If you’re thinking about your next vacation destination, and if you like beaches and nature, you should consider visiting French Polynesia. It has so much to offer, it’s not hard to see why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations during the warmer months. The most difficult challenge might be which island to visit, since French Polynesia consists of 118 breathtakingly gorgeous islands. With that in mind, here are some of them that should be at the top of your list.
Raiatea
Also known as “The Sacred Island”, Raiatea is a beautiful island with plenty of opportunities for hiking, exploring, and road tripping. It’s also home to one of the rarest flowers in the world, tiare apetahi. It can be found only in this small part of the world, which is why this island is perfect for everybody who loves nature. Another thing you should see while on the island is Marae Taputapuatea, an ancient temple that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tahiti
If you don’t really know where to start, you can always go with “The Queen of the Pacific”, Tahiti. You can explore the beautiful coastline that is home to many tropical gardens and waves that are perfect for surfing. Moreover, visiting the city of Papeete can be quite a unique experience. You can take a stroll through its local market and shop for some seafood, pearls, vanilla, and many other exotic goods. Or, you can go on hikes through the Papenoo valley and take some fantastic photos of the scenery. Later in the evening, you can visit the food market at the Papeete’s main square and try their local dish, poisson cru. If you like the sound of this, there are many affordable Tahiti flights that can take you to the island where your vacation can really start.
Bora Bora
One of the most famous islands in the world, Bora Bora would not disappoint you. You can stay in a dreamy overwater bungalow and enjoy the view during your entire trip. It’s also a great place to learn a bit more about the WWII and the USA troops that were stationed on the island during the war. Moreover, one of the best parts of the island is its lagoon, and there are many guided tours that can lead you to it. There, you can swim with the sharks and stingrays and enjoy some local food while taking photos of this paradise. The only drawback is the fact that Bora Bora is often crowded by the tourists. However, if you don’t mind that, you’d definitely have a great time there.
Maupiti
If you like the sound of Bora Bora but you really dislike crowds, you should check out Maupiti. In many ways, this island is like a miniature version of Bora Bora, but since it’s still not that famous, it’s much less crowded. It’s also unbelievably beautiful with a gorgeous lagoon, tropical flowers, and breathtaking views. The locals are also very friendly, and their food is very tasty. So, if you’re looking for a place to rest and recharge your batteries, add this island to your bucket list.
Taha’a
If you love vanilla, then Taha’a is the perfect vacation destination for you. It’s home to the best vanilla in the world, which is grown in small farms. Besides tasting this heavenly delight, you’d also get a chance to learn a bit more about it. Moreover, Taha’a is not a crowded island, and once you arrive, you might feel like the time has stopped – and you will wish so as well, so you can stay there forever.
If you love beautiful sceneries, untouched nature, good food, and friendly locals, you should definitely consider visiting the above-listed islands. Once you see how beautiful they are, you will never want to leave.