The islands of French Polynesia have facinated travelers seeking the romance of swaying palms trees and sweeping beaches for decades. Each groups of islands, whether it be the Society, Tuamotus or Marquesas has it’s lure and legend. Located on the island of Tahiti is the capital city of Papeete. It is the first stop for most travelers seeking their dream trip to French Polynesia. Papeete boasts museums, diverse restaurants, cultural performances, night-life and a marketplace that is not to be missed. Moorea, the closest island to Tahiti, is only 12 miles away. The spectacular scenery in Cooks Bay and Opinohu Bay create a relaxed casual atmosphere. Mount Rotui can be seen from Tahiti and becons travelers to the outer Society Islands of Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea and Tahaa. The romance of these islands is legendary. Huahine is home to most all the archeological sites in the Society Islands. With mountaintop vistas, pristine beaches and authentic villages, Huahine offers a true polynesian experience. Discover the beautiful island of Raitea and visit the Marae Taputapuatea which is the sacred site from which the ancient polynesians left by canoe to discover Hawaii and New Zealand. The island also has the only navigable river in all of French Polynesia. Between Bora Bora and Raitea lies the quiet island of Tahaa. Known as the Vanilla Island, and locally as "Vanira", Tahaa grows 80% of all the vanilla in French Polynesia. Bora Bora known as the most beautiful island in the world, beckons honeymooners from all over the globe. It’s lagoon is legendary and romance resonates from Mount Otemanu. Private sandy beaches, shark feeding, snorkeling and diving are just a few of the activities in the lagoon.
To the east are the Tuamotus. These 76 coral atolls are small islets with coconut trees and 12,500 miles of unbelievable azure blue ocean. Rangiroa, Fakarava, Tikehau and Manihi are only 55 minutes by air from Tahiti and offer world class diving. Life is simple on these atolls and hotels are few.
Approximately 950 miles north-east of Tahiti lie the Marquesas Islands. There are no barrier reefs here. The coastlines are cliffy with wind spept bays. The natural scenery holds the beauty of ancient ruins and waterfalls. Hikers and nature lovers will florish in these islands.
