The world is filled with tropical destinations that offer a much-needed escape from daily life, but few compare to the allure of Tahiti. It’s one of the many beautiful islands in French Polynesia, enticing the wealthy and the love-stricken to see its natural beauty, experience its vibrant culture, and explore charming attractions.
If you’re planning a holiday in this splendid island paradise, here’s why travellers love exploring it.
Natural Wonders
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Maridav
Nature thrives in Tahiti, with stunning sights you’d want to remember forever. The following destinations have made their way to visitor itineraries.
Les Trois Cascades
Although Tahiti has many spectacular waterfalls, visitors flock to the Three Waterfalls (Les Trois Cascades or the Faarumai Waterfalls) the most.
You’ll find this trio of breathtaking waterfalls on Tahiti Nui’s northwestern side. The first waterfall is easily accessible, whereas the other waterfalls can only be reached by trekking a green rainforest. An incredible sight awaits you after that long hike, though. The third waterfall captivates at 40 meters (131 feet) and invites you to plunge into a refreshing swimming basin at the bottom.
Beautiful Beaches
Tahiti’s beaches further cement its popularity as an amazing tropical paradise among travellers. Whether you long for a relaxing day on fine white sand or want to frolic on black volcanic sand, the island houses stunning beaches with a heavenly atmosphere.
Some Tahitian beaches to add to your itinerary include:
- Venus Point in northern Mahina features soft black volcanic sand that turns turquoise waters into deep emeralds. If you’re up for swimming and snorkelling, head to the coral reef near the beach to swim with its abundance of tropical fish.
- Tahiti’s east coast is home to Lafayette Beach, considered one of French Polynesia’s top beaches. Here, you can swim in crystal clear water, relax on soft black sand, and enjoy an astonishing panoramic view of Moorea.
- If you’re exploring Tahiti’s west coast, Punaauia has Vaiava Beach or PK18. It’s a visitor favorite with stunningly clear water and soft white sand where you can snorkel, swim and sunbathe.
- La Plage de Maui, also called Maui’s Beach, is the only white-sand beach on Tahiti Iti. This breathtaking stretch on the southern coastal road stands as a superb destination for an entire day of swimming and relaxing with resting toes sinking into the powdery sand.
Mount Aorai
Tahiti offers visiting hikers some of French Polynesia’s most scenic and challenging treks, including Mount Aorai, its third-highest peak.
Typically, you can get to the summit in approximately five hours. But if you want an incredible view, it’s best to hike in the early morning when the peak is at its clearest. You can also stay at one of two simple accommodations situated on the route overnight. And more importantly, consider hiring a guide to ensure a safe hike up and down the mountain.
Remarkable Parks
If you love visiting parks, some fantastic ones abound in Tahiti.
The Vaipahi Gardens, located on Tahiti Nui’s south coast, is one notable destination. Hikers have paths to the whirring, winding springs, and streams inside the park. Other visitors can walk through patches of green tropical plants: huge elephant-ear plants, pagoda trees, the Pride of Burma’s rosy red flowers, and more.
On the main island, there’s another must-visit park in the vast Jardin Botanique Harrison Smith (Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens), located near the Musée Gauguin. American Harrison W. Smith planted 450 species of African, Asian and American flowers and trees in the area and tended them until his death. Meandering paths run along the garden’s giant bamboo, mangosteen and teak trees and refreshing ponds and palms.
Cultural Heritage
It’s always a good idea to experience Tahitian culture during your stay. Let’s look at some important parts of the island’s lively and lasting culture.
Tahitian Dance
Writer W. Ellis was one of the foreign visitors who saw Polynesian dances up close, describing them as “many and varied”. Yet, only a few tangible snippets of his account remain.
It’s said that men and women danced in different ways at the time: together, alone, standing, and sitting. Moreover, they performed to the beat of the pahu (a double-skinned drum) and the vivo (nose flute). Such an art form was considered indecent in the eyes of missionaries, who banned it until the 1950s when natives revived Tahitian dances.
Polynesian Craftsmanship
Polynesian artisans express themselves through sculpting, weaving, and sewing.
- When it comes to weaving, the Tahitian mama makes lovely hats, bags and mats out of natural vegetable fibers like pandanus leaves, coconut fiber and coconut palms.
- Some artisans show how much they love and appreciate nature through the spectacular patterns of tifaifai hand-sewn bedspreads.
- Local carpenters and sculptors craft remarkable art from precious kinds of wood, including Tahitian rosewood with varieties such as tou and miro.
Beyond that, other artisans use volcanic stone, coral or bones for outstanding crafts. However, the Polynesian artist’s skills truly shine in well-made Tahitian pearl jewelry. Black pearls are used to make necklaces and earrings for the lovely vahine, which you can buy from the island’s authorized sellers.
Archeological & Cultural Sites
You can also learn about Tahitian culture by visiting Tahiti’s archeological and cultural sites, including the remnants of marae that can be found on nearly every Polynesian island. As you explore Tahiti, consider visiting its most famous Arahurahu and Ta’ata sites to learn more about the ancestral ma’ohi culture.
For a truly immersive experience, head to Fare Hape in Papenoo. You’ll see a marae, a dedicated space for festivities and celebrations, and ancient houses rebuilt with traditional techniques. An overnight stay allows you to feel mana, the sacred force present in Tahiti, around Fare Hape.
Local Cuisine
Tahitian holidays aren’t complete without delicious food.
If you get a grumbling stomach after a day out on the island, treat yourself to savoury, diverse cuisine from the roulottes in downtown Papeete. Must-try dishes include crepes, galettes, poisson cru (citrus-marinated raw fish), chow mein, and juicy sashimi with homemade brown sauce.
Of course, nothing beats sampling Polynesian cuisine made from the best and freshest local produce. Vanilla or coconut milk can be added to flavourful dishes and sweet desserts, making Polynesian cuisine a stand-out.
Other Top Attractions
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Martin Valigursky
- Tahiti offers many opportunities for snorkelling, diving, surfing, and other water activities. For example, lagoon tours in Moorea and Bora Bora may encourage you to swim with stingrays and reef sharks to face your fears.
- You’ll also find notable architectural wonders on the island.
- Known as Tahiti’s oldest Catholic church, the Notre Dame Cathedral combines colonial architecture with Tahitian style.
- History enthusiasts can visit Place Jacques Chirac, a landmark acknowledging the nuclear tests performed in the Pacific. It stands in protest against France conducting these tests from 1966 to 1966 and honours those involved in nuclear incidents worldwide.
- From making Tahiti’s blue lagoon accessible to natives and visitors in the 1960s, its overwater bungalows have defined tropical luxury for affluent travellers and honeymooning couples. They’re mostly found in Moorea and Bora Bora, and most Tahiti travel deals include these deluxe accommodations.
Spend Your Next Holiday in Spectacular Tahiti
There’s so much to see and experience in one of the world’s most popular tropical destinations, from impressive waterfalls to plunging in crystal clear waters. The best Tahiti travel deals let you enjoy your well-deserved holiday to the fullest.
To find exciting, unforgettable experiences in your dream destination, visit the Entire Travel Group website today.
The post Tahiti Uncovered: A Closer Look at Its Top Attractions first appeared on Passing Thru.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Maridav.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.
You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip
PassingThru is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
To view PassingThru’s privacy policy, click here.
