Luxury Adventures in French Polynesia: Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora & your own Private Islands

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Luxury Adventures in French Polynesia: Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora & your own Private Islands

In the heart of the South Pacific, the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora offer travellers a luxurious and serene escape, surrounded by turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and some of the world’s most exclusive resorts. Accessible within a few hours by direct flights from New Zealand and Australia, French Polynesia & her islands provide an idyllic escape that combines luxury with ease of travel. This guide will introduce you to the most exceptional accommodations in these tropical paradises, highlighting the ease with which they can be reached from Oceania.

Getting There: An Easy Escape from Australia and New Zealand

With Tahiti being the main gateway to French Polynesia, traveling to these islands is surprisingly convenient from Australia and New Zealand. Flights from Auckland to Papeete, the capital of Tahiti, take about 5 hours, while flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Tahiti are around 8-10 hours. Air Tahiti Nui, Air New Zealand, and Qantas offer direct flights, ensuring a seamless journey to paradise. Upon arriving in Papeete, inter-island flights on Air Tahiti connect travelers to Moorea and Bora Bora, making multi-island exploration effortless.

Tahiti: Luxury Amidst Cultural Richness

As the largest and most populous island in French Polynesia, Tahiti is often the first stop for travelers. Known for its black-sand beaches, rugged mountains, and rich Polynesian culture, Tahiti offers luxury that blends seamlessly with authenticity.

1. The Brando
Just a short flight from Tahiti, The Brando on Tetiaroa Atoll is one of the most exclusive resorts in the world. Developed by Marlon Brando, this eco-friendly resort redefines luxury. With private villas, a commitment to sustainability, and a pristine environment, The Brando provides a unique experience of indulgence and tranquility. Guests enjoy personalized service, gourmet dining, and a range of activities, from snorkelling to exploring archaeological sites.

2. InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
Conveniently located near the Faa’a International Airport, the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is perfect for those wanting to experience luxury with accessibility. Set on the edge of a lagoon, the resort boasts overwater bungalows, two infinity pools, and a spa that incorporates traditional Tahitian healing techniques. The resort also offers cultural experiences, such as Tahitian dance performances and pareo-tying classes.

Moorea: Tropical Beauty and Laid-Back Charm

Just a short ferry or flight from Tahiti, Moorea is known for its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear lagoons, and laid-back vibe. A favorite among honeymooners, Moorea offers a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.

1. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Located on a stunning beach with views of Tahiti, the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort combines French elegance with Polynesian charm. The resort features overwater bungalows with direct lagoon access, beach bungalows, and garden bungalows. The gourmet restaurant, K, offers a memorable dining experience under the stars, blending French cuisine with local ingredients. Guests can also indulge in massages, snorkelling, and other water sports.

2. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Perfectly located between two bays, the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is the epitome of luxury. Known for its picturesque overwater bungalows, the resort also offers mountain-view rooms that showcase Moorea’s lush landscape. The overwater bungalows have glass floors, allowing guests to admire the marine life below. Dining options include the Toatea Bar & Creperie, where you can enjoy French-inspired cuisine in an overwater setting. With activities like snorkelling, jet-skiing, and ATV tours, the Hilton Moorea is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Bora Bora: The Jewel of the South Pacific

Known for its breathtaking lagoon and stunning luxury resorts, Bora Bora is often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Its appeal lies in its exclusive resorts, perfect for a dream vacation or romantic getaway.

1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a top choice for those seeking the ultimate luxury experience. The resort offers overwater bungalows and beachfront villas with private pools, all featuring traditional Polynesian design. Guests can enjoy personalized butler service, fine dining, and an award-winning spa located on its own private island. Activities include snorkelling, diving, and helicopter tours for breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu.

2. St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
Another top luxury resort, the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort features some of the largest overwater villas in French Polynesia. Known for its incredible attention to detail, the resort provides an unparalleled level of service, including personal butlers who attend to every need. With its Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges, guests can indulge in French-Asian fusion cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of Mount Otemanu. For relaxation, the resort’s Miri Miri Spa offers traditional Polynesian treatments in a serene setting.

3. Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Located on a private island, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers a secluded luxury experience. With spacious overwater villas, some featuring infinity pools, and an incredible hilltop spa, this resort combines tranquility with modern luxury. Guests can dine at the open-air Iriatai Restaurant or enjoy a drink at the Upa Upa Lounge Bar, with glass floors that reveal the lagoon below. The resort also offers a range of activities, from lagoon excursions to Polynesian dance performances.

Special Islands:

1.Nukutepipi: An exclusive use, Private Island

Discover a unique tropical eden that combines nature and luxury. Surrounded by a myriad of protected species, coconut palms and pristine beaches bathed by emerald and crystalline turquoise waters. Nukutepipi is a true hymn to nature. The island is only available for exclusive rental for groups of up to 52 people so you can have it all to yourself.

Nukutepipi is located in French Polynesia, 6,000 km from the nearest continent and less than 1,000 km from Bora Bora and Tahiti. Direct flights to Tahiti are available from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, Paris, Tokyo, and Auckland.

2.La Tahaa Island Resort & Spa

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts is a world of its own. Set on beautiful Motu Tautau, a private islet looking onto the lush shores of Taha’a on one side and the majestic silhouette of Bora Bora on the other, this intimate resort offers 58 remarkable suites and villas inspired by timeless traditional Polynesian architecture and style. If you are coming in from Bora Bora, the 14-minute helicopter flight is a must, for the breathtaking views over our stunningly gorgeous lagoons, the wave-fringed reef and the majestic ocean.

Experiencing the Beauty of French Polynesia

Aside from the luxury accommodation, French Polynesia offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences that enhance the island getaway. The lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea are teeming with vibrant marine life, making snorkelling and diving must-do activities. Swimming with sharks and rays in Bora Bora, hiking to waterfalls on Tahiti, sailing and fishing or simply enjoying a sunset over the ocean are experiences that showcase the breathtaking beauty of these islands.

For those interested in Polynesian culture, French Polynesia offers rich opportunities to engage. Visitors can learn about the history of traditional tattoos, experience a Tahitian dance performance, or taste local delicacies like poisson cru, a refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime.

The Ease of Travel: Seamless Island-Hopping

Traveling between Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora is remarkably convenient, making it easy to experience the unique offerings of each island in a single trip. Ferries operate frequently between Tahiti and Moorea, while flights on Air Tahiti connect Papeete with Bora Bora in under an hour. Many resorts offer airport transfers, making the transition from travel to relaxation effortless.

For travelers from New Zealand and Australia, the accessibility of these islands adds to their appeal. Direct flights reduce travel time and ensure you can start your vacation with minimal hassle. Once in French Polynesia, island-hopping is straightforward, allowing travellers to experience multiple islands and maximize their time in paradise.

Final Thoughts: A Luxurious Pacific Escape Awaits

Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora offer an unparalleled luxury experience that combines natural beauty with world-class accommodation. With the convenience of direct flights from New Zealand and Australia, these islands are an ideal destination for anyone looking to indulge in the ultimate tropical escape. From overwater bungalows and private beaches to rich cultural experiences, French Polynesia invites you to immerse yourself in luxury, relaxation, and adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful corners. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora promise an unforgettable journey into paradise.

Get in touch with us today to include this in your ultimate French Polynesia Luxury Itinerary

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This article was written by Luxury Adventures Director Dee McKean