Bora Bora Day Trips

For a secluded outing, the least populous of the Society Islands can be reached in two hours by ferry, The Maupiti Express, which leaves at 8:30am and returns at 5:30pm. The island’s best snorkeling is around Onoiau Pass, between Tiapaa and Pitiahe. Tiapaa has lovely beaches.

Visit both of these unspoiled private islands on a day trip. Raiatea is a sacred island known for its archeological sites, while the vanilla-scented island of Taha’a is recognized for its stunning lagoon and water sports. The ferry leaves Bora Bora at 7am and returns at 5:30.

A 20-minute plane ride from Bora Bora, the relatively undiscovered island of Huahine is known for its lush foliage and quiet white sandy beaches. It’s also home to the sacred site of Maeva marae, a large collection of ancient temples at the foot of Mount Moutapu.

Moorea is one of only two Society Islands with both black and white sand beaches (Tahiti is the other one). Sign up with Carl’s Transport and Tours for the 37-mile island tour – it’s the best way to explore the lush rainforests and pineapple plantations (Carl’s Transport and Tours; 011-689-77-13-69).

You could go to Papeete for the day, but it’s kind of a dump.  Nonetheless, if you find yourself here on a layover, head downtown to explore the crafts at the market and the nearby fabric stores with their gorgeous Polynesian threads.