Austral Islands · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Tranquil Beauty of the Austral Islands

Discover the unspoiled paradise of the Austral Islands in French Polynesia, where pristine beaches, lush mountains, and rich Polynesian culture await.

Nestled in the southernmost part of French Polynesia, the Austral Islands offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Known for their untouched landscapes and friendly locals, these islands provide a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The main islands, including Rurutu, Tubuai, and Raivavae, are renowned for their unique flora and fauna, pristine beaches, and lush mountains. Each island has its own distinct charm. Rurutu is famous for its remarkable caves and whale-watching opportunities, while Tubuai boasts colorful coral reefs and historical sites. Raivavae, often referred to as the 'Bora Bora of the Austral Islands,' is a hidden gem with its turquoise lagoon and vibrant marine life. Exploring the Austral Islands means immersing yourself in Polynesian culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional dance performances, local crafts, and delicious Polynesian cuisine. The islands' remoteness ensures that they remain largely untouched by mass tourism, making them an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and authenticity.

When is the best time to go to Austral Islands?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsOct–Apr
Longest daylightOct–Feb
Driest periodMay–Oct

Explore places in Austral Islands

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Austral Islands sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Images Gratuites : plage, mer, côte, océan, vacances, piscine, lagune,  baie, île, Nikon, plan d'eau, recours, Caraïbes, Tropiques, D300, Bora Bora,  Le Meridien, Polynésie 4214x2810 - - 413662 - Banque d image gratuite -  PxHere
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    Discover French Polynesia, where turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture await. Dive into a paradise of adventure and relaxation in the heart of the South Pacific.

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    Explore Austral Islands in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    Fichier:Tubuai.jpg — Wikipédia
    File:Raivavae.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Fichier:Rapa Iti.JPG — Wikipédia

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