Ultimate 2-Week French Polynesia Itinerary: The Most Beautiful Place on Earth (Bora Bora)

Ultimate 2-Week French Polynesia Itinerary: The Most Beautiful Place on Earth (Bora Bora)

Ever dreamed of sipping coffee from your overwater vila in Bora Bora or swimming with sharks and rays in the turquoise waters of Moorea? This 12-Days itinerary will turn your wanderlust into reality!

Why French Polynesia?

French Polynesia is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen. I’ve visited many tropical destinations, but nothing compares to the mesmerizing blue hues of Bora Bora’s waters or the lush, towering mountains waiting to be explored.

While it’s often seen as a honeymoon paradise, you can absolutely experience it on a budget. Just keep in mind that the islands are peaceful and quiet, this isn’t the place for buzzing nightlife.

If you’re looking for a dreamy, laid-back escape, I can’t recommend this incredible destination enough!

2-Week French Polynesia Itinerary Overview

  • Days 1-4: Moorea (the Magical Island)
  • Days 5-7: Maupiti (Bora Bora’s Little Sister)
  • Days 8-11: Bora Bora (the Pearl of the Pacific)
  • Day 12: Tahiti (Island of Legends)

*Note: If you only have 7-10 days, I would stick to Moorea and Bora Bora.

Useful Information

  • When to visit: in my view, the best time to visit French Polynesia is in the dry season (from May to October). We went in the end of May and the weather was perfect. Be mindful that if you want to swim with Humpback whales you will need to go from July to November. However, prices are overall higher in these months.
  • How to get there: all the international flights arrive in Papeete (Tahiti) and then you need to take either a plane or a ferry to the different islands in French Polynesia. We took a ferry to Moorea and a plane to Bora Bora and Maupiti, and both were very easy to book and went smoothly – leave a comment if you want me to explain how to book these.
  • How to get around: depending on where you stay and if you like to have flexibility, I think its better to rent a car or scooter to move around the big islands such as Tahiti and Moorea. However, most of the activities in these islands are water related so you can book the activities and they can pick you up in your accommodation. Public transport is very limited but you can also move by taxi.
  • Packing essentials: pack all your typical stuff for a beach destination! I would also recommend to bring a water cover for your phone/camera as you will be doing lots of water activities! One thing that surprised me was the great quality or the pharmacies, we had to go to one in Moorea and they have absolutely everything you need there!
  • Visa / Document requirements: Whether you need a visa to enter French Polynesia depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. French Polynesia is a French overseas territory, so its visa requirements align with those of France’s Schengen Area.
  • Prices: it depends on which is you country of origin, but in my view prices in French Polynesia are overall expensive. However, you can also visit the country on a budget as there are many options! – leave a comment if you want me to explain how to travel this destination on a budget.

Detailed Itinerary:

Days 1-4: Moorea

Nestled in the heart of French Polynesia, Moorea Island is a dreamscape of jagged emerald peaks and shimmering turquoise lagoons. Often called the “Magical Island“, Moorea offers world-class snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking through tropical rainforests. Swim with rays and sharks in crystal-clear waters or explore hidden waterfalls tucked into verdant landscapes. The island’s vibrant marine life and awe-inspiring vistas make it a paradise for explorers.
 

Where to stay:

 
What to do:

  • Explore the island by sea:
    • Jet ski adventure – My top pick without doubts is the 3-hour jet ski tour with Moorea Activities Center. You’ll ride along Moorea’s breathtaking coastline, taking in stunning views while having an absolute blast! It was my first time driving a jet ski, and I loved every second – highly recommend it!
    • Boat & Catamaran Tours – If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can join a Half-day Catamaran Tour or Moorea 6-Hour Snorkeling and Lunch Shared Tour for an unforgettable time on the water.
  • Explore the island by road:
  • Sunset cruise:
  • Scuba diving:
    • Moorea is a diver’s paradise, known for crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and incredible marine life. If you’re into diving, this is a must! There are many dive centers around the island, but I recommend Scubapiti for a great experience.
  • Love hiking? Moorea offers fantastic trails with breathtaking views! My top picks:
    • Magic Mountain Hike – A short but rewarding climb with panoramic island views.
    • Belvedere Lookout Hike – One of the most famous scenic spots on the island.
    • Three Coconuts Trail & Three Pines Trail – Ideal for nature lovers seeking a bit of a challenge.
  • Swimming with humpback whales (from July to November only).
    • If you’re visiting during whale season, don’t miss the chance to snorkel alongside humpback whales in their natural habitat! These gentle giants migrate to Moorea’s warm waters to mate and give birth — truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Go pearl shopping
    • Moorea is one of the best places to buy Tahitian black pearls, famous worldwide for their stunning quality. Prices here are more affordable than in Bora Bora, so if you’re planning to buy, do it in Moorea or Tahiti! We got ours from SAB, a fantastic store with high-quality pearls and friendly service.

 
Where to eat:


Days 5-6: Maupiti

Maupiti is a hidden gem that radiates untouched charm. Often called “Bora Bora’s little sister,” this remote island is free from crowds, offering a serene retreat for those seeking raw, natural beauty. Its crystal-clear lagoon and pristine beaches make it an idyllic escape. Stay in cozy family-run guesthouses, savor fresh seafood, and connect with locals who welcome you like family. For those who crave an unspoiled paradise, Maupiti offers a slice of heaven far from the modern world.

 *Notes:

  • We didn’t make it to Maupiti on our trip, but nearly everyone we met in French Polynesia raved about it! If I had the chance to do it all over again, I’d definitely add it to my itinerary.
  • One of the main challenges of planning a trip to French Polynesia is getting to Maupiti. This small island is served by Air Tahiti flights only every few days, with roughly one flight every three days. Since Maupiti is a stopover on the route between Papeete, Raiatea, and Bora Bora, available seats are quite limited – leave a comment if you want me to explain how to book these.
  • As is common on many islands in French Polynesia, tap water in Maupiti is not safe to drink. Pensions will either provide you with bottled water or a water machine equipped with a purifier.

How to get to Maupiti: 

Since there are no direct flights from Moorea to Maupiti, you first need to take a quick 15-minute flight or a ferry from Moorea to Tahiti (Papeete airport – PPT). Air Tahiti operates a few flights per week from Papeete (Tahiti) to Maupiti. The flight takes about 1 hour and offers stunning aerial views!

Where to stay:

In Maupiti, there are no hotels, only 16 family-run pensions offering half-board stays with breakfast and dinner. Most are on the main island, while a few are located on nearby motus. These guesthouses in the main island are great options: Teheimana pension and Maupiti House Tefarearii

What to do:

  • Lagoon Day Trip – A Must-Do!
    • Exploring Maupiti’s breathtaking lagoon is the island’s signature experience. Most guesthouses offer half-day or full-day excursions, taking you to swim with manta rays, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the untouched beauty of the island. If you’re here on a Saturday, don’t miss the special full-day lagoon tour hosted by local families — after a morning of snorkeling, you’ll feast on a traditional Tahitian oven-cooked meal on a secluded motu. A true cultural gem!
  • Swim with Humpback Whales (July–November)
    • If you’re visiting between mid-July and November, you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! During whale season, you can swim with humpback whales as they migrate to Maupiti’s warm waters to give birth. Guesthouses organize boat tours beyond the lagoon, offering a chance to get up close to these majestic creatures.
  • Hike Mount Teurafaatui (372m)
    • For adventure seekers, this challenging hike rewards you with jaw-dropping panoramic views over the entire lagoon! The trek begins with a steep, rocky ascent and finishes with a rope-assisted climb near the summit. Tip: Avoid hiking in bad weather, as the trail can become slippery and dangerous.
  • Explore the Island by Foot or Bike
    • Maupiti is tiny, with a single 9-km loop road — perfect for a relaxed bike ride or walk. Along the way, enjoy stunning lagoon views, local villages, and a breathtaking panoramic lookout near the southeastern pass.
  • Relax on Terei’a Beach
    • Maupiti doesn’t have many beaches, but Terei’a Beach (at the southwestern tip) is an absolute paradise. Imagine soft white sand, turquoise waters, and swaying coconut palms — the perfect place for a peaceful swim, sunbathing, or a stunning sunset view.
  • Diving & Snorkeling
    • Maupiti’s pristine coral reefs make it a dream destination for divers. Whether you’re snorkeling with manta rays in the lagoon or diving beyond the reef, the marine life here is unforgettable.
  • Walk Across the Lagoon to Motu Auira
    • Maupiti’s shallow lagoon is unique — you can walk across it from Terei’a Beach to Motu Auira! The crossing takes about 30–45 minutes each way, so plan at least 2 hours for the trip. Once on the motu, enjoy the untouched nature and serene vibes of this hidden paradise.

Where to eat:

There is also little offer in the island. You will probably have breakfast and dinner in the guesthouse and you can have lunch in one of the snack bars in the island (your guesthouse family will recommend you but Tarona has good reviews

Days 7-11: Bora Bora

Bora Bora, the jewel of French Polynesia, is a postcard-perfect paradise renowned for its turquoise lagoon and iconic Mount Otemanu. Dubbed the “Pearl of the Pacific“, this island is the epitome of luxury, with overwater bungalows, vibrant coral gardens, and world-class dining. Whether you’re diving with rays, relaxing on pristine beaches, or savoring breathtaking sunsets, Bora Bora is where dreams meet reality.
 
*Pro tip: Seats aren’t allocated on Bora Bora flights, so arrive early and grab a spot on the left side for breathtaking views during landing. However, flight routes can change — once on board, ask the cabin crew for the best side to sit!
 

Where to stay:

Bora Bora offers a variety of accommodation options. Its luxurious overwater villas are famous, and if you have the chance to splurge, I highly recommend booking at least one night. For those looking to save, you can still enjoy the island’s beauty with more budget-friendly stays and access top resorts with a day pass.

What to do:

The most amazing thing in Bora Bora is its beautiful lagoon and there are many activities to enjoy it!

  • Snorkeling & Jet Ski Adventure
    • Join Moana Adventure Tours for an epic combo tour! Start by snorkeling in the vibrant lagoonarium, swimming among tropical fish and coral reefs. Then, hop on a jet ski and cruise around Bora Bora’s turquoise waters with breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and stunning scenery!
  • Explore the Lagoon at Your Own Pace
    • Rent a Pontoon boat and be your own captain for the day! Though a pricier option, it’s totally worth it — you can circle the island in a few hours, stop for a swim wherever you like, and experience the magic of Bora Bora’s crystal-clear waters — leave a comment if you want to know how to rent a pontoon boat
  • Scuba Diving
    • Dive into Bora Bora’s incredible underwater world! With pristine coral gardens and exciting encounters with sharks and rays, diving here is a must for ocean lovers
  • Scooter Around the Main Island
    • Rent a scooter and explore Bora Bora’s 32-kilometer coastal loop at your own pace. Take in breathtaking views, make spontaneous stops, and don’t miss spending a few hours at Matira Beach — the island’s most stunning stretch of sand
  • Resort Day Passes

Where to eat:

Bora Bora offers a variety of dining options, from charming family-owned snack bars to upscale hotel restaurants. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, local Polynesian flavors, or international cuisine, here are some top spots to try:

Casual & Local Eats:

  • Snack Matira – Laid-back spot near Matira Beach, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
  • The Lucky House – Great for pizzas, burgers, and fresh seafood in a relaxed setting.

Scenic Dining with a View:

Day 12: Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia, and serves as the gateway to this tropical paradise with its international airport and vibrant capital, Papeete. While its black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and cultural experiences are captivating, in my opinion it doesn’t match the jaw-dropping beauty of Moorea’s lush peaks or Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon. However, if you have a long stopover or you have a day in Tahiti, I really encourage you to rent a car an explore the island, including a visit to the famous Teahupo’o wave.

*Pro tip: as opposite to landing, for taking off, sit on the right hand side of the plane for the best views of the departure from Bora Bora (double check with cabin crew).

Where to stay:

If you’re only staying in Tahiti for a short time—whether it’s just a day or a long stopover—it’s best to stay near the airport for convenience. Here are some great options:

 
What to do:

Explore the Island by Road
Rent a car and drive around Tahiti—it’s super easy since a single road loops around the entire island! The best part? Simply enjoying the changing landscapes as you go. Must-See Stops:

  • Papeete Market – Great for souvenirs, but personally, I didn’t find it too special — you could skip it!
  • Plage de la Pointe Venus – Stop by for a quick photo at this historic black sand beach
  • Teahupo’o Wave – A must-do! Once you reach the parking area, locals offer boat tours to see one of the world’s most powerful waves. Watching pro surfers tackle these monster swells is an unforgettable experience!
  • Taharuu Beach – One of the island’s beautiful black sand beaches
  • Rohotu / Vaiava Beach – A scenic beach perfect for a relaxing stop

Where to eat:

After visiting Teahupo’o Wave, we stopped at O Taharu’u Food Truck for lunch and loved it! If you’re in Papeete, check out the Papeete roulottes at Place Vaiate for great local food and a lively atmosphere.


 
Ready to explore French Polynesia? Share your adventures with me, and let me know in the comments if you’d like a detailed day-by-day itinerary for this trip!
 
xxx
FineyTrips

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