Beyond Bora Bora. Lagoon picnics, pearl diving, and remote romance on lesser-known islands like Taha’a. Perfect for: Honeymoons, anniversaries, and overwater everything.
When most travelers dream of French Polynesia, one name usually takes center stage: Bora Bora. And yes—Bora Bora is spectacular. Jade-green peaks, those famous overwater bungalows, and lagoon views that seem photoshopped even when you’re standing in them. But… there’s more. So much more. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to step just beyond the obvious—who wants luxury with a side of adventure, romance without the crowds—then welcome to the secret side of French Polynesia. Here’s where to go and what to do when you’re ready to sail beyond Bora Bora: ⸻
Taha’a — The Vanilla Island Taha’a is what most travelers wish Bora Bora still was: uncrowded, lush, and perfumed with the scent of vanilla orchids wafting on the breeze. Top experiences: • Take a private boat to a secluded motu (islet) for a lagoon picnic straight out of a movie scene. Think toes in the sand, champagne chilling, and a personal chef grilling the freshest seafood. • Tour a vanilla plantation and meet the artisans behind the world’s most fragrant pods—this is where true Tahitian vanilla comes from. • Slip on a mask and dive into a coral garden that glows with technicolor fish and soft, waving anemones. Where to stay: Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts offers divine overwater bungalows with views of Bora Bora in the distance—far enough to be dreamy, close enough for a day trip if you want it. ⸻
Raiatea — The Sacred Island The spiritual heart of Polynesia, Raiatea is the site of ancient marae (temples) and home to lush mountains and wild rivers. Top experiences: • Glide along the only navigable river in French Polynesia on a kayak, listening to birdsong and stories of ancient voyagers. • Charter a catamaran for a day of pearl diving—you can snorkel alongside the divers and maybe even choose a pearl straight from the lagoon. • Visit Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and feel the deep cultural roots that run through this land. Where to stay: Raiatea Lodge Hotel offers an intimate, authentic Polynesian experience with stylish rooms and lagoon views. ⸻
Rangiroa — The Endless Lagoon Part of the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa is a diver’s paradise—home to one of the world’s largest atolls. Here, the lagoon seems to stretch forever, dotted with tiny coral islets. Top experiences: • World-class diving and drift snorkeling through Tiputa Pass—prepare to see dolphins, sharks, manta rays, and more. • Discover pink sand beaches that shimmer under the Polynesian sun. • Sip wine at the world’s only lagoon-based vineyard (!), growing grapes on coral soil. Where to stay: Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa, with chic bungalows and villas just steps from the sea. ⸻
Why Go Beyond Bora Bora? Because sometimes, the greatest luxury is space. Stillness. Untouched beauty and local charm. Because overwater bungalows are fabulous—but so are pink beaches, private islets, and the thrill of discovering places where the only footprints on the sand are yours. Perfect for:
Honeymoons that deserve something unique
Anniversaries that call for rekindling connection
Overwater everything—plus vanilla, pearls, and Polynesian magic ⸻ Ready to dive deeper into French Polynesia?
Let me design your personal chapter of island enchantment—beyond Bora Bora.
