Bora Bora & Leeward Islands

Bora Bora is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world — a turquoise lagoon with an extinct volcano (Mount Otemanu, 727 m) rising in the center. A coral reef surrounds the main island and forms spectacular motus (small sand islands) at the edge of the lagoon.

• Overwater Bungalows — the idea originated here in Bora Bora in 1967. Hotels like the Four Seasons, St. Regis, Conrad, InterContinental offer the most luxurious versions
• Lagoon Tours — the main reason to come here: snorkeling in crystal-clear water, with mantas, blacktip reef sharks, rays, tropical fish
• Mount Otemanu / Pahia — hikes possible, but to the highest point only with an experienced guide
• Matira Beach — one of the few public beaches, long, shallow, classic postcard motif
• Vaitape — main town with pier, shops, restaurants
• Jet Ski, Parasailing, Diving Tours — established providers

Bora Bora is extremely expensive — the price level is the highest in French Polynesia. As a budget alternative: pensions on the main island instead of an overwater bungalow.

Raiatea and Taha'a share a common lagoon and are connected by boat. Less touristy than Bora Bora.

• Raiatea — the second largest island in French Polynesia, known as Hava'iki in Polynesian mythology, the origin of all Polynesian cultures. Taputapuātea (UNESCO World Heritage since 2017) — sacred ceremonial center
• Taha'a — the "Vanilla Island," produces a large portion of the world's Tahiti vanilla. Quiet pensions, lagoon with coral garden
• Excellent sailing region — charter cruises popular

• Huahine — "wild island": lush vegetation, little tourism, authentic. Historical marae sites, relaxed pensions, perfect for those seeking peace
• Maupiti — smallest of the Society Islands, like a "mini-Bora-Bora," but without resorts. Only pensions with locals, authentic Polynesian life