Discover the Austral Islands

Tubuai lies in the South Pacific in the Austral Islands archipelago, south of Tahiti in French Polynesia. The islands offer different highlights for planning a trip: dive sites and a mountain hike on Tubuai, seasonal whale watching and caves on Rurutu, and a steep summit trail on Raivavae. If you are looking for a hotel, this distinction can make it easier to choose your preferred island destination.

Tubuai: Mountain Hike and Diving

Mont Taitaa on Tubuai is 422 meters high. Part of the climb can be made by off-road vehicle; check local access and conditions before your outing. About 15 dive sites have been recorded on the island. Six of them are accessible to divers of all experience levels. The number of recorded sites is approximate and may change as listings are updated.

Raivavae: Villages and Mont Hiro

The 24-kilometer-long island of Raivavae has four villages. Mont Hiro is 438 meters high. The steep climb starts along a trail through wild natural scenery and takes about an hour; from the summit, there are panoramic views of a lagoon. As trail conditions may change, take them into account when planning. This brings together a specific trail duration and expansive views of the lagoon, alongside the distinctive scenery of the climb.

Rurutu: Whale Watching and Caves

The Austral Islands are known for whale watching from July to November, and Rurutu is considered a particularly good place for it during this period. During a drive around Rurutu, whales can be spotted from the coastal road. At both ends of the village of Moerai in the north of the island, two viewpoints overlook the ocean; whales can also be spotted from there. If whale watching is important to your trip, plan around this seasonal period and check local conditions before you travel.

Rurutu has numerous caves that can be visited. A guide can take visitors to the island’s best-known and most unusual caves; check locally whether a tour is available. The name Ana Ae'o means “offerings made to the god Taioia.” The cave on Rurutu is also called Grotte de Mitterrand because François Mitterrand visited it in 1990. In the past, it was a place of worship, massacre and cannibalism.

A Wider Look at French Polynesia

Tahiti is also part of the broader destination of French Polynesia. On Tahiti, lush hills and black and white sand beaches shape the landscape. On the west coast, coconut palms line white sand beaches suited to swimming and sunbathing. The black sand beaches on the east coast were formed by earlier volcanic activity and provide a setting for relaxing and taking photos.

This can help you weigh whether a seasonal nature experience, diving or a steep summit trail is a better fit for your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Tubuai Islands, Vaiuru, Rairua, Amaru, Windward Islands, Îles Sous-Le-Vent, Leeward Islands, The Tuamotu And Gambier Islands.

Go to the broader travel overview: French Polynesia.