Tremendous Tahiti

The Islands of Tahiti
A whopping 118 islands make up The Islands of Tahiti…that’s a lot of paradise to explore. And, every inch of it is gorgeous, by the way. Travel to French Polynesia and find yourself at the helm of a choose-your-own-adventure trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re interested in hiking, land and sea adventures, snorkeling, diving, authentic cultural experiences or culinary delights, these stunning islands have it all. Marvel at endless waterfalls tucked in verdant landscape, absorb sprawling views and greet rich marine life below the surface.

Island hopping is the best way to sample a selection of islands, all of which have something different to offer. From exploring mountain valleys via ATV to viewing the most vibrant blue water you’ve ever seen on a lesser-known island, one thing is a promise…you certainly won’t stop gawking over those views.

Take a tour of The Islands of Tahiti through these 25 photos and prepare to swoon.

Airplane Views From Air Tahiti Nui
The swooning starts in the skies. As soon as you board your flight on Air Tahiti Nui, you’ll feel welcomed for your journey in comfort. If you’re flying direct from LAX, the seven-and-a-half-hour flight is a breeze, especially when you know what’s waiting for you. The Islands of Tahiti look great from any angle, but do yourself a favor and choose the window seat if you’re flying during daylight hours. Inter-island flights are another fantastic opportunity to island-spot from above, as you drool over the ridiculous beauty.

Arriving at the Fa’aa International Airport in Tahiti sparks a live music greeting with traditional sounds of French Polynesia, making the arrival and customs process just a little more enjoyable. The re-opening of borders in October required COVID testing 72 hours prior to departure from the US, and a self-test upon arrival for vaccinated passengers.

**Make sure to check current testing and arrival guidelines before booking your travels.

Renaissance Los Angeles Airport & Marriott LAX
If there’s one thing you can do for yourself as an East Coast traveler going to The Islands of Tahiti…it’s a stopover in Los Angeles. Ensure that you’ll arrive fresh and ready to hit the South Pacific grounds running with a full night’s sleep in between the legs of your trip. Staying close to the airport makes for an easy transition, and staying somewhere with a free airport shuttle is an even bigger bonus. The Renaissance Los Angeles Airport & Marriott LAX ticks both of those boxes, and more.

Enjoy the luxury of the hotel’s newly renovated grounds and amenities, all just a hop and a skip away from the airport (seriously, it’s a four-minute ride!) A bar + restaurant, pool and fitness center will have you feeling refreshed in no time after your trek to Los Angeles. The plush beds don’t hurt either.

Villa Ninamu Pearl, Tahiti
Tahitian Guesthouses are the way to stay while visiting the Islands of Tahiti. Enjoy the attention to detail, local touches and intimate atmosphere that a small stay offers. Make sure to explore the main island of Tahiti for a couple of days before venturing to another island; it’s so much more than a “transit island.” There’s so much to do, it’ll make your head spin…in a good way, of course.

Villa Ninamu Pearl provides an ideal base with sprawling views, private plunge pools and an onsite restaurant and bar. Located less than 20 minutes from the airport, and 25 from downtown Papeete, this small hillside hotel is a premiere spot with ridiculous views. As soon as you enter your suite, you’ll likely never want to leave; Tahiti meets Greece with white-washed walls and an open-air bathroom that leads out to an idyllic plunge pool with views overlooking the lagoon and neighboring island of Moorea. Did someone say “never leaving?” You actually don’t have to, since food and beverage items can be ordered onsite to either enjoy on the restaurant’s deck or in the privacy of your gorgeous room.

**Make sure you get one of the pizzas.

Taharuu Beach, Tahiti
The best way to get around in comfort and with a knowledgeable guide is by hiring a driver to take you around the island. Tahiti VIP Tours is by far the best option with reliable, safe and helpful transport. You won’t just get a ride, you’ll also get a fun guide who will share historical, cultural and overall interesting tidbits about the island, as well as true local recommendations.

When heading along the southwest coast, make sure to stop in Papara and visit the black sand public beach of Taharuu, where you’ll be treated to a postcard-perfect scene. Situated approximately half an hour drive from Papeete, this wide swath of sand is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Watch local surfers and fishermen, stroll the sands, or take a dip. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be relaxing against a beautiful backdrop.

Vaipoopoo Park Food Trucks
Food trucks, aka ‘roulottes’ have some of the best food in Tahiti…hands down. They’re also budget-friendly. Head to Papeete’s Vaipoopoo Park for a selection of food truck eateries frequented by many. To do it the right way, grab some grub and a spot along the waterfront; great food and a front-row seat for sunset create an ideal Tahitian combination. Try the fish burger at Cafe Maeva’s or a fresh-as-it-gets poke bowl from Poke Bar II. Finish it all off with a crepe from Le Crépuscule to bring the seaside food truck experience full circle.

For a more local experience, venture a little further outside of Papeete to Puna’auia, where a collection of authentic food trucks slinging classic fare will leave your stomach and your wallet extremely satisfied. Look for Sunset Roulette and Roulotte Chez Nina, and you’ll know you’re in the right place. Order the traditional Poisson Cru (raw fish marinated in citrus juice and coconut milk), or the hearty steak frites…or both. Vendors are friendly, and the food is really, really good. Serving sizes are healthy; you won’t walk away hungry!

Va’a Outrigger Canoeing
Va’a (outrigger canoeing) is a popular and traditional sport in French Polynesia. Trying it out yourself while visiting the islands is a great way to experience culture and the outdoors at the same time. Hop in one of these authentic boats and paddle your way through paradise with the instruction of a pro with Tahiti Va’a Inc. Signing up for their va’a intro lesson will have you exploring the picturesque lagoons of Tahiti in an outrigger canoe for a couple of hours…not a bad way to spend a portion of your day. Glide over impossibly clear water with colorful coral and tropical fish below as you pick up and practice your va’a skills taught by a local coach. If you’re interested in getting really serious about the sport, longer clinics (organized by proficiency level), and camps (1-2 weeks) are available as well.

Papeete Market
The Papeete Market…culture, cuisine, history and shopping all in one place. Located in the heart of downtown Papeete, the market (Le Marché) is run on the same site as when it first opened, in 1847. You’ll be lured in by the scent of fresh flowers from the floral section on the first floor. A feast for the senses, the wide array of local specialties, produce, fish, textiles, handicrafts and jewelry, as well as a food court section with delicious fare, will keep you happily exploring this two-floor marketplace. It’s no surprise that this is a fantastic place to purchase souvenirs. Unearth pearl treasures; chat with woodcarvers, and marvel at the vibrant floral patterns of Tifaifai, a handmade fabric with sewn patterns, inspired by nature. For an insider’s experience, consider a guided cultural tour of the market.

The market is open every day, most days until 6, except Saturdays when they close at 1 p.m., and Sundays at 10 a.m. The early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the first pick of anything, since the market opens bright and early by 5:30 a.m. every day except Sunday (4:30 a.m.). If you’re up for the early rise, going first thing in the morning will provide a true glimpse into everyday life in the market for locals.

Teahupo’o Surfing
The island of Tahiti is host to the most famous surf break in the world. (THE WORLD!) In fact, Teahupo’o was chosen as the Olympic surfing venue for the 2024 Olympic Games. Located on Tahiti Iti (the small island connected to mainland Tahiti), Teahupo’o is where the road actually ends and the wildest portion of the island’s coast begins. Walk over the famous green bridge and stroll the path along the coast to the public beach spot. You’ll have mountains and the small village on one side and the impossibly blue water of the sea on the other.

While in Teahupo’o you’ll see the skilled wave riders from shore, but viewing them from a boat is even better. Get an up-close vantage point on excursions such as Tahiti Boat Excursion & Surf. You’ll hear all about the most dangerous surf break in the world and stories about local legends and have great photo opportunities. After checking out the surf and cute village of Teahupo’o, make sure to grab some food at Tavania Restaurant, a local spot with ridiculously good and fresh food.

Tahiti Boat Excursion & Surf
Want to explore past the “end of the road” on the coast of Tahiti? Of course you do, it’s downright wild. Hop aboard one of Tahiti Boat Excursion & Surf boats and enjoy a magical day on the water. Adventures depart from the Vairao dock and hit various highlights on a journey down the coastline of breathtaking Tahiti Iti (Little Tahiti). Peer into lush valleys, drool over stunning mountains and keep your eyes open for possible whale sightings, depending on the time of year; the best chances will be between August and mid-November.

Enjoy a lunch feast, go for a swim and be regaled with history and stories of the mystical island by your local guide. It will most certainly be one of the most memorable days of your trip.

Fautaua Valley Waterfall
Lace up your hiking boots for a trek in paradise. Accessed just 15 minutes from downtown Papeete, the Fautaua Valley is a popular spot for hiking in Tahiti’s lush landscape. Although it’s possible to venture along the trails here on your own, a guide is recommended for a more well-rounded and safe experience. Mato-Nui Excursions provides a knowledgeable guide and runs a myriad of outdoor trips on the island for the ultimate combination of nature and culture while exploring Tahiti.

Hike through the rainforest peppered with views of craggy mountaintops and native flora and fauna to reach a waterfall treasure. This cascade has a whopping 400-foot drop and can be viewed from the base or the top, depending on which trail you choose at the split. During the rainy season, the lower trail is not advised due to river-crossing levels. The upper trail will lead you to a fantastic viewpoint of the waterfall, and if you keep on a bit further, you’ll end up at the two pools that rest at the top of the cascade. You’ll have to work for it too; the last portion of the trail leading to the pools requires ropes and iron rung ladders for a bit of a Via Ferrata feel. Once at the pools, you can cliff jump, (one 10-foot drop and one 30 foot drop) or rock slide into them for a refreshing swim. Make sure to stay away from the edge of the falls, the current makes it extremely dangerous.

Ferry to Moorea
Terevau ferry to Moorea takes approximately 40 minutes, and it’s scenic the entire way. Moorea (meaning “yellow lizard), is the perfect island to pair with Tahiti due to its accessibility. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful, so there’s that, too. The lush landscape and iconic Mount Tohivea, which graces the 100 franc coin in French Polynesia, have long been a source of inspiration to artists. When you set foot on Moorea, you’ll soon see why. Whether you pop over for the day, or for a few nights, you won’t regret your decision to visit. Filled to the brim with land and sea adventures, beautiful beaches, culinary exploits and authentic cultural activities, you may find yourself wishing you’d planned a longer stay.

Green Lodge Moorea
Another gem of a guesthouse, the Green Lodge Moorea is located right on the beach, just a quick jaunt from the ferry terminal on the island of Moorea. With six bungalows, a pool, beachfront and an onsite bar and restaurant, you’ll have no reason to leave, other than to satisfy your craving to explore the island. Oh, and if you’re a dog lover, the three lodge pups are a huge bonus. The bungalows are equipped with both fans and air-conditioning, making for a comfortable stay, and the stonework in the bathroom will leave you speechless.

Both sunrise and sunset views are spectacular, with the island of Tahiti in the distance. The best part is, that wherever you are on property, you’re mere steps from the beach. Bikes are available for rental, and a ten-minute cycle will land you at one of the island’s gorgeous public beaches. Breakfast lacks nothing; a pastry and bread spread with fresh fruit are probably enough, but go ahead and order one of the fluffy french omelets, because you deserve it. The culinary aspect really shines through during the evening hours, when dinner is served to all guests on the patio. Sip a drink at the cute bar; mingle with other guests, and watch the owners craft an incredible meal in the open-air kitchen before grabbing your table. Then, get ready to enjoy a three-course meal that will knock your Tahitian socks off.

ATV Moorea Tours
Channel your inner adventurer and hop on an ATV to explore the lush landscape of Moorea. ATV Moorea Tours offers two tour lengths and a friendly, knowledgeable local guide to lead your expedition. Venture off-road, in the midst of the island’s towering mountains and sprawling pineapple fields. A small-group tour is the perfect way to learn about the island, listening to local legends, taking in gorgeous viewpoints and catching a bit of a thrill while navigating your ATV into the heart of Moorea.

Highlights include a stop at Belvedere, a stunning viewpoint where you can see two bays and countless mountains, a jaunt to the river to see freshwater eels, pineapple field meanderings and jam tasting at a local agricultural shop. The longer tour tacks on a quad drive up to Magic Mountain, and it’s totally worth it. The panorama from the summit provides an awe-inspiring vista of the lagoon and surrounding landscape of this side of the island…all while saving your legs from having to do the hike up there.

Magic Mountain, Moorea
Whether you head to the summit via ATV or on foot, the sprawling views from the top of Moorea’s Magic Mountain shouldn’t be missed. Hailed as the best viewpoint on the island, the 360-degree panorama definitely does not disappoint. If you choose to hike up, be prepared for a fairly steep climb up a semi-paved, shared path with 4×4 offroad vehicles. The two-mile out and back hike on the northern coast of the island near Opunohu Bay will certainly take your breath away, in all senses of the word. This is a great place to take photos and simply absorb an incredible scene before you.

*A 200 CFP Franc (2USD) fee is required to access the trail.

Culinary Tour
Eat your way through Moorea on a fun (and filling) food tour. Tahiti Food Tours will have you sampling some of the best authentic eats on the island, with a fun, local guide to fill you in on the background of each dish. Learn about and taste the flavors of French Polynesia’s melting pot culture, a blend of Tahitian, French and Chinese. The half-day tour takes guests to local food spots, supporting these small businesses and trying some of the most delicious items around Moorea. Try prune dusted mango, watch fresh skewers cooked expertly over a seaside grill, cool off with unique ice cream flavors such as gardenia, and indulge in dumplings at the most popular (and oldest) snack stand on the whole island. Along the way, you’ll stop to soak up the beautiful views. With 12-15 tastings, one thing is for sure…you won’t leave hungry.

Raira Lagon, Rangiroa
Stay small on the island of Rangiroa, the second-largest atoll in the world. Known as an incredible diving and snorkeling destination, this island is made up of 240 islets that create a circle around the lagoon and is accessed by an hour-long flight from Tahiti. Raira Lagon Hotel is a small pension with beachside bungalows and an onsite bar and restaurant, just a couple of miles from the airport. Spot black-tip reef sharks from the beach area, observe sunrise and sunsets while paddling one of the hotel’s kayaks, and grab your snorkel gear to greet schools of tropical fish and other sea creatures in the crystal clear lagoon water. Bikes are available for use if you’d like to ride into town (Avatoru) to the local winery or pearl farm or down to dolphin point when the tide is coming in to see their playful display as they ride the waves in Tiputa Pass.

The Blue Lagoon
The island of Rangiroa is a celebrated diving and snorkeling destination, making sea exploration one of the must-do activities. The nearby Blue Lagoon is one of the coveted places to see marine life while visiting Rangiroa, and there are several boat tours to take you there. Orava Excursions offers full-day trips out to the Blue Lagoon and various other points of interest for amazing snorkeling, shark spotting and a picnic in paradise. Approximately an hour boat ride across the lagoon will land you in the midst of electric turquoise water and tiny little motus (islets).

Swim with black-tipped reef sharks or maybe even lemon sharks if you’re lucky. Float in the lagoon’s clear water, bask in the sun and feast on an authentic motu picnic for lunch; the poisson cru and coconut bread will have you falling head over heels. On the way back, keep an eye out for manta rays and then dolphins as you head into Tiputa Pass just in time for their evening play session in the waves. One more snorkel spot at “The Aquarium” will round out your day of land and sea adventures.

Vahine Private Island Resort & Spa
Island hop over to the idyllic duo of Raiatea and its sister island of Taha’a to venture a little off-the-beaten path in the Society Islands. A 45-minute flight from Tahiti to Raiatea will have you amongst these gorgeous islands where culture, cuisine, adventure and some R&R await. If there’s one place to pamper yourself, it’s here. Treat yourself to a stay at Vahine Private Island Resort & Spa and you will not be disappointed…it’s a private island, after all. With just nine bungalows (six beach and three overwater structures), a large swath of swaying palms and views for days, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more serene and blissful place. Fall asleep to the sound of gentle waves after a day of doing whatever it is you want…snorkeling, kayaking, lounging, visiting the spa or adventuring to nearby islands.

Choose half board or full board and enjoy gourmet meals in the charming onsite restaurant, overlooking the ocean and nearby Taha’a. Breakfast is more than enough to fill you up; the homemade vanilla yogurt is so good it might just make your knees weak. Grab a pre-dinner drink in the adorable lounge + bar area before enjoying a three-course meal. Vahine Private Island Resort is Tahitian luxury at its finest.

The Vanilla Island
The island of Taha’a is known as the “vanilla island”, and it’s here that you can embark on the most delicious smelling farm tour you’ll ever take. On the east side of Taha’a, La Vallée de la Vanille offers free tours of the grounds, explanation of the vanilla growing process and a wide array of high-quality vanilla products for sale. You’ll hear about the “marrying” process of the orchid flowers to produce vanilla, harvesting, how long the vanilla beans need to be dried and all of the health benefits the various vanilla products can have. Make sure to check out the shop area as vanilla products make terrific souvenirs or gifts, too!

Rum Distillery
No trip to the islands is complete without a tasting of local rum. Head to the laidback island of Taha’a to sample some of the Pari Pari Distillery’s best varieties. Learn about production with a free tour of the facility where coconut oil, rums and vanilla products are made. After, you’ll have the chance to sample their rums, including the famous passionfruit and aged amber rum. Prepare yourself…they’re strong! Choose your favorite and purchase a bottle to bring home as a souvenir, or to enjoy while relaxing on the Islands of Tahiti.

Pearl Farm Visit
Learn about pearl farming on the island of Taha’a for a dose of culture. The Iaorana Pearl Farm is just up the road from Pari Pari Distillery and offers free tours around their seaside perch. Hear about the process of farming cultured pearls and what it takes to be an expert pearl grafter. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to see the resident pearl grafter performing some of his magic, too. You’ll hear about how he chooses what color DNA to plant with the nucleus, out of 178 different shades that are possible. After, pop into their onsite shop to browse for pearls of all sizes, shapes and colors and beautiful jewelry pieces.

Motu Picnic
Explore the island of Taha’a by land and sea with Terainui Tours. You’ll work up an appetite venturing to various points of interest around the Vanilla Island, followed by snorkeling amongst coral gardens with black-tip reef sharks, tropical fish and stingrays. Good thing there will be an incredible picnic lunch waiting for you in one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous settings you can imagine. Step off the boat on a pristine motu and be prepared to feast on home-cooked fare such as fish kebabs, poisson cru, coconut bread and lobster. Take some time to swim in the sparkling sea, laze on the beach or channel your inner child on the tree swing. A motu picnic is the perfect way to cap off the perfect day.

Motu Nao Nao
If it’s a splurge and a private, small group destination you’re after, Motu Nao Nao off the coast of Raiatea has you covered. Freshly opened, the private island resort is all-inclusive, with a full staff ready to provide anything you might need for your exclusive group of up to six people. An island with two lagoons, three beaches, an onsite chef and arguably some of the best sunrises and sunsets in the South Pacific, Motu Nao Nao might just be the perfect luxury socially-distant getaway.

Three free-standing bungalows offer beautifully designed accommodations, with the largest host to a palatial common space…all overlooking azure seas of the lagoon. The chef crafts first-class meals, using mostly locally grown (in the island’s garden) and sourced products. Other than lazing on the beach and using the property’s kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and other gear, guests can choose one planned activity a day, included in the rate. Whether it’s a guided scuba dive or a cultural tour of Raiatea, there’s something for every interest. Everything is tailored to the guest’s needs…it’s your own private island, after all.

Taputapuatea, Raiatea
The heart and center of the “Polynesian Triangle,” the island of Raiatea is considered the most sacred of the islands in French Polynesia. (The triangle stretches from New Zealand, Easter Island and Hawaii, with the Islands of Tahiti in the middle.) Raiatea was the first island in French Polynesia to be populated; it holds incredible history and points of interest. Explore and learn about the rich culture and history of the island on a tour with Polynesian Escape.

Venture to Taputapuatea, the first international “marae” where important meetings, as well as social and religious ceremonies, took place during ancient times. This spiritual and sacred site was a pilgrimage spot for chiefs and the Ma’ohi people within the Polynesian Triangle dating back approximately 1,000 years. Learn about this UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2017) through a native guide, as you walk the grounds host to the seaside ruins including stone courtyards and altars.