GEOGRAPHY
„Queen of the Pacific“
The heart and soul of the South Pacific, Tahiti is the largest in a chain of islands that make up French Polynesia. The name can either refer to the main island or the entire destination. Commonly referred to as The Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia is a collection of 118 islands and atolls scattered across an impressive nautical surface area the size of Western Europe. Still, these tiny islands—many of which remain uninhabited—make up a total landmass of only 1,600 square miles (4,100 sq. km).
You may be wondering, where is Tahiti? The islands are situated halfway between Los Angeles, California and Sydney, Australia. They are in the same time zone as Hawaii and located just as far south of the equator as Hawaii is north. Since the word often conjures up visions of a distant, unspoiled paradise, many assume them to be far away; but in all reality, Tahiti is only eight hours from Los Angeles.
The island of Tahiti is divided into two parts: The larger portion to the northwest is known as Tahiti Nui, while the smaller, southeastern peninsula is known as Tahiti Iti. Tahiti Nui is dominated by three extinct volcanic mountains including Mount Orohena, the tallest in French Polynesia; Mount Aorai, known for its incredible views; and Le Diadème, which appears to crown the island as the rightful queen.
Home to the capital city of Papeete, Tahiti is the economic center of French Polynesia. Since all flights arrive through Faa'a International Airport, your tailored Tahiti vacation will begin and end in Papeete. While you may be tempted to jet off immediately to the other islands, we recommend staying at least a day or two. Tahiti strikes an interesting contrast to some of the more quiet, secluded islands in the region; and with a selection of wonderful and convenient Tahiti resorts available, you will never regret staying.
NATURE
Tahiti and her islands are known internationally for their beautiful tropical flowers. Bougainvillea, frangipani, heliconias, porcelain roses, orchids, camellias, poinsettias, and hibiscus flowers are found throughout the islands and many Tahitians wear them in their hair. According to traditional rules, if a flower is worn behind the right ear, it means the wearer is single and available. If worn behind the left ear it means the wearer is married, engaged, or taken. However, if worn at the back of the head, it means “Follow me!”
WHAT YOU'LL SEE WHILE SNORKELING OR DIVING IN TAHITI
Angelfish: Also with black, white and yellow-striped bodies, these flat fish have a distinctive long fluttering top fin and a protruding nose.
Southern stingrays: They love the shallow waters of Tahiti's lagoons and are one of the highlight's of the popular "shark and stingray feeding" tours, one of the top things to do in Tahiti.
Barracuda: These long, slender, silverfish have very sharp teeth and are known to be aggressive, so snorkelers and divers are advised to steer clear if they spot one.
Black-tipped reef sharks: Also abundant in the lagoon, these sleek sharks, called mao mauri in Tahitian, have distinctive black tips on their fins and average about five feet in length. Smaller black tips can often be spotted swimming near overwater bungalows and mid-size sharks are typical during "shark and stingray feeding" expeditions.
Butterflyfish: These vibrant black, white and yellow striped fish are found all over Tahiti's lagoons, often congregating in large schools.
Clownfish: Immortalized in Finding Nemo, these small, typically orange-striped fish, also known as anemonefish, are often spotted darting amid the fluttering tentacles of the poisonous tentacles of the sea anemone, to which they are immune.
Damselfish: Common around soft coral reefs these small fish come in a variety of colors, including vivid blue with a yellow tail.
Dolphins: Like most of the South Pacific, Tahiti's ocean waters are home to pods of energetic bottlenose dolphins, often spotted on boat excursions outside the islands' lagoons.
Green sea turtles: These endangered creatures are found throughout the islands; several resorts, such as the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa and the Le Meridien Bora Bora have rehabilitation and protection programs.
Grouper: Several varieties are common in Tahiti, including docile speckled giants known for letting divers pet them.
Humpback whales: The annual migration of these massive creatures brings them through Tahiti's waters from July to November, with great photo opportunities available from the island of Moorea.
Lemon sharks: Larger than the black-tipped sharks (up to 11 feet long), lemon sharks tend to stick to the open ocean beyond the reef-protected lagoons.
Leopard rays: These brownish-gray rays with distinctive white spots are quite common in the lagoons of many Tahitian islands.
Manta rays: While less common than they used to be, these gentle giants with wingspans as wide as 12 feet glide around several dive sites in Bora Bora and Fakarava.
Moray eels: Looking like something prehistoric, these large, snake-like rock dwellers are known to be aggressive (their bite can take off a finger) and should be avoided by divers and snorkelers alike.
Needlefish: Long, skinny and silver, these needle-nosed fish dart through shallow lagoon water.
Octopus: You probably won't see one of these eight-legged hermits unless your guide entices one from its hiding place among rocks or coral on the lagoon or ocean bottom-be prepared for a blast of black ink.
Parrotfish: These large, ultra-colorful fish are a mosaic of vivid green, blue, yellow, orange, purple and pink and they are a common sight at Tahiti's top snorkel and dive spots.
Pufferfish: When threatened, these small gray and white fish puff up their bodies like a volleyball with tiny spikes all over.
Sea cucumbers: Like leathery versions of the vegetable after which they were named, these elongated creatures live on the lagoon bottom don't bother anything except the algae they eat.
Sea urchins: Found clinging to rocks and reefs in shallow waters all over Tahiti, these dark spiky creatures are to be avoided as their needles cause great pain when they puncture the skin.
Snapper: You'll find this common fish in large schools while diving and on most restaurant dinner menus, typically drenched in a Tahitian vanilla sauce.
Starfish: You may be used to the golden-brown kind, but in Tahiti, these five-fingered bottom dwellers come in shades from brilliant blue to bright orange.
Triggerfish: These medium-large triangular-nosed fish come in a variety of color combos (the Picasso triggerfish is gray, white, yellow and blue) and can be aggressive.
Wrasse: This species ranges from mini (Scott's fairy wrasse) to mammoth (Napoleon wrasse) and love to hang out near coral formations.
BEST FOREST TRAILS IN TAHITI
Ma'raa Caves
Discover this 0.5-km out-and-back trail near Tahiti, Tahiti. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 10 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.
Views of Moorea bay
Explore this 10.3-km loop trail near Tahiti, Tahiti. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 50 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and rock climbing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
The rest of the forest trails in Tahiti are: Waterfalls of Papeivi Valley, Old Mahinarama road, Temao Valleis, One Roa and Tumutea, Pueu- Les Antennes, Mahinarama Trail, Lava Tube loop
BEST RIVER TRAILS IN TAHITI are: Vaimahuta waterfall, Valée de la Fara´Ura, Nénuphars Lake and Onohea Waterfalls, From Urarii Manu to Maiiore, Tuauru Valley, Temao Valleys, Maroto waterfall.
TAHITIAN WATERFALLS
Fautaua Waterfall
Impressive from the first time you see it, Fautaua (also known as Cascade de Fachoda) is 443 feet tall. To get here, you’ll need to don your hiking boots and make the half-day hike. Don’t be dissuaded by the hike, though. Many travelers opt out of this journey, so if you go, you’ll have this waterfall and accompanying pool practically all to yourself. And what’s better than a quiet morning or afternoon basking in nature’s island glory?
Faarumai Waterfalls
If you’re not feeling so athletic on your vacation, you can head to the Faarumai Waterfalls instead. This short hike takes you through a grove of chestnut trees before leaving you at a waterfall that has not one, but three magnificent cascades. This singularity gave them the name of The Three Cascades. It’s also conveniently located in the village of Tiarei, so there’s plenty to do and see after your peaceful dip in the pool.
Moorea Waterfalls
Perhaps a lesser-known – but equally breathtaking— is the island of Moorea. Located via short ferry ride from the island of Tahiti, Moorea offers breathtaking summits, azure blue lagoons, and, of course, waterfalls. Though there’s plenty more to see on the island of Moorea other than just Tahitian waterfalls, you can’t miss the Afareaitu Falls while you’re here.
Afareaitu Falls
Located on the southeast side of the island, the Afareaitu Waterfalls are not to be missed. Named after the nearby Afareaitu Village, these aren’t the highest waterfalls in The Islands of Tahiti, but they are still just as beautiful. The water rolls delicately down the side of a cliff before settling in a calm pool that’s perfect for an afternoon dip.
No matter which island you choose, you’ll have no trouble finding natural splendor in The Islands of Tahiti. Luckily, you don’t need to hike far to get to a waterfall that’s as relaxing as it is beautiful. As always, don’t forget to bring the essentials on your hike: mosquito repellent, sunscreen, sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water for hydration and, of course, your camera!
TAHITIAN MOUNTAINS
MOUNT OROHENA
Mount Orohena (2,241m) is the highest point in Tahiti and French Polynesia. The hike to the top of this extinct volcano is a 6-hour walk from the city of Mahina, passing through the plateaus of Moto Fefe, Pihaaiateta, and Pito Hiti, which offer a view of Tahiti and the neighboring islands of the Society Archipelago.
MOUNT AORAI
Aorai is the second-highest peak in Tahiti, and it rises to a height of 2,066 meters. The hike is extremely pleasant as the trail runs through a scenic rainforest and is well-maintained. There are two refuges in Mount Aorai where you can stop for a break. The second one hosts the restaurant Le Belvédère which is also the most scenic viewpoint.
Hiking Mount Aorai is one of the best things to do in Tahiti for active travelers, as the peak is considered the best climb in French Polynesia. The view you can enjoy from the top of the mountain will leave you speechless!
TAHITIAN TEMPLES
TIKIS AND THE TEMPLES OF ARAHURAHU MARAE
Arahurahu Marae is one of the most incredible archeological sites in Tahiti. A marae was a space reserved for the ceremonial, social, and religious activities of Polynesians.One of the top things to do in Tahiti, the temple complex is of utmost importance for the local Maohi culture. The marae is home to the tikis, the sacred statues that are believed to have supernatural powers.The Arahurahu Marae, in the Pa’ea district, is beautifully maintained and is divided into the tahua (the sacred square), the patu (the surrounding wall), the un ahu (the altar), and the taura (the wooden sculptures dedicated to the guardian spirits).The Arahurahu Marae is immersed in Tahiti’s lush countryside, and you will love the amazing energy of the place!
For the most active travelers, there’s a pleasant hike (1,5 hours), well marked, through a forest typical of the island. From the car park, head towards the marae, and follow it to the right. Then, continue in the forest by a path which is located behind the wall of the marae. The trail runs along the Vaipoe River, then crosses it. The path continues in the Tefaaiti valley. The return is by the same route.
THINGS TO DO IN TAHITI
water sports in tahiti
Tahiti is a magic island for water sports lovers. The list of fun watersports in Tahiti includes kayaking, paddling, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet ski, and even spearfishing.
The coral reefs create ideal conditions for practicing other sports. The lagoons are sheltered from wind and waves and perfect for kayaking and paddling.
If you are looking for more exciting and adventurous activities to do in Tahiti, you should try windsurfing or kitesurfing. Depending on your ability level, you should head to a specific beach, as the waves in Tahiti can be really high (and potentially dangerous).
If you are a beginner, the perfect beaches are Motu Nono, Papeeno, and Phaeton Bay, while if you are an intermediate windsurfer or kitesurfer, you can enjoy your time in the water at Sapinus Beach or Vairao Beach. If you are a pro, the place to be is the famous Teahupo’o Beach!
a paradise for underwater exploration
Tahiti is one of the top destinations in the world for diving and snorkeling lovers. Under the surface of the crystal-clear waters, there is a colorful and lively world made of coral reefs and incredible fauna. Manta rays, small sharks, and clownfish are among the stunning creatures you can meet while exploring Tahiti’s seabeds.Scuba diving is, without a doubt, one of the best activities to do in Tahiti! The Aquarium and The Spring are two popular diving spots in Tahiti. If you are a navigated diver, you should instead head to The Marado or The Cargo Ship and Catalina to admire Tahiti’s underwater world.
go on a fun 4wd tour across papeno’o valley
Tahiti is all about scenic views, but some of the most incredible ones are tricky to reach. If you want to see breathtaking viewpoints and are ready for an adventure, join this inner-island safari tour by 4WD vehicle.
The thrilling ride through Papeete’s dense rainforest will lead you off the beaten path to explore Tahiti’s paradisiac inner-land. You will explore Mount Marau, a former 19th-century French fortress, and the rainforest-clad Punaruu Valley.
Here, you will visit Tahiti’s highest peaks (Orohena, Aorai, Tetufera, and Teamaa) with the most incredible panoramas! Before the tour ends, the tour guide will walk to two waterfalls, HaamaremareIti and HaamaremareRahi, to relax and swim.
4WD tours are one of the best things to do in Tahiti.
surf in tahiti
If there is a water activity as popular as diving in Tahiti, that is surfing! Surfing is one of the best things to do in French Polynesia, and the most famous place for surfing in Tahiti is Teahupo’o, located in the southwest of the island.
The waves in this spot are so legendary that Teahupo’o is the designated location for the world championship of surfing, the Air Tahiti Nui Billabong Pro, which is held annually. Teahupo’o will also host all the surf competitions in the Summer Olympics 2024!
One of the top Tahiti attractions, Teahupo’o is an incredible spot, but you should surf here only if you are an expert! Tahiti has many spots for beginner and intermediate surfers, and there are countless surfing schools around the island where you can take lessons.
hiking in tahiti with children
Young parents can rest assured that hiking in Tahiti can be as simple as a short walk. Some routes are easy to access, not too long, and will please the young adventurers. On arrival, the spots are often impressive.
Let’s start with a small excursion on the East coast of Tahiti Nui: the 3 waterfalls of Faarumai. Starting from the shore, you will leave from the famous blowhole, one of the natural curiosities of the Queen Island. Located at the mouth of a volcanic rock tube, this hole looks like a geyser. Depending on the strength of the waves rushing in from the sea, its blast is more or less powerful. Visible and sometimes noisy, the attraction is sure to please children.
Then, let’s head inland! Walkers will take a round trip route of about three kilometers. However, it is possible to park your car in a parking lot near the site of the 3 waterfalls. In doing so, you will only need a few minutes to complete this walk in the heart of a lush forest. Once at your destination, a beautiful waterfall of nearly 80 m is available to you.
visit papeete market
In the heart of the capital is the lively Pape’ete Market, which takes up the space of an entire city block.If you are keen on trying some local baked goods or picking up some handcrafted souvenirs, such as shell necklaces, woven hats, or sarongs, this is the place to go!We loved frequenting the Papeete market to grab a bite to eat, people watch, and buy some fresh mango and star fruit! Seriously, the mango was the best mango I’ve ever had!One of the stalls at the Papeete Market. Visiting the market should be on everyone's itinerary.
There is no official parking lot, so be prepared to park on the side of a nearby street and walk a few minutes.
Visit Teahupo’o
Teahupo’o, pronounced (Choo-poo), is the most famous surf break in French Polynesia and the location of the annual Billabong Pro Teahupo’o surf competition.This left wave is known for its heavy break, monster size, and crushing power. If that didn’t seem scary enough, the break sits right on top of razor-sharp coral reefs.
Witnessing the world famous wave is one of favorite things to do in Tahiti.While the wave is normally between 2-3m (6-9ft), Teahupo’o is known to reach deadly heights of about 7 – 8m (26ft).Even if surfing is not your thing, visiting this world-famous break is worth the money! You can admire the mighty force of the wave and the enchanting backdrop of Tahiti’s mountains from the safety of a taxi boat.
Visit Harrison Smith Botanical Garden
If you are a plant enthusiast or simply want to feel like you have entered some magically enchanted forest, I cannot recommend the Botanical Gardens enough.
The garden grounds seemingly stretch forever and have several winding paths around ponds, vivid flowers, and a giant banyan tree. You can easily spend half a day wandering through the grounds admiring all the exotic plants and species.Tahiti is filled with vivid exotic plants!The downside is that with all the attractive vegetation and flowers, there are a plethora of mosquitoes. You will definitely want to apply an almost excessive amount of mosquito spray.
lava tube canyoning/hiking
If you are looking for a thrilling adventure and don’t mind getting a little dirty, I would recommend going lava tube canyoning on the east coast side of Tahiti in Hitiaa.Unfortunately, this is more of a seasonal activity because you can only hike through these tubes when there is no rain or extremely little chance of rain. This is because you don’t want to be trapped inside a tube if there is a flash flood.
During the hike to Fautaua Waterfall, you will have to cross the river a few times. Trekking through rivers and going underground is an adventure of a lifetime! Inside the lava tubes, you will be able to see Tahiti’s incredible interior as well as visit various waterfalls!To do this hike, you will want to go with a guide because they will be able to provide you with the necessary gear (wetsuit, helmet, etc) as well as safely lead you through the lava tubes. I recommend the guides at Manawa.
stay in overwater bungalow
It is likely that you have seen the iconic overwater bungalows before and thought, “Dang, I want to stay in one someday”. Well, during your trip to Tahiti is the perfect opportunity to splurge a little and do so!
Overwater bungalows are *the* definition of luxury. You have your own private terrace that allows you to jump directly into crystal clear waters filled with fish, rays, and other sea creatures. Then at night, you can retreat into your little haven, falling asleep to the soothing sounds of small waves crashing.
Staying the night in an overwater bungalow is something that will make your trip to Tahiti unforgettable.
Visit Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands
The Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands is about a 20-minute drive from Papeete in the area called Puna’auia.Visiting the museum to be the perfect chill afternoon activity after snorkeling at a nearby spot.It was incredibly fascinating to read about Tahiti’s rich history, look at the meticulous detailing of the cultural head masks that they used to wear, and see the captivating artwork on display.
One of the traditional head masks on display at the museum
Diving with Sharks
It might seem crazy but not all sharks are trying to attack you. The sharks around Tahiti are actually fairly friendly and just minding their own business.It can be scary, but if you can make the mental leap… you will have the chance to personally view all kinds of sharks, including lemon, blacktip reef, oceanic, white tip, and tiger sharks.
Swimming with these often feared creatures is truly an unforgettable experience.
Whale Watching & Swimming
Between July and October, you can go whale watching and see humpback whales breach the pristine waters.If you fancy connecting with these regal creatures on a deeper, more personal level, you can go swimming with them. It is an experience that will simply take your breath away and leave you in awe.Whale watching is an unforgettable experience and one of the many things that visitors can partake in if they visit Tahiti between July and October.
Visit Place Viaete
During the day, Place Viaete is a pleasant location to take a break and admire the buzz of the nearby boats in the harbor. However, by 6 pm, the square located in the center of Papeete transforms itself into a night market.
Various food trucks (roulettes) set up offering differing cuisines, such as Chinese, pizzas, fries, crepes, seafood, etc. Most nights, live music and entertainment are performed, creating a lively atmosphere.
One serving of food from one of the food trucks
If you are looking for a place to grab a bite to eat with a lot of variety and fairly inexpensive food we highly suggest visiting Place Viaete.
swim over underwater wrecks
Have you ever thought about what happens to planes and boats when they crash or sink?Well… they become new homes for fish and coral reefs, which make for fantastic tourist attractions!
On this 2- hour excursion, a guide leads you through an area known as the “Aquarium.” The aquarium is about 10 minutes from the starting point, but don’t worry you don’t have to swim there yourself!Instead, your adventure is powered by fun little shark sea scooters that are honestly surprisingly powerful. Once you reach the aquarium, you’re immediately rewarded with views of unbelievably vibrant coral reefs and all kinds of aquatic life.Some aquatic life you can expect to see include lots of tropical fish, rays, turtles, and maybe even a few small sharks. Last, but certainly not least, you’ll be able to swim amongst a couple of underwater wrecks!If you are looking for one of the most memorable experiences, this is it!
surfing
Tahiti is home to some of the world’s best surfing. Whether you are a beginner, amateur, or seasoned professional, surf breaks catering to a wide range of levels can be found practically all around Tahiti!A popular surf break among the locals is Papara, which is located at the Plage du Taharuu. Beware that it is often fairly crowded, so you have to be willing to compete for waves.
visit pointe vénus and lighthouse
If you are a history buff and are looking to learn a bit about Tahiti’s history with Europeans, you should check out the little peninsula of Pointe Venus and its towering Lighthouse.Pointe Venus received its name from the British explorer Captain James Cook. He came to Tahiti to observe Venus’ transit across the sky.Around the grounds, there are various informative plaques detailing Tahitian history, Cook’s voyage, and his mission. They also have a secret tree swing off to the side and some jungle gyms if you are in a more playful mood.The imposing lighthouse at Pointe Venus stands out from the rest of its surroundings. It offers a more historical perspective of Tahiti and is the perfect thing to do on a rainy day.Next to the lighthouse is Point Venus, a more secluded black sand beach that is commonly frequented by locals. This is a great spot for watching the sunrise or sunset.
taharaa lookout
To get one of the best views of Moorea and Matavai Bay, check out Taharaa lookout on One Tree Hill. The viewpoint is located on the way back to Papeete from Papenoo.When you are at the roundabout that is located on One Tree Hill, park in the parking lot to the right side. The observation deck is a short two-minute walk from the parking lot.If you stopped at Pointe Vénus and Lighthouse, I would recommend spending a few minutes checking out this scenic view while you are in the area. The views won’t disappoint.If you stopped at Pointe Vénus and Lighthouse, we would recommend spending a few minutes checking out this scenic view while you are in the area. The views won’t disappoint!
snorkeling
With Tahiti’s crystal clear waters, you should not and must not pass up the opportunity to see all the wonderful underwater life.
visit jardins de paofai
Located in Papeete, the Jardins de Paofai is the ideal place for a lovely stroll along the waterfront.Beautiful flowers and palm trees adorn the main walkway, and there is a large fish pond teeming with colorful fish.
You will likely see local racing canoes, called pirogues, of all sizes dotting the pebbled shoreline. Local teams can sometimes be seen practicing if you visit in the afternoon.
Visit Water Gardens at Vaipahi
Not far from the Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens are the Water Gardens at Vaipahi.
While these well-maintained water gardens are noticeably smaller than the botanical gardens, it is well worth a visit. As you stroll through and observe the tropical flowers, ponds, and exotic plants, they have little info signs informing you details about the plants.
The gardens at Vaipahi also include various hiking trails that offer spectacular vantage points and lead to more waterfalls. Some of the trails can be completed in about 40 minutes while others take about 2.5 hours.Beware, some of the trails have portions that are fairly steep, so bring good walking/hiking shoes!
Visit Marae Arahuahu
Located in the Pa’ea district is Marae Arahuahu, one of the most important archaeological sites in French Polynesia.
The ceremonial site dates back to the 15th century and features a well-preserved Marae, a traditional temple, where Tahitians used to meditate, perform rituals, and do incantations.
As you walk around, you can truly feel the energy and spirit that used to encompass the grounds. Personally, I left the grounds with a great feeling of calmness and tranquility.
Visit Mahana Park
If you are a bit fatigued after a day full of adventure and excitement, come relax at Mahana Park in Puna’auia.
The park has several benches that are perfect for hosting a picnic or even napping on, which was my activity of choice after eating a filling lunch.This is also a great snorkel spot if you are looking to immerse yourself in underwater life and see some coral reefs. On the weekends, they have kayaks available for rent.
Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
In the center of Papeete is the quaint Catholic Cathedral, which distinguishes itself from the rest of the city life with its yellow color.While is not the grandest cathedral in terms of architecture, it offers a quiet oasis from the buzz of the busy city center.It is a mere 5-minute walk from the Pape’ete market and is definitely worth a visit if you are on the way to or from the market.
TAHITI LANDMARKS
Point Venus, James Norman Hall Home, Notre Dame Cathedral, Taravao Plateau, Temple Protestant de Paofai, Tomb of King Pomare V, Assemblee De La Polynesie Francaise, Belvédère du Tahara'a, Memorial Site for Nuclear Testings. Mairie de Papeete, Grotte Vaipori, Eglise Du Sacré-coeur
GARDENS IN TAHITI
Paofai Gardens, The Water Gardens of Vaipahi, Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden, Jardins Botanique, Spring Garden
BEST BEACHES IN TAHITI
Lafayette Beach
Tahiti’s well-known for its black-sand beaches, and one of the finest is Lafayette. Located just 20 minutes outside of Papeete, the capital city, the beach remains secluded and rarely draws crowds. This beach is a favorite for swimming and sunbathing. Plus, it’s located near the Pearl Beach Resort, which is home to a world-class spa.
Where Is It: North of Papeete
Why Go: Go for the black sand experience. Lafayette Beach’s sand – which comes from nearby volcanos – is so soft, you can sink into it.
Papenoo Beach
Want an off-the-beaten path experience? Papenoo Beach fits the bill. This black-sand beach is little-developed, but what it lacks in amenities, Papenoo makes up for in solitude and natural beauty.
The horseshoe-shaped beach beckons surfers with its consistent break, so bring a board if you’re so inclined. Plus, nearby natural wonders, including Arahoho Blowhole and a waterfall make this a great stop on a daylong excursion.
Where: North Coast, 45 minutes from Papeete
Why Go: Papenoo is perfect for surfers of all skill levels. If you’re a beginner, start here before heading to Tahiti’s more challenging break.
Toaroto Beach
White-sand beaches are somewhat of a rarity on Tahiti, but if that’s what you’re looking for, head to Toaroto. The beach is one of the island’s best stretches of white sand, and its protected waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. There’s also a nearby park, which makes this a favorite family destination.
Where: 30 minutes west of Papeete
Why Go: Head here for snorkeling. The gentle waters are teeming with reef fish
Bain Lot Beach
If you’ll be visiting Papeete, a stop at Bain Lot Beach is a must. This beautiful beach is located a short walk from downtown, yet the beach retains its natural charm. Bain Lot is well-known for its unusual break, with waves crashing in both directions. That’s why it’s sometimes referred to as the “Ins and Outs” beach.
Where: Papeete
Why Go: You’ll find great water sports amenities here. Hire a sail board for the day, go sea kayaking, or spend the afternoon soaking up the sun.
Venus Point Beach
In 1769, Captain James Cook visited the black sand beaches at Venus Point to witness the transit of Venus across the sun. Today, the beach retains much of its natural splendor that Cook experience all those years ago, and is now home to a beautiful lighthouse. The lagoon is great for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, it’s one of the best beaches for watching the sunset.
Where: 25 minutes north of Papeete
Why Go: The cool waters are one of the island’s best swimming destinations. Plus, the lighthouse grounds are perfect for an afternoon hike.
Teahupoo Beach
Teahupoo Beach is the center of Tahiti’s surfing world, as surfers from around the world flock here for the legendary waves. This isn’t a beginner break, by any means. Waves regularly break at 6- to 9-feet, with some even calling it the deadliest break in the world.
Even so, it’s a beautiful spot for sunbathing and each August, the Billabong Pro Tahiti surf competition is held here, a must-see for visitors.
Where: Tahiti Iti (the southern, smaller part of Tahiti)
Why Go: Visit Teahupoo to gawk at the adrenaline junkies braving the six-foot swells.
Mahana Park Beach
On the west side of the island, you’ll find the manicured Mahana Park and its namesake beach. Although it looks like white sand, Mahana Park Beach is made up of tiny white pebbles. The beach rarely draws traffic, making it the perfect place for a quiet afternoon picnic. Plus, there’s a near-shore reef, which is home to more than 200 variety of fish.
Where: 30 minutes west of Papeete
Why Go: The waters at Mahana Park are crystal clear, which is great because there’s a reef close to the shore. This is an amazing snorkeling destination.
Maui Beach
Surrounded by a lush rainforest, Maui Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach in Tahiti Iti. The white-sand beach looks like a South Pacific dream, with its shimmering turquoise waters and picture-perfect palms. This beach is one of the best for some R&R. It’s quiet, rarely draws a crowd, and the water is always nice.
Where: Southeast Tahiti, on Tahiti-Iti
Why Go: Maui Beach is a natural beauty; enjoy the splendor of the beach, then take a hike into the rainforest to the see the Caverna de Maui, a beautiful cave.
Plage de Maeva
Maeva is another beach a stone’s throw from Papeete. The horseshoe shaped white-sand cove looks out over aquamarine waters; it’s a stunning location for an afternoon of sunbathing. Maeva is also home to several resorts, offering a shore break for charter guests. Plus, Maeva offers some of the best sunset views on the island.
Where: 15 minutes south of Papeete
Why Go: A quiet and serene white-sand beach, that’s perfect for watching the sunset
WHAT COUTRY IS TAHITI OWN BY
Tahiti is own by France.It is located in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean,approximately 6000 kilometers east of Australia and 7,500 kilometers west of Chile.French Polinesia`s mail island,Tahiti,became a French protectorate in 1842, and France took posession of French Polynesia as a whole im 1880
WHY IS TAHITI SO EXPENSIVE
The isolaton makes it very expencive to import everything.Cars,boats,building materilas,food,drinks and all everyday living items must be imported into the island.Very little is manufactured in Tahiti so most items are brought in by plane or boat.
ARE TAHITIANS FRENCH CITIZENS
All Tahitians are French citozens and many of the islands` people, especially in Thaiti˙s capital of Pape`ete, were born in France.French is the official language and the local currency is the French Pacific Franc.
HOW SAFE IS TAHITI FOR TURIST
French Polynesia is an incredibly safe nation!So no metter where you go-Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora,Rangiroa- you can expect a high level of safty.However there are local customs and natural dangers that you should be aware of.
HOW TO GET TO TAHITI
French Polynesia is located between California and Australia. This means that, most probably, you will reach Tahiti by plane.
The Tahiti-Faa’a International Airport, in Papeete Tahiti, is the main point of arrival in French Polynesia and the departure point for everyone who plans to explore other islands in the archipelago.
Getting to Tahiti is a long journey, as you will likely need to be on a plane for long hours.
Air France and Air Tahiti Nui offerdirect flights Paris – Papeete via Los Angeles. Other air companies flying to Tahiti are Air Tahiti Nui (from Japan, many destinations in the US, and New Zealand), Air Caledonia, Air New Zealand, Hawaiian Airlines, and Lan.
You can also arrive in Tahiti from other islands in French Polynesia. You can opt for taking a ferry whose service varies based on destination. The most frequent ferry service connects Tahiti and Moorea and runs several times a day – Book a transfer from Tahiti’s International Airport to your hotel or cruise terminal
TOP TAHITI ACCOMMODATION
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts (luxury), InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa (luxury), Boutique Hotel Kon Tiki Tahiti (mid-range), Royal Tahitien (mid-range)
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TAHITI
The best time to visit Tahiti is between May and October.Althoe the temperatures are balmy year round,Tahiti`s winter season enjoys less humidity.
LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN TAHITI
While French is the only official language of Tahiti,Tahitian is a commonly spoken language among locals and is often used by islanders in their homes.
MODERN DAY RELIGION
Protestantism, followed closely by Catholicism, make up the majority of the islands`religius population-followed next by the memebers of The Church of Latter Day Saints.
Sites that were used:
www.tahiti.com;www.tahititourism.com;www.tripsavvy.com;www.goway.com;www.wikipedia.com;www.alltrails.com;www.travelfrancebucketlist.com;www.polinesiaparadise.com;www.globaltravelescapades.com;www.tripadvisor.com;www.tahitiantravel.com;www.worldwideboat.com
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