Pristine sands. Crystalline lagoons. Endless expanses of sky. The beaches of Tahiti regularly rank among the most beautiful in the world—appearing on prestigious “best-of” lists and travelers’ wish lists alike. Who better to guide you to the region’s most breathtaking shores than the cruise line that has called these islands home for nearly three decades?

At Paul Gauguin Cruises, we know the magic of these beaches not just by reputation—but by heart. And now, we’re delighted to share our curated list of the best and brightest.

The simplicity of beach life hums in Matira Beach.  

Tucked away from the world, Fare Beach's draw is its quiet serenity. (Photo Credit: Tahiti Tourisme ©Overpeek Studio) 

4. Fare Beach, Huahine

Tucked near the village of Fare, this quiet beach captures the soulful, slower side of island life. With powder-soft sand underfoot and the calm lagoon just steps away, Fare Beach feels like a return to simplicity. Ancient marae lie nearby, shaded beneath breadfruit and hibiscus trees—silent reminders of a rich and enduring culture.

Here, you can float in warm shallows, picnic beneath palms, or wander the water’s edge in solitude. It’s a place of quiet beauty and thoughtful reflection. For many, it is also where the heart of Polynesia feels most tender.

Motu Mahana is our private beach and it's all your own to enjoy. (Photo Credit: Credit ©Tahiti Tourisme Grégoire Le Bacon)

5. Motu Mahana, in the Taha'a Lagoon

We save the best for last. Guests aboard The Gauguin are treated to an exclusive islet experience—our very own Motu Mahana—where the idea of a beach day is elevated to reverie. Coconut palms sway above pristine sands, the lagoon beckons with its calm embrace, and Polynesian rhythms drift through the air.

Here, beachside bliss is effortless: lounge in shaded chaise, sip something chilled from the floating bar, enjoy a freshly grilled feast—and feel the hush of secluded luxury. Our guests often say this is the highlight of their voyage. It’s the serenity of dreams, made real.

Snorkeling in French Polynesia.  

Honorable Mention: The Motus of Raiatea

While Raiatea itself is rich in cultural treasures, from sacred marae (ancient stone temples) to lush valleys, its nearby motus offer an entirely different kind of paradise. These tiny islets, scattered across the lagoon like pearls on silk, are places where time melts away.

This is where you’ll find talc-white sands and translucent shallows, a welcome invitation to snorkel over coral gardens or simply recline beneath a pandanus tree with nothing but the breeze for company. Your motu experience has its own quiet rhythm—untouched and unforgettable. There’s no rush here, only the pulse of the sea, the whisper of wind, and the feel of warm sand beneath your feet.

Discover the rugged and unbridled beauty of The Marquesas. (Photo Credit: ©Grégoire Le Bacon)

 The Marquesas: A Different Kind of Story 

Not known for classic beaches, the Marquesas offer something wilder. From the basalt cliffs of Fatu Hiva to the black-sand bays of Nuku Hiva, these islands speak in bold, rugged tones. As Paul Gauguin himself discovered on Hiva Oa, there is a raw, emotional beauty here—not soft and soothing, but stirring to the soul.

Aboard The Gauguin, the exacting attention to detail and heartfelt service shared by the staff and crew are  the reasons we are among the best of the best at what we do.

A Final Word: Beach Therapy

There’s something restorative about the beach. Studies confirm what our guests already feel: the rhythmic sound of the waves slows the heart rate, salty sea air elevates the mood, and simply walking barefoot on sand can trigger a sense of calm. Beach days aren’t just beautiful—they’re healing.

Aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, each day reveals a new shoreline, a fresh perspective, a deeper breath. This is the gift of sailing with French Polynesia’s destination expert. These are the beaches we return to, again and again.

And now, so can you.