Island Hopping 101: Your Perfect Intro to French Polynesia

Morning

• Arrive at Faa’a International Airport (PPT)

• Private transfer or hotel shuttle to your accommodation

• Recommended lodging: Hilton Tahiti or InterContinental Resort Tahiti

Afternoon

• Unwind at the resort and grab a cocktail by the pool or oceanfront bar

Evening

• If you're in the mood for a sit-down dinner, I recommend Blue Banana in Punaauia. This popular spot offers a beautiful terrace overlooking the lagoon and Moorea, making it perfect for watching the sunset. The menu is diverse, featuring wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood and French-inspired dishes like foie gras and duck breast, and they also host live music evenings, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Morning

• Start the day with a visit to the Papeete Market (Le Marché de Papeete), open daily (except Sunday) from 8 am to 1 pm.

• Stroll through the vibrant stalls filled with fresh tropical fruits, flowers, handmade jewelry and local crafts.

• Don’t miss the black pearls — a Tahitian specialty!

• Grab a fresh fruit smoothie or traditional coconut pastries for breakfast from one of the stands.

Afternoon

• Take a scenic drive around the island to explore its natural beauty.

• Head to Point Venus, a historic site where Captain James Cook observed the transit of Venus in 1769.

• Then, drive up to Faarumai Waterfalls, a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.

• If you’re into nature and a short hike, don’t miss Arahoho Blowhole, a natural wonder where the ocean forces seawater through a rock formation, creating an impressive spray.

• You can also explore Vaipahi Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden with vibrant flora and tranquil paths.

Evening

• For a relaxed and authentic French Polynesian dining experience, head to Brasserie des Remparts in downtown Papeete.

• Located in the historic Papeete Port, this popular spot offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere with a variety of traditional Polynesian and French dishes.

• Try the local steak frites, fresh seafood or poisson cru, paired with tropical cocktails or refreshing local beers.

• The outdoor seating area provides a great ambiance for enjoying your meal while people-watching by the harbor.

Morning

• Start your day with a visit to Museum of Tahiti and The Islands.

• Located about 20 minutes from Papeete, this museum is a fantastic way to learn about Tahiti's history, culture and the Polynesian way of life.

• Explore exhibits on ancient Polynesian artifacts and traditional crafts, offering insight into the island's rich heritage.

Late morning / early afternoon

• For a change of pace, take a guided quad tour through Tahiti’s lush interior.

• I recommend booking with Vaihiria Quad Tahiti. They offer half-day morning and afternoon tours, available Wednesday through Monday.

• Their routes take you off the beaten path into the island’s heart — think volcanic valleys, river crossings, waterfalls and incredible panoramic views.

• Perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore beyond the coast!

Afternoon

• After your off-road adventure, unwind at Plage Publique de Toaroto, a peaceful public beach that’s great for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing.

• Grab a fresh coconut or a cold Hinano beer and enjoy the clear, shallow waters.

• Bring your snorkel gear — there’s a small coral reef just offshore!

Evening

• For dinner, head to Tahiti La Plage, a beachfront gem with a laid-back vibe.

• Located near Toaroto Beach, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset with your toes in the sand.

• The menu features fresh local seafood, grilled meats and tropical-inspired cocktails.

• Try the tuna tartare, grilled mahi-mahi or their popular coconut curry.
  
  

Morning: Travel to Moorea

• After breakfast at your hotel, head to the Papeete Ferry Terminal for your trip to Moorea.

• The Aremiti and Terevau ferries both offer smooth, scenic rides across the channel.

• The journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of Moorea’s jagged peaks rising from the sea as you approach.

• Pro tip: Depending on the time of year, the water can be a bit rough. If you're prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to take medication beforehand to ensure a more comfortable ride.

Midday: Arrive & check in

• Once you arrive in Moorea, a hotel transfer or rental car pickup will be waiting at the terminal.

• Recommended stays:

  • Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa – for luxury overwater bungalows and a fantastic snorkel-friendly lagoon.

  • Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort – known for its powdery white sand beach, incredible lagoon views and elegant Polynesian-inspired design.

• Settle into your room, take a walk along the beach or grab lunch at your resort’s casual dining spot.

Afternoon: Relaxation & beach time

• Ease into the Moorea vibe with a peaceful afternoon at Plage Publique de Temae — one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of white sand.

• Swim in the calm, turquoise lagoon, do a bit of snorkeling or just relax with a book under a palm tree.

• If you rented a car, take a short drive to the Belvedere Lookout for jaw-dropping panoramic views of Opunohu Valley and Cook’s Bay.

• Note: The road up to Belvedere is narrow and winding, so take your time and drive cautiously. It’s well worth the effort!

Evening: Dinner with a view

• For your first night on Moorea, head to Snack Mahana, a beloved local spot known for its casual beachside atmosphere and incredible seafood.

• Don’t let the word “snack” fool you — portions are generous, and the fish dishes are super fresh and flavorful.

• Watch the sunset from your table just steps from the water — this place is all about good vibes and even better food.

• Pro tip: Snack Mahana is cash only, so be sure to bring some francs with you!

Morning: Guided safari tour with Safari Mario Moorea

• After breakfast, kick off your day with an adventure on the Safari Mario Moorea jeep tour. You'll explore the island’s lush interior, stopping at iconic spots like Belvedere Lookout, Opunohu Bay and scenic pineapple fields — it's a relaxed and entertaining way to see Moorea beyond the beaches.

Midday: Lunch at Coco Beach Restaurant

• After your tour, make your way to Coco Beach, a rustic-chic restaurant set on a small motu (islet) just off Moorea.

• A quick boat shuttle will take you over to this island paradise where you’ll enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails and toes-in-the-sand vibes with panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon.

• Pro tip: Be sure to book ahead — Coco Beach is popular and the boat schedule fills up fast!

Afternoon: Relax & explore your resort

• Head back to your resort for a laid-back afternoon. Whether you're lounging beachside, floating in the lagoon or simply enjoying a tropical drink with a view, this is your time to reset and soak in island life.

Evening: Sunset at the Tiki Village

• Cap off your day with a cultural evening at Tiki Village, where you’ll be treated to a traditional luau-style feast and an exciting fire dance show. It’s a festive and immersive way to experience Polynesian heritage.

Morning: Lagoon snorkeling tour

• After breakfast, head out on a half-day lagoon adventure with Moorea Miti Tours.

• This incredible tour includes snorkeling alongside blacktip reef sharks, stingrays and vibrant coral gardens, all guided by locals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of Moorea’s marine life and culture.

• Many of their tours also include a visit to a private motu (islet), where you can relax and take in the stunning surroundings.

• Some tour options include a traditional Polynesian lunch served right on the motu — grilled fish, fresh fruit and island-style salads under the palms.

Afternoon: Relax & explore your resort

• After your tour, unwind at your resort. Whether it’s lounging at the beach, taking a refreshing dip or treating yourself to a spa service, the afternoon is yours to slow down and savor island life.

Evening: Dinner by the sea

• For dinner, enjoy a peaceful meal at your resort’s beachfront restaurant or try Holy Steak House.

• Don’t miss the sunset — Moorea's golden hour is something special.
  
  

Morning: Travel from Moorea to Bora Bora

• Enjoy breakfast at your resort before checking out.

• You'll take a ferry back to Tahiti (or a direct flight from Moorea if available), then catch a scenic domestic flight with Air Tahiti to Bora Bora.

Midday: Arrival in paradise

• Upon landing, you’ll be greeted with flower leis and transferred by boat shuttle to your resort — because Bora Bora doesn’t do boring check-ins.

• Recommended resorts for first-timers and luxury seekers:

  • St. Regis Bora Bora – Elegant and spacious overwater villas with iconic Mount Otemanu views

  • Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Renowned service, epic lagoon setting and dreamy bungalows

  • Conrad Bora Bora Nui – A stunning hillside-meets-lagoon resort with a vibrant, chic vibe

Afternoon: Settle in & soak it up

• Once you’re settled in, spend the afternoon enjoying your new paradise. Take a dip off your bungalow deck, sip a cocktail with a view or just kick back and let the beauty of Bora Bora do its thing.

Evening: Lagoon-view dinner

• Celebrate your arrival with dinner at your resort’s signature restaurant. Whether it’s fresh seafood, fine wine or toes-in-the-sand dining, your first night in Bora Bora should feel unforgettable.

• At the St. Regis, check out Lagoon; at the Four Seasons, Arii Moana offers elegant Mediterranean cuisine; and the Conrad has Upa Upa Lounge, an overwater spot perfect for sunset dining.

Morning: Lagoon tour with Lagoon Service Bora Bora

• Spend the morning on a half-day or full-day private or group tour with Lagoon Service Bora Bora. They offer amazing customized lagoon experiences where you can snorkel with sharks, stingrays and explore coral gardens. It's a great way to see the underwater wonders of Bora Bora in a relaxed setting.

Afternoon: Relaxation or spa time

• After your lagoon adventure, head back to your resort to relax. Consider indulging in a spa treatment or simply unwind in your private plunge pool with incredible views.

Evening: Dinner by the water

• Enjoy a romantic dinner at your resort. Many offer private beachfront dining experiences where you can dine under the stars with your toes in the sand. It’s the perfect way to end your first full day in Bora Bora.

Morning: Jet ski tour with Moana Adventure Tours

• Start your day with an exciting jet ski tour around Bora Bora’s lagoon. I recommend Moana Adventure Tours for an unforgettable experience, offering both private and group tours. You’ll have the chance to zip across the crystal-clear waters, explore hidden motus and snorkel with rays and sharks.

Boat transport to Main Island Bora Bora

• After your morning adventure, take a boat transfer to the main island of Bora Bora. Depending on your location, this is a great way to explore the island and enjoy the stunning coastline. The boat ride offers panoramic views of the island's iconic turquoise lagoon and lush landscape.

Evening: Relax or optional sunset cruise

• Spend the evening at your leisure — relax by the beach or opt for a sunset cruise to enjoy Bora Bora’s iconic views.

Morning: Leisurely breakfast & resort relaxation

• Start your last morning in Bora Bora with a relaxed breakfast at your resort, enjoying the stunning views one last time. Whether you prefer lounging by the beach or dipping in the pool, this is your time to unwind.

Afternoon: Free time or last-minute shopping

• Spend your final hours soaking up the beauty of the island. You can visit the resort’s boutique for some last-minute souvenirs or simply enjoy the crystal-clear waters for one last swim.

Evening: Departure or relaxation

• Depending on your flight schedule, either head to the airport or relax at the resort until it’s time to leave.

• You will have to take an interisland flight back to PPT, where you will take your international flight back home.