Beaches and Reefs of French Polynesia
Dive into the beauty of turquoise waters, white sands and colourful reefs in Moorea and Bora Bora
What's included
-
Full support from your travel designer and concierge
-
Luxury accommodation throughout
-
Private transfers and domestic flights
-
All of the tours mentioned in the itinerary
At a glance
This tour combines the thrill of scuba diving with the tranquility of a quintessential paradise. Bright white sands are wrapped in turquoise waters, where multicoloured reefs wait to be explored. You’ll stay on a range of idyllic islands and in world-class resorts that rival the most glamourous of films sets.
Start the trip in Moorea, famed for its rugged volcanic mountains and lush foliage. You will also explore its lagoon on a snorkelling tour where you’ll come across stingrays, black tip reef sharks and turtles.
From here you will travel to arguably the most famous island of them all, Bora Bora. Here you’ll further explore magnificent lagoon waters on a luxury catamaran.
Following this, you’ll head to the lesser known yet equally beautiful island of Rangiroa, staying in the exquisite Hotel Kia Ora, famous for its unique location on a 10km long motu, with exquisite views of both the lagoon and the ocean on either side.
Journey deeper into the ocean, scuba diving in one of the only places in the world where you can dive with dolphins. This is not all Rangiroa Island has to offer, for you shall also explore the natural phenomena of the pink sands near the islet of Vahituri.
You’ll finish your journey on the coral atoll of Tikahau which offers pristine, undisturbed conditions in which to spot manta rays and hammerhead sharks.
This journey is a seemingly endless stream of paradisal hotspots, away from the crowds and stresses of everyday life, and where you can experience the most serene yet majestic offerings of nature.
Example trip itinerary
Moorea
Transfer
Meet and greet at Tahiti airport
Flight
Domestic flight to Moorea
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel
Accommodation in Moorea
Moorea
Overview
Nestled between two bays on the idyllic island of Moorea is the Hilton hotel, the perfect place from which to enjoy this little piece of paradise.
Choose from a garden bungalow with its own private terrace and plunge pool, or opt for an overwater villa where you can dip into the turquoise water from your decking. Both are decorated in contemporary Polynesian style.
There are plenty of options when it comes to eating and drinking. Enjoy Polynesian and international cuisine at Arii Vahine Restaurant on the lagoon, or refreshing drinks and platters of fresh fruit at the Rotui Grill and Bar. Toatea Bar sits over the water and the perfect spot for a cocktail and a crepe overlooking the clear waters.
You’ll likely want to spend most of your days relaxing on the powder soft sand, exploring the incredible underwater world enjoying the resort’s facilities. There is also a spa for those wanting to indulge in a treatment or two.
→ Find out moreMoorea
Overview
Immerse yourself in a world of French luxury surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, exquisite lagoons and impressive mountains that rise from the clear Pacific Ocean waters at this lagoon-side beach resort.
With views of the island of Tahiti, the resort offers 112 luxurious bungalows, either built out over the water, or nestled in the beautifully landscaped gardens. The rooms features natural wood and stone finishing with accents of warm colour adding an inviting touch. Wide windows allow in plenty of natural light and draw in the sounds and scents of the sea and jungle.
Enjoy the magical view out over the lagoon towards Tahiti as you dine on chef Guillaume Burlion’s world-class menu at K Restaurant, or enjoyed a relaxed contemporary meal at Pure. Get out of the sun and sip on a refreshing south Pacific cocktail typically Polynesian Vue, or raise a glass to another day in paradise at the beach bar.
When not soaking up the rays on the beach, take a dip in the swimming pool, or treat yourself to a session of pampering at the day spa. A selection of water activities like scuba diving can also be arranged.
→ Find out more
Three nights in Moorea
Dramatic peaks cloaked in emerald green forest rise up from the bright turquoise waters of the lagoon that surronds the island of Moorea. Deciding which of the French Polynesian islands is the most beautiful is no easy task, but Moorea is certainly one of the top contenders. Sitting north west of Tahiti, this is an island ripe for exploring. Its lagoon is home to stingrays, black tip reef sharks and turtles and is a wonderful place to swim, snorkel and kayak. Keen divers will want to head further out to marvel at the coral reefs and marine life that inhabits these pristine waters.
Moorea Lagoon snorkelling tour
Board a boat to discover the exotic riches of the Moorea Lagoon accompanied by a naturalist guide. All snorkelling sites you visit are selected to ensure a privileged encounter with marine animals such as stingrays, black tip reef sharks or turtles, usually without encountering another tourist boat. You can also swim among tiki statues submerged near Opunohu Bay, or the colourful coral near the barrier reef. If the spinner dolphins are present, you will also have the opportunity to see them playing on the surface in the vicinity of the passes. Surfing enthusiasts can ask the captain of the boat to visit the best surfing spots.
Transfer
Private transfer to Moorea airport
Flight
Domestic flight to Bora Bora
Bora Bora
Transfer
Boat transfer to your hotel
Accommodation in Bora Bora
Bora Bora
Overview
White sandy beaches, breathtaking sunset views and rooms right on the water – Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a luxurious retreat set in a private cove on Motu To’opua. With Mount Otemanu as an impressive backdrop, the renovated resort offers panoramic lagoon views, cultural activities, luxury dining and personalised service.
The 115 rooms include overwater, garden and beach villas with Polynesian décor and an emphasis on the resort’s lagoon-side location. Enjoy the views from your private terrace, or relax in a comfy net over the water.
With six restaurants and bars covering a variety of cuisines, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Dine at Iriatai French Restaurant, Banyan Chinese Restaurant or Tamure Beach Grill. Choose between Upa Upa Lounge Bar and Iriatai Wine Bar for sundowners or make a splash at the swim up Tarava Pool Bar.
The resort also features a hilltop spa with stunning views, a pool, fitness centre, miniature golf and various water activities.
→ Find out moreBora Bora
Overview
Perched on an outer coral reef and surrounded by sandy islets, the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is an idyllic island retreat surrounded by the turquoise waters of the South Pacific.
There are 107 suites and villas scattered along the outer beaches and over the water. The beachfront villas are draped along a stretch of semi-private beach, with private gardens filled with coconut palms and colourful bougainvillea and a private swimming pool. There are a mixture of one-, two- and three-bedroom villas making them perfect for honeymooners, families and groups of friends.
The overwater bungalows sit on stilts over the ocean, some with their own private plunge pools. Teak wood and thatched roofs give them plenty of traditional charm while the high ceilings and spacious interiors ensure they offer guests the most comfortable of stays.
When it comes to dining, guests are spoiled for choice with four restaurants serving a cuisine inspired by Polynesian and French traditions, as well as light salads and freshly grilled seafood. There are also pleny of spots to enjoy a cocktail as the as the sun sets. There is also the option to enjoy dinner on the beach with Polynesian singing and a fire dance performance, and have your breakfast delivered to your suite in a ceremonial Polynesian canoe.
With the inviting waters of the South Pacific on your doorstep, you’ll want to dive straight in and explore the fascinating underwater world. Enjoy snorkelling adventures in the Ruanhatu Lagoon Sanctuary, home to over 100 marine species including octopus, eagle rays and unicorn fish, then explore the coves by sea kayak, stand up paddleboard or water bike. There is also an infinity pool, spa, fitness centre and tennis courts.
→ Find out moreBora Bora
Overview
Motu Piti Aau island is a slender strip bordered on one side by Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon and the South Pacific on the other.
Reaching out into the lagoon are four walkways linking The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa’s 80 overwater villas. Each feature a spacious furnished sundeck with outdoor freshwater shower, a shaded area and a sundeck with direct access to the water outside – some also have their own pool – while indoors you’ll find a comfortable bedroom and living room complete with glass-bottomed coffee table that acts as a window to the lagoon and the fish below. Design is in a sleek, contemporary island style, with touches of traditional Polynesian design alongside the latest in-room technology. Perched at the end each walkway there is an exclusive Brando Suite, situated for the utmost privacy and best views of Mt. Otemanu.
On dry land, find the resort’s numerous facilities including three restaurants serving cuisine ranging from authentic local dishes and beach barbecues to fine French dining, a collection of bars and the Deep Ocean Spa, the first seawater therapy spa in French Polynesia.Perfectly placed to experience the best of Bora Bora, you have the chance to explore both the island’s landscapes and its indigenous culture, with plenty of activities and excursions to choose from land and sea.
→ Find out moreBora Bora
Overview
Located on the picture-perfect island of Bora Bora, the St. Regis sits within 44 acres of lush, tropical grounds in the shadow of the iconic Mount Otemanu.
The resort consists of 89 villas, some of which are nestled in the gardens or along the beach, and others which are perched over the sparkling waters of the South Pacific. Some of the garden and beach villas have their own private pools while the overwater villas feature separate dining gazebos so you can enjoy views of the lagoon while you eat. There is also a two-bedroom villa perfect for families and an estate that sleeps nine.
The Lagoon Restaurant is St. Regis’ signature restaurant, offering a fusion of French and Asian cuisine with lots of fresh seafood and creative flavour combinations. Mount Otemanu is framed by the large windows, and there are long glass panels on the floor through which you can see the black-tip sharks who live beneath the restaurant. The overwater terrace is the perfect place for a sunset drink. There is also a sushi and sake restaurant, Far Niente Ristorante offering Italian cuisine and fine wines, and Te Pahu restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Polynesian dancing and music.
The resort has its own Lagoonarium, a protected underwater sanctuary filled with marine life. Sat on its own island in the middle of the Lagoonarium is the spa, a tranquil haven where guests can relax and unwind with a treatment. There are two swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis court and bikes for hire for those that wish to explore the island.
→ Find out more
Three nights in Bora Bora
Enjoy your time relaxing on one of the world's most beautiful islands. The pristine waters of the South Pacific Ocean beckon, where a colourful and fascinating world awaits beneath the surface. Choose to swim, snorkel or scuba dive and admire the schools of fish and coral reef formations, or explore hidden coves by paddleboard or kayak. Of course, the white sands of Bora Bora's beaches make for a rather splendid place to set up camp, as does your luxury hotel where you can enjoy incredible food, spa treatments, and top-end service.
Private lagoon cruise
Sail around one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world aboard a 40-foot catamaran. Make yourself at home and enjoy stunning views of Bora Bora, Otemanu mountain, the pristine motu islets, and the lagoon. The boat will stop in the most beautiful areas of the lagoon, where you can dive into the water if you wish. You can get close to the barrier reef and see neighbouring islands such as Raiatea. Sweets, snacks, fresh fruit juice, toast with champagne and a restaurant lunch are all included.
Transfer
Boat transfer to Bora Bora airport
Flight
Domestic flight to Rangiroa
Rangiroa
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel
Accommodation in Rangiroa
Rangiroa
Overview
Located in a coconut plantation on the northwest part of Rangiroa, the Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa makes the most of its unique setting. The resort is on a 10km long motu, with the brilliant blue lagoon on one side, and the gently lapping ocean on the other.
The 60 villas and bungalows are scattered throughout the coconut grove, on the beach, or suspended over the turquoise lagoon. Garden villas feature an enclosed yard and a private plunge pool, an ideal option for families. The buildings are designed in a traditional Polynesian architectural style, and the views from the resort are impressive as the water glistens in the sunlight.
Dine on a fusion of Tahitian and French cuisine at the resort’s Te Rairoa restaurant where freshly caught seafood and local ingredients are the stars of the menu.
As well as the over-water Miki Miki Bar, there’s also a spa, a fitness centre and an infinity pool. Snorkelling gear, kayaks and canoes are also complimentary – Rangiroa is world-renowned for its diving and snorkelling, so you’ll definitely want to get in the water and swim with the fish.
→ Find out more
Four nights in Rangiroa
About an hour's flight from Tahiti, Rangiroa is the second biggest atoll in the world, with 240 motu (islets) and more than 100 hoa (channels). This is a real tropical island getaway with incredible diving and snorkelling, beautiful beaches and that laidback atmosphere so characteristic of the South Pacific.
Diving around Rangiroa
Boasting some of the best scuba diving in the world, Rangiroa is sure to satisfy the avid diver's thirst and desire for big marine life. This area is well known for its abundance of sharks, rays, dolphins and other reef life. Rangiroa is one of the only places in the world where you will be able to dive with dolphins.
Pink Sands tour
In the lagoon off Rangiroa near the islet Vahituri, you will find a unique Pink Sands area. When the tropical sun’s light meets with the sand, the effect is just amazing, making it a beautiful natural phenomenon. Sand dunes stretch out towards the middle of the lagoon, their charming pink hue due to crumbled shells. These coral sands with delicate glints are covered by clear warm water, ideal for snorkelling. The tour includes a delicious picnic lunch prepared from local ingredients on a wild islet, located 15 minutes away by boat. Your visit will end in the Tiputa pass, where you may even have the chance to see the dolphins jumping through the waves.
Transfer
Private transfer to Rangiroa airport
Flight
Domestic flight to Tikehau
Tikehau
Transfer
Boat transfer to your hotel
Accommodation in Tikehau
Overview
Hidden away among the pinks sands of this secluded private island, lapped by surf-perfect waves, you will find the eight charmingly crafted bungalows of Ninamu Resort.
Each is designed using locally sourced materials, such as the grand woven ceilings, wooden beams and coral clad walls. The chalets create a perfectly authentic tiki-style bubble for a relaxing nights rest after an activity-filled day in the bluest of waters.
This beachfront resort is the perfect location for surfers, kiteboarders, paddleboarders, and divers. Once this has worked up your appetite, you’ll delight in the resort restaurant, which serves homemade, organic cuisine with endless views of the both the lagoon and sea.
All of the meat is sourced from the fully organic, family run local farm, Eden Isle, which is located on the other side of the atoll, while you can try your own hand at fishing and reap the rewards at dinner.
With a maximum capacity of 16 guests at any one time, here you’ll be sure to have a wonderfully personal and intimate experience in this quintessential paradise.
→ Find out more
Three nights in Tikehau
Tikehau is a small oval-shaped atoll west of Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Archipelago. The lagoon is formed by an almost unbroken ring of coral, creating an immense natural swimming pool which is absolutely teeming with life. Divers and snorkellers will love exploring the colourful underwater world, home to lionfish, clownfish, manta rays and sharks. Tikehau is also home to lots of white and pink sand islets dotted with coconut groves.
Diving around Tikahau
Transfer
Boat transfer to Tikehau airport
Flight
Domestic flight to Tahiti
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
Beaches and Reefs of French Polynesia
How we work
This tour combines the thrill of scuba diving with the tranquility of a quintessential paradise. Bright white sands are wrapped in turquoise waters, where multicoloured reefs wait to be explored. You’ll stay on a range of idyllic islands and in world-class resorts that rival the most glamourous of films sets. Start the trip in Moorea, famed for its rugged volcanic mountains and lush foliage. You will also explore its lagoon on a snorkelling tour where you’ll come across stingrays, black tip reef sharks and turtles. From here you will travel to arguably the most famous island of them all, Bora Bora. Here you’ll further explore magnificent lagoon waters on a luxury catamaran. Following this, you’ll head to the lesser known yet equally beautiful island of Rangiroa, staying in the exquisite Hotel Kia Ora, famous for its unique location on a 10km long motu, with exquisite views of both the lagoon and the ocean on either side. Journey deeper into the ocean, scuba diving in one of the only places in the world where you can dive with dolphins. This is not all Rangiroa Island has to offer, for you shall also explore the natural phenomena of the pink sands near the islet of Vahituri. You’ll finish your journey on the coral atoll of Tikahau which offers pristine, undisturbed conditions in which to spot manta rays and hammerhead sharks. This journey is a seemingly endless stream of paradisal hotspots, away from the crowds and stresses of everyday life, and where you can experience the most serene yet majestic offerings of nature. | Whats included?
|
Days 1-4 |
Moorea |
|
Flights & transfers
Meet and greet at Tahiti airport |
|
| Domestic flight to Moorea | |
| Private transfer to your hotel | |
|
Accommodation in Moorea
•
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa - $$$$$
Nestled between two bays on the idyllic island of Moorea is the Hilton hotel, the perfect...
•
Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Beach Resort - $$$$$
Immerse yourself in a world of French luxury surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, exquisite...
|
|
| Three nights in Moorea Dramatic peaks cloaked in emerald green forest rise up from the bright turquoise waters of the lagoon that surronds the island of Moorea. Deciding which of the French Polynesian islands is the most beautiful is no easy task, but Moorea is certainly one of the top contenders. Sitting north west of Tahiti, this is an island ripe for exploring. Its lagoon is home to stingrays, black tip reef sharks and turtles and is a wonderful place to swim, snorkel and kayak. Keen divers will want to head further out to marvel at the coral reefs and marine life that inhabits these pristine waters. |
|
| Moorea Lagoon snorkelling tour Board a boat to discover the exotic riches of the Moorea Lagoon accompanied by a naturalist guide. All snorkelling sites you visit are selected to ensure a privileged encounter with marine animals such as stingrays, black tip reef sharks or turtles, usually without encountering another tourist boat. You can also swim among tiki statues submerged near Opunohu Bay, or the colourful coral near the barrier reef. If the spinner dolphins are present, you will also have the opportunity to see them playing on the surface in the vicinity of the passes. Surfing enthusiasts can ask the captain of the boat to visit the best surfing spots. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Moorea airport |
|
| Domestic flight to Bora Bora | |
Days 4-7 |
Bora Bora |
|
Flights & transfers
Boat transfer to your hotel |
|
|
Accommodation in Bora Bora
•
Conrad Bora Bora Nui - $$$$$
White sandy beaches, breathtaking sunset views and rooms right on the water – Conrad...
•
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora - $$$$$
Perched on an outer coral reef and surrounded by sandy islets, the Four Seasons Resort Bora...
•
InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa - $$$$$
Motu Piti Aau island is a slender strip bordered on one side by Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon...
•
St. Regis Bora Bora - $$$$$
Located on the picture-perfect island of Bora Bora, the St. Regis sits within 44 acres of...
|
|
| Three nights in Bora Bora Enjoy your time relaxing on one of the world's most beautiful islands. The pristine waters of the South Pacific Ocean beckon, where a colourful and fascinating world awaits beneath the surface. Choose to swim, snorkel or scuba dive and admire the schools of fish and coral reef formations, or explore hidden coves by paddleboard or kayak. Of course, the white sands of Bora Bora's beaches make for a rather splendid place to set up camp, as does your luxury hotel where you can enjoy incredible food, spa treatments, and top-end service. |
|
| Private lagoon cruise Sail around one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world aboard a 40-foot catamaran. Make yourself at home and enjoy stunning views of Bora Bora, Otemanu mountain, the pristine motu islets, and the lagoon. The boat will stop in the most beautiful areas of the lagoon, where you can dive into the water if you wish. You can get close to the barrier reef and see neighbouring islands such as Raiatea. Sweets, snacks, fresh fruit juice, toast with champagne and a restaurant lunch are all included. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Boat transfer to Bora Bora airport |
|
| Domestic flight to Rangiroa | |
Days 7-11 |
Rangiroa |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel |
|
|
Accommodation in Rangiroa
•
Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa - $$$$$
Located in a coconut plantation on the northwest part of Rangiroa, the Hotel Kia Ora Resort...
|
|
| Four nights in Rangiroa About an hour's flight from Tahiti, Rangiroa is the second biggest atoll in the world, with 240 motu (islets) and more than 100 hoa (channels). This is a real tropical island getaway with incredible diving and snorkelling, beautiful beaches and that laidback atmosphere so characteristic of the South Pacific. |
|
| Diving around Rangiroa Boasting some of the best scuba diving in the world, Rangiroa is sure to satisfy the avid diver's thirst and desire for big marine life. This area is well known for its abundance of sharks, rays, dolphins and other reef life. Rangiroa is one of the only places in the world where you will be able to dive with dolphins. |
|
| Pink Sands tour In the lagoon off Rangiroa near the islet Vahituri, you will find a unique Pink Sands area. When the tropical sun’s light meets with the sand, the effect is just amazing, making it a beautiful natural phenomenon. Sand dunes stretch out towards the middle of the lagoon, their charming pink hue due to crumbled shells. These coral sands with delicate glints are covered by clear warm water, ideal for snorkelling. The tour includes a delicious picnic lunch prepared from local ingredients on a wild islet, located 15 minutes away by boat. Your visit will end in the Tiputa pass, where you may even have the chance to see the dolphins jumping through the waves. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Rangiroa airport |
|
| Domestic flight to Tikehau | |
Days 11-14 |
Tikehau |
|
Flights & transfers
Boat transfer to your hotel |
|
|
Accommodation in Tikehau
•
Ninamu Resort - $$$$$
Hidden away among the pinks sands of this secluded private island, lapped by surf-perfect...
|
|
| Three nights in Tikehau Tikehau is a small oval-shaped atoll west of Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Archipelago. The lagoon is formed by an almost unbroken ring of coral, creating an immense natural swimming pool which is absolutely teeming with life. Divers and snorkellers will love exploring the colourful underwater world, home to lionfish, clownfish, manta rays and sharks. Tikehau is also home to lots of white and pink sand islets dotted with coconut groves. |
|
| Diving around Tikahau | |
|
Flights & transfers
Boat transfer to Tikehau airport |
|
| Domestic flight to Tahiti |
