Leeward Islands: Lagoons, Hiking Trails and History
Accommodation in Leeward Islands
Bora Bora offers beaches and traces of history, Raiatea a summit hike, river excursions and an archaeological site, Huahine a lagoon with coral gardens, and Maupiti the summit of Mount Teurafaatui. Consider which of these themes you want to shape your trip; this will help you weigh destinations and activities according to your interests.
Hikes and summits
On Raiatea, a hiking trail leads to the summit of Mount Temehani. The summit is the only habitat of a distinctive flowering shrub. If, alongside the summit, you are interested in plants during a hike, this shrub offers a separate point of interest.
On Maupiti, you can hike to the summit of Mount Teurafaatui and enjoy the view. The two summit destinations offer different highlights: Mount Temehani on Raiatea is notable for its distinctive plant, while Mount Teurafaatui on Maupiti offers views from the summit.
Lagoon, river and beach
Huahine is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon with multicolored coral gardens. You can explore the coral gardens by diving or snorkeling. On Raiatea, excursions by kayak, paddleboard or outrigger canoe are possible on the navigable river there. The difference between these water experiences is clear: Huahine is about exploring coral gardens, while Raiatea is about traveling along the river.
On Bora Bora, you can relax on the beaches. This adds a distinct beach focus to the experiences in the lagoon and river.
Culture and history
On Bora Bora, you can visit the remains of the American military presence during World War II along a hiking trail. This presence was codenamed Operation Bobcat. The trail therefore combines an outdoor activity with a visit to historic remains.
On Raiatea, the Marae of Taputapuatea was once a center of religious and political power throughout Polynesia. Visitors can take a guided tour of the archaeological site. In contrast to the remains on Bora Bora, the focus here is on its former religious and political role. The two historical destinations therefore differ in emphasis: traces of the American military presence on Bora Bora and a former center of power on Raiatea.
A broader look at French Polynesia
For an additional comparison within the broader destination of French Polynesia, Tahiti offers its own distinctive landscapes. Lush, vegetation-covered hills, characteristic scenery, and black- and white-sand beaches define the island. Coconut palms line the white-sand beaches on the west coast, which are suitable for swimming and sunbathing. The black-sand beaches on the east coast were formed by earlier volcanic activity and offer a setting for relaxing and taking photographs.
Discover more destinations: Bora Bora, The Tuamotu and Gambier Islands, Leeward Islands, Austral Islands, Tuamotu Islands, Windward Islands, Windward Islands
Back to the main travel overview: French Polynesia.
