Island Hopping from Bora Bora: Exploring the Society Islands

Bora Bora is stunning, but why stop there? Island hopping from Bora Bora within the Society Islands unlocks a whole new level of Polynesian paradise. Think Moorea’s volcanic peaks, Huahine’s authentic charm, Raiatea’s history, and Taha’a’s fragrant vanilla farms – all easily accessible from Bora Bora. This article dives into how to plan your island-hopping adventure, what to expect, and how to maximize your time in this South Pacific haven, with special attention to how these islands complement your experience in Bora Bora.

Bora Bora: The Starting Point

Before we jump into island hopping, let’s quickly recap what makes Bora Bora so special. Famous for its luxurious overwater bungalows, vibrant coral reefs, and iconic Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora offers that quintessential postcard-perfect image of French Polynesia. Some key spots you’ll likely explore include:

• Matira Beach: Often considered one of the world’s best beaches, Matira offers soft white sand and shallow turquoise waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Mount Otemanu: This majestic volcanic peak dominates the island’s skyline. While climbing to the very top is prohibited, guided hikes around its base offer incredible views and insights into the island’s geology.
• Bora Bora Lagoonarium: An enclosed lagoon where you can swim with sharks and rays in a safe and controlled environment. It’s an unforgettable experience!
• Tupuna Safari Bora Bora: Offers jeep tours around the island, showcasing historical sites, local villages, and stunning viewpoints. It’s a great way to learn about Bora Bora’s culture and history.
• Coral Gardens: Located off the coast of a small motu (islet), the Coral Gardens is a vibrant snorkeling spot teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. You can easily access it by boat tour.

Spend a few days soaking up Bora Bora’s beauty, but keep in mind that its luxury comes at a price. Island hopping allows you to diversify your experience and discover the more authentic, and often more affordable, side of French Polynesia.

Planning Your Island Hopping Adventure: Bora Bora as the Base

Bora Bora’s airport (BOB) is well-connected to other islands within the Society Islands, making it an ideal base for your exploration. Air Tahiti, the primary domestic airline, operates numerous daily flights between these islands.

Flight Considerations: Book your inter-island flights well in advance, especially during peak season (June-August and December-January). Air Tahiti offers multi-island passes that can significantly reduce the cost of your flights if you’re planning to visit multiple islands. Check out their Air Tahiti Pass options. These passes are based on zones and routes, and can save you a lot of money compared to booking individual flights.

Duration of Stay: A typical island-hopping itinerary from Bora Bora might look like this:

• Bora Bora: 3-4 days
• Moorea: 3-4 days
• Huahine: 2-3 days
• Raiatea/Taha’a: 2-3 days (these islands share the same lagoon and are easily visited together)

This allows you to experience the highlights of each island without feeling rushed.

Accommodation: While Bora Bora is known for its high-end resorts, the other islands offer a wider range of accommodation options, including pensions (guesthouses), smaller hotels, and even Airbnb rentals. Pensions are a great way to experience local culture and often include meals.

Moorea: The Majestic Sister Island

Just a short (approximately 15-minute) flight or a scenic ferry ride from Papeete (Tahiti), Moorea is known for its dramatic volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and stunning bays. It offers a more accessible and arguably more adventurous experience than Bora Bora. Ferries are available from Papeete; Aremiti and Terevau are the main companies. The ferry to Moorea from Papeete takes around 30-45 minutes – a much cheaper option than flying.

Why Moorea? While Bora Bora is about luxury and relaxation, Moorea is about adventure and natural beauty. Its rugged landscape is perfect for hiking, ATV tours, and exploring hidden waterfalls. The waters around Moorea are also teeming with marine life, making it a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving. Many people choose to begin or end their trip in Moorea to avoid backtracking to Tahiti after going to Bora Bora.

Spots To Explore:

• Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay: These picturesque bays offer stunning views of the island’s volcanic peaks and are popular spots for boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Cook’s Bay is famous for the restaurants dotting its edge. Opunohu Bay, however, offers a more secluded experience with its verdant valley acting as a stunning backdrop.
• Belvedere Lookout: Offers panoramic views of Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Bay, and Mount Rotui. It’s easily accessible by car or scooter and is a must-visit for photographers.
• Magic Mountain: Another excellent lookout point that provides stunning 360-degree views of the island. However, the road to the top can be steep and challenging, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
• Pineapple Plantations: Moorea is famous for its pineapples. Take a tour of a pineapple plantation and learn about the cultivation process. You can sample fresh pineapple juice and other local delicacies. The Rotui Juice Factory is a popular stop; they make local juices and jams.
• Tiki Village Theatre: Experience a traditional Polynesian dance performance and feast at the Tiki Village Theatre. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Activity Recommendations:

• ATV Tour: Explore Moorea’s rugged interior on an ATV tour. You’ll traverse through pineapple plantations, cross rivers, and climb to stunning viewpoints.
• Hiking: Moorea offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The hike to Afareaitu Waterfalls is a popular choice.
• Snorkeling and Diving: The coral reefs around Moorea are teeming with marine life. Snorkeling tours to spots like Temae Beach and the Moorea Lagoonarium are easily arranged. Diving enthusiasts will find numerous dive sites with abundant sharks, rays, and colorful fish.

Cost: Expect to pay around $100-$150 per night for accommodation in a mid-range hotel or pension. Activities like ATV tours and snorkeling trips typically cost around $80-$120 per person.

Getting Around: Renting a car or scooter is the best way to explore Moorea. The island is relatively small and easy to navigate. Public transportation is limited.

Huahine: The Authentic Garden Island

Huahine, often referred to as the “Garden of Eden,” is a less-visited gem in the Society Islands. It’s known for its lush landscapes, ancient temples (marae), and laid-back atmosphere. Direct flights from Bora Bora take around 30 minutes.

Why Huahine? If you’re looking for an authentic Polynesian experience away from the crowds, Huahine is the perfect destination. It offers a glimpse into traditional Polynesian life, with its well-preserved marae, local villages, and friendly inhabitants reflecting the island’s traditional character.

Spots To Explore:

• Marae: Huahine is home to some of the best-preserved marae in French Polynesia. Marae Manunu and Marae Anini are particularly noteworthy. Explore these ancient temples and learn about their significance in Polynesian culture.
• Fare: The main village on Huahine, Fare, offers a charming glimpse into local life. Stroll through the market, browse the souvenir shops, and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
• Sacred Eels of Faie: A unique attraction where you can see giant blue-eyed eels in a freshwater stream. Local legend says these eels are sacred. Consider purchasing some canned mackerel to feed them.
• Lake Fauna Nui: The largest lake in French Polynesia, Lake Fauna Nui offers stunning views and opportunities for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
• Avea Bay: A beautiful bay on the southern part of the island, Avea Bay is known for its white-sand beach and calm waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Activity Recommendations:

• Circle Island Tour: Rent a car or scooter and explore the island on a circle island tour. You’ll pass through lush valleys, visit ancient marae, and discover hidden beaches.
• Lagoon Tour: Take a lagoon tour to explore the island’s pristine waters. You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel, swim, and visit secluded motus.
• Horseback Riding: Explore Huahine’s interior on horseback. Several operators offer guided horseback riding tours through the island’s lush valleys and forests.

Cost: Accommodation in Huahine is generally more affordable than in Bora Bora or Moorea. Expect to pay around $80-$120 per night for a pension or small hotel. Activities like lagoon tours and horseback riding cost around $60-$100 per person.

Getting Around: Renting a car or scooter is the best way to explore Huahine. The island is relatively small and easy to navigate. Public transportation is limited, but taxis are available.

Raiatea and Taha’a: The Sacred Island and Vanilla Island

Raiatea and Taha’a share the same lagoon, making them easily accessible from each other. Raiatea is considered the “Sacred Island” and is the cradle of Polynesian civilization, while Taha’a is known as the “Vanilla Island” for its numerous vanilla plantations. Flights from Bora Bora to Raiatea take around 40 minutes. From Raiatea, you can reach Taha’a by boat in about 30 minutes.

Why Raiatea and Taha’a? These islands offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Raiatea is home to the most important marae in French Polynesia, while Taha’a offers a glimpse into the world of vanilla farming.

Spots To Explore in Raiatea:

• Marae Taputapuatea: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Marae Taputapuatea is the most important marae in French Polynesia. It was a center of political and religious power for centuries and a gathering place for voyagers from across Polynesia.
• Mount Temehani: Home to the rare and endemic Tiare Apetahi flower, Mount Temehani offers challenging but rewarding hikes. Guided hikes are recommended due to the terrain. Be aware that venturing to the summit to see the flower can be dangerous without an experienced guide.
• Faaroa River: The only navigable river in French Polynesia, the Faaroa River is a unique attraction. Take a boat tour up the river and explore the lush rainforest along its banks.

Spots To Explore in Taha’a:

• Vanilla Plantations: Taha’a is known as the “Vanilla Island” for a reason. Visit a vanilla plantation and learn about the cultivation process. You can purchase fresh vanilla beans and other vanilla-infused products. Many offer tours where you can see how vanilla is grown, cured, and prepared.
• Pearl Farms: Taha’a is also home to several pearl farms. Take a tour of a pearl farm and learn about the process of pearl cultivation. You can purchase beautiful Tahitian pearls directly from the source.
• Motu Mahana: A private motu owned by the Paul Gauguin Cruises, but often accessible via local tour operators, Motu Mahana offers a pristine beach, crystal-clear waters, and a traditional Polynesian lunch. If you’re lucky, you might even find one of Taha’a’s black pearls while diving.

Activity Recommendations:

• Raiatea Lagoon Tour: Explore the lagoon around Raiatea on a boat tour. You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel, swim, and visit secluded motus.
• Taha’a Vanilla Tour: Visit a vanilla plantation and learn about the cultivation process. You can purchase fresh vanilla beans and other vanilla-infused products.
• Scuba Diving: The waters around Raiatea and Taha’a offer excellent scuba diving opportunities. Explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter sharks and rays, and discover underwater caves.

Cost: Accommodation in Raiatea and Taha’a is generally more affordable than in Bora Bora. Expect to pay around $80-$150 per night for a pension or small hotel. Activities like lagoon tours and vanilla tours cost around $60-$100 per person in Taha’a. Diving trips may be more expensive (around $150-$200).

Getting Around: In Raiatea, renting a car is a good idea if you want to explore the interior of the island. In Taha’a, you can get around by boat or taxi boat.

Practical Tips for Island Hopping

• Pack Light: Inter-island flights often have strict baggage restrictions. Pack light and bring only the essentials
• Learn Basic French Phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few basic French phrases will be appreciated by locals.
• Respect Local Customs: French Polynesia has a rich cultural heritage. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the coral reefs by using reef-safe sunscreen.
• Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Be Aware of Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during the rainy season. Bring mosquito repellent.

Integrating Bora Bora Experiences

How do you maximize the contrast and compliment between Bora Bora and your other island stops?

• Luxury vs. Authenticity: Use Bora Bora for your high-end resort stay. Indulge in overwater bungalows and gourmet dining. Then, switch to pensions or more budget-friendly accommodations on the other islands to experience local life.
• Water Activities: Enjoy the calm lagoon of Bora Bora for leisurely snorkeling and paddleboarding. Then, head to Moorea or Raiatea for more adventurous diving and surfing opportunities.
• Cultural Immersion: While Bora Bora offers some cultural experiences, focus on exploring marae and local villages in Huahine and Raiatea to gain a deeper understanding of Polynesian history and traditions.
• Gastronomy: Indulge in fine dining in Bora Bora. Then, enjoy local cuisine and fresh seafood at smaller restaurants and food stalls on the other islands.

Budget Considerations

Island hopping can be tailored to various budgets. Here’s a general idea:

• Luxury: $500+ per day, focusing on high-end resorts, private tours, and fine dining.
• Mid-Range: $200-$500 per day, combining comfortable hotels or pensions, a mix of organized tours and independent exploration, and local eateries.
• Budget: $100-$200 per day, staying in pensions or Airbnb rentals, utilizing public transportation or renting scooters, and cooking some meals.

Remember, travel during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) can help you save money on flights and accommodations.

Example Itinerary: 10 Days of Island Hopping from Bora Bora

Here’s a sample itinerary that balances relaxation and adventure:

Days 1-3: Bora Bora

• Arrive in Bora Bora (BOB).
• Check into your overwater bungalow (if applicable).
• Relax on Matira Beach.
• Snorkel in the Coral Gardens.
• Take a sunset cruise.

Days 4-6: Moorea

• Fly from Bora Bora to Moorea (or take a ferry via Papeete).
• Check into your hotel or pension.
• Rent a car or scooter and explore the island.
• Hike to Afareaitu Waterfalls.
• Go on an ATV tour.
• Snorkel in Cook’s Bay.

Days 7-8: Huahine

• Fly from Moorea to Huahine.
• Check into your pension.
• Visit Marae Manunu and Marae Anini.
• Explore Fare village.
• Take a lagoon tour.

Days 9-10: Raiatea/Taha’a

• Fly from Huahine to Raiatea.
• Take a boat to Taha’a.
• Visit a vanilla plantation and pearl farm.
• Explore Marae Taputapuatea in Raiatea.
• Fly out from Raiatea (RFP) or backtrack to Bora Bora for your international flight.

FAQ Section

What is the best time to go island hopping in French Polynesia?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is sunny and pleasant, with lower humidity. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.

Do I need a visa to visit French Polynesia?
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.

What currency is used in French Polynesia?
The currency is the French Pacific Franc (CFP). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and local markets.

What languages are spoken in French Polynesia?
The official languages are French and Tahitian. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

Is island hopping expensive?
Island hopping can be expensive, especially if you’re staying in high-end resorts. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in pensions, eating at local restaurants, and utilizing public transportation.

How do I book inter-island flights?
Inter-island flights can be booked through Air Tahiti or through a travel agent. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

References

• Air Tahiti – Multi-Island Passes
• Lonely Planet – French Polynesia
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre – Marae Taputapuatea

Ready to trade Bora Bora’s luxury for an adventure across the Society Islands? Imagine yourself hiking Moorea’s volcanic peaks, inhaling the sweet scent of vanilla in Taha’a, and discovering ancient Polynesian history in Raiatea. It’s time to turn those daydreams into memories! Start planning your island-hopping adventure today and experience the magic of French Polynesia beyond the typical postcard view. Book your flights, research your accommodation, and get ready for an unforgettable journey that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come. The islands are waiting, and the adventure begins now.