Tupai Island: Visit The Most Romantic Atoll In The World!

Welcome to Tupai Island, the beautiful heart-shaped island in French Polynesia.

What is so special about it, and why should you visit it on a helicopter tour? Discover it below!

Overview of Tupai Island

• 🏝 Located in French Polynesia, Tupai is an atoll in the Society Islands archipelago, north of Bora Bora.

• 📍Tupai Island is about 17 miles (27 kilometers) north of Bora Bora, accessible via helicopter or private boat charter.

• 📏 Size: Covers an area of approximately 11 square kilometers (4.2 square miles).

• 💙 Tupai French Polynesia, is famous for its unique heart-shaped formation, making it one of the most romantic destinations in the world.

• 🌿 Uninhabited island: There are no permanent residents except occasional coconut plantation workers. No hotels, shops, or infrastructure exist on the island.

• 🌊 Pristine lagoon: Surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons and a vibrant coral reef, ideal for snorkeling and marine exploration.

• 🚁 Exclusive access: Only accessible via helicopter tours or private boat charters from Bora Bora or Tahiti—no public transportation is available.

• 🌅 Romantic destination: Popular for honeymoons, wedding proposals, and private excursions.

Unique features of Tupai Island in French Polynesia

Heart-shaped geography

One of the most famous features of Tupai Island is its HEART-SHAPED ATOLL.

This natural formation symbolizes romance, especially when seen from above during scenic flights from Bora Bora or Tahiti.

Crystal-clear lagoons

Tupai has a pristine, crystal-clear double lagoon surrounding the island’s lush core.

These turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming, with amazing underwater life. They offer incredible visibility and access to vibrant marine life, including colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

Lush tropical scenery

The island is covered in dense COCONUT GROVES and tropical vegetation, providing a sense of untouched beauty.

Unlike other islands in French Polynesia, Tupai remains uninhabited except for a few coconut plantation workers.

Activities on Tupai Island

1) Helicopter tours for aerial views

Given Tupai’s iconic heart-shaped form, a helicopter tour offers the best way to appreciate this island paradise fully.

Flights depart from Bora Bora or Tahiti and provide breathtaking aerial views of Tupai and French Polynesia’s surrounding turquoise waters.

These tours are also a popular choice for romantic experiences, with some packages including a bottle of champagne and private photo opportunities (SEE BELOW FOR THE BOOKING LINK)

Price: Helicopter tours start at $480 (€465) per person for a short (30-MINUTE) scenic flight, with longer, private charters costing more depending on the package.

KEEP IN MIND: Ensure you understand the Tahitian currency, as the French Polynesian Franc is tied to the EURO. 

2) Relaxing on pristine beaches

Tupai Island is the perfect destination for relaxation.

Its secluded white-sand beaches are untouched by mass tourism as the island is privately owned.

You can unwind under the shade of coconut palms, listen to the gentle waves, and enjoy the feeling of having a private paradise all to yourself.

3) Snorkeling and exploring marine life

The crystal-clear lagoons surrounding Tupai are a dream for snorkeling enthusiasts. You’ll find a vibrant underwater world filled with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and the occasional sighting of rays or small reef sharks.

The waters are calm and shallow, making them perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers.

INSIDER TIP: The best snorkeling spots are located on the island’s northwestern side, where coral formations are particularly vivid and marine life is most present.

How to get to Tupai Island

Since Tupai Island is an uninhabited atoll with no regular ferry service or public transport, getting there requires booking a private tour or a helicopter flight from Bora Bora or Tahiti.

1) Helicopter tours (most popular option)

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Tupai from Bora Bora is by booking a helicopter tour.

Helicopter tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the island’s iconic heart-shaped lagoon and often include a brief landing for photo opportunities.

Operators offering helicopter tours:

• Tahiti Nui Helicopters: Offers scenic flights over Tupai and Bora Bora, with some tours including a brief stop on Tupai’s beach. Prices start from $480 USD (€465) per person.

• Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Exclusive tours departing from the resort’s private helipad. They offer customizable private tours and romantic packages.

Flight duration: 30 minutes round-trip from Bora Bora.

2) Private boat charters

You can also arrange a private boat charter from Bora Bora to Tupai.

Travel time: Around 1-1.5 hours by boat (27 km or 17 miles from Bora Bora).

Price estimate: Private boat charters start at $500 (€450) for a full-day excursion.

Are there accommodations on Tupai Island?

No, Tupai Island is entirely uninhabited, meaning there are no hotels, resorts, or accommodations.

The atoll remains untouched, apart from a few coconut plantation workers and visitors who arrive via helicopter tours or private boat charters.

Tupuai Island is ideal for romantic getaways

Tupai Island is the perfect destination for a romantic escape.

Its heart-shaped atoll, secluded white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons create an intimate setting ideal for couples.

Whether planning a honeymoon, a wedding proposal, or a private getaway, Tupai offers unmatched privacy and natural beauty.