French Polynesia is one of the top locations on many people’s travel itineraries whether it comes to organizing a romantic trip or a relaxing tropical vacation. This archipelago is a great place for honeymooners, families, or anyone wishing to get away from their regular lives because of its pristine waters, coral reefs, and gorgeous beaches. Huahine and Bora Bora are two of the most well-known islands in French Polynesia. Which one should you pick for your upcoming holiday, though? The best attractions, experiences, and activities that each of these two beautiful islands has to offer will be compared in this article.
Overview of Huahine and Bora Bora
Two of French Polynesia’s most stunning islands, Huahine and Bora Bora, each provide its guests with a special experience. Between Raiatea and Bora Bora is the little, tranquil island of Huahine. Due to its luscious foliage and unspoiled natural splendor, it is frequently referred to as the “Garden of Eden.” On the other side, Bora Bora, the most well-known of the Tahitian islands, is referred to as the “Pearl of the Pacific.” This magnificent island has a rocky interior that is home to impressive mountains, valleys, and waterfalls, and is ringed by a gorgeous blue lagoon.
A place to stay and food
From opulent resorts to charming guesthouses, Huahine and Bora Bora both offer a variety of lodging choices. The lodging style you select will, however, be influenced by your interests, budget, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. The island of Huahine is renowned for its unique, rustic feel and is home to some of the most enchanting guesthouses and boutique hotels. Several resorts, like the Relais & Chateaux luxury resort Le Mahana, are also located on the island for visitors seeking a more upmarket experience.
The opulent overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, on the other hand, provide unrivaled views of the lagoon. The island is home to a number of upscale resorts that welcome honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic retreat. Two of the island’s most opulent hotels, the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora and the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, give visitors access to a private beach, outdoor swimming pools, and top-notch dining establishments.
Both islands provide a variety of gastronomic pleasures that are sure to tempt your taste buds when it comes to eating. Fresh fish and exotic fruits are popular in Huahine. Visitors can eat Poisson cru, a meal prepared with raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, as well as locally brewed Hinano beer. On the other hand, many of the restaurants on the island of Bora Bora provide a combination of French and Polynesian cuisines, making the island famous for its French-inspired food. Numerous upscale eateries that provide fine dining experiences can be found on the island.
Ocean activities and beaches
Some of the world’s most exquisite beaches may be found in both Huahine and Bora Bora. For beachgoers, the two islands provide contrasting experiences. With breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters, Huahine features some of French Polynesia’s most remote and unspoiled beaches. Away from the crowds, visitors can unwind while swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. One of the island’s most stunning beaches, with silky white sand and azure waters, is located at the Relais & Chateaux premium resort.
On the other hand, Bora Bora is renowned for its recognizable overwater bungalows, which are constructed on stilts on the lagoon. The island’s beaches are extremely stunning, with soft white sand and blue waters. Visitors to Bora Bora can engage in activities including parasailing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, with a number of water sports businesses providing a variety of options. With its serene blue waters and soft white sand, the Matira Beach on Bora Bora is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
History and Culture
Both Huahine and Bora Bora offer tourists the chance to delve into their rich cultures and histories. Huahine is well-renowned for its ancient temples, known as Marae, which the local chiefs originally used for both religious and political purposes. Visitors have the option of visiting the Marae or venturing out into the island’s luxuriant tropical forests, where they can find undiscovered waterfalls and learn about the local traditional medicine. Huahine is also home to a diverse population of people, many of whom continue to engage in age-old traditions like weaving and woodcarving.
Through a variety of activities, tourists can learn more about the distinctive heritage of Bora Bora. The island’s World War II artifacts, which include a naval gun and many bunkers, can be toured by visitors. The island is also the location of a number of historical landmarks, such as the Mount Otemanu stronghold, which was built in the fifteenth century. Visitors can also peruse the neighborhood markets where they can discover regional specialties like tapa fabric and shell jewelry.
Accessibility and Price
When making travel plans, it’s crucial to think about Huahine and Bora Bora’s cost and accessibility. With less expensive lodging and activities, Huahine is a more cost-effective vacation spot than Bora Bora. In addition to being less populated than Bora Bora, the island is the perfect location for those seeking a tranquil getaway. But since there are so few aircraft that go to Huahine every day, getting there can be a little difficult.
Huahine is a less expensive place to visit, although Bora Bora has more expensive lodging and activities. However, the island provides a variety of opulent experiences, which makes it a great choice for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic break. The island is an accessible destination for vacationers thanks to the numerous daily flights from Tahiti.
Finally, Huahine and Bora Bora both provide their tourists with a singular and remarkable experience. Bora Bora offers opulent experiences that appeal to honeymooners and couples, whereas Huahine is a more reasonably priced location with a rustic, authentic feel. Each island has something to offer, whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or a romantic trip. Your interests, spending capacity, and the kind of experience you’re looking for will ultimately determine which of the two you choose.
Our Top FAQ's
The best time to visit Huahine or Bora Bora is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities, such as snorkeling and hiking, as the weather is warm and dry. However, it’s worth noting that prices may be higher during this period, and the islands may be more crowded.
The top activities to do on Huahine include exploring the ancient temples and cultural heritage, hiking in the lush tropical forests, and enjoying the beaches and lagoon. On Bora Bora, popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, and parasailing, as well as exploring the island’s World War II artifacts and visiting the local markets.
Both Huahine and Bora Bora offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to luxury resorts and villas. On Huahine, visitors can stay in traditional thatched-roof bungalows or choose from a range of hotels and resorts. On Bora Bora, visitors can stay in overwater bungalows, luxury villas, or hotels and resorts.
Getting to Huahine or Bora Bora typically involves flying to Tahiti and then taking a domestic flight to the respective island. Both islands have their own airports, with several daily flights from Tahiti. Alternatively, visitors can take a ferry from Tahiti to Huahine, which takes approximately six hours, or a high-speed ferry to Bora Bora, which takes approximately four hours. It’s worth noting that flights and ferries may be limited, so it’s important to book in advance.