Sep
14
Top 5 Must See Destinations in French Polynesia
Posted by Travel Expert at 04:25 | Filed In Tropical Islands
Spread over an area approximately the same size as Europe, the island in the French Polynesia (also known as Tahiti) is a photographer’s delight as much as they are for visitors looking for a break from the usual travel destinations. This beautiful collection of 118 islands scattered like gleaming jewels over the azure blue sea invite you to visit them and take back memories for a lifetime.
Here are the top 5 must-see destinations in the French Polynesia:
1) Tahiti – The largest of the 118 island chain, Tahiti is a lush green island with mountainous heights of 7,353 ft., disappearing in the clouds. Deep green valleys covered with rainforests and ferns, with waterfalls and serene rivers leading into the flat coastal land, fields of taro and flowers and pristine white sand beaches, welcome you to nature’s paradise. Take a walk along the tree-lined waterfront promenade in Papeete or just go out on the street to taste freshly made sea food from any of the licensed food trucks, popularly called “roulettes”. For those who are more interested in adventure sports, you can dive in the air with a hand glider and see the panoramic beauty of Tahiti from air.
2) Bora-Bora – Also known as the island of dreams, Bora Bora is unquestionably the most mythical of all the islands in the French Polynesia. As seen from the air, Bora Bora has been described as “a tiny emerald in a setting of turquoise, encircled by a sheltering necklace of sparkling pearls” Honeymooners and lovers from all over the world visit this island to soak in the beauty of Mount Otemanu, as it stands proud, piercing the sky. Stunning tropical slopes and valleys with blooming hibiscus and palm-covered motu, encircle the lagoon like a delicate diamond necklace. Virgin white sand beaches, pave way for emerald waters where the wonders of rainbow colored fish inhabit the coral gardens. With plenty of activities like snorkeling and scuba diving and trips all around the lagoon, this is a true delight for nature lovers.
3) Moorea – Less than 10 minutes by air from the main island of Tahiti, Moorea is home to white sand beaches and spectacular bays. Striking volcanic peaks, reflecting in the calm Cook’s Bay and Oponohu Bay rise towering from the base of this basaltic island. With mountain slopes covered with rainforest and several pineapple plantations, and white sand beaches bordering on crystalline lagoons, Moorea is home to a host of flora and fauna. While you can go out in the sea on a whale or a dolphin view, a highly recommended place to visit is the Belvedere Lookout, arguably the most spectacular lookout in the world. Located between Cook’s and Oponohu Bay in the lush interior of the island, the Belvedere offers a stunning view of the ocean beyond. While you’re on your way to discovering the island, don’t forget to buy a few black pearls from many of the infamous pearl shops here.
4) Huahine – Visible from the islands of Bora Bora, this delightful island is located some 110 miles northwest of Tahiti. Consisting of two islands – Huahine Nu and Huahine Iti, this island is held together with a narrow isthmus and is protected with a coral reef. The entire island is covered with lush green rainforests and tall trees adding to its natural character. Watermelon and Cantaloupes grow in abandon on the barrier reef as the inhabitants live in small colorful settlements. The lagoon which is bordered by an expanse of white sand has an extensive undersea life. Huahine is perfect for all those looking to discover a destination at their leisure and reveling in nature’s beauty.
5) Raiataa & Tahaa – Sharing a common lagoon amongst themselves, the islands of Raiataa & Tahaa produce almost 80% of all vanilla in the French Polynesia. Tahaa is an ideal escape from the 20th century. Discover the beauty of the coral reef and its multi colored lagoon, or enjoy a picnic in a deserted motu or just go hiking in the mountains as the vanilla plantations surround you. And if it’s mysteries that attract you, go on a nature hunt to learn about mythical orchids. With only a handful of guest houses and two hotels, Tahaa is a destinations till untouched by commercialism. Discovered by the Polynesian explorers, Raiatea was originally known as Havai. Secondly only to Tahiti in terms of its size, this island is a delightful sister island of Tahaa. As one of the top locations for sailing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing in the world, this island is also the main trading center of the leeward island.
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