black gold" through the arts, legends and techniques of pearl culture.

Tahiti, rich in surprises, offers a fascinating foretaste of what the whole of Polynesia has to offer.  

Moorea

Once called Aimeo or Aimeho, Moorea's distinctive name comes from a legend in which a yellow lizard (mo'o rea) is said to have formed the island's two famous bays with a flick of its tail: Opunohu and Cook's Bay, named after the 18th-century navigator.

A true refuge for Tahitians in search of rest and a change of scenery, Moorea seduces with its natural beauty and soothing atmosphere.

Historic marks

Moorea is home to a number of magnificent historic sites, including the marae of Nuurua, Nuupere and Umarea, testimony to its sacred past.

In 1808, Protestant missionaries settled in Papetoai, where in 1827 they built an octagonal temple on the ancient Taputapuatea marae, dedicated to the god Oro. This building, the oldest built by Europeans in the South Pacific, remains a landmark on the island.

Enchanting landscapes

Renowned for its pineapple plantations, Moorea's lush natural environment is punctuated by waterfalls such as the 80-metre-high Afareitu, and white-sand beaches including Temae, near the airport, and Haapiti, opposite the motu.

These islets, accessible by boat, are ideal for friendly picnics with family and friends.

Mount Rotui, which separates the island's two deep bays, is linked to the legend that a divine octopus protects Moorea, embodying peace and unity. The mountain, famous for its tasty pineapples, offers spectacular panoramic hikes. A visit to the nearby juice factory and distillery will allow you to sample local products.

Varied activities

Mount Tohiea, nicknamed Shark's Tooth, is Moorea's highest point. Overlooking Opunohu Bay, it attracts artists and philosophers with its scenic beauty.

The Belvedere, accessible via a small mountain road, offers panoramic views of the surrounding bays and mountains. Along the way, stops at the marae of Titiroa or Afareaito, as well as the Lycée d'Opunohu farm, will enrich the experience. From here, reach the Col des Trois Cocotiers, nestled between Mounts Tohiea and Mouaroa.

The view from Toatea reveals a superb tableau: Temae beach with Tahiti in the background.

Mou'a Puta, the pierced mountain visible from the Vaiare pass, is another impressive natural sight.

Marine activities and relaxation

Golf enthusiasts will love the Moorea Golf Club, close to the airport, offering an 18-hole course suitable for all levels.

In Moorea's waters, diving with stingrays and sharks is a delight for all marine enthusiasts. A unique experience is to swim with dolphins, while whales and their calves can be observed between July and October.

The Intercontinental Moorea Resort & Spa houses a sea turtle clinic, where turtles are cared for before being released back into the wild.

Accessible by boat or plane, Moorea's natural and cultural riches promise unforgettable memories.  

Bora Bora

Formerly known as Vavau, the island took the name Bora Bora under the influence of explorer James Cook, meaning “First Born”. This famous English navigator was referring to a legend according to which Ta'aroa, creator of the universe, conceived the island immediately after Raiatea.

In 1942, Bora Bora became a major supply base for the US army, somewhat disrupting local life. Remnants of this era include blockhouses and an airport, long the largest in Polynesia and still in operation. Today, it takes just 50 minutes by plane to get from Papeete to this romantic setting.

On the main island is the Royal Marae of Marotetini, or Fare Rua, the largest on Bora Bora, facing the Teavanui pass.

A unique lagoon

A majestic volcanic island, like a queen surrounded by her subjects, Bora Bora boasts an extraordinary lagoon. Its unique geology, halfway between a high island and an atoll, gives it a unique charm.

The crystal-clear lagoon can be explored in a variety of ways: on glass-bottomed boats, in pirogues, aboard elegant yachts, and much more. Diving here is exceptional, with the chance to encounter manta rays, sharks, napoleons and other fascinating marine life.

A picnic on a white-sand motu is a true Polynesian experience. Another way to discover the lagoon is to take a guided jet ski tour, exploring the infinite shades of blue while learning more about the island.

Fishing enthusiasts can venture into the open sea for memorable sessions.

Romance in Bora Bora

With its evocative name, Bora Bora seems destined for couples. Its heavenly motu make it the perfect romantic island for honeymoons, weddings, vow renewals or just a romantic getaway.

The exceptionally comfortable accommodations are nestled along the motu, with spectacular views over the lagoon or the lush peaks of the main island.

Landscapes to explore

Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora's highest peak, is a verdant basalt monolith, sacred and linked to legendary warriors. Numerous land-based activities, including 4×4 excursions, allow you to discover the historical and natural riches of this Pearl of the South Pacific.