15 French Polynesia Experiences Every Traveler Should Try
There are so many ways to experience French Polynesia’s pristine lagoons, ancient culture, and postcard-perfect beaches that it can be hard to decide what to do when you get there. However, exploring the islands on locally-run tours is one of the best ways to connect with the Polynesian way of life. From activities such as snorkeling alongside sharks to street food tours, here are 15 of French Polynesia’s must-try experiences.
1. Take a private island tour of Tahiti
Explore Tahiti in comfort on this private tour of the island by car. Learn about the island’s history and culture from an expert local guide and see all the best sights including the Arahurahu Marae, Faarumai Waterfalls, and the Vaipahi water gardens.
2. Go on a fun 4WD tour across Moorea
Go off-road on a 4WD tour of Moorea’s mountainous interior. See the island’s top sights, including Magic Mountain and the Belvedere lookout, as well as marae (traditional Polynesian temples) and pineapple farms.
3. Explore Rangiroa’s pristine lagoon
Rangiroa’s stunning lagoon is known for its vibrant sea life, picturesque islets, and tropical vistas. This handy tour allows you a full day to explore the lagoon’s beauty and includes lunch, snorkeling with sharks, and visits to the motu (islets).
4. Go swimming with whales in Bora Bora
Take the bucket list opportunity to go swimming with whales in Bora Bora on this whale-watching tour. Whether you’d prefer to observe these gentle giants from on board the boat or beneath the water, it’ll be an experience you’ll never forget.
5. Cruise Bora Bora’s lagoon on a traditional outrigger canoe
Immerse yourself in Bora Bora’s famed lagoon Polynesian-style on this traditional outrigger canoe tour. Snorkel with stingrays and reef sharks, sunbathe on a motu, and eat your fill with a delicious barbecue lunch in paradise.
6. Hike to a hidden waterfall in Moorea
Head into Moorea’s lush valley on foot in search of Afareaitu Waterfall on this half-day guided hike. Plus, learn about Polynesian myths and legends from your knowledgeable guide and take a refreshing dip in the basin below the incredible falls.
7. Take a sunset catamaran cruise in Bora Bora
Relax and watch a magical sunset in Bora Boraonboard a luxurious catamaran during this evening cruise. Perfect for romantics, the cruise includes wine, snacks, and unmatched views.
8. Learn to scuba dive in Bora Bora
Always wanted to try scuba diving but never had the chance? Take the plunge with an introductory dive in breathtaking Bora Bora which includes supervision and instruction from a qualified diving guide.
9. Journey into Bora Bora’s interior by 4WD
Travel through Bora Bora’s tropical interior on this 4WD tour to the island’s best lookouts, and catch postcard-perfect views of the island’s incredible lagoon. Then, delve into local culture and history with a visit to WWII sights, taste tropical fruits at a local plantation, and learn about traditional sarong dying from local artisans.
10. Tantalize your taste buds on a Moorea street food tour
Eat like a local and discover Moorea’s unique food culture with a knowledgeable guide on this popular food tour. You’ll sample all the best food joints and make new friends along the way. Come with an open mind and empty stomach and leave with a full belly and a happy heart.
11. Snorkel with the help of a seascooter in Moorea
Experience Moorea’s underwater wonderland up-close on this seascooter and snorkeling tour. Snorkeling with the help of a seascooter allows you to see more, as you’ll zoom about much faster below the water. It also includes a professional underwater photographer to capture all the memories.
12. Snorkel, fish, and eat like a Polynesian
Experience Polynesian culture and daily life on an intimate lagoon tour of Moorea. Sail in a traditional outrigger canoe, learn ancient net fishing techniques, and then help prepare your freshly-caught seafood in a local home.
13. Take a transparent kayak across Moorea’s iridescent lagoon
Gaze down into Moorea’s iridescent lagoon from a transparent kayak on this guided tour. Paddle to the best spots on the lagoon, stop at a private island, go snorkeling with sharks and stingrays, and learn about the wildlife alongside a friendly local guide.
14. Swim with whales in Moorea
Explore Moorea’s best snorkeling spots on this small-group tour. Learn about the island’s precious marine inhabitants, swim with whales, and see other creatures such as gray reef sharks and and dolphins.
15. Jet ski and snorkel in Bora Bora’s lagoon
Enjoy an island adventure on this combo tour of Bora Bora’s lagoon. In the morning, whiz around the water by jet ski alongside an experienced guide; then, dine where the celebrities do with lunch at Bloody Mary’s, before ending the day with a shark and stingray snorkel cruise back on the lagoon.
More ways to explore French Polynesia
Keep reading
