Raiatea, French Polynesia

Often called the sacred heart of the South Pacific, Raiatea was once Polynesia’s spiritual and navigational center—a legacy still felt at Taputapuātea, the island’s ancient marae and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Like many of the Society Islands, its hinterland is dense with forest, home to towering mape trees, wild hibiscus, and several species of critically endangered birds. Kayak along the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia surrounded by pristine rainforests, and look for the elusive Tiare ʻApetahi, Raiatea’s rare, endemic flower. On the coast, just steps from the pier, Uturoa hums with activity; stroll the town to see woven baskets laden with fruit, technicolor flower garlands, fresh fish on ice, and smell the mouthwatering aroma of grilled breadfruit.