Things To Do
in Tahiti
Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring lush mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. The island is a cultural hub, rich in Polynesian heritage, with a backdrop of traditional music, dance, and art. Papeete, the capital city, is lively with markets, restaurants, and a bustling waterfront.
Tahiti is also a popular destination for water sports, including snorkeling, diving, and surfing, attracting visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
- "Ia ora na" - Hello
- "Mauruuru" - Thank you
- "O vai?" - How are you?
- "E naʻo" - Goodbye
- "Aita pea pea" - No worries
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $600
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful breakfast overlooking the lagoon. Take a quick ferry ride to Moorea, where breathtaking landscapes await.
Embark on a snorkeling adventure at Opunohu Bay, where vibrant coral reefs are teeming with marine life. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside café.
Watch the sunset from Belvedere Lookout with stunning views of the island's mountains and bays. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Polynesian cuisine.
Take a short flight to Bora Bora and unwind at your beachfront resort. Stroll along Matira Beach, soaking in the sun.
Join a guided boat tour of the island and its surrounding coral gardens for a chance to swim with rays and sharks. Savor a fresh seafood lunch on the water.
Dine at a luxury restaurant with views of Mount Otemanu as the sun sets. Conclude the day with a romantic walk along the shore.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes.
- Rich Polynesian culture and vibrant local traditions.
- Ideal destination for relaxation, snorkeling, and diving.
- Luxurious accommodation options, many with beautiful ocean views.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who enhance the overall experience.
- High cost of travel and accommodation, making it less accessible for budget travelers.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger tourist destinations.
- Isolated location can mean long travel times from major cities.
- Hurricane season can affect travel plans and weather conditions.
- Limited public transportation options may require renting a car or boat.
Best Activities in Tahiti
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Tahiti with snorkeling tours that offer opportunities to see colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Venture into the lush interior of Tahiti by hiking trails such as the Fautaua Waterfall trail, which offers stunning views and a refreshing waterfall.
Ride the famous waves of Teahupo'o, known for its powerful waves, or find beginner-friendly spots along the coast.
Paddle through the tranquil waters of the island, exploring hidden bays and enjoying the serene landscape.
Partake in cultural experiences that include visiting ancient maraes, local markets, and enjoying traditional Polynesian dance performances.
Take a boat tour of Tahiti's stunning lagoons, where you can swim, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Experience an aerial view of Tahiti’s stunning landscapes by going paragliding, offering a unique perspective of the island’s beauty.
Join a deep-sea fishing trip to catch some of the ocean’s biggest fish, or opt for fly fishing in the lagoons.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tahiti with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tahiti
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic peak on Bora Bora offers stunning views and breathtaking photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, Tamarins Bay provides a picturesque backdrop for photography.
Located on Tahiti's north coast, Point Venus features a historic lighthouse and beautiful beaches, making it an excellent spot for photos.
These stunning waterfalls on Tahiti are surrounded by lush greenery, creating an idyllic setting for nature photography.
Famous for its surfing, Teahupo'o offers dramatic ocean views and impressive waves, ideal for both photography and adventure.
The main town on Bora Bora, Vaitape offers colorful markets and stunning lagoon views that are perfect for capturing the local culture.
A small, uninhabited island in the lagoon of Bora Bora, offering pristine scenery and crystal-clear waters for breathtaking photos.
This natural aquarium in Moorea provides the opportunity to capture vibrant marine life with beautiful underwater photography.
Food in Tahiti
Tahiti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Tahitian dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, typically accompanied by cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. It can be found at most local restaurants, particularly at Le Grillardin.
Must-Try!
A popular Tahitian slow-cooked dish where meat (usually chicken or pork) is marinated and cooked in an underground oven. Try it at the local food market in Papeete on weekends.
A hearty, traditional meal usually consisting of meat, vegetables, and taro cooked together. Commonly served at family gatherings, you can find it at local eateries like Chez Momo.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tahiti better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a must-visit for tasting local treats. It offers a wide range of fresh produce, fish, and local specialties, including ready-to-eat bites like crepes and fruit salads.
Venture around the city to find numerous street food stalls selling snacks such as grill fish skewers, local pastries like 'firi firi' (coconut doughnuts), and refreshing tropical fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tahiti, it's common to greet people with a warm smile and a 'Ia Orana' (hello). When introducing yourself, a polite handshake is customary, and it may be appropriate to acknowledge everyone in the group individually.
While Tahiti is a tropical paradise, it's important to dress modestly when in public spaces. Swimwear is acceptable at the beach but should not be worn in town or when entering shops and restaurants.
Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions is crucial. Visitors are encouraged to participate in cultural ceremonies respectfully but should ask for permission and guidance when needed.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tahiti with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tahiti
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tahiti, tipping is not a customary practice, as service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, it is still appreciated for good service. If you receive exceptional service, leaving a small tip or rounding up the bill is a kind gesture.
In Tahiti, the currency used is the CFP franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and transactions in more remote locations. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, but it's good to check for service fees.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tahiti.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Tahiti, as the weather is warm and dry, with less humidity and minimal rainfall. Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling, hiking, and beach chilling.
These months can also be a great time to visit Tahiti. The weather is still quite pleasant, and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak dry season. You can enjoy moderate temperatures and occasional rain, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter experience.
This is the wet season, characterized by higher humidity and more frequent rainfall. Tropical storms can occur, and while the temperatures remain warm, the conditions may not be ideal for outdoor activities. However, it can be less crowded, and prices may be lower, appealing to budget travelers.
Tahiti at Night
Hiking in Tahiti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Aorai is one of the highest peaks in Tahiti, offering breathtaking views and a challenging hike through lush forests.
This site features ancient Polynesian temples surrounded by hiking trails that provide a glimpse into Tahiti's cultural history and natural beauty.
Situated in the Marquesas Islands, this trail leads through stunning landscapes and offers a difficult but rewarding experience.
Known for its scenic beauty, this valley features multiple trails that cater to varying skill levels, along with waterfalls and dense vegetation.
Tahiti Iti offers captivating coastal trails with scenic ocean views and opportunities to explore unique wildlife and flora.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tahiti through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tahiti by plane.
The main international airport in Tahiti, serving as the gateway to French Polynesia.
Located in New Caledonia, approximately 1,000 miles west of Tahiti, it is the second-largest airport in the South Pacific region.
Located in New Zealand, around 2,200 miles south of Tahiti, it is the largest and busiest airport in the country, serving numerous international flights.
Located in California, approximately 4,100 miles northeast of Tahiti, it is a major hub for international flights to and from the South Pacific.
Located in Australia, about 3,100 miles southwest of Tahiti, it is one of the busiest airports in the Southern Hemisphere.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous population of Tahiti and French Polynesia, primarily of Polynesian descent, making up the majority of the demographic.
People of French origin or ancestry residing in Tahiti, often connected to government, tourism, and local businesses.
A significant community involved in commerce and trade, contributing to the economy of Tahiti.
Includes individuals from neighboring islands and regions who have migrated to Tahiti.
Individuals of mixed heritage, combining Polynesian roots with other ethnic backgrounds.
The Soul of Tahiti
Discover the essence of Tahiti through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Tahiti is renowned for its world-class surf spots, particularly Teahupo'o, which attracts surfers from around the globe.
Va'a is a traditional sport in Tahiti that involves paddling outrigger canoes, often celebrated through local competitions and festivals.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Tahiti, with many clubs and a national team that competes in international tournaments.
Rugby has a strong following in Tahiti, with local leagues and competitions contributing to its popularity among residents.
Tennis is played widely in Tahiti, with various clubs and facilities available for both casual and competitive play.
Basketball is a popular sport among the youth in Tahiti, with many schools and community centers hosting games and tournaments.
Petanque, a form of lawn bowling, is a popular leisure activity in Tahiti, often played in parks and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tahiti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Polynesian cuisine is often meat-centric, vegetarian options can be found in most restaurants. Dishes like coconut bread, vegetable salads, and taro are commonly available.
Vegan choices are limited but can be catered to in some restaurants. It is advisable to inform restaurant staff about dietary preferences. Some markets offer fresh fruits and vegetables ideal for a vegan diet.
Gluten-free options are available, particularly with fresh fish, fruits, and most local dishes. Always ask for gluten-free bread or options when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tahiti with these cultural adventures.
