French Polynesia (Tahiti & Bora Bora)

Tahiti: just the word conjures up centuries’ worth of images: hibiscus flowers; bronzed dancers in grass skirts; a humid breeze over turquoise sea.  The slim stretches of white-, pink- and black-sand beaches in French Polynesia are really just pretty springboards into the real draw: the lagoons. Most high islands are surrounded by fringing reef that creates a protected swimming pool of the most intense aqua imaginable. Coral atolls have this same calibre of lagoon minus the big island in the middle. Fish, dolphins, rays, sharks, turtles and more inhabit these clear-water coral gardens that are as excellent for snorkelling as they are for diving and swimming. Surfers ride glassy wave faces at reef passes while kite-surfers fly across the water with the trade winds.

Over-the-top indulgence has become French Polynesia’s – or more specifically Bora Bora’s – signature, and often overshadows what the rest of the country has to offer. Resorts on the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’ are a honeymooner’s dream, with private overwater bungalows and spectacular views of the island’s iconic, square-topped peak. But if this is  not in your budget, don’t let that dissuade you from visiting French Polynesia. There are lodgings that offer a closer-to-the-culture experience for considerably less financial output.

When to Go & Weather :

May – October

The most pleasant time of year is the May-through-October austral winter, or dry season, when midday maximum temperatures average a delightful 28°C, with early morning lows of 20°C often making a blanket necessary. Some winter days, especially on the south side of the islands, can seem quite chilly when a strong wind blows from Antarctica.

November – April

November through April is the austral summer, or wet season, when rainy periods can be expected between days of intense sunshine. The average maximum daily temperature is 30°C during these months, while nighttime lows are about 22°C. An air-conditioned hotel room or bungalow will feel like heaven during this humid time of year.

Sample Itinerary

From Pape’ete (Tahiti), fly or sail straight to Mo’orea, and stay for at least two nights. Mo’orea boasts soaring peaks, lush verdant hillsides and aqua waters, and is considered by many to be the most beautiful of the Society Islands. Cycle around magnificent Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, explore the island’s archaeological sites or simply soak up the sun and splash around in the lagoon. From Mo’orea, fly to Bora Bora. Live it up for a night or more (depending on your budget) in an overwater bungalow or partake in a variety of water excursions on the vast, blue lagoon. Dine by candlelight, relax in a spa and look out for celebrities. From Bora Bora, it’s a short flight to much more low-key Huahine, where you can end your holiday with two days of complete relaxation and a taste of authentic Polynesian culture. Go diving or snorkelling, take an island tour, enjoy near-empty beaches and don’t miss trying ma’a Tahiti (traditional-style food) .