Tubuai
Tubuai, set in French Polynesia's Austral Islands, is known for its lush valleys, coral reefs and strong Polynesian culture.
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About Austral Islands
The Austral Islands, known in French as Îles Australes and in Tahitian as Tuha'a Pae, are the southernmost archipelago of French Polynesia. This remote chain of volcanic islands and low coral atolls has a cooler, mild climate and a calm, rural character that feels far removed from the busier Society Islands.
The islands have a long Polynesian history reflected in marae stone platforms, taro terraces and archaeological sites, particularly on Tubuai and Raivavae. Tubuai is also remembered as the first refuge of the Bounty mutineers in 1789, while Rurutu was charted by James Cook in 1769.
Each island has its own identity: Raivavae is prized for its vivid lagoon and the volcanic peak of Mount Hiro, Rurutu is known for limestone caves, cliffs and humpback whales, and Tubuai, the administrative centre, offers a broad lagoon and the main village of Mataura. Rimatara protects the endangered Rimatara lorikeet, the 'ura.
Daily life centres on small villages, farming and traditional crafts such as Rurutu basket weaving and tifaifai quilts. Tourism remains low-key, built around family-run guesthouses, lagoon excursions, whale watching and slow, nature-focused travel rather than large resorts.
Travellers reach the islands on Air Tahiti flights from Papeete, and the archipelago appeals mainly to independent and nature-loving visitors. Its authenticity, marine life and unspoiled landscapes make it relevant as both a distinctive leisure destination and a peaceful setting for long-stay or remote working travel.
Austral Islands Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from May to October brings mild, comfortable weather and clearer conditions for lagoon and coastal activities. Humpback whales are commonly seen off Rurutu between July and October, making this the peak period for wildlife-focused travel.
How to Get Around
Transport on the islands is simple, with limited public options. Visitors typically use rental cars, scooters, bicycles, taxis or pension-arranged transfers, while Air Tahiti flights and occasional boats connect the islands.
Where to Stay
Accommodation is mostly small family-run pensions on Tubuai, Rurutu, Raivavae and Rimatara, often including meals. There are few hotels, so booking well ahead is important, especially in whale season.
Food & Drink
Meals usually feature fresh fish, poisson cru, taro, breadfruit and tropical fruit, often served at guesthouses. Local coffee and limited village restaurants or snack bars round out a simple, home-style Polynesian food scene.
Ground Transportation Services in Austral Islands
Airport Transfers
Travel between Tubuai–Mataura Airport and pensions, guesthouses and villages across Tubuai with a pre-arranged private transfer.
Hourly Chauffeur
Hire a private driver by the hour for lagoon viewpoints, marae sites, local villages and flexible sightseeing around Tubuai or other Austral Islands.
Car Rental
Rent a car or scooter on Tubuai, Rurutu, Raivavae or Rimatara for independent exploration of coastal roads and island villages.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange a minibus or charter vehicle for groups, cultural events, airport pickups and island tours across the Austral Islands.
Airports in Austral Islands
Frequently Asked Questions
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Papeete
Papeete, French Polynesia's capital on Tahiti's northwest coast, blends a busy harbour and market scene with French and Polynesian culture, serving as the gateway to the Windward Islands.
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