With its exciting mix of cultures, French Polynesia promises visitors an exciting tropical getaway. Consisting of 118 South Pacific islands and atolls, French Polynesia is a wonderful destination for travelers who enjoy water activities. There are a number of scuba outfitters who will help visitors make the most of their dives. Being surrounded by many varieties of animal life, including brightly colored schools of fish, coral, and sponges, scuba diving in French Polynesia is an exciting adventure for both beginners and experienced divers. Snorkeling is also very popular with the islanders. With good snorkeling spots located near just about every hotel and beach hut, travelers never have to venture far to find an exciting underwater exploration. Although there are many places on the islands to rent snorkeling equipment, many returned visitors suggest that you take your own equipment with you to ensure that your mask does not leak and that all of your gear fits well.
French Polynesia has a long history of surfing. According to some accounts, the native Polynesian people were the first to take to the waves on wooden planks. Just about every island has some great surfing spots, but the best locations are at the open ocean entryways into lagoons. Called passes, these areas allow large waves to form but allow surfers to avoid the coral that surrounds the lagoon. Some of the best surf spots on the island of Tahiti are at Papenoo Break, Papara Black Sand Beach, and Teahupoo. A good way to find more great surf spots is to stop by some of the surf shops in Papeete or visit some of the local surf competitions.
An exciting way to experience some of the native marine life without getting your feet wet is to visit one of the country’s two Lagoonariums. These outdoor aquariums are home to many examples of the native marine life. At the Tahiti Lagoonarium, home to over 1000 different species of fish and marine life, visitors can experience the brilliant colors and dazzling variety of life for which the islands are famous. The Lagoonarium also has shark feedings daily. A larger Lagoonarium is located on the island of Bora Bora. Here, accompanied by a guide, visitors can swim with the animals and experience the native fish, turtles, rays, and sharks in a safe, natural environment. Full day tours are available which include several hours at the Bora Bora Lagoonarium, a full-circle island tour onboard outrigger canoes, and a barbecue picnic.
Visitors to the main island of Tahiti will find a number of things to do. A circle island tour, which stops at many of the common sightseeing locations, is a great way to gain a general overview of the island. For more information on the local history and culture, visit the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands. Located on the site of a former religious temple, the museum has many exhibits exploring Polynesian culture, technology, and history before the arrival of English Missionaries. Nearby, the Paul Gauguin Museum presents a retrospective on the famous artist’s life and works. Travelers may also enjoy a visit to Marea of Arahurahu, a flat-topped pyramid where animal and human sacrifices were left for the gods.
The city of Papeete, located on Tahiti, has many shopping opportunities. Walking along the narrow streets, visitors will find a variety of Polynesian products. A number of art galleries are located here which makes it possible to buy a wide range of art, including sculpture, woodwork, and painting as well as many traditional crafts. French Polynesia is also famous for its black pearls. Cultivated from the Pinctada Margaritifera species of pearl oysters, these pearls are abundant in the shops of Papeete. The town’s Pearl Museum explores the role of pearls as seen through the lenses of religion, art, history, and mythology. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit Le Merche, the local market. Vendors on two floors sell a variety of local produce as well as flowers, handcrafts, and clothing.
Although Tahiti is the nation’s most popular island, travelers who have the time should visit some of French Polynesia’s other islands as well. Although each island is unique and beautiful, several islands stand out among the rest. With its lush greenery, volcanic peaks, sandy beaches, and huge lagoon, Bora Bora is regarded by some as the most beautiful island in the Pacific. To explore hilltop fortresses, limestone caverns and ruined temples, visit Rapa in the Austral Archipelago. Finally, to visit the home of some of the region’s finest artists, make the difficult trek to Fatu Hiva. The most remote of the islands, Fatu Hiva provides a glimpse into Polynesia as it used to be.
