Tahiti
A top destination and largest island in French Polynesia, Tahiti is an amazing place to soak up the sun and get away from the hustle of big city life.
Tahiti travel guide
The largest island in French Polynesia in the South Pacific, Tahiti is known for its beautiful black sand beaches that stretch along miles of coastline, spectacular waterfalls and lagoons and 3 extinct volcanoes. Despite its spectacular beauty and paradise setting, the island is often overlooked by tourists who flock to Bora Bora and other nearby islands instead. What a pity. Tahiti may be the gateway to the French Polynesian archipelago of 118 islands, but it’s got so much to offer the visitor.
Although Tahiti is actually just one island with 2 sections separated by a tiny stretch of land, many people think that it is 2 islands – Tahiti Nui is the larger section in the north, home to the island’s capital, Papeete and to the 3 extinct volcanoes – Mount Aori, Le Diademe and Mount Orohena. The smaller section, Tahiti Iti, is less accessible, but a great spot to explore because it’s so secluded and beautiful.
Papeete is not only Tahiti’s capital; it’s the capital of French Polynesia and as such is a cosmopolitan, busy city with a bustling harbour offering excellent shopping, nightlife and dining opportunities in eateries and in the local food trucks, or roulottes.
Tahiti is renowned for its excellent surfing opportunities. Beginners and intermediate skiers will find plenty of surfing options at Papara, Papenoo and Taapuna, experts like to challenge themselves at Teahupoo, often compared to Hawaii’s Pipeline because of its high waves.
Sunsets don't get much more romantic or spectacular than when the sun goes down over Tahiti.
Best time to visit: Between May and October, the cooler months, when it isn’t as humid and is less rainy. Summer (November to April) is very hot, rainy and humid.
Best Area for Sightseeing: The entire island is a delight to explore. See Things to do in Tahiti, below for some ideas.
Shopping in Tahiti: Papeete The best shopping is in the island’s capital, filled with boutiques and stores and vendors selling souvenirs. Scour the daily market, Le Marché in the downtown area for authentic handicrafts. Good buys include vanilla beans, scented soaps and oils, woodcarvings, quilts, sarongs, woven bags and hats. Bargaining is not accepted here.
Food & Restaurants in Tahiti: The island’s fresh produce and seafood are its specialties, especially fish. Pick up local dishes and fast food from the food trucks (called roulottes). The luxury resorts on the island boast excellent restaurants; otherwise head to Downtown Papeete for a stunning French meal or local fare.
Nightlife: The island is a lively place after dark, offering everything from traditional Tahitian dance shows to a variety of entertainment, both at the major resorts and in Papeete’s nightclubs and pubs.
Beaches: Tahiti’s beaches are legendary – and plentiful. Try the secluded La Plage de Maui on Tahiti Iti or Papenoo Beach on Tahiti Nui, where you can swim as well as surf and snorkel. Other black sand beaches to enjoy include Punaauai Beach, which is a local hangout. Taharuu Beach on the island’s south coast is a wide stretch of sand, ideal for swimming.
Things to do in Tahiti:
- Enjoy snorkelling off one of the island’s beautiful beaches.
- Visit the Botanical Garden, home to the iconic Gauguin Museum, on Tahiti’s west coast.
- Hike to the spectacular Faarumai Waterfalls, 3 different falls in all, each more spectacular than the last.
- Enjoy surfing on one of the island’s two major surfing areas.
- Explore the Vaipahi Gardens, where over 75 different plants from all over the world grow in profusion.
- Discover the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands to learn all about this fascinating archipelago.
Best way to get around: Hire a car to explore the island at leisure, or take a taxi to a specific destination.
Best Area for Families: Moorea Island Located a 30-minute ferry ride from Tahiti, this island less than 20km away is a paradise haven for whale watching, kayaking, kite surfing and other water sports including snorkelling. It features 2 lovely beaches and 2 tourist-friendly towns. It’s easily accessible by walking or hire a bicycle to get around.