Tahiti & Bora Bora
Overview
Tahiti is actually the largest island in a group of 118 islands that make up French Polynesia and it is located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. The whole archipelago spans over 2 millions square miles, which is equivalent to the size of Europe. Most people think of just a handful of islands when you say "Tahiti" but the island of Bora Bora usually rises to the top of people's minds as the epitome of luxury, relaxation, idyllic paradise and overwater bungalows.
The island of Tahiti is known as the "The Queen of the Pacific" and it has the capital of French Polynesia, Papeete. This is also where most of the population resides. Tahiti Nui is the biggest part of the island and Tahiti Iti is the smaller section. Both are connected by an isthmus and it will take you about 2 to 3 hours to drive around the whole island. Tahiti is often considered a transit island but the Queen Island has much more to offer. If you can devote a few extra days, I highly recommend that you spend time exploring this diverse island.
The residents of French Polynesia may spend more time buzzing around in SUVs than paddling outrigger canoes, but they still spend a lot amount of time humming or singing. One of the things you will fall in love with when you visit, is the friendly and warm nature of the Tahitian people.
Make sure you plan your trip with me as I am a Certified Tahiti Specialist designated by the Tahiti Tourism office. I have spent a lot of time taking educational courses, attending destination specific conferences twice a year and have visited 7 different islands and have been there 5 times now!
Location
Tahiti isn't as far away as some people think. It is only a 10 hour flight from Seattle, an 8-hour flight from Los Angeles, a 5-hour flight from Honolulu or New Zealand. It is also in the same time zone as Hawaii and it is the same distance south of the equator as Hawaii is north of the equator.
Five archipelagos make up the territory, and each has distinctive cultural and geographical features. The Society Islands (which includes Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora), the Tuamotu Atolls (a large group of flat coral islands that include Fakarava and Tikehau), the Marquesas Islands (a remote and mountainous archipelago), the Austral Islands (a mix between the Tuamotu and Marquesas) and the Gambier Islands (the cradle of Catholicism).
French Polynesia has sunny, year-round tropical weather with an average temperature of 80ºF/27ºC in the air and in the water. It makes the perfect year-round destination for many visitors. The summer season is from November through April and it is typically warmer and more humid. The Tahitian winter is from May to October and this is the time of year when most people travel to this amazing destination.
Did You Know?
Overall the Islands of Tahiti receive more sunshine and less rain than Hawaii.
Black pearls are an important industry in French Polynesia, and, as visitors quickly discover, they are heavily marketed to tourists on Bora Bora. Every shop seems to be selling pearls, and The Farm also offers tours that let you see how they're created.
The ashes of French author and sailor Alain Gerbault, who introduced soccer to French Polynesia, are buried on Bora Bora.
There is no "B" in the Tahitian alphabet. That’s why Bora Bora is actually pronounced “Pora Pora” and it means “first-born”. However, early visitors heard it as Bora Bora.
Polynesia is the birthplace of surfing, and the wave at Teahupoo, Tahiti, is one of the most famous and scary waves in the surfing world.
Hinano beer, the local brew, is named after the flower of the pandanus plant, which smells somewhat like beer. The leaves of this same plant are used to weave local hats and baskets.
The first chapter of James A. Michener's novel Hawaii is set on Bora Bora.
The very first overwater bungalow was built by the famed “Bali Hai Boys” on the French Polynesian island of Raiatea in 1967.
Hawaii receives more tourists in a week than Tahiti does in a year.
Sample Itineraries
French Polynesia is defined by the spirit of "Mana"—a spiritual energy that connects the lush volcanic peaks, crystalline lagoons, and the warmth of the Tahitian people. Spread across five archipelagos, these 118 islands offer a rare blend of untamed natural beauty and refined sophistication. Whether you are exploring the vibrant coral gardens of the Tuamotus or waking up in an iconic overwater bungalow in Bora Bora, this is a destination that invites you to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in paradise.
As your travel partner, I’ve curated several distinct ways to experience these islands, ensuring every journey is as unique as the traveler. From the effortless luxury of a boutique cruise to intimate celebrations on a private motu, the following itineraries showcase the very best of French Polynesia. Explore these sample paths to paradise to find the perfect inspiration for your next great escape.
