French Polynesia’s 14 Best Tours & Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)

French Polynesia is a showcase of natural beauty, with its crystal-clear lagoons, lush valleys, and vibrant marine life. It’s a place where you can snorkel among sharks, soar over volcanic islands, or explore traditional Polynesian villages. We especially love the Tahaa Lagoon Tour, which combines snorkeling, vanilla farms, and pearl farms into one memorable day. It’s a perfect blend of nature, culture, and local flavor. For those who want an active, off-the-beaten-path experience, the Adventurous Escape to Hakaui Valley offers jungle hikes and waterfalls, giving you a real taste of Marquezan island life. Whether you’re seeking luxury or adventure, French Polynesia’s tours deliver authentic, unforgettable moments.

Quick Overview

In this guide, we’ve included a variety of tours tailored to different interests and activity levels. Highlights include lagoon cruises, quad-bike explorations, scuba diving, jet ski rides, and private scenic flights. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing boat trip or an adrenaline-filled adventure, these experiences showcase the best of French Polynesia. Each has been selected for its uniqueness, quality, and value, and full details follow below.

1. Tahaa Lagoon Tour -Departure Raiatea-Small groups (max 12 p)

This 7-hour, small-group Lagoon Tour offers a detailed look at Tahaa’s most iconic features. Starting from Raiatea, the tour takes you to a pearl farm, vanilla plantation, coral garden, and motu for a traditional Polynesian meal. The guided visits are intimate, with groups limited to 12, ensuring everyone gets personalized attention. The snorkeling in Tau Tau Coral Garden is a highlight, as is the visit to a family-run pearl farm. Reviewers highlight the flexibility of the guide and the high quality of the boat, making this an excellent value at $143.33 per person. Perfect for travelers who like a mix of nature, culture, and snorkeling in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-rounded tour blending marine life and island culture — ideal for small groups who want personalized service.

2. Adventurous Escape to Hakaui Valley

For about $75, this 7.5-hour tour immerses you in the authentic Marquesan lifestyle. Starting with a scenic boat ride from Taiohae, you’ll hike through jungle trails to reach the tallest waterfall in French Polynesia. Your guides, Ana and Tangy, are locals who share stories and legends along the way, making the experience both educational and personal. The hike is strenuous but rewarded with stunning views, and the day includes a homemade lunch and time for swimming on the beach. Reviewers mention the guides’ friendliness and the chance to see the island’s true character. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want real cultural insight and a physical challenge.
Bottom Line: A memorable, off-the-beaten-path adventure that pairs physical activity with authentic Marquesan hospitality.

3. Guided tour of the island and its escapades in Tahaa by Quad / ATV

If you want to cover a lot of ground quickly in Tahaa, this 4-hour ATV tour is a great choice. For around $363.18 (per group), you’ll visit the vanilla grove, a pearl farm, and enjoy sweeping views from lookout points. The tour is led by an experienced local guide, and visitors rave about the ease of driving the ATV, even for beginners. Highlights include exploring the interior of the island and discovering its unique vanilla and pearl industries. One reviewer praised how the guide showed them the “best spots” and made the entire experience fun. Suitable for active travelers who want a comprehensive look at Tahaa’s highlights without the fuss of a larger group.
Bottom Line: A dynamic, fast-paced way to see Tahaa’s major attractions with a local host guiding the way.

4. Trip to the heart of Tahaa Safari Mountains in Quad / ATV

This 3.5-hour adventure offers a bumpy, muddy ride through Tahaa’s lush interior, perfect for those craving genuine exploration. At $358.97 per group, you’ll go past vanilla fields, rivers, and mountain lookouts, with spectacular views of the lagoon. The guide, a local, shares stories as you traverse trails only accessible by ATV, including a swim in a river spring. The tour is physically demanding but highly rewarding for active travelers seeking authentic off-road experiences. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking scenery and the “breathtaking views” from the belvederes. This is best suited for those comfortable with getting a little dirty and wanting a full sensory experience of Tahaa.
Bottom Line: An intense, hands-on trip into Tahaa’s wild side—perfect for adventure seekers.

5. Fakarava Adventure Quad Excursion

Explore Fakarava’s stunning landscapes on this 2-hour quad biking tour for up to 2 people at $159.08. Starting from your accommodation, you’ll pass through untouched beaches and scenic countryside, with a local guide sharing insights along the way. The ride is exhilarating and accessible for most skill levels, making it a fun way to see the island’s natural beauty. Reviewers describe the experience as “fantastic,” noting the chance to discover parts of the island they wouldn’t have seen on foot. It’s a quick but impactful way to experience Fakarava’s diverse scenery, ideal for families and solo travelers alike.
Bottom Line: A swift, scenic off-road ride perfect for those wanting a taste of Fakarava’s wild terrain.

6. Tahaa Excursion in Electric Paddle Snorkeling Coral Garden

This 3-hour eco-friendly tour at $128.23 per person combines electric paddleboarding with snorkeling. It’s a quiet, sustainable way to explore Tahaa’s coral garden, with a professional guide leading the way. Electric paddleboards reduce noise and emissions, helping preserve the environment. You’ll paddle through calm waters and snorkel among vibrant fish and corals, making this a perfect choice for nature lovers concerned about eco-impact. Travelers mention the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life. Suitable for all levels, this tour offers a peaceful, immersive experience of Tahaa’s underwater world without disturbing it.
Bottom Line: An eco-conscious, relaxing way to enjoy Tahaa’s marine biodiversity at a gentle pace.

7. Fakarava Adventure Jet Ski Tour

For thrill-seekers, this 1.5-hour, jet ski trip in Fakarava is a lively way to explore the atoll. Starting at $276.41 for two, it’s a high-octane ride over crystal waters, with stops at sandy beaches and coral reefs. The tour suits all skill levels, with guides leading the way for a fun, fast-paced experience. Reviewers love the “full speed” feeling and describe it as “among the most exciting activities” on the atoll. It’s ideal for a quick adrenaline boost or for travelers who want to see Fakarava from a different perspective. Expect to cover more ground than on a boat while enjoying the lagoon’s stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for action lovers wanting a high-energy, scenic ride.

8. Bora-Bora 30 minutes private flight in light aircraft

This exclusive 30-minute flight offers a bird’s-eye view of Bora Bora’s islands and lagoons for $291.51 per person. You’ll fly with a private pilot who brings the landscape to life, passing over peaks, motus, and reef systems. Guests rave about how unforgettable the scenery is, making it a top choice for travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity. The flight is a highlight that complements any trip to Bora Bora, especially if you want spectacular photos and unforgettable memories. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized adventure or celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: An intimate, scenic flight that provides the best aerial views of Bora Bora’s stunning landscape.

9. Tahaa: Kayaking Rental – Coral Garden – Snorkeling

For a laid-back, flexible day, this kayaking rental at $36.44 per person lets you explore Tahaa at your own pace. With stable kayaks and rod supports for fishing, you can paddle to the famous Coral Garden—a 45-minute journey—and snorkel among colorful marine life. It’s perfect for independent travelers or families wanting a DIY adventure on calm waters. Reviewers appreciate the ease of the kayaks and the opportunity to combine fishing and snorkeling in a peaceful setting. It’s a budget-friendly way to experience Tahaa’s underwater world without a guide, suitable for those comfortable on the water.
Bottom Line: A flexible, budget-friendly option for autonomous explorers seeking marine fun and tranquility.

10. Fakarava Adventure Combo Activities

This combo activity package at $392.66 for two includes jet-skiing and quad biking across two days. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to maximize their Fakarava experience with both water and land adventures. You’ll explore the island’s wild landscapes and then enjoy high-speed fun on the water, with organized, guided sessions. Reviewers mention it’s a great way to see the island’s diverse environments in a short amount of time. It’s suited for those with a sense of adventure who want variety and full-day activities.
Bottom Line: Two-in-one outdoor experience for active travelers wanting to cover land and sea.

11. Fakarava 2-tank Certified Scuba Dive

Certified divers will love this 4-hour, 2-tank dive in Fakarava. The experienced team includes international dive instructors who ensure safety while exploring the island’s vibrant underwater world. Expect to see manta rays, sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and crystal-clear waters. The dive guide shares detailed knowledge, making it a memorable marine encounter. Guests say it’s “crazy fantastic,” comparing the quality of diving to the Maldives. This tour is best for certified divers looking for big marine creatures and pristine reefs.
Bottom Line: A top-tier dive experience with expert guides and unforgettable marine sightings.

12. Private flight over Maupiti, the little sister of Bora-Bora

This 30-minute private flight at $291.51 offers a stunning view of Maupiti’s untouched beauty. Flying with a small group, you’ll see contrasts of color and rugged landscapes that photos simply don’t do justice. The guide promises memories that will stay with you forever. Perfect for a special occasion or anyone craving a unique perspective on Polynesia’s islands, this flight is a highlight for lovers of scenic vistas.
Bottom Line: An exclusive aerial journey showcasing Maupiti’s grandeur unseen from land.

13. Teahupo’o : First row Tahiti Pro taxi boat Tour

This 2-hour boat tour (timing varies with event schedules) gets you up close to the world-famous Teahupo’o waves—if you’re visiting during the Tahiti Pro. The boat cruise offers front-row views of athletes tackling some of the largest and most hollow waves on earth. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see top surfers in action with scenic backdrops of mountains and ocean. Guides provide local insights, making it both exciting and educational. This tour is perfect for sports fans or anyone wanting a front-row seat to one of nature’s most powerful spectacles.
Bottom Line: An adrenaline-filled, scenic experience ideal during the surfing season.

14. Discover the authenticity of a private and welcoming paradise

For a full-day or longer experience, this 8- to 16-hour private tour offers a personalized look at Tahaa. Visiting vanilla groves, pearl farms, and coral gardens, you’ll experience Polynesian culture firsthand. A traditional lunch on a motu emphasizes relaxation and local flavors. The tour’s tailor-made approach suits travelers who want an intimate, comprehensive day exploring Tahaa with fewer crowds. Reviewers mention it’s perfect for families and groups seeking a deep dive into local life, with the chance to customize the trip.
Bottom Line: An exclusive, customizable experience for travelers who prefer privacy and in-depth culture.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your tour, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. For example, if you want a luxurious aerial view, the Bora-Bora private flight is hard to beat. For a more adventurous, hands-on day, the Tahaa ATV tours or Hakaui Valley hike might be better suited. Budget travelers could opt for kayaking or lagoon snorkeling. If you’re after marine wildlife, the scuba diving or jet ski tours deliver action and scenery. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the private flights or big surf season in Tahiti.

Final Thoughts

French Polynesia offers a remarkable variety of tours that cater to explorers, relaxation-seekers, and adrenaline junkies alike. If you’re short on time but want a peek at the marine and island wonders, the Tahaa Lagoon Tour provides a well-rounded day. For thrill-seekers, the Fakarava jet ski or scuba dives are unbeatable. Families and those craving culture will find the Tahaa private tour perfect. Whatever your style, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these exceptional experiences.