Editor Notes: French Polynesia

Sailing into Moorea on Windstar Cruises feels like stepping into a dream.

First Impressions: A Place I Wanted to Keep Secret

When people ask me about my favorite place I’ve ever traveled to, I hesitate to answer. It’s not because I don’t know, but it’s because I do. Instantly. The answer is French Polynesia.

And part of me wants to keep it tucked away, selfishly guarding one of the world’s most beautiful wonders. But I promised not to gatekeep here, and some experiences are too extraordinary to keep to myself. This one deserves to be shared.

Here, the Pacific shows you both of its faces - the wild power of deep ocean waves breaking endlessly against the outer reef, and the stillness of lagoon water so calm and warm it feels like stepping into liquid embrace.

One specific memory, in Raiatea, I dove for my own Tahitian black pearl, surfacing with a treasure born quietly in these waters for years. It was in that moment; I realized French Polynesia isn’t just somewhere you visit - it’s something you carry with you forever.

Why French Polynesia Luxury Travel Feels Different

I don’t think people really comprehend just how vast French Polynesia is. It’s comprised of 118 scattered across the South Pacific. The Society Islands—Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora—are the icons, but there are plenty others and motus that offer up their own beauty to be explored.

They are a study in contrasts: emerald volcanic peaks, glassy lagoons, and coral reefs that shield the shore from the Pacific’s force.

Polynesian culture is part of every moment here, too. From dance performances to fresh poisson cru with coconut milk, the islands manage to balance authenticity with refinement. That balance—raw nature and barefoot luxury—is what makes French Polynesia unforgettable.

Windstar Cruises Tahiti: Sailing the Islands

Our journey began aboard Windstar Cruises’ Wind Star Sail Yacht, a 148-guest vessel that feels like a private yacht. The cost runs about $5,500–$6,200 pp with excursions costing on average ~$350–$400 pp. Evenings brought barefoot champagne toasts under billowing sails, while days unfolded slowly across the islands.

• Moorea: jagged green peaks, ATV tours, pineapple fields, and shallow lagoon snorkeling.

  
  

• Raiatea: spiritual heart of Polynesia, home to Marae Taputapuatea (UNESCO site) and its pearl farms.

  
  

• Taha’a: lazy days on Windstar’s private motu, with hammocks, snorkeling, and a beach barbecue.

  
  

• Bora Bora: two full days in the lagoon with shark safaris, coral gardens, and champagne sunset sails beneath Mount Otemanu.

  
  

• Huahine: lush, quiet, and unspoiled—perfect for those who love nature and culture combined.

  
  

Windstar’s pace was unhurried, designed for immersion rather than box-ticking. That is the essence of small-ship cruising in Tahiti. Keep in mind that with a smaller ship there comes limited entertainment, so if you are someone who needs a plethora of entertainment options, this might not be the best cruise for you.

That being said, if you are someone who enjoys off the beaten path travel, exceptional hospitality, access to secret ports, and an intimate atmosphere then you would feel right at home.

Moorea Overwater Bungalows: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

After disembarking in Tahiti, we ferried to Moorea for four nights at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa. Staying in an overwater bungalow wasn’t just a bucket-list item—it was pure immersion and absolutely worth the $900–$1,000 per night cost.

Highlights

• Overwater bungalows with glass-floor panels to watch fish drift below.

  
  

• Coffee service delivered to your deck at sunrise.

  
  

• Snorkeling steps from your bungalow.

  
  

• Dinner under the stars at Toatea, the overwater creperie.

  
  

Why it’s worth it: Moorea it less crowded than Bora Bora but just as beautiful.

Alternative Ways to Explore French Polynesia

Luxury Hotels in French Polynesia

If you want the most indulgent Bora Bora luxury resorts and private islands, French Polynesia delivers:

• The Brando (Tetiaroa): A private island with just 35 villas, once owned by Marlon Brando. $3,000–$6,000+ per night.

  
  

• Four Seasons Bora Bora: Overwater villas with Mount Otemanu views. $1,800–$3,500+ per night.

  
  

• St. Regis Bora Bora: The largest overwater villas in the South Pacific, complete with butler service. $1,600–$4,000+ per night.

  
  

• Conrad Bora Bora Nui: A private islet setting, hillside suites, and infinity-pool villas. $1,200–$2,800+ per night.

  
  

Cost-Savvy Hotels in French Polynesia

Luxury doesn’t have to mean overwater villas. For cost-conscious travelers, French Polynesia hotels and pensions offer comfort without losing the magic:

• Pensions (Guesthouses): Family-run, often beachfront. $150–$300 per night with breakfast.

  
  

• Moorea Beach Lodge: Boutique-style charm on Moorea. $250–$350 per night.

  
  

• Fare Suisse (Tahiti): Budget guesthouse near Papeete. $120–$150 per night.

  
  

• Camping Options: Basic but beachfront, $50–$80 per night.

  
  

These stays allow you to stretch your trip budget while keeping the lagoon at your doorstep.

Other French Polynesia Cruise Lines:

• Paul Gauguin Cruises: All-inclusive, French style. $5,000–$8,000+

  
  

• Ponant: Expedition elegance. ~$6,000+

  
  

• Seabourn: Michelin-level dining. $7,000+

  
  

• Regent Seven Seas: Ultra all-inclusive. $9,000–$12,000+

  
  

What to Pack for French Polynesia

First-time visitors often overpack for French Polynesia. The truth? The islands are barefoot luxury at their core. Here’s what you can confidently leave at home:

• Light resort wear: Linen, cotton, chic swimwear, and breezy cover-ups.

  
  

• Footwear: Sandals, flip-flops, and sneakers for hikes or ATV tours.

  
  

• Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, insect repellent, reusable water bottle.

  
  

• Adventure gear: Rash guard, water shoes, light rain jacket, dry bag for boat days.

  
  

• Evening: Upscale-casual outfit (maxi dress, silk top, or smart shirt) with a light shawl.

  
  

Top Highlights in French Polynesia

Regardless of budget, these are experiences that define a trip to French Polynesia:

• Dive for a Tahitian Black Pearl (Raiatea) – a living memory you can take home.

  
  

• Shark & Ray Lagoon Safari (Bora Bora/Moorea) – thrilling and safe, unforgettable.

  
  

• Champagne Sunset Sail – Mount Otemanu glowing at dusk.

  
  

• One Night Overwater – even just once, it’s worth it.

  
  

• Polynesian Feast & Show – the rhythm, food, and fire are the islands’ heartbeat.

  
  

• Vanilla Farm (Taha’a) – beautiful gardens and the purest vanilla

Final Thoughts

French Polynesia is beautiful for a multitude of reasons. It’s the thunder of waves on the reef while you float peacefully nearby. It’s a pearl lifted from the sea. It’s sipping champagne at sunset, knowing the world rarely feels this still. It’s viewing the Southern Cross and skies to give a new perspective on life.

Luxury here is presence. The kind that reminds you how small you are against the Pacific and how infinite you feel within it. That’s why, when people ask me my favorite place in the world, the answer is always ready. And why I finally chose to share it with you.