
Slip on your fins, get your de-fog ready, and prepare to splash down into some out-of-this-world snorkeling while island-hopping in French Polynesian paradise.
BORA BORA
Arguably one of the world’s most desirable destinations, Bora Bora is a name that goes hand-in-hand with the South Pacific. Known for its iconic glass-bottom bungalows hovering over awe-inspiring turquoise waters, Bora Bora is home to spectacular snorkeling sites where manta ray encounters are common. The warm, serene conditions that surround the island make it easy to spot vibrant coral gardens, colorful tropical fish, and other marine creatures. On the island’s eastern shore, discover the unique experience of the natural aquarium, Lagoonarium. This family-owned attraction offers visitors a chance to swim in a confined lagoon alongside sharks, turtles, rays and a plethora of ocean fish while treating the spectacular creatures to a snack, too!
HUAHINE
RAIATEA
The main lagoon on Raiatea island may be small, but what it lacks in stature, it makes up for ten-fold in natural underwater beauty. One place in particular—Motu Ofetaro on the edge of the Teavapiti Pass—is a hot-spot for incredible snorkeling. Here, you can follow the gently-sloping underwater reef while marveling in color-rich coral mounds and a wide variety of marine life such as: butterflyfish, lionfish, clownfish, wrasse, and sea anemones to name a few.
TAHA’A
The quaint and traditional island of Taha’a is known for three things—black pearls, vanilla farms, and top-notch snorkeling. The best-kept secret Coral Garden offers an especially unique underwater exploration experience that allows you to “drift” all the way from one end of a motu to the island’s lagoon by effortlessly riding the moderate current. Conserve your energy and relish the breathtaking views of vivid coral reefs at a coasting pace accompanied by a variety of sea creatures in their natural habitat.
Photo Credit:
Mathieu flickr.com