Some folks 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 stunning locations in French Polynesia. I’ve visited greater than 100 islands through freighters, yachts and cruise ships. Each is a treasure.
In case you’re within the temper for love, these islands, marked by craggy mountains and eye-popping lagoons, are the proper place for that excellent 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 via 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 photograph was shot on Moorea). Right here’s a listing of romantic spots on my 4 favourite islands, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine. Every presents distinctive and picturesque settings. All it’s essential add is love — and the proposal.
Tahiti
Island atmosphere: Bustling. “Moby Dick” writer 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.” Almost 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 in all Tahiti’s highest peaks. The ascent presents beautiful views of the coast, waterfall valleys and jagged peaks. The trail begins at O Belvedere restaurant, but it surely’s a protracted 6½ miles to the highest. Suggest alongside the way in which, or cease on the beautiful Fautaua Valley waterfall, the place glowing water cascades 450 toes into a big pool, earlier than getting down on one knee. The lighthouse on Pointe Vénus, on Tahiti’s northern coast, presents an excellent backdrop.
Particulars: Tahiti is the primary jumping-off level for different islands within the area, dwelling to Fa’a’ā Worldwide Airport and residential port for Windstar cruises.
Bora Bora
Island atmosphere: Magical. Bora Bora is understood for its vibrant lagoon, lush nature and twin peaks. Mount Otemanu soars 2,385 toes excessive within the heart of the atoll; one other summit, Mount Pahia, reaches 2,169 toes.
The place to suggest: On the seaside as a part of a romantic candlelit dinner. Windstar recurrently presents a non-public island “hearth dancing” expertise right here, and ship workers can prepare privateness to your magic second earlier than different friends arrive. Windstar itineraries usually embrace an in a single day keep right here, however there’s a brand new choice as nicely: a mid-cruise keep at an overwater bungalow through Pacific Beachcomber’s Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana.
Different prospects: Constitution a non-public 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 non-public 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, procuring, exploring, swimming, biking and high-octane kitesurfing. It has two lagoons, Prepare 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 via historic 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 Timber Go, Moorea’s hottest path, for magnificent panoramic views of an historic volcano. Different prospects: Ebook a non-public 4×4 safari tour to see Moorea’s lagoons, volcanic peaks, Belvedere Lookout, Opunohu Bay, and Prepare dinner’s Bay, together with one in all 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 dwelling to magnificent landscaped gardens.
Particulars: Windstar ships usually depart late at night time from Moorea, so examine the schedule earlier than you make dinner reservations right here.
Huahine
Island atmosphere: Tranquil. Huahine consists of two islands, Huahine Nui (massive) and Huahine Iti (little), with a shocking, 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 relaxed, 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