The 12 Top Tours In Windward Islands French Polynesia: Which Is Best?

The Windward Islands of French Polynesia offer some of the most captivating experiences in the Pacific. With crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and a warm local culture, this region is perfect for travelers seeking authentic adventures. Among the many options, the Moorea whale swimming tour stands out for its close encounters with humpback whales, while the 4×4 safaris provide a scenic, land-based exploration of Moorea’s stunning valleys and viewpoints. For those arriving on a cruise, the scenic bus tours and private island excursions deliver a hassle-free way to see the best highlights. If marine life fascinates you, the private boat snorkel trips will give you up-close moments with turtles, stingrays, and sharks.

We’ve carefully curated a list of the 12 best tours that showcase the diversity of experiences available in this beautiful region. Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, cultural insights, or simply breathtaking views, you’ll find options suited to your style and schedule.

Quick Overview

This list includes whale watching tours, off-road safaris, private boat excursions, island tours with waterfalls, and specialized photography sessions. Many tours are highly rated, like the Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour with a 4.7/5 rating, and the Moorea: 4X4 safari excursion which also scores 4.7/5. The tours range from half-day adventures to full-day explorations, accommodating cruise passengers, families, or luxury travelers. For more details, check out Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour Whale Swimming and Snorkeling.

1. Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour Whale Swimming and Snorkeling

At number 1, this tour delivers an unforgettable 4-hour shared boat experience with a local guide. The highlight is swimming with humpback whales, an activity that draws many visitors during the season. The boat also offers opportunities to swim with stingrays, blacktip sharks, turtles, and more, depending on ocean conditions. The boat provides fresh tropical fruits and beverages, making it a laid-back but adventurous outing.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of marine wildlife encounters and the intimacy of a small group—limited to 6 participants. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the chance to get up close with whales in their natural habitat. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized experience and don’t mind a bit of boat time. The only potential downside is the seasonal nature of whale encounters, so booking early during peak season is wise.

Bottom line: A fantastic choice for wildlife lovers and snorkelers wanting a genuine ocean adventure that leaves lasting memories.

2. Moorea: 4X4 safari excursion between land and sea with lunch

Number 2 on our list is a 6-hour land and sea safari that explores Moorea’s mountain roads, Opunohu Valley, and Belvedere lookout. This guided tour combines scenic drives with stops at local viewpoints and cultural sites like pineapple fields and traditional villages. You’ll enjoy a lunch on a beautiful beach, with options for participating in a cultural activity—a deeper dive into Polynesian life.

The tour’s unique feature is the ability to see both the island’s lush interior and coastal charms in one day. The local musician adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a lively, well-rounded experience. Reviews highlight the stunning views at the Magic Mountain overlook and the engaging guides’ storytelling. The tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, scenic adventure with a taste of Polynesian culture.

Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a mix of scenery, culture, and a relaxed beach lunch in a manageable half-day.

3. Moorea Cruise Ships 4×4, Belvedere Magic mount PRIVATE Tours

This private 4×4 tour is perfect when your cruise is docked and you want a customized island exploration. The 4-hour itinerary includes visits to Belvedere, Magic Mountain, pineapple plantations, and traditional villages. The private guide and driver make it a flexible experience, allowing you to tailor stops according to your interests.

The standout feature here is the private nature—no crowds, personalized attention, and the convenience of cruise ship pickup and drop-off. The guide shares insights into Moorea’s top sights, making it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate, flexible tour. Reviewers mention the seamless logistics and the exclusive access to viewpoints like Cook’s Bay.

Bottom line: An excellent option for cruise passengers seeking a personalized, hassle-free island tour.

4. Albert Tours Excursion Safari – Moorea Safari tours&pick up

Number 4 offers a half-day 4×4 safari exploring Moorea’s bays, valleys, rivers, and mountain peaks. The tour features an exclusive panoramic viewpoint over Cook’s Bay, and visits to an ancient Polynesian temple. The guide shares stories about local culture and spiritual sites, enriching the experience.

What makes this tour special is the inclusion of local jams, tropical juices, and liqueurs tasting, adding flavor to your adventure. The scenic routes and authentic cultural insights appeal to travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Moorea. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the short but rich itinerary.

Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for a half-day adventure that combines scenery and culture.

5. MOOREA 6H PRIVATE BOAT TOURS SNORKELING & LUNCH

Number 5 is a luxury private boat tour for up to 8 people, focusing on snorkeling and marine wildlife. Over 6 hours, you’ll enjoy top-tier equipment, personalized guidance, and the chance to explore Moorea’s pristine waters. Pickup and drop-off are included at your hotel, making this a premium, stress-free experience.

The key appeal is the small group size and the professional guidance, which ensures safe, comfortable encounters with sea turtles, stingrays, and vibrant coral reefs. This tour is highly valued for its flexibility and comfort, with many reviewers noting the excellent equipment and personalized service. It’s a great pick for snorkelers and anyone wanting a more exclusive marine experience.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prioritize luxury and personalized service in their water adventures.

6. Moorea: Island Tour with Waterfall Hike and Lunch

Number 6 combines scenic driving, hiking, and a Polynesian lunch in a 6.5-hour tour. First, you’ll visit Magic Mountain and Belvedere, then hike through jungle trails to a waterfall, where you can feel the refreshing spray. The tour also includes a visit to a vanilla plantation and pineapple fields, giving insight into local agriculture.

The highlight is the hiking to the waterfall, which appeals to active travelers. The lunch on a private beach offers a relaxing end to the day, with options for exploring the island’s crater and pineapple secrets. Reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and the well-organized itinerary.

Bottom line: Good for active travelers who enjoy nature walks and scenic views, combined with cultural and culinary experiences.

7. Private Tahiti Island Tour – 5.5 Hours

Number 7 takes you on a personalized tour of Tahiti with a driver-guide, designed to fit your interests. The 5.5-hour experience includes visits to the Water Gardens of Vaipahi, Taharuu Beach, and Faarumai Waterfalls. The full customization means you can focus on cultural sites, waterfalls, or scenic views.

The tour’s strength lies in its tailored approach and the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The driver shares stories about local history and culture, making it more than just sightseeing. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the local insights that make this a memorable private experience.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, comfortable introduction to Tahiti.

8. Tahiti: West and East Coast Island Tour with Waterfalls

Number 8 offers a 5-hour guided tour along Tahiti’s coastlines, highlighting Faarumai Waterfall, Maraa Grotto, and Pointe Venus lighthouse. The small group (up to 7 people) allows for a more intimate experience, with plenty of time for photos and questions.

This tour is perfect for those wanting to see diverse landscapes—from waterfalls to botanical gardens—without the hassle of planning. The driver provides narration and local stories, making the journey both scenic and educational. Reviewers mention the beautiful viewpoints and smooth logistics.

Bottom line: A good pick for those looking to explore Tahiti’s natural beauty in a relaxed, guided setting.

9. Tahiti E-bike, mtb, vtt Tour with Swimming and Lunch

Number 9 delivers a 5-hour e-mountain bike adventure through the Titaaviri Valley. You’ll ride past birdlife, black sand beaches, and dips in large pools, ending with a delicious lunch. The electric bikes make it accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels, and the swimming stops add relaxation.

The tour is suited to active travelers who want to combine cycling, nature, and local cuisine. The guides offer insights into local flora and fauna, making it both fun and educational. Some reviews note the variable terrain as a challenge, but overall, it’s praised for the diverse scenery.

Bottom line: Best for active travelers eager for a bike-and-beach combo in stunning surroundings.

10. Whale Watching in Moorea – Half-Day Private Tour

This private whale-watching tour offers a luxurious, flexible experience in Moorea’s waters. The luxury boat and small group setting allow for up-close whale encounters with humpbacks and marine life. The customizable schedule means you can focus on whale watching at your preferred time.

The boat departs from a private marina, and the guides are eager to share their knowledge of whales and marine ecology. The review mentions the intimate, quiet environment, ideal for those seeking a peaceful, exclusive experience.

Bottom line: An excellent pick for whale enthusiasts who want a personalized, immersive marine adventure.

11. Moorea photographic excursion in private and adapted session

Number 11 offers a private photography session tailored to your skill level, making it perfect for nature and photo enthusiasts. With 10 years of experience, the guide helps you capture breathtaking landscapes while exploring at your own pace.

The customized approach allows photo lovers to focus on specific subjects like mountains, waterfalls, or beaches. The tour works well for beginners wanting guidance or experienced photographers seeking the perfect shot. The cost is $425 for a group up to 8, making it a value-packed opportunity for serious shutterbugs.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a personalized, professional photography experience.

12. Moorea: Scenic Bus Tour with Guide for Cruise ship passenger

Rounding out the list is a 3-hour scenic bus tour designed specifically for cruise ship passengers. It covers Moorea’s key sights, including Belvedere and Cook’s Bay, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions. The air-conditioned bus and local guide make for a relaxed sightseeing experience.

Ideal for travelers short on time, this tour offers easy logistics with pickup directly from the cruise dock. Reviewers mention the beautiful vistas and the informative commentary, making it easy to get a sense of the island’s highlights without extra planning.

Bottom line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a quick, comprehensive overview of Moorea.

How to Choose

When selecting your tour, consider your interests—wildlife, culture, scenery, or adventure. If you love marine life, the whale swimming or private snorkeling tours (like this) are ideal. For a cultural day, the 4×4 safaris (see here) or the private island tour (check it out) give local flavor. Budget-minded travelers might prefer the scenic bus tour (view details).

For active explorers, the e-bike adventure (see) offers a combination of scenery and exercise. Cruise passengers will appreciate the private tours with flexible schedules (more info).

Booking early ensures availability, especially during peak season. Think about what fits your pace and interests—whether you want wildlife encounters, cultural insights, or scenic relaxation—and you’ll find a tour that makes your time in French Polynesia truly memorable.

Final Thought

The options in the Windward Islands are diverse, offering everything from whale swimming to mountain hikes and luxury private tours. For a family or a solo traveler, the scenic bus tour or private boat trips work well, while adventure seekers will love the 4×4 safaris. If marine life is your main focus, the whale tours and snorkeling experiences are unbeatable.

No matter your style, these tours give you a chance to see the real Moorea and Tahiti—so book early, prepare for fantastic scenery, and get ready for some unforgettable adventures in French Polynesia.