Things to do in Uturoa

Society Islands

Society Islands are located in the South Pacific and consist of multiple volcanic islands and atolls, mainly divided into the Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands. The Windward Islands include Tahiti, Mo'orea, and others, while the Leeward Islands include Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha'a, and Huahine, among others. Known for their magnificent volcanic mountains, azure lagoons, coral reefs, and tropical vegetation, they are one of the most representative island regions in the South Pacific. They combine marine ecology, volcanic landscapes, and Polynesian culture, serving as a key core region for tourism and culture in French Polynesia.

2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

Bora Bora

Bora Bora is located in French Polynesia in the South Pacific and is a volcanic island in the Society Islands, often known as the "Pearl of the Pacific." The island's distinctive geographical feature is its dual-layered view: in the center of the island stand two ancient volcanic peaks, Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, surrounded by a lagoon with distinct color gradients. The lagoon transitions from light blue to deep blue, a color variation caused by the varying depths of coral sand and the seabed topography. Pristine white sand beaches stretch along the edge of the atoll, contrasting beautifully with the lush volcanic slopes. Overwater bungalows are an iconic accommodation type on this island, allowing guests to jump directly from their rooms into the clear lagoon. The lagoon's rich coral reef ecosystem makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, where you can observe blacktip reef sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and hundreds of colorful tropical fish up close, and even encounter dolphins in some areas. Some tours offer snorkeling experiences that allow for close encounters with sharks and rays, providing a unique way to experience the marine ecosystem of the South Pacific. The island preserves a rich Polynesian cultural tradition, with traditional dance, music, and handicrafts passed down through generations. Visitors can experience a traditional Polynesian feast, taste authentic cuisine featuring coconut milk, vanilla, and fresh seafood, and soak in the unique charm of the South Pacific islands.

Taha'a

Taha'a is a volcanic island in the Society Islands of French Polynesia, located in the South Pacific. The island is defined by its low, rolling hills and gentle volcanic remnants at its heart. It is ringed by vast, coral-encircled lagoons and motu islets. Crystal-clear waters shift through gradients of blue and green, creating a quintessential tropical atoll view. Thanks to its secluded nature and minimal development, the island retains a pristine, tranquil charm. Renowned as the Vanilla Island for its thriving vanilla orchid cultivation, the island is a major producer within French Polynesia. Beyond vanilla, the island sustains pearl farming, coconut cultivation, and small-scale fishing. Residents live in coastal villages, embracing a slow-paced lifestyle that coexists harmoniously with the natural environment. Taha'a attracts visitors with its clear lagoons, coral gardens, and vanilla farm experiences, making it a destination that favors ecological and cultural immersion over commercial tourism.

Raiatea

To'opuaiti

To'opuaiti is located in the South Pacific and belongs to the Austral Islands, serving as one of the key islands in the archipelago and the local administrative center. Formed by volcanic activity, it features undulating mountains and green hills in the interior, while the coast is surrounded by coral reefs and light blue lagoons, presenting a quintessential South Pacific island landscape. The lagoon waters are rich in color, with the sea surface transitioning from light green to deep blue, making it suitable for enjoying the seascape, swimming, snorkeling, and experiencing marine activities. The interior is dotted with villages, farmland, and coconut groves, and the daily lives of the residents are closely linked to agriculture, fishing, and local traditional culture.

Taputapuatea Marae

Selected for Best Things to Do in French Polynesia

Matira Beach

Matira Beach is a representative tropical seaside attraction in the South Pacific. It features fine, light-colored sand beaches, clear water, and groves of coconut trees. The coastline extends gently, surrounded by tropical vegetation and a tranquil lagoon, presenting a typical Polynesian island landscape. The water near the shore usually appears light blue and turquoise, gradually turning deep blue as the depth increases, set against the backdrop of distant coral reefs and the green peaks of Bora Bora. Due to the shallow water and gently sloping seabed in some areas, it is suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

Raiatea Botanical Garden

Hemisphere Sub Plongée

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Bora Bora

Bora Bora Lagoonarium

This natural aquarium and saltwater park is located on a private island near MotuPitiAnau, not far from Le Meridien. Half-day or full-day tours are available here, including swimming with marine life, watching a shark feeding show, canoeing excursions, and scuba diving to visit the famous coral gardens on the southeastern part of the main island. Plus, you can spend half a day swimming, exploring and learning about marine life.