Find Magic Beyond the Big Three in The Islands of Tahiti

The magical islands of French Polynesia offer more variety than meets the eye. As much as tourists love the popular destinations of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora, beyond them lie islands to suit every interest—each ready to make your South Pacific escape that much more special. 

Raiatea: A Sacred Land in the South Pacific

Often called the cultural heart of French Polynesia, Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands after Tahiti and is famous for its archaeological sites and dynamic geography. In fact, it has the only navigable river in French Polynesia, the Faaroa River, which is popular with kayakers. Considered the cradle of the gods, Raiatea is a must for globetrotters who want to immerse themselves in the island’s cultural history with UNESCO World Heritage Site Marae Taputapuatea being considered by some to be the most sacred religious site in all of French Polynesia. 

Taha’a: An Island of Flavours

Known as the Vanilla Island, Taha’a first enchants visitors with its inviting aroma. With a population of just over 5,000, this small island produces about 80 percent of French Polynesia’s vanilla, and a 4x4 tour of the island often includes a visit to one or two vanilla plantations. But the flavours don’t stop there. Aged in French oak barrels, Taha’a rum has become one of the island’s most popular exports in recent years. Finally, don’t miss snorkelling in Taha’a’s coral gardens. You might even spot the occasional manta ray gliding by.

Huahine: Polynesia’s Garden of Eden

Huahine combines the archaeological richness of Raiatea with the vanilla production of Taha’a, while standing out for its lush flora, diverse wildlife, pristine diving spots, and the sacred blue-eyed eel in Faie Bay. This island is a good bet for a less crowded, all-around experience of French Polynesia’s wonders with a focus on nature. 

Tetiaroa: The Birder’s Paradise

Fans of our feathered friends take note. Located just north of Moorea and Tahiti, Tetiaroa invites you to admire French Polynesia’s most varied and colourful birdlife, including frigatebirds and masked boobies. Not all of its fascinating creatures take to the skies, however. Tetiaroa is also famous for its crystal-clear lagoon, which harbours a wide variety of marine species and offers superb snorkelling.

Traditionally a retreat for Tahitian royalty, the island has more recently welcomed Hollywood royalty, with Marlon Brando leasing Tetiaroa as his private island, dreaming of turning it into an eco-resort. Sold after Brando’s passing, Tetiaroa has nonetheless made that dream a reality. The Brando, a luxury resort, honours his intention, providing an eco-friendly stay on Tetiaroa. The island can be discovered exclusively by staying overnight at The Brando—its only on-land accommodation—or by enjoying a day trip there aboard a catamaran excursion, which will include a visit to the famed Bird Island. 

Tuamotu Islands

The Tuamotu Islands stand apart from the rest of French Polynesia, geographically, ecologically, and culturally. On Makatea, explore dramatic limestone cliffs and caves. Live your secluded island fantasy at PK9 beach in Fakarava, or explore the beautiful corals of Tikehau, the favoured bathing spot of the legendary goddess Queen Hina from Polynesian mythology. Sail, snorkel, or dive the Blue Lagoon of Rangiroa to spot dolphins, rays, sharks, and much more, or steel your nerves for an encounter with Fakarava’s awe-inspiring shark wall at Tumakohua Pass. Since there are a few islands to explore here, consider a small-group cruise by catamaran to experience as much of this magical archipelago as possible.

Explore French Polynesia on a tailor-made vacation.