Experience isn’t necessary for those who wish to paddle the only navigable river in French Polynesia, as wide Faaroa Bay narrows into a serene channel shaded by a tropical jungle canopy. This is South Pacific kayaking at its most relaxing, as Raiateans who live near the river go about daily life and your guide points out the local flora—vibrant red ginger plants, deep green vanilla vines, bright yellow hibiscus blossoms—as well as darting lizards and land crabs.
