The Islands of Tahiti, in the heart of the South Pacific, made up of 118 islands and atolls spread out over five archipelagos. It offers an array of diverse experiences combined with rich Tahitian culture, stone temples deep in the heart of luscious jungle heartland, black and white sand beaches and tranquil, clear water, with vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving. Check out our Top 8 Things To Do In Tahiti
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Marae Arahurahu
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These archaeological remains bear witness to the organisation of Polynesian society before the arrival of missionaries in the 18th century. The largest archaeological complexes are found on Raiatea, Huahine and in the Marquesas. Admire the sacred tiki statue and have a look at the ahu – the altar reserved only for the highest Polynesian priests.
The Papeete Market
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The lively and colorful market is filled with a wide range of local produce, seafood, crafts and souvenirs. The Maeva Café, just up the escalator, is a great spot for a casual lunch or coffee.
Scuba Diving
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The many sites around the island of Tahiti are perfect for both beginning and advanced divers. Highlights include clear, shallow waters; steep oceanic drop-offs; sunken vessels; walls of bright coral; and schools of smaller species. Although there are fewer larger species here, Tahiti offers excellent variety and density of dive sites. Diving clubs in Tahiti are fully qualified recognized, so you’ll be safe in underwater spots throughout Tahiti.
Matavai Bay Lookout
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At just over 20 minutes walk up the hill from the Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort you will find the impressive lookout over Matavai Bay. Moorea is also in view. This historic bay is rich in Tahitian and European history. Visitors who dropped anchor here include James Cook, Bligh, Wallis, Vancouver ,Bougainville and Charles Darwin. Source: tahitipearlbeach
Evenings at Vai’ete Square
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Enjoy a unique and informal dinner or a memorable post-dinner dessert at Vai’ete Square. Here, dozens of colorful roulottes, or food wagons, host a great variety of island cuisine and desserts. The boardwalk atmosphere is an informal and lively setting not to be missed.
Fautaua Waterfall
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One of the best reasons to visit Tahiti in the rainy season is to see Fautaua Waterfall in all its glory. Swelled by the rains, the water cascades 530 meters (985 ft) down, into a large pool in the verdant Fautaua Valley.
Mount Aorai
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Tahiti is not known for its beautiful beaches like its neighboring islands, but it does have one trick up its sleeve in the form of breathtaking hikes. The jewel in the crown is the hike up to the summit of Mount Aorai – the third highest peak in this island of giants (2066m). Every step could be your last, and with parts of the trail named ‘the devil’s peak pass’ – you’re bound to think twice before heading out (not to mention you start hiking very early in the morning). But with risk comes reward. Just have a look at the views. Source: xdaysiny.com
Vaipahi Gardens
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Discover this beautiful public garden with his multicolored of different flowers plants and trees and a breathtaking waterfall in the background.
Just So You Know…
- The whole archipelago spans 4,000,000 sq km, which is the equivalent size of Europe.
- French and Tahitian are the official languages, though English is widely spoken is tourist areas.
- Tahitians are considered to be among of the most genuinely friendly people in the world.
- The over-water bungalow was invented in the 1960s in French Polynesia, on the island of Moorea.
- There are more hotel rooms in a typical Las Vegas hotel than on all 118 islands of French Polynesia. But don’t let that stop you from booking one of the 11 Best Hotels in Tahiti.
- Every July there is a traditional festival called Heiva. Groups of singers, himene, and dancers meet every evening in To’ata to compete, while they play traditional drums called to’ere and pahu.
- Visit Arahoho Blowhole, a unique roadside attraction along the coast. Water goes into a cavern and finally shoots out water through the hole in the rocks, drenching curious onlookers.
Get Some Culture:
- Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands – The museum is divided into four distinct sections: geography and natural history, pre-European culture, the effects of colonization and natural wonders.
- Black Pearl Museum – The Musée de la Perle (or Black Pearl Museum) celebrates all aspects of pearl culture.
- About 4.8 km (3 miles) outside Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, is a modest museum dedicated to the memory of a modest man: James Norman Hall. La Maison James Norman Hall is well worth a brief stop on your way to Point Venus or Matavai Bay, where Captain Bligh first anchored the Bounty in 1788, not only because of what you’ll learn about the extraordinary life of a dashing, adventurous and courageous man, but also because the museum is testimony to what a few devoted family members — ancestor worshipers, almost — can accomplish in the face of bureaucratic ennui and political opposition. Source: nytimes
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Awesome list! I spent two weeks in Tahiti before island hopping in the rest of French Polynesia. People often confuse Tahiti the island for Tahiti the destination (French Polynesia). If you like hiking, outdoors and culture – Tahiti is a great place to spend 3 days.
I love these ideas, you’re right about the landscape, it looks amazing. Your photo of Mount Aorai is fantastic. I can’t say I’d ever thought of visiting Tahiti, but you make a good argument even if the beaches aren’t as famous as its neighbours.
Don’t be fooled, the Country is French Polynesia, the main island is Tahiti, and the great beaches are only a 30 minute boat ride away. You could also consider the other of the Windward Islands of Raiatea, Huahine & Bora Bora. Great beaches there too!