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17 French Polynesia Experiences Every Traveler Should Try


Tahiti island in French Polynesia.
Hi, I'm Tiare!

Tiare Tuuhia is a freelance writer who divides her time between French Polynesia and Australia. She's written for publications including The Guardian, National Geographic, and RestofWorld.

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Hi, I'm Tiare!

Tiare Tuuhia is a freelance writer who divides her time between French Polynesia and Australia. She's written for publications including The Guardian, National Geographic, and RestofWorld.

see more

There are so many ways to experience French Polynesia’s pristine lagoons, ancient culture, and postcard-perfect beaches that it can be hard to decide what to do when you get there. However, exploring the islands on locally-run tours is one of the best ways to connect with the Polynesian way of life. With everything from snorkeling alongside sharks to street food tours, here are 17 of French Polynesia’s most must-try experiences.

1. Take a private island tour of Tahiti

Explore Tahiti in comfort on this private tour of the island by car. Learn about the island’s history and culture from an expert local guide and see all the best sights including the Arahurahu Marae, Faarumai Waterfalls, and the Vaipahi water gardens.


Private Island Tour
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Private Island Tour

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On this private island tour of Tahiti you can see and do exactly what you want because this is your day. In six hours you can fit in many highlights, including Arahurahu Marae, Faarumai Waterfalls, the water gardens of Vaipahi, and much more. Learn about the history and culture of this beautiful island from your local guide while enjoying the natural beauty.
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  • 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD320.00
per group
From
USD320.00
per group

2. Go on a fun 4WD tour across Moorea

Go off-road with a 4WD tour of Moorea’s mountainous interior. See the island’s top sights, including Magic Mountain and the Belvedere lookout, as well as marae (traditional Polynesian temples) and pineapple farms.


Moorea 4WD Tour Inc. Belvedere, Pineapple Farm, Magic Mountain...

Moorea 4WD Tour Inc. Belvedere, Pineapple Farm, Magic Mountain...

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Venture beyond the resorts on this half-day tour of Moorea, which guarantees a first-hand look at all the island’s top sights and fuss-free transport between them. Get off the beaten path and venture to viewpoints such as Magic Mountain and Belvedere Lookout, see marae (Polynesian temples) and pineapple fields, and visit an island distillery. Expert narration is offered throughout.
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  • 4 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD65.00
From
USD65.00

3. Explore Rangiroa’s pristine lagoon

Rangiroa’s stunning lagoon is known for its vibrant sea life, picturesque islets, and tropical vistas. This handy tour gives you a full day to explore the lagoon’s beauty and includes lunch, snorkeling with sharks, and visits to the motu (islets).


Blue Lagoon Tour

Blue Lagoon Tour

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Explore Rangiroa’s Blue Lagoon the easy way on this guided full-day tour from Avatoru. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to the Blue Lagoon so you don’t need to worry about finding your own way there. Enjoy snorkeling at a shark nursery, visit motus (islands) in the lagoon, swim off the beaches of the motus, and admire the beauty of the shallow water dotted with motus.
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  • 7 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD119.73
From
USD119.73

4. Go swimming with whales in Bora Bora

Take the bucket list opportunity to go swimming with whales in Bora Bora on this whale-watching tour. Whether you’d prefer to observe these gentle giants from on board the boat or beneath the water, it’ll be an experience you’ll never forget.


Whale Watching Tours in Bora Bora

Whale Watching Tours in Bora Bora

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Tohora Bora Bora was the first Bora Bora company to take an interest in making the phenomenon of whale migration known to a large audience and to create the whale watching circuit. With more than 16 years of experience in approaching and observing these marine mammals, Simon will be happy to share and transmit his passion with the greatest respect for the animal.
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  • 3 hours 30 minutes
From
USD174.15
From
USD174.15

5. Cruise Bora Bora’s lagoon on a traditional outrigger canoe

Immerse yourself in Bora Bora’s famed lagoon Polynesian-style on this traditional outrigger canoe tour. Snorkel with stingrays and reef sharks, sunbathe on a motu, and eat your fill with a delicious barbecue lunch in paradise.


Bora Bora Snorkel Cruise by Polynesian Outrigger Canoe with BBQ Island Lunch
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Bora Bora Snorkel Cruise by Polynesian Outrigger Canoe with BBQ Island Lunch

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Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bora Bora's lagoon with a small-group snorkeling tour to the island’s best spots. Get up close to blacktip reef sharks, stingrays and tropical fish underwater. Then feast on a Polynesian-style barbecue picnic while enjoying local hospitality and relaxing on the white-sand beach of a small island. Numbers are limited to 12 passengers for a more personalized experience with your professional guide.
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  • 6 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD252.58
From
USD252.58

6. Hike to a hidden waterfall in Moorea

Head into Moorea’s lush valley on foot in search of Afareaitu Waterfall on this half-day guided hike. Plus, learn about Polynesian myths and legends from your knowledgeable guide and take a refreshing dip in the basin below the incredible falls.


Half-Day Guided Hike to Afareaitu Waterfall

Half-Day Guided Hike to Afareaitu Waterfall

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Visit a sumptuous valley with lush vegetation, rich in tropical fruits and flowers. This veritable garden of eden which bears the name of the valley of the Polynesian gods and kings will amaze you with its richness. During your walk to the splendid Afareaitu waterfall, our guide will tell you about Polynesian legends and show you around the remains of ancient Polynesian temples. You can refresh yourself in the rivers lined with flowers, the natural basins and the splendid waterfall. A tasting in a private tropical garden by the river will be an opportunity to quench your thirst in a friendly atmosphere.
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  • 5 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD72.93
From
USD72.93

7. Take a sunset catamaran cruise in Bora Bora

Relax and watch a magical sunset in Bora Bora onboard a luxurious catamaran during this evening cruise. Perfect for romantics, the cruise includes wine, snacks, and unmatched views.


Bora Bora Catamaran Sunset Sail
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Bora Bora Catamaran Sunset Sail

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Watch the sunset from the deck of a catamaran during this evening sail around Vaitape. Relax on the provided chaise lounges while music plays over the on-board sound system, sip a glass of sparkling wine, and munch on included snacks. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel's dock.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD216.60
From
USD216.60

8. Parasail high above Moorea

Fly high over Moorea’s beautiful Opunohu Bay during this natural-ascent parasailing experience and soak up spectacular views of one of French Polynesia’s most beautiful islands in safety and comfort on a unique parasailing boat.


Moorea Parasailing experience - Double Flight

Moorea Parasailing experience - Double Flight

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1 - Parasailing offers in one turn sensations that you would find in several other disciplines. 2 - Discover a unique activity in Polynesia. 3 - A spectacular and unique view of the island of Moorea. 4 - In parasailing you will be supervised by a state-certified instructor for your comfort and safety. 5 - No feeling of vertigo. 6 - We have modern, high-quality equipment that complies with current safety standards 7 - It is possible to fly from the age of 3 8 - You don't need to know how to swim 9 - No particular experience or physical condition is required 10 - Take-offs and landings are smooth on the very wide rear platform of the boat. 11 - You will be on board one of the largest and most modern parachute boats for your comfort and safety!
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  • 1 hour
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD163.27
From
USD163.27

9. Learn to scuba dive in Bora Bora

Always wanted to try scuba diving but never had the chance? Take the plunge with an introductory dive in breathtaking Bora Bora which includes supervision and instruction from a qualified diving guide.


Bora Bora Introductory Dive

Bora Bora Introductory Dive

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Take this opportunity to scuba dive for the first time in the teeming waters of Bora Bora. You'll be supervised by qualified guide, who will teach you everything you need to know about how to dive safely. See the wonders of Bora Bora's marine environment up close.
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  • 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD120.82
From
USD120.82

10. Flyboard or hoverboard over Moorea’s lagoon

Go on a true bucket list adventure, and blast over Moorea’s lagoon on a flyboard or hoverboard. With rides available from ages 5 and up, it’s fun for the whole family.


Flyboard and Hoverboard Moorea

Flyboard and Hoverboard Moorea

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Choose either a flyboard or a hoverboard (which provides more of a horizontal than vertical motion above the water) and try your hand at this adrenaline-pumping sport under the tutelage of an experienced instructor. Rides are available all day and there’s even a “First Flight” option (a tandem ride with an instructor) for kids 5 years and older and who weigh less than 100 pounds.
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  • 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD192.63
From
USD192.63

11. Journey into Bora Bora’s interior by 4WD

Travel through Bora Bora’s tropical interior on a 4WD tour to the island’s best lookouts, and catch postcard-perfect views of the island’s incredible lagoon. Then, delve into local culture and history with a visit to WWII sights, taste tropical fruits at a local plantation, and learn about traditional sarong dying from local artisans.


Bora Bora: Half Day Island 4WD Guided Tour

Bora Bora: Half Day Island 4WD Guided Tour

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Experience an abundance of postcard-perfect photo ops on Bora Bora with a tour by open-air 4WD truck. Gaze out over Bora Bora’s famed turquoise lagoon from several lookouts including East Matira, Faanui Canon, and Amanahune Bay. See a demonstration by local artists, check out vestiges of World War II, and taste delicious tropical fruits at a plantation. Circle around the entire island in the morning or afternoon, or select a sunset tour that includes a glass of sparkling wine.
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  • 3 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD77.28
From
USD77.28

12. Tantalize your taste buds on a Moorea street food tour

Eat like a local and discover Moorea’s unique food culture with a knowledgeable guide on this popular food tour. You’ll sample all the best food joints and make new friends along the way. Come with an open mind and empty stomach and leave with a full belly and a happy heart.


Moorea food tour (Tama'a street food tour)

Moorea food tour (Tama'a street food tour)

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Come hungry to this half-day food tour of Moorea that will let you eat like a local. Your Moorea-born guide will take you to some of the best food joints, where the French, Chinese, and Polynesian influences are strong. See the sights while filling your belly with great food and making new friends on an intimate, small-group tour.
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  • 4 to 5 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD141.50
From
USD141.50

13. Snorkel with the help of a seascooter in Moorea

Experience Moorea’s underwater wonderland up-close on this seascooter and snorkeling tour. Snorkeling with the help of a seascooter allows you to see more, as you’ll zoom about much faster below the water. It also includes a professional underwater photographer to capture all the memories.


Sea Scooter Jet Snorkeling "Moorea Dream Adventure"

Sea Scooter Jet Snorkeling "Moorea Dream Adventure"

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Using a seascooter while snorkeling will allow you to cover more distance easily, so you can see even more marine life. On this snorkeling tour you will use seascooters to explore some of the best underwater sites in Moorea. Your guide will tell you about the marine life of French Polynesia, and take you to the best spots while keeping you safe in the sea.
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  • 4 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD152.38
From
USD152.38

14. Snorkel, fish, and eat like a Polynesian

Experience Polynesian culture and daily life on an intimate lagoon tour of Moorea. Ride a traditional outrigger canoe, learn ancient net fishing techniques, and then help prepare your freshly-caught seafood in a local home.


Moorea Like a Local: Lagoon Cruise Including Snorkeling and Fishing with Polynesian Lunch

Moorea Like a Local: Lagoon Cruise Including Snorkeling and Fishing with Polynesian Lunch

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Experience a day in the life of a local on this intimate small-group tour of Moorea with four people or fewer. Head out on an authentic outrigger and learn ancient net fishing techniques before preparing your freshly caught seafood for a traditional Polynesian lunch in a local home. Complete your tour with a visit to an organic plantation full of fresh fruit before transfering back to your hotel.
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  • 1 day
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD189.39
From
USD189.39

15. Take a transparent kayak across Moorea’s iridescent lagoon

Gaze down into Moorea’s iridescent lagoon from a transparent kayak on this guided tour. Paddle to the best spots on the lagoon, stop at a private island, go snorkeling with sharks and stingrays, and learn about the wildlife alongside a friendly local guide.


Moorea Lagoon Tour by Transparent Kayak
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Moorea Lagoon Tour by Transparent Kayak

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French Polynesia’s Moorea Lagoon boasts crystal waters home to diverse marine life, with native flora and fauna flourishing in hidden coves. On this tour, paddle across the lagoon by transparent kayak and gaze over the vibrant coral reefs below. With your guide to lead the way, hit the most beautiful corners of the lagoon, snorkel among the sea turtles and rays, and gain insight into traditional Polynesian culture.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD45.61
From
USD45.61

16. Swim with sharks, rays, and dolphins in Moorea

Explore Moorea’s best snorkeling spots on this small-group tour, led by a naturalist guide. Learn about the island’s precious marine inhabitants and see creatures such as gray reef sharks, leopard rays, dolphins, and even humpback whales (depending on the season).


Ocean Wildlife Expedition; Swim With Whales, Sharks, & Rays Half-Day Boat Tour

Ocean Wildlife Expedition; Swim With Whales, Sharks, & Rays Half-Day Boat Tour

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Explore the waters of Moorea on a small-group half-day boat tour that offers the chance to snorkel near marine animals such as sharks, stingrays, and whales. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the creatures you might see, including blacktip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, pink whiprays, leopard rays, dolphins, and humpback whales (mid-July to mid-November). Choose from a morning or afternoon departure for this small-group tour limited to eight people. Includes guide, use of snorkel equipment, beverages, fresh fruit, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
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  • 4 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD163.27
From
USD163.27

17. Jet ski and snorkel in Bora Bora’s lagoon

Enjoy an island adventure on this combo tour of Bora Bora’s lagoon. In the morning, whiz around the water by jet ski alongside an experienced guide; then, dine where the celebrities do with lunch at Bloody Mary’s, before ending the day with a shark and stingray snorkel cruise back on the lagoon.


Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour, Lunch at Bloody Mary's & Eco Shark / Ray Snorkel Cruise
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Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour, Lunch at Bloody Mary's & Eco Shark / Ray Snorkel Cruise

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Get out on the water at Bora Bora om this combo Jet Ski and snorkeling tour that includes a shark and stingray boat safari. Select a single or double Jet Ski and zip around the Polynesian paradise with an experienced guide. After lunch at Bloody Mary’s, hop in a powerboat to a shallow lagoon for a close encounter with black-tip reef sharks and stingrays.
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  • 6 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD265.69
From
USD265.69

Find more things to do in French Polynesia

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See all French Polynesia tours
433 tours & tickets
Things to do in Bora Bora
See all things to do in French Polynesia
World War II History in Bora Bora
World War II History in Bora Bora