Set your watch to island time in French Polynesia’s most populated archipelago, where emerald mountains tumble down to palm-fringed beaches and pristine lagoons.
Experience the allure of the Society Islands when you discover the archipelago’s laid-back lifestyle, enchanting scenery and delicious tropical cuisine. The region is comprised of two island groups in the South Pacific Ocean. The Windward Islands contain the major hub of Tahiti, while the Leeward Islands are made up of many unique atolls and islets. Each island is adorned with necklaces of white-sand beaches and beautiful reefs that can be explored by boat or with your snorkel and mask.
Tahiti is the Society Islands’ administrative center and is the location for French Polynesia’s capital, PapeeteOpens in a new window. Discover this city’s bustling marketplace and its magnificent collection of museums, where you can learn about local traditions and the work of French artist Paul Gauguin. The island’s turtle-shaped volcanic ranges feature plenty of hiking and four-wheel driving trails. Check out the island’s neighbor, MooreaOpens in a new window, which has astonishing mountain scenery and velvet-green valleys sheltering pineapple plantations.
The Leeward Islands are crowned by Bora BoraOpens in a new window, an island encircled by a breathtakingly beautiful lagoon and a chain of motus (small islets). Pamper yourself at luxury resorts and upscale restaurants on this exclusive island. Experience the rich local traditions of Polynesian culture on Huahine or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Maupiti. Tahaa is renowned for its stunning lagoon while RaiateaOpens in a new window is a popular stopover for yachters.
Many islands and atolls feature exceptional diving. Join a snorkeling or scuba-diving tour and plunge into warm tropical waters speckled with iridescent fish. Alternatively, ride a glass-bottom boat or peer into the clear waters from a catamaran. Try windsurfing, kitesurfing or stand-up paddleboarding. Some islands have tropical-style golf courses and deep-sea fishing tours.
After a day of exploring, relax on a hammock in the shade of a coconut palm or stretch out on soft sands. Order a tropical cocktail and watch the sun set or experience traditional Tahitian dishes with a French twist.
Reach the Society Islands by cruise ship or by air via Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti. From here, it is easy to reach the surrounding islands by ferry, charter boat or plane. French and Tahitian are the most commonly spoken languages. Get around this island paradise island by rental car, scooter or shuttle provided by your resort.
