Board an air-conditioned bus for a panoramic drive through the main town of Uturoa -- the cultural and administrative center of Raiatea.

Shortly after leaving town, you will see Mount Temehani -- endemic home to the Tiare Apetahi. This extremely rare flower grows nowhere else on earth. An amazing fact about this flower is that each morning, when the sun touches the flower, the petals open with a slight crackling sound.

From the bus, take in the view of the lagoon that is home to some pearl farms. Your scenic drive will pass the coastline and give you a glimpse of Polynesian daily life. Raiatea is a very green island, and your guide will point out flowers and fruits along the way.

Continue on the inland road of Raiatea, joining the east coast road that leads through a giant bamboo forest to the south of the island. Pass through the village of Fetuna, whose primary industry is fishing, then pause for refreshments at the district of Vaiau.

You will stop at the marae (open-air temple) of Tainuu before heading back to the pier. Time permitting, you may also stop briefly at a pearl farm along the way.