10 Underrated French Polynesian Islands You Won’t Want to Miss

Heavenly Maupiti is an island that’s love at first sight. The unhurried pace of life, postcard-perfect beaches, and friendly locals make it the perfect place to get away from it all. Stroll around the 6-mile-long (10-kilometer-long) perimeter of the island or sweat to the top of Mt. Teurafaatiu for unforgettable views. Then, reward yourself the next day by snorkeling or diving with manta rays in the crystal-clear lagoon.

How to get there: From Bora Bora, take the Maupiti Express boat. Alternatively, fly with Air Tahiti from Pape’ete, Bora Bora, or Raiatea.

Known as the “secret island,” Huahine is one of the highlights of French Polynesia. Located in the Society Island group, this quiet paradise offers relaxation and the chance to immerse oneself in nature. Take an excursion to visit the island’s best beaches, cultural sites, and peek at Huahine’s famous blue-eyed eels; then, relax with a sunset cruise on the island’s peerless lagoon.

How to get there: Fly direct to Huahine with Air Tahiti from Pape’ete, Moorea, Raiatea, or Bora Bora. Ferries also depart three times a week from Bora Bora and other islands.

Located in the mysterious Marquesas archipelago and far from the tourist trail, Nuku Hiva is an adventurer’s delight. Delve into the island’s distinct culture by touring the ancient marae (temples) complete with intricately carved tiki and ceremonial sites. Or, get lost in Nuku Hiva’s incredible natural landscape on foot or by 4WD, exploring mountains, cliffs, and valleys unlike any you’ve seen before.

How to get there: There are no direct flights between Bora Bora and Nuku Hiva; however, flights bound for this remote island leave regularly from Tahiti.

Fakarava, a coral atoll in the Tuamotu archipelago, is a vision. With a shimmering turquoise lagoon, pink-sand beaches, and coconut palms as far as the eye can see, it’s captivating on land. Underwater, it’s even better, so don’t miss your chance to go diving in one of the atoll’s two passes for up-close encounters with sharks or stay above the surface on a jet ski.

How to get there: Air Tahiti flights depart on select days from Bora Bora for Fakarava.

This laid-back island has long been overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Bora Bora, but Taha’a’s stunning lagoon and picturesque motu (islets) hold their own. Better known as the “vanilla island,” Taha’a also grows the most fragrant Tahitian vanilla beans in French Polynesia. What’s less well known, however, is the fact that Taha’a also produces black pearls and its very own rum. Be sure to pick up some of all three if you visit.

How to get there: You can only reach Taha’a by water taxi from the neighboring island of Raiatea, although private helicopter transfers may also be available.

The private atoll of Tetiaroa is home to an ultra-luxe eco-resort that has hosted the world’s rich and famous—Barack Obama and Leonardo DiCaprio are both said to be fans. And with Tetiaroa’s breathtaking natural beauty (as well as its reputation for once being the vacation destination of choice for Tahitian royalty), it’s not hard to see why. Book a stay at The Brando yourself or explore the atoll by sea on a catamaran day tour from Tahiti or Moorea.

How to get there: Tetiaroa Island is only accessible by private Air Tetiaroa aircraft departing from Tahiti or Bora Bora.

The smallest island in the Austral archipelago, rarely-visited and remote Rimatara is an off-the-beaten-path gem that’s home to the endangered Rimatara lorikeet, a gorgeous endemic bird. Take a birdwatching tour with the island’s conservation association to spot the famous resident while you can; then, jump on a bike and ride around the island’s perimeter, stopping to chat with friendly locals in the two small villages and laze around on pretty palm-lined beaches along the way.

How to get there: Air Tahiti flies direct from Tahiti to Rimatara, but there’s no direct route from Bora Bora.

Mangareva is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, over three hours away by plane from Tahiti. But its remoteness is part of its allure. Head inland and hike the island’s lush mountains or venture out onto the cobalt blue lagoon with a fishing rod and admire Mangareva’s splendor. Once you’re done getting back to nature, marvel at the Cathedral Saint Michel, built from tons of bleached white coral in the 1800s.

How to get there: Air Tahiti flights bound for the Gambier Islands depart Pape’ete, Tahiti, twice weekly. From the airport, boats transport travelers to Mangareva island proper.