Polynesia is made up of more than a hundred scattered islands in the vast Pacific Ocean, each offering its own magic. With turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches, and lush green mountains, this region is an absolute dream for nature lovers, explorers, and those seeking serenity.
If deciding where to go feels overwhelming, here are five extraordinary islands that deserve a spot on any itinerary.
Bora Bora – Turquoise Waters and Unmatched Views
Why Go:
Bora Bora is a picture-perfect island with a striking lagoon and dramatic mountain backdrop. Known for its stunning blue waters and overwater bungalows, it’s often considered one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
What to Do:
Begin at Matira Beach, one of the few public-access beaches with powdery white sand and shallow, warm waters—perfect for swimming and sunbathing (free entry, lounge chairs $10–$20). Snorkel right from the shore to spot tropical fish, graceful stingrays, and even harmless blacktip reef sharks (gear rentals $15–$30/day).
For a deeper underwater adventure, join a lagoon tour ($100–$250 per person) to snorkel or dive in the Coral Gardens, swim with manta rays, and feed reef sharks under guide supervision. A boat excursion around the island ($150–$400) includes stops at secluded motus (small islets) and a Polynesian-style beach picnic.
For the ultimate bucket-list experience, take a helicopter tour ($300–$600 per person) for jaw-dropping aerial views of Bora Bora’s lagoon in shades of sapphire and emerald, with Mount Otemanu as the dramatic centerpiece.
Adventurers can hike the Mount Pahia or Mount Otemanu trails (free, but guided hikes $80–$150) through lush jungle to panoramic viewpoints. End your day with a romantic sunset cruise ($75–$200 per person) or a Polynesian dance show at a resort ($50–$120 with dinner).
Getting There:
Fly into Tahiti and take a 50-minute domestic flight to Bora Bora.
Budget:
Expect to spend around $250–$800 per night for accommodations, depending on the level of comfort. Daily expenses (activities, food, transport) add up to roughly $150–$300 per person.
Moorea – Nature’s Playground
Why Go:
Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea is famous for its rugged green peaks and stunning blue bays. It offers a mix of calm atmosphere and adventurous activities, making it perfect for couples, families, and solo explorers alike.
What to Do:
Hike the "Three Coconuts Pass" (Belvédère Trail) for jaw-dropping views of Cook’s and Opunohu Bays (free; guided hikes $60–$100). Tour pineapple plantations (Moorea grows Tahiti’s sweetest pineapples!) with tastings ($15–$30). Kayak or paddleboard in the calm lagoon (rentals $20–$40/hour), or join a guided dolphin encounter ($80–$150) in their natural habitat.
Whale watch (July–November; $100–$200) to see humpbacks breach just meters from your boat. Snorkel at Temae Beach (free) or take a lagoon tour ($80–$150) to spot rays, sharks, and coral gardens. Experience Polynesian culture at Tiki Village ($50–$90, includes dance show & crafts).
Getting There:
A 30-minute ferry from Tahiti or a 15-minute domestic flight.
Budget:
Accommodation costs range from $100–$400 per night. With meals and activities, budget around $100–$200 per day per person.
Tahiti – Cultural Hub and Natural Beauty
Why Go:
As the largest island in Polynesia, Tahiti combines vibrant city life with natural wonders. It's the main gateway to the region and offers everything from black sand beaches to lush rainforests and scenic mountain hikes.
What to Do:
Start in Papeete, where the bustling local market (Marché de Papeete) offers fresh tropical produce (snacks $3–$10) and handcrafted souvenirs like pearl jewelry (from $10). For a deep dive into the island’s heritage, visit the Museum of Tahiti ($10 adults, $5 children), showcasing Polynesian artifacts and history.
Just a short drive from the city, the Faarumai Waterfalls are a free natural retreat, hidden in emerald greenery (small donations appreciated). Thrill-seekers can tackle the Mount Aorai hike—a free but demanding trail with panoramic views, or opt for a guided climb ($80–$150).
Water lovers should head to Papenoo Beach to surf (rentals $20–$40/day, lessons $70–$120) or snorkel at the Lagoonarium de Tahiti ($15–$25, gear included), where coral gardens teem with marine life. Unwind on the island’s famous black sand beaches like Plage de Taharuu (free; chair rentals $10–$20). Cap the day with a Tahitian dance show and dinner ($50–$100) for a taste of fiery performances and local cuisine.
Getting There:
Direct international flights arrive at Faa’a International Airport in Papeete.
Budget:
Accommodations start around $80 per night and can go much higher. Plan for a daily budget of $100–$250 depending on activity level and preferences.
Rangiroa – Lagoon Adventures and Ocean Life
Why Go:
Rangiroa is a vast atoll in the Tuamotu archipelago and one of the largest in the world. It’s a top destination for those who love underwater exploration and peaceful surroundings.
What to Do:
This island is all about the lagoon. Dive the legendary Tiputa Pass (drift dives $80–$150), where sharks, dolphins, and mantas ride the currents. Snorkel Avatoru Pass (gear rental $15–$30/day) to float above schools of barracuda, turtles, and reef sharks. Take a boat to the Blue Lagoon (day tour $80–$120), a secluded paradise with shallow turquoise pools and picnic spots.
Visit local pearl farms ($20–$50) to learn how Tahiti’s famous black pearls are cultivated. Kayak or paddleboard across the lagoon’s glassy surface (rentals $20–$40/hour). Stroll through Avatoru or Tiputa villages to see traditional crafts and chat with friendly locals.
Getting There:
Fly from Tahiti to Rangiroa (about 1 hour).
Budget:
Mid-range guesthouses and lodges cost between $100–$300 per night. Add about $100 per day for tours and meals.
Huahine – Tranquil and Undiscovered
Why Go:
Huahine is one of the lesser-known islands, offering a more laid-back and genuine atmosphere. It’s rich in nature and ancient heritage, with fewer tourists and more untouched landscapes.
What to Do:
Explore ancient archaeological sites with well-preserved ceremonial platforms and stone structures. Walk among 1,000-year-old marae (stone temples) at Maeva Village (free; guided tours $30–50) – one of the densest concentrations of Polynesian archaeology. Kayak through the mangroves of Lake Fauna Nui ($40–80) to see ancient stone fish traps still used today.
Hunt for hidden waterfalls in the island's interior (4WD tour $80–120). Snorkel at Avea Beach's coral gardens (free; gear $15/day) – often just you and parrotfish. Feed blue-eyed sacred eels in Faie Village (donation-based). Take a lagoon cruise to Motu Murimahora ($60–100) for picnic lunches on the beach.
Tour family-run vanilla plantations ($20–40) – Huahine produces 80% of French Polynesia's vanilla. Shop at Fare's waterfront market for monoi oil, wood carvings, and fresh mango bread ($5–15). Try the island's legendary "poisson cru au lait de coco" ($12–20).
Getting There:
A short domestic flight from Tahiti, lasting about 40 minutes.
Budget:
Stay in guesthouses ranging from $80–$200 per night. Daily costs hover around $80–$150 depending on activities and meals.
In Conclusion
Polynesia is a destination of endless beauty and variety. Each island offers something special—from Bora Bora’s iconic lagoon to Huahine’s quiet charm.
For Lykkers seeking an unforgettable escape, these five islands provide a mix of adventure, relaxation, and immersive discovery. Whether you're snorkeling in Rangiroa, hiking Moorea’s trails, or relaxing on Tahiti’s volcanic shores, your journey will be filled with vibrant colors, rich traditions, and pure natural magic.
