Beyond Bora Bora

With awe-inspiring mountains, lush valleys, pristine rivers and powder-soft beaches, The Islands of Tahiti are synonymous with natural beauty. Add a healthy dose of mana – the sacred spirit believed by Tahitians to connect all living things – and the largest island in French Polynesia evokes a sense of wonder unlike anywhere else.

While Tahiti may be the ‘Queen of the Islands’, and Bora Bora the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’, they aren’t the only gems in this extraordinary destination.

Magical Mo’orea

Neighbouring Bora Bora in The Society Islands archipelago is Mo’orea, famous for its beautiful scenery, lush vegetation and stunning lagoon. A 30-minute ferry ride or 15-minute flight from Tahiti, Mo’orea is a haven for both relaxation and adventure.

Encircled by a thriving coral reef, Mo’orea offers exceptional snorkelling and diving, with vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. Its calm bays are ideal for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, while those seeking a thrill can head out on a deep-sea fishing expedition.

On land, nature takes centre stage. Hiking trails wind through lush landscapes to panoramic lookouts, while ATV tours offer a more adrenaline-fuelled way to experience the island’s beauty. Despite its dramatic terrain, Mo’orea’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring in a day with plenty of opportunities to stop at pineapple plantations and sample the island’s famously sweet fruit.

Temae Beach is a snorkeller's dream, with its pristine waters and a rich coral reef ecosystem. The water is so clear that it's like swimming in a natural aquarium, and the beach itself – powdery white sand framed by lush greenery – is an idyllic spot for peaceful relaxation.

Taha'a – sweet seclusion

Taha’a is also part of The Society Islands, just a 30-minute boat ride from Raiatea or 45-minute flight from Tahiti. Known as the Vanilla Island, it offers a more intimate and authentic Polynesian experience.

This flower-shaped island is surrounded by a string of small motu, tiny islets fringed with white sand and turquoise lagoons. The scent of vanilla lingers in the air, a reminder of the island’s many plantations and its deep connection to traditional ways of life. Here, the pace slows, inviting you to truly disconnect.

Taha’a offers a glimpse into the traditional Polynesian way of life, far removed from the tourist crowds. Its unspoiled landscapes with soft, sandy beaches and turquoise waters, are perfect for those seeking relaxation and a deep connection with nature. The surrounding coral reefs are a snorkeller's paradise, teeming with vibrant marine life.

Taha’a is quite mountainous, and the island’s interior comes alive after rainfall, when waterfalls cascade through the lush landscape. Explore by bike or take a guided island tour, stopping to visit local distilleries producing rum from freshly harvested sugarcane. For those who enjoy hiking, scenic trails such as La Traversière offer breathtaking views across the island and beyond to neighbouring Raiatea and Bora Bora.

Whether it’s a picnic on a secluded motu, a paddle across the lagoon, or a stay in a beachfront villa or traditional guesthouse, Taha’a delivers a rare sense of peace and connection.

Remarkable Rangiroa

The second largest lagoon in the world, Rangiroa is a truly breathtaking collection of lagoons, marine life, islets and unmatched serenity. A 60-minute flight from Tahiti, Rangiroa is relatively isolated compared to many of Tahiti’s other locations but is well worth the trip.

It’s a dream destination for divers, renowned for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. Manta rays, dolphins, sharks and sea turtles glide through its waters, while even a simple snorkel reveals a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Spend a day visiting the secluded motu across the lagoon, including those with blush-pink sand or natural swimming pools, where you can swim, snorkel and enjoy a picnic by the water’s edge.

Hire a bike and cycle between the villages of Avatoru and Tiputa, stopping to visit French Polynesia’s only winery, Dominique Auroy Domaine – the only vineyard in French Polynesia and the world’s only vineyard located on an atoll.

Take the time to visit a pearl farm during your stay and uncover the secrets behind the creation of the exquisite Tahitian pearl. And as the day winds down, take a seat by the pass and watch dolphins play in the surf as the sun dips below the horizon.

Start planning your Tahiti escape with the experts at Spacifica Travel – discover our range of ready-to-go holiday packages or let our team craft a tailor-made Tahitian adventure designed just for you. Call us 1800 800 722 to start creating your dream getaway today.