Society Islands Travel Guide

Explore the most exotic Society Islands of French Polynesia with our comprehensive travel guide. Find tips and recommendations for accommodation, food, activities, culture, and safety during your visit.


Introduction to Society Islands

Society Islands is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, and a part of French Polynesia. The islands lie in the eastern part of the Polynesian Triangle, comprising five main islands and numerous islets, including the famous Tahiti and Bora Bora. With their turquoise waters, white beaches, and verdant gardens, Society Islands are a natural paradise that offers visitors a diverse range of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through everything you need to know about Society Islands - from top places to visit and things to do to local culture, customs, and safety tips.

List of Places to Visit in Society Islands

Society Islands offer a plethora of cultural and natural attractions for tourists. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in this stunning archipelago:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museum of Tahiti and the Islands - Explore the culture and history of the islands through a vast collection of artifacts, displays, and exhibitions.

  2. James Norman Hall Home - Visit the beautiful home of the famous author of “Mutiny on the Bounty” and “The Hurricane.”

  3. Marae Taputapuatea - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ancient religious site and cultural center, with restored stone ruins, petroglyphs, and sacred pools.

Natural Attractions of Society Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Otemanu - Towering at 2,385 feet high, this extinct volcano is the highest point in Bora Bora and offers breathtaking views of the islands.

  2. Shark and Ray Snorkel Safari - Dive into the crystal waters of Society Islands to swim with friendly blacktip sharks and rays.

  3. Moorea Lagoonarium - With over 200 species of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays, Moorea Lagoonarium is a must-visit spot for underwater adventures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Society Islands

Society Islands are a hiker’s dream destination, with scenic trails, rugged mountains, and lush forests that offer unparalleled trekking experiences. Here are a few hiking and biking routes to explore the natural beauty of the islands:

  1. Fautaua Valley Trail - This 3.1-mile trail in Tahiti takes you through lush jungle forests, leading to beautiful waterfalls.

  2. Belvedere Lookout - A 3.7-mile hiking trail in Moorea that takes you through pineapple plantations and up to a scenic viewpoint.

  3. Bora Bora Circle Island Tour - Take a bike tour around Bora Bora to explore the island’s natural beauty, culture and history.

Best Things to Do in Society Islands: Activities and Tours

Society Islands offer an array of exciting activities and tours for tourists of all ages. Here are a few must-do things during your visit:

  1. Helicopter Tour - Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning islands and fly over turquoise lagoons, mountains, and coral reefs.

  2. Polynesian Dance and Music Show - Watch an authentic Polynesian dance and music show and sample traditional cuisine.

  3. Tohora Bora Bora - Take a tour to see humpback whales from a luxurious boat, and snorkel with them in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Society Islands

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Society Islands:

Day 1: Arrival in Tahiti

Day 2-3: Tahiti - Explore the capital city of Papeete, visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands, go hiking in Fautaua Valley, and enjoy authentic Polynesian cuisine.

Day 4-5: Moorea - Take a ferry ride to Moorea, enjoy snorkeling in Moorea Lagoonarium, hike Belvedere Lookout, and sunbathe on Temae Beach.

Day 6-7: Bora Bora - Take a flight to Bora Bora, go on a circle tour of the island by bike, swim with sharks and rays, and relax on Matira Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Society Islands

Society Islands have a rich culinary culture, with a diverse range of influences from Polynesian, French, and Asian cuisine. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Poisson Cru (raw fish in coconut milk) - A staple dish of Polynesian cuisine, usually made with raw tuna or mahi-mahi fillets.

  2. French Pastries - Try local versions of traditional French pastries, such as croissants and pains au chocolat, in the many bakeries in Papeete.

  3. Rotui Juice - A refreshing blend of local fruits like guava, pineapple, and passionfruit.

Local Beverages

  1. Hinano Beer - The most popular beer in French Polynesia, made by Brasserie de Tahiti.

  2. Tahitian Vanilla Tea - A locally grown tea with vanilla and other fragrant spices.

  3. Tiare - A fruity, rum-based cocktail made with local Tiare flowers.

Where to Stay in Society Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Society Islands offer a wide range of accommodation options, from five-star resorts to budget guesthouses. Here are a few recommendations:

  1. Four Seasons Resort, Bora Bora - Luxury resort with overwater bungalows, private beaches, and a spa.

  2. Intercontinental Resort, Moorea - A beachfront resort with overwater suites, a lagoonarium, and two restaurants.

  3. Te Ora Hau Ecolodge, Tahiti - An eco-friendly guesthouse nestled in a tropical garden, with palm-thatched bungalows, a pool, and a bar.

What to Buy in Society Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Society Islands offer a wide range of souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family. Here’s a list of things to bring back:

  1. Black pearls - French Polynesia is known for its high-quality black pearls, which can be bought either in jewelry form or loose.

  2. Vanilla - Tahitian vanilla is renowned for its unique aroma and flavor, and can be purchased in various forms such as extracts, powders, and beans.

  3. Pareo - A traditional Polynesian garment that can serve as a beach cover-up or a scarf, adorned with beautiful island motifs.

Local Culture and Customs of Society Islands

Society Islands have a rich cultural heritage, influenced by Polynesian and French traditions. Here are a few things to know before your visit:

  • Polynesian culture places a high value on respect and hospitality, and visitors are expected to follow the local etiquette.

  • Traditional dance and music performances reflect the storytelling, mythology, and daily life of Polynesian people.

  • Visitors are expected to dress modestly and cover their shoulders and thighs when visiting religious sites or local villages.

Best Time to Visit Society Islands

The best time to visit Society Islands is between May and October, which is the dry season, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures between 70-80℉. The rainy season is between November and April, with warmer temperatures and occasional tropical cyclones.

Do’s and Don’ts of Society Islands

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the tropical heat.

  • Try out local foods and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Touch or walk on coral reefs, as they are fragile ecosystems.

  • Wear shoes inside a home or a temple.

  • Litter on beaches or in the ocean.

Safety and Health

Safety in Society Islands

Society Islands are generally safe for tourists, but visitors should take basic precautions to avoid petty theft or scamming. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep your valuables and passports in a safe place.

  • Beware of pickpockets and touts in touristy areas.

  • Always use a guide or a reliable tour company for outdoor activities like hiking or diving.

Health in Society Islands

Society Islands have good medical facilities, but travelers should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika virus, dengue fever, and chikungunya. Here are a few tips:

  • Wear insect repellent and cover exposed skin.

  • Drink only bottled or filtered water.

  • Use sunscreen to protect against sunburns.

Getting to Society Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Society Islands

Society Islands have two international airports, Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti and Bora Bora Airport in Bora Bora. Both airports have regular flights from major cities like Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Sydney.

Bus Stations Near Society Islands

Society Islands have a reliable bus network that connects major towns and cities on the islands. The buses are comfortable and affordable.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel around Society Islands by ferry or rent a car or a scooter.

How to Get Around in Society Islands

There are several options to get around Society islands, depending on your itinerary and budget. Here are a few:

  • Taxis: Taxis are available in major cities and towns, but are generally expensive.

  • Buses: Buses are a cheap and reliable way to travel around the islands, with frequent services and comfortable seating.

  • Boats: Visitors can also rent boats to explore the lagoons and nearby islands.

Where to Go Next from Society Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Society Islands offer a gateway to explore other beautiful islands and destinations in the South Pacific. Here are a few options:

  • Marquesas Islands - Located about 1,400 km from Society Islands, Marquesas Islands offer rugged landscapes, ancient history, and unspoiled beauty.

  • Austral Islands - A remote archipelago in the southern part of French Polynesia, known for its pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich marine life.

  • Aitutaki, Cook Islands - A small island located about 250 km from Society Islands, known for its turquoise lagoon and secluded beaches.

Conclusion

Society Islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures, making it one of the most exotic destinations in the world. Follow our comprehensive guide to explore the islands’ top attractions, experience local culture, and stay safe and healthy during your visit. Bon voyage!



    Huahine
    Moorea
    Tahiti