Why You Should Honeymoon in French Polynesia

… Because it’s the honeymoon OG!

Did you know the iconic – perfect-for-a-honeymoon room type – Overwater Bungalow was invented here?

(fun-fact time…)

It’s the year 1959 and three California men, Jay Carlisle, Hugh Kelley & Donald McCallum, also known as the “Bali Hai Trio”, move to Tahiti to farm vanilla. However, it was quickly discovered that this would be an uber-competitive market. They yearned for something else. They pivoted – opening hotels instead. As their hospitality business grew and the expansion of their hotels moved into areas which lacked the sandy beaches most tourists expected from the island.

Lightbulb! They came up with the idea to build rooms over the water, as a way to provide guests with direct access to the lagoons of Moorea and Tahiti in particular. At first, the Tahitian government was skeptical at how eco-friendly this endeavor would be. However, the men assured officials that their pandanus leaf–thatched roof structures would not harm the coral, as they were modeled after traditional Tahitian fishing huts.

The overwater bungalow was a successful concept (duh!). This new accommodation style was a feature in a 1962 issue of LIFE magazine, & soon after the concept spread throughout Tahiti … the greater South Pacific … the Maldives and eventually to the Caribbean in the 1980s.

When to honeymoon

French Polynesia experiences a warm climate all year. The most popular time to visit is from May - Oct (Dry Season) when the temperature ranges from 70°F - 81°F, allowing for all types of outdoor and beach activities.

How long to stay

A stay for 7-10 days allows for a truly immersive French Polynesia experience and leaves plenty of room for total relaxation. Plus, with at least 7 days – the newly married couple can visit multiple islands for a variety of excursion types.

French Polynesia: The islands 101

There are over 120 islands in French Polynesia, & it is made up of five archipelagos. The largest & most populated island is Tahiti, which is located in the “Society Islands” archipelago.

French Polynesia's top islands:

1. Tahiti: The largest island in French Polynesia offers a vibrant mix of bustling markets with stunning natural beauty, black-sand beaches, incredible waterfalls and endless mountains.

2. Bora Bora: Most famous for its overwater bungalows, the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life are the star of the show

3. Moorea: Perfect for outdoor activities (i.e. hiking, snorkeling, biking) and exploring the charming small villages

4. Huahine: Arguably the most overall traditional (tourist) experience you'll find in the Polynesian Islands. Lush vegetation, ancient archaeological sites, beautiful beaches and adventure.