The Islands of Tahiti

Technically speaking, the island of Tahiti is just one big island in the middle of three archipelagoes known as French Polynesia. When travelers say they’re going to Tahiti, they may indeed be going to that island. However, many vacationers also choose to visit the surrounding islands, including Moorea, Bora Bora, and Huahine, all of which make up a group known as The Society Islands.

Confused yet? Two additional groups of islands also beckon visitors to come and enjoy the sun. The first – The Marquesas – are often dubbed the “Mystery Islands” and attract a certain kind of traveler. The next – The Tuamotus – are among the most beautiful atolls in all the South Pacific.

Choosing the perfect island for your next holiday will largely depend on what activities you seek and the overall mood you wish for your vacation; be it slow-paced and quiet or energetic and full of activity.

Tahiti

For many, Tahiti has long been the quintessential picture of paradise on earth. The island has many moods. From the jagged-peaked rugged interior with beautiful waterfalls and clear streams to the first-class resorts on the coast, there’s a little something for everyone here. Some may find the capital city of Papeete a little too crowded for paradise, but the fact remains that it’s a vibrant city with a thriving waterfront district, superb resorts on black-sand beaches, a few fine museums, and excellent shopping opportunities. Those seeking a more laid-back experience will want to head to the less-developed east or south coasts.

Moorea

Located 12 miles west of Tahiti, Moorea is often described as the most stunning island in French Polynesia. As a matter of fact, Moorea is the most photographed South Pacific island and has been the backdrop for many movies. The interior, with its “Bali Hai Mountain”, is breathtaking, and the white sand beaches and warm azure lagoons are perfect for sunning, swimming, diving, and sailing. Moorea has become a sort of “suburb” of Tahiti, with Tahitians shunning the hubbub of their island in favor of a more peaceful, less crowded existence.

Bora Bora

Author James Michener proclaimed Bora Bora the most beautiful island in the world. It doesn’t take long to see why. Currently, it’s also the most visited island in French Polynesia and has become the desired destination of the wealthy. Lying 143 miles northwest of Tahiti, Bora Bora is completely surrounded by a lagoon enclosed by coral reef. While the coast is breathtaking, the interior is equally as stunning; with the 725 meter (2,379 feet) Mount Otemanu rising from the center.

Huahine

So far, Huahine is virtually undiscovered by tourists. Only a few residents live here, most of them farmers growing vanilla, bananas, and melons. Visitors, warmly welcomed by the locals, can enjoy archaeological tours, go diving or snorkeling, or explore the island by bicycle or scooter. The resorts are romantic and secluded, perfect for a honeymoon trip.

The Tuamotu Archipelago

The 69 atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago spread over 1,100 kilometers (more than 700 miles). The most visited atoll, Rangiroa, is a world-class diving destination and is the second largest atoll in the world. Neighboring Manihi is known as a major producer of black pearls.

The Marquesas

Visited mostly via inner-island cruise tours, The Marquesas’ most recent claim-to-fame was the filming there of the TV show Survivor a few years back. Indeed, these sparsely populated islands seem reminiscent of deserted islands, with towering peaks, lush mountains, and untamed landscape. Guests love exploring archaeological sites, basking on remote beaches, and visiting with the warm and welcoming Marquesan islanders.

The South Pacific

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