THE ISLANDS OF TAHITI AND FRENCH POLYNESIA
Marriages are Made in Heaven. Honeymoons in Tahiti.
This is what comes to mind when you picture “paradise" - azure blue lagoons, secluded white sand beaches, natural beauty beyond compare, world class diving, snorkeling, lagoon cruising, jeep safaris through lush green mountains, Polynesian Spas, Overwater Bungalows, canoe breakfasts all complemented by the warmth of the Polynesian people. Tahiti and Her Islands are considered the most romantic and beautiful on earth and the perfect destination for couples seeking a perfect honeymoon in paradise.
The islands collectively known as 'Tahiti" actually consist of 118 spectacular islands located in five island groups: the Society Islands, the Tuamotus, the Marquesas, the Austral and the Gambier archipelago. Your Tahiti honeymoon dreams are easily reached from North America. Located in the same time zone as Hawaii, the islands of French Polynesia are located half way between California and Australia. Papeete's Faa'a Airport can be reached in under 8 hours from Los Angeles or 13 hours non-stop from New York.
French Polynesia enjoys a warm tropical climate year round with an average yearly temperature of 79F and an average ocean and water temperature of 80F. Visitors will be charmed by the Polynesian and French influences around the islands. French and Tahitian are the official languages of the islands. However, English is spoken and understood in tourist areas.
 The Society Islands
The Society Islands are a group of high tropical islands encircled by coral reefs and lagoons. Tahiti is the largest island in this group, which includes the islands of Moorea – the Magical Island, Huahine – the Garden of Eden, Tahaa – the Vanilla Island, Raiatea – the Sacred Island, and Bora Bora – the Romantic Island. Of all the islands of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora are the most popular destinations for a Tahiti honeymoon vacation.
The Tutamotus
The Tuamotus are a collection of low islands or atolls, each of them surrounding its own lagoon with a ring of coral. They are renowned for their spectacular underwater gardens and their incredible marine life. The Tuamotus are a diver's paradise. They consist of: Rangiroa – the Infinite Lagoon Island which is the largest atoll in the South Pacific; Manihi – the Island of Pearls famous for its black pearl culture and black pearl farms; Tikehau - the Pink Sand Island which is also known for its spectacular rare birds; and Fakarava – the Virgin Island composed of numerous motus (islets) totally unexplored. Honeymooners who have an interest in an active Tahiti honeymoon or a dive honeymoon will enjoy the islands of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava.
The Marquesas
The Marquesas, known as the “Land of Men”, are mountainous islands near the equator which became famous through artists and authors such as Paul Gauguin and Herman Melville. The islands are known for their natural wonders including volcanic cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and towering mountains. The Marquesan people are expert craftsmen offering visitors a glimpse into ancient carving, weaving, and craft techniques of the Polynesian people. The most well known islands of the Marquesas are Nuku Hiva - the Mystical Island and Hiva Oa – Gauguin's Island. Honeymooners who have a cultural interest will enjoy the uniqueness of the Maquesas Islands.
The Austral and Gambier Islands
Both of these groups are far off the beaten track – these mysterious islands have still not revealed all of their secrets. The most visited island of this group is Rurutu where honeymooners will enjoy the opportunity to observe and snorkel with migrating whales transiting the region.
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