Tahiti

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).

The Locale

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.

The Allure

Papeete is a vibrant and multicultural city with busy boulevards and a bustling harbor. The downtown municipal market, Le Marché, is an exciting place to purchase all things Tahiti including vanilla beans, monoi oil and colorful pareos. Just down the street at Le Centre Vaima is the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, which is a great place to start if you're hoping to purchase a Tahitian black pearl during your stay. To live like a local, head to Vai'ete Square after sunset. This waterfront promenade comes to life at night when gourmet food trucks, Les Roulottes, open their windows to serve a range of affordable meals including Chinese food, French crépes, steak frites, fresh fish and pizza.

Celebration

Tahiti really is the hub of all cultural activity. Every July, the annual Heiva I Tahiti transforms the island into a spectacular celebration of Polynesian culture and dance. Year round, you can also catch an authentic Tahitian dance show at the InterContinental Resort every Friday and Saturday night. Permanent historical fixtures include the house of James Norman Hall, Point Venus, the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, the Paul Gauguin Museum, and the Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens. These can all be seen on a guided Circle Island Tour, or you can rent a car and explore the island at your leisure.

Final Impression

Often overlooked by travelers eager to experience the outer islands, Tahiti is more than just a means to an end. How much time you choose to spend here is up to you, but give yourself a chance to see everything the island has to offer—beyond the initial view from the plane.

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Accommodations

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Tahiti Accommodations

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InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is the largest luxury resort on the island of Tahiti. Located just five minutes from the airport, it is also the most convenient. Despite this proximity to downtown, the hotel provides a nice Polynesian oasis with some of the best views of Moorea on the horizon. Elegantly engulfed by tropical gardens, this is the ideal place to begin your visit to French Polynesia.

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Manava Suite Resort Tahiti

The Manava Suite Resort Tahiti is a modern hotel that rests alongside the water and provides scenic views of Moorea across the lagoon. Located on the western coast, this hotel is only ten minutes from the airport. The rooms feature their own kitchenette and complimentary Wi-Fi, making this a popular choice for families and business travelers. With the largest infinity pool on the island, this is the ultimate place to unwind after your flight.

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Aranui 5

The Aranui V is a working cargo freighter that also operates as a cruise ship, taking passengers to the most remote island group in French Polynesia—the Marquesas. The ship departs every three weeks from Papeete and transports everything from food and liquor to medicine and fuel to the small, inhabited islands of Ua Pou, Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva, Tahuata and Ua Huka, as well as Fakarava and Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Atolls.

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Vanira Lodge

Vanira Lodge is nestled in the hills above Teahupoo, on the south east coast of Tahiti Iti, with stunning panoramic views of the ocean. The bungalows are constructed with high ceilings, natural wood and coral, outdoor bathrooms and feature verandahs with spectacular views.

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Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort by Sofitel

The Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort by Sofitel boasts an idyllic seaside setting along a beautiful white sand beach on the western coast of Tahiti. Located farther south from Papeete than any other hotel on the island, the resort is still only fifteen minutes away from the airport, offering both convenience and seclusion. Aside from the InterContinental Tahiti, this is the only hotel on the main island with overwater bungalows.

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Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort

Situated along an exotic black sand beach, the Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort features lush surroundings and beautiful waterfront views. Conveniently located just ten minutes from Papeete, it's the ideal place for any honeymoon, vacation or business getaway. The resort's ocean view rooms and suites boast a contemporary design that highlights local artisan handcrafts and colonial photography.

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Royal Tahitien

The Royal Tahitien is a small, Polynesian hotel with a laid-back island vibe and a tropical garden setting at the edge of a black-sand beach. Within the hotel’s seven acres of delightful tropical gardens and koi ponds you will discover a lovely pool and Jacuzzi framed by rock waterfalls. The simple, clean guest rooms are situated around the gardens and deliver excellent value.

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Hotel Tahiti Nui

The Hotel Tahiti Nui is the newest hotel on the island. It features a clean, modern design with a young and trendy ambiance. Unlike the other beachside resorts in Tahiti, this hotel is located at the heart of downtown Papeete, putting you right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. This provides convenient access to the shops, restaurants, nightlife and other attractions, but removes you slightly from the shoreline.

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Recreation

Beyond the city atmosphere, Tahiti is also a scenic island with lush landscapes and large abounding waterfalls. Leave the more developed areas behind and you will find shady hiking trails, pleasant beaches and calm waters. This unique juxtaposition makes Tahiti one of the most diverse islands in French Polynesia. We recommend exploring these interior peaks and valleys on a guided hike or Jeep Safari tour.

Other popular activities include snorkeling, Jet Skiing and surfing. Experienced surfers should visit the famed Teahupo'o and bear witness to one of the world's most intense waves. Beginners can surf or take lessons at some of the more mellow beaches around the island. You can also enjoy a day of golfing at the Olivier Bréaud Golf Course, one of only two courses in French Polynesia.

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Tahiti Activities

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Circle Island Tour

Make your way around the island of Tahiti on this informative excursion with Marama Tours. Your friendly, English-speaking guide will take you to the most popular sites around the island and provide interesting narrative along the way. Stops include landmarks such as Point Venus, Vaipahi Waterfall and Maraa Fern Grotto. Departs: Everyday

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$68

Half-Day 4x4 Jeep Safari Tour

Journey through Tahiti`s deep valleys and thick rainforests on this guided 4x4 Jeep Safari with Marama Tours. Your English-speaking driver will take you to the volcanic crater that originally formed Tahiti over a million years ago. You will stop at One Tree Hill, take a short drive along the scenic coast to Papeno`o Valley, and explore lush landscapes and beautiful waterfalls at the island`s interior. Operates: Everyday

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$71

Hiking Tour

Hike to Mount Aorai, the second highest peak in Tahiti, on this guided adventure with Marama Tours. You will discover lush valleys, cascading waterfalls and other natural wonders along the way. This excursion can accommodate any range of skill and requires at least two people to operate. The tour begins at 9:00AM and ends at 1:00PM. Operates: Everyday

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$78

Tahiti Snorkeling Safari

Discover the colorful coral gardens off the coast of Tahiti with this 2-hour guided snorkeling excursion. Allow your knowledgeable guide to seamlessly lead you on close encounters with rays, clown fish, small reef sharks and other vibrant species of sealife. One the ocean side of the reef, enjoy encounters with impressive schools of fish and turtles. Operates: Everyday

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$88

Full-Day 4x4 Jeep Safari Tour with Lunch

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$122

Vaihiria Quad - Tahiti ATV Adventure

Discover Tahiti's untamed interior on an ATV. Traverse on roads, trails and across rivers to reach Tahiti's famed Lake Vaihiria and the Blue Lake. Throughout your journey you will see waterfalls, learn the history and legends of the beautiful valleys and swim in refreshingly cool waters. Guests must be at least 18 years of age in order to drive the ATV. Tour includes a welcome fruit juice, a bottle of water, fruit and coconut water for each person. Price is per person based on two people sharing one ATV.

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$125

Surfing Private Lesson - Mo'o Surf School

Learn to surf some of the best waves in the world with private instruction from Mo'o Surf School. This half-day surf lesson can accommodate anyone over the age of 4 years old. Your experienced instructor will make sure you can master the basic techniques before you venture to multiple surfing spots along the western coast of the island. Price includes transportation, surfboard and wetsuit. Operates: Everyday

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$134

Dinner at Le Coco's Restaurant

Enjoy an epicurean evening with dinner at the waterfront Le Coco`s in Tahiti. Choose from three original menus, each with a different theme and unique combination of international flavors. The Roots & Signature Menu highlights authentic French cuisine; the Voyages & Inspiration Menu incorporates European elements from Spain, Portugal and Italy; and the China & Asia Menu features colorful plates prepared in Pacific Rim fashion. Each option includes an appetizer, main course, dessert, coffee (or tea) and a bottle of mineral water. Menus provided upon request. Price is per person for one of the above options.

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$140

Tahiti Automatic Car Rental with A/C

Tour the island of Tahiti in your own rental car from Avis Pacificar and have the freedom to go wherever your curiosity takes you and the roads permit. You can enjoy spectacular views and visit numerous historical sites around the island. Includes unlimited mileage, comprehensive insurance with deductible (CDW), third party insurance and VAT. Other vehicle options available upon request.

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$143

Tahiti Sunset Cruise and Dinner at Casa Bianca

Enjoy a leisurely 90-minute cruise with a cocktail in hand and a dramatic view of the sun setting behind Moorea in the distance. Return to the marina for dinner and dessert at Casa Bianca, a casual oceanfront restaurant on Tahiti. This activitiy is a great option for travelers with an extended layover between inter-island and international flights out of Papeete. Price is per person, including transfers and luggage storage. Operates: Everyday

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$150

Moorea Day Tour with Motu Picnic

Enjoy an afternoon on the island of Moorea with Marama Tours. Cruise the colorful lagoon aboard a comfortable, motorized boat while your guide shares the history of the island and shows you around. You will also have the unique opportunity to swim with stingrays, followed by a picnic lunch on a secluded motu with plenty of time to snorkel, swim or simply relax. Includes roundtrip boat and vehicle transfers. Operates: Everyday except Thursday

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$173