Explore Tahiti

Tahiti offers a wealth of activities and experiences to enrich your vacation. From breathtaking water adventures to immersive cultural encounters, here are some highlights of what awaits.

 

Water Adventures

The clear, warm, waters of Tahiti are a playground for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

• Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Discover Tahiti’s vibrant coral reefs, home to an array of marine life from colorful tropical fish to majestic rays and sea turtles. 

• Paddleboarding & Kayaking: Glide along the crystal-clear lagoon waters, surrounded by panoramic views of the island. Paddle at your own pace along the coastline, exploring crystal clear lagoons and tranquil beaches.

• Whale Watching & Jet Skiing: Schedule a tour with a local guide or enjoy the thrill of jet skiing around the islands, with the majestic outline of Tahiti’s mountains as your backdrop. For day trips to Moorea, many excursions include a picnic on a secluded island (motu) or snorkeling stops.

 

Island Tours

Tahiti’s landscape is as rich and varied as its waters, offering lush forests, volcanic peaks, and hidden lagoons.

• Guided Tours & Scenic Hikes: Traverse trails that lead to dramatic waterfalls like Fautaua Falls, one of Tahiti’s most spectacular, and easily accessible, waterfalls, or explore the lush greenery of Papenoo Valley, known for its scenic rivers and mountains with a local 4X4 organized tour.

• Lake Vaihiri: Marvel at the tranquil beauty of the only natural freshwater lake on the Island of Tahiti. Lake Vaihiria, located deep in Tahiti’s central valleys, is a secluded spot that provides a peaceful retreat. Lake Vaiaiva offers an ideal location for nature photography and bird-watching.

• Discover Tahiti Iti, the untouched gem of French Polynesia, where lush mountains, hidden beaches, and vibrant marine life invite you to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of this secluded paradise. Perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility, Tahiti Iti offers an escape into the heart of Polynesian charm.

• Botanical Gardens & Blowholes: Visit the Vaipahi Gardens for a vibrant display of native flora, waterfalls, and shaded walking paths, or explore the Arahoho Blowhole, where powerful ocean waves create dramatic water sprays through coastal rock formations.

• Self Guided Day Trip: Embark on a self-guided day trip around the Island of Tahiti to uncover its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Start your journey in Papeete, the bustling capital, where you can explore the colorful market and sample local flavors. Follow the coastal road clockwise to visit the black sand beaches of Pointe Vénus and the beautiful Arahoho Blowhole. Continue to the lush Vaipahi Gardens for a peaceful stroll among tropical plants and waterfalls. Stop by the Maraa Grottoes to admire crystal-clear pools, then head south to the Gauguin Museum and ancient Marae Arahurahu for a dose of art and Polynesian heritage. Complete your loop with a sunset view along the west coast, taking in the charm and natural beauty that defines Tahiti.

 

Cultural Experiences and Shopping Local Treasures

Immerse yourself in the unique heritage of Tahiti, where ancient traditions blend with modern island life.

• Traditional Dance Performances: Experience the passion of Tahitian dance, or ‘Ori Tahiti, with performances that celebrate local legends and culture through rhythmic movements and vibrant costumes. The Intercontinental Hotel in Tahiti offers several performances weekly and buffet meals, so be sure to book these in advance.

• Local Markets: Explore bustling markets like Papeete Market, where you can find handwoven baskets, Tahitian perfumes, Monoi oils, and soaps, colorful pareos, Tahitian pearls, and fresh tropical fruits. It’s a lively space where you can meet artisans, sample local foods, and find unique souvenirs.

• The Monoi Route in Tahiti offers a journey through Polynesian culture and tradition, guiding visitors to local workshops where the fragrant, nourishing monoi oil is crafted from coconut and tiare flowers. Along this scenic route, you’ll experience the art of monoi production, a cherished Tahitian beauty secret, while supporting local artisans.

• Artisan Workshops: Take part in hands-on workshops to learn about traditional crafts like shell jewelry-making, wood carving, and tapa cloth art. These crafts are often passed down through generations and are a beautiful representation of Polynesian artistry.

 

Culinary Delights

Tahiti’s cuisine reflects its multicultural influences, blending French, Chinese, and Polynesian flavors.

• Island Cuisine: Savor fresh seafood dishes like poisson cru, a Tahitian specialty of raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice. Other island delicacies include roasted pork, taro, and tropical fruits like passion fruit, papaya, mango, and coconut.

• Fine Dining & Local Fare: Indulge in fine dining at nearby restaurants that offer fusion dishes combining French culinary techniques with island flavors, or try Tahiti’s casual street food, where food trucks (known as roulottes) serve up everything from crepes to BBQ skewers.

• Rum Tasting: Sample local rum varieties flavored with island ingredients like vanilla and coconut, or enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the sunset over the lagoon.

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Moorea Day Trips

• ​A day trip from Papeete to Moorea is the perfect escape to paradise, just a 45-minute ferry ride across the turquoise waters of the South Pacific. Upon arrival, you can rent a scooter or car to explore the island’s scenic landscapes, including the dramatic viewpoints of Belvedere Lookout and Opunohu Bay. Swim or snorkel in Moorea’s crystal-clear lagoons, relax on sandy beaches, or visit a local pineapple plantation to sample the island’s sweet produce. With a mix of adventure and relaxation, Moorea offers a day of unforgettable sights and experiences just a quick trip from Tahiti. Pro tip: Many tour operators will pick you up directly from the ferry dock, so no need to take your car on the ferry. Book tours in advance for best availability.

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