Some individuals accumulate seashells, others accumulate stamps. I accumulate islands — particularly the sun-drenched, verdant isles of the South Pacific.
My quest has led me to discover among the most lovely locations in French Polynesia. I’ve visited greater than 100 islands through freighters, yachts and cruise ships. Each is a treasure.
If you happen to’re within the temper for love, these islands, marked by craggy mountains and eye-popping lagoons, are the right place for that good proposal. My fiance and I spent a month crusing a 40-foot sloop in Tahiti and Huahine years in the past. It was romantic and thrilling — wild orchids grew within the bushes and the perfume of plumeria floated by means of the night breeze (and sure, I did settle for!). Heavenly.
My expertise impressed me to think about nice locations in French Polynesia for others to pop the query (our cowl picture was shot on Moorea). Right here’s a listing of romantic spots on my 4 favourite islands, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine. Every gives distinctive and picturesque settings. All it is advisable to add is love — and the proposal.
Tahiti
Island atmosphere: Bustling. “Moby Dick” creator Herman Melville visited in 1841 and described it as “magnificent; a mass of shaded tints of inexperienced from seaside to mountaintop; endlessly diversified with valleys, ridges, glens and cascades … waterfalls glitter within the daylight.” Practically 200 years later, the island stays breathtaking, though the port metropolis is a bit scruffy.
The place to suggest: On a hike up Mount Aorai, one among Tahiti’s highest peaks. The ascent gives gorgeous views of the coast, waterfall valleys and jagged peaks. The trail begins at O Belvedere restaurant, however it’s a protracted 6½ miles to the highest. Suggest alongside the way in which, or cease on the gorgeous Fautaua Valley waterfall, the place glowing water cascades 450 ft into a big pool, earlier than getting down on one knee. The lighthouse on Pointe Vénus, on Tahiti’s northern coast, gives a terrific backdrop.
Particulars: Tahiti is the principle jumping-off level for different islands within the area, residence to Fa’a’ā Worldwide Airport and residential port for Windstar cruises.
Bora Bora
Island atmosphere: Magical. Bora Bora is thought for its vibrant lagoon, lush nature and twin peaks. Mount Otemanu soars 2,385 ft excessive within the heart of the atoll; one other summit, Mount Pahia, reaches 2,169 ft.
The place to suggest: On the seaside as a part of a romantic candlelit dinner. Windstar usually gives a personal island “fireplace dancing” expertise right here, and ship employees can prepare privateness on your magic second earlier than different visitors arrive. Windstar itineraries usually embrace an in a single day keep right here, however there’s a brand new choice as properly: a mid-cruise keep at an overwater bungalow through Pacific Beachcomber’s Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana.
Different prospects: Constitution a personal boat at sundown and watch the daylight soften right into a fusion of orange and gold, then pop the query whereas sipping Champagne. Or ask over lunch on a abandoned island, and even whereas swimming with sharks and rays after a personal snorkel tour. Lastly, there’s nothing like saying “Will you marry me?” in a helicopter whereas hovering above the peaks.
Particulars: For personal outings and excursions, contact your journey adviser or Windstar. To include a keep on the Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana, e book through Windstar’s shore tour choices.
Moorea
Island atmosphere: Paradise. Moorea, a mere 12 miles from Tahiti, appears much less touristy than among the different islands and but has tons to do: climbing, buying, exploring, swimming, biking and high-octane kitesurfing. It has two lagoons, Cook dinner’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, each with clear, aquamarine waters and pristine seashores. Moorea’s jagged peaks, carpeted in shades of emerald, rise sharply from the shoreline and invite journey.
The place to suggest: On a stroll by means of historical historical past. Moorea’s Three Pines Path and Opunohu Valley Loop close to Belvedere Viewpoint embrace greater than 500 archeological websites. Or hike Three Coconut Bushes Move, Moorea’s hottest path, for magnificent panoramic views of an historical volcano. Different prospects: E-book a personal 4×4 safari tour to see Moorea’s lagoons, volcanic peaks, Belvedere Lookout, Opunohu Bay, and Cook dinner’s Bay, together with one among my favourite little hideaways, a bucolic pineapple plantation. Or head to the personal seaside close to Sofitel’s Kia Ora Moorea Seashore Resort and Restaurant for dinner. The resort is residence to magnificent landscaped gardens.
Particulars: Windstar ships usually depart late at night time from Moorea, so test the schedule earlier than you make dinner reservations right here.
Huahine
Island atmosphere: Tranquil. Huahine consists of two islands, Huahine Nui (huge) and Huahine Iti (little), with a surprising, turquoise-like-you’ve-seen-from-a-paint-can lagoon and a barrier reef surrounding each islands.
The place to suggest: On Fare Seashore, a peaceful, uncrowded spot. Constitution a catamaran cruise or prepare for bespoke island excursions, and remember to spend time within the water, admiring tropical fish, dolphins, manta rays and extra. Choices embrace crusing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Particulars: For personal outings and excursions, contact your journey adviser or Windstar
