Planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to French Polynesia can be stressful, in part because it’s a long haul to get there, and also because it’s well known for being a very expensive place to visit. After weeks of research and close collaboration with a travel agent, we created the below 14 day itinerary for our own trip, and wouldn’t change a thing!
With 2 weeks in French Polynesia, we were able to visit Bora Bora (6 days) and Moorea (6 days), in addition to exploring a bit of Tahiti (2 days). We absolutely loved Moorea and Tahiti but there’s no place quite like Bora Bora, so if you are planning a shorter trip and won’t be able to visit more than one island, make it Bora Bora.
Day 1
Land at the Bora Bora airport and take the hotel ferry to your resort. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy an ice cold glass of locally-sourced pineapple juice. You have arrived in paradise!
We wholeheartedly recommend the Conrad Hilton- learn more about our stay here.
Day 2
We got a good night’s sleep and woke up early for our first excursion: a half day snorkel adventure with Pure Snorkeling by Reef Discovery. Read our full review of Pure Snorkeling here.
Day 3
After a relaxing morning enjoying our bungalow, we spent the afternoon on a 4×4 trip up and around Mount Otemanu. Click here for the full review of our bumpy ride with Tupuna Mountain Safari, which included a stop at the world famous Bloody Mary’s restaurant.
Day 4
We took a boat trip to some snorkel spots with black tip reef sharks and sting rays. Epic!
Day 5
We loved Pure Snorkeling so much that we took this excursion again. Our guide brought us to different spots this time, which gave us the chance to see even more of the island’s underwater landscapes.
Day 6
We flew from Bora Bora to Moorea, and took the afternoon to settle into our overwater bungalow and explore the Sofitel. The Sofitel was beautiful and the location was perfect for all of the activities we booked on the island. Here are our thoughts on our bungalow and the resort.
Day 7
We’d never tried a helmet dive before so were a little nervous, but the guys at Aquablue made us feel super comfortable and we had a great time. Read our full review of Aquablue here.
Day 8
We spent the afternoon sailing around Moorea on an outrigger canoe, and ate a delicious picnic lunch with our feet in the turquoise water. Read about Moorea Miti Tours here.
Day 9
The Lagoonarium is a natural aquarium that’s home to both an incredible variety of sea life, and an entertaining and knowledgable caretaker. Read our full review here.
Day 10
On Day 10, we relaxed, enjoyed the infinity pool, and snorkeled in the coral garden just off our bungalow.
Day 11
We can’t say enough good things about ATV Moorea—this tour was an incredible way to view the interior of the island and see incredible vistas from the highest vantage point on Moorea, and was an adrenaline-pumping adventure to boot! Read more about ATV Moorea here.
Day 12
We spent our afternoon on a cata jet tour (a mini speedboat that seats two people). If you’re looking for a unique excursion on Moorea, this one is worth considering. Read more about the cata jet here.
Day 13
We intended to fly from Moorea to Tahiti, but due to an airline worker strike (which we learned is quite common in French Polynesia), we had to take a ferry instead. We checked into the Intercontinental, which had a relaxed (yet luxurious) vibe, and beautiful, modern decor. Read more about the Intercontinental here.
Day 14
We took a taxi to the Papeete airport for our very long flight back to reality! We had an unbelievable vacation at this dream destination, and would love to return someday.
How long/expensive was the ferry from Moorea to Tahiti? I’m planning a trip to Fresh Polynesia next year, thanks for the awesome tips!
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