15 Best Things To Do In Tahiti

As someone who has visited Tahiti, I can certainly declare that it is a location unlike any other. Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, is noted for its magnificent natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people.

Whether you’re looking for action or leisure, Tahiti has a plethora of activities that will leave you speechless.

Tahiti is a fantastic vacation for someone who enjoys nature and the outdoors. There are several natural treasures to discover, ranging from waterfalls to beaches.

15 Best Things To Do In Tahiti

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How to Get to Tahiti

French Polynesia can be found between California and Australia to the south of Hawaii. The destination, referred to as The Islands of Tahiti, has an area the size of Europe and is made up of 118 islands, 76 of those being inhabited.

Tahiti is made up of five archipelagoes:

• Society Islands
• Gambier Islands
• Marquesas Islands
• Tuamotu Islands
• Austral Islands

All international flights arrive at Tahiti-Faa’a International Airport (PPT), from which domestic services to the islands are provided by Air Tahiti and Air Moana.

You may choose to rent a car or take a guided trip to explore the island. If you’re feeling daring, consider taking the bus, which is a great opportunity to meet the locals.

Is it Worth it to Visit Tahiti?

A 100%! Believe me, when I say perfect score, you’ll definitely love the place! I would say that visiting Tahiti is worthwhile if you have any interest in the activities available. Tahiti is in a class by itself, and it provides an entirely unique experience.

Even if you have a limited budget, I would say that Tahiti is worthwhile. Contrary to popular belief, you may have the greatest of times even if you can’t afford an overwater home. There are so many free activities on the island!

Things to Do in Tahiti

If you’re thinking about visiting Tahiti, here are some must-see sites and activities. Learn what to do as well as get a few helpful tips for making the most of your trip. Here are some of my favorite places to visit:

1. Visit the Fautaua Waterfall

If you’re in Tahiti and searching for an exciting adventure, try seeing Fautaua Waterfall, one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the world.

This trek will take you through Tahiti’s lush interior and is one of my top recommendations for tourists. Before you begin the journey, you must obtain a permit that allows you to be on the trail.

Don’t worry, as long as you aren’t hiking on a weekend, you may simply purchase the permit on the day of your trip. Furthermore, the permit is only 5.49 USD, so if you want to keep your Tahiti vacation prices low, this is a perfect activity.

2. Learn at the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands

If you want to learn more about history and Tahitian culture, this museum should be at the top of your list. The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands is committed to educating tourists about this magnificent archipelago.

Divided into four categories, each with a particular focus: geography and natural history, pre-European civilization, colonial consequences, and natural marvels. Rare collections of art carvings and historical items are among the highlights.

The exhibits are in both English and French, and the gift store is nice. The entry charge is only 9.15 USD, while children under the age of 18 are free. Every Saturday, they also offer guided tours and an audio guide for $4.57.

3. Indulge in Culinary Delights in Papeete’s Best Restaurants

Papeete boasts some excellent fine dining opportunities where you can have a delicious dinner at a fair price.

I enjoyed a fantastic dinner at Le Grillardin. Their scallops are wonderful! It literally melts in your mouth. The cuisine is beautifully prepared and cooked to perfection.

Papeete is a feast for both the palette and the soul, from traditional Polynesian meals to fusion innovations that reflect Tahiti’s unique cultural melting pot, making it an uncontested highlight for anybody eager to experience the beautiful essence of Tahiti.

4. Attend a Heiva Festival

Once a year in July, among of the world’s longest-running festivals takes out in one of the world’s most beautiful locations.

You’ve probably never heard of Tahiti’s Heiva Festival, but it’s a big deal on a peaceful island nation that seldom worries about anything.

It is an entire month of life in paradise, a time to honor the past and share Polynesia’s rich Polynesian legacy with the rest of the globe.

The Heiva event begins in the outlying islands in June and comes into full gear with the major event in Tahiti, which begins in early July. The celebration then lasts around three weeks, with activities and festivities taking place on certain days.

Tahiti’s Heiva Festival features performances, exhibitions, and competitions. The majority of events are free to attend, however, some need advance ticket purchase. The Heiva in the outer islands is substantially smaller and generally just features dance competitions.

5. Relax at La Plage de Maui

La plage de Maui, as residents name it, is one of the island’s few white sand beaches, attracting travelers seeking the comfort of something more comfortable.

Maui Beach is one of the greatest areas on the island to slow down and enjoy the Polynesian way of life, as well as to embrace the inhabitants’ welcoming and easygoing nature.

If all you want to do is lounge on the beach and soak up the rays, Maui Beach is the place to be. I propose spending a few hours on the sand, followed by a fresh seafood supper at one of the local cafés.

La Plage de Maui is located approximately 40 miles southeast of Papeete and takes around 95 minutes to reach. Once there, you’ll understand why so many people make the trek. Plan a visit throughout the week to avoid the busiest times.

6. Explore Arahurahu Marae

Arahurahu marae is a historical site that shows a component of the Maohi civilization that flourished in French Polynesia before Europeans arrived.

The temple complex ranks as one of the best things to do in Tahiti and is extremely important to the indigenous Maohi culture. The marae is home to the tikis, which are holy statues with extraordinary abilities.

The location is located in the Tefa’aiti Valley, a tranquil setting surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The Arahurahu Marae is located in Tahiti’s gorgeous landscape and has an incredible vibe!

7. Enjoy at the Papenoo Beach

Papenoo Beach, located in the picturesque Papenoo area, is a popular excursion destination for both locals and visitors. With its brilliant blue seas and immaculate shores, this beach provides stunning views.

You may sunbathe by the shore or play beach games alongside your pals; you will have a great day. This beach attracts both beginner and expert surfers, so adrenaline seekers are in for a treat.

Papenoo is ideal for surfers of all abilities. If you’re a beginner, start here before moving on to Tahiti’s more difficult break. The nicest part about this beach is that it is available every day of the year and is completely free!

8. Join a Snorkeling Tour

Tahiti is one of the greatest places in the world to go snorkeling. The majority of Tahiti’s snorkeling locations are on the island’s west coast.

If you want to view Tahiti’s sharks, you should go to the White Valley. The White Valley’s notoriety stems from the several shark species that thrive there. You may even get into contact with a tiger shark. But that’s not all; other tropical fish put on a show as well.

To avoid the hassle, you may join a Tahiti island Snorkeling Tour, which will allow you to swim in crystal blue seas, watch magnificent wild creatures, and taste local products.

9. Hike Mount Aorai

Mount Aorai, at 2,066 meters, is Tahiti’s third highest peak following Mount Orohena and Pito Iti, both of which may be seen on the way up. The trek begins at the O Belvédère restaurant, which is situated easily reached by an asphalted road from the Hamuta Valley.

Mount Aorai is a lengthy and demanding walk owing to its high elevation and tricky sections using ropes on vertiginous hills. The trail is well-defined and safe, but don’t forget to prepare for the trek and consider the weather conditions.

I recommend that you pack trousers; otherwise, the Anuhe ferns will scrape your legs throughout the walk. To escape the heat and have a chance of reaching the top before the clouds, I recommend starting the climb around 4:30 or 5 AM with a headlamp.

10. Take on a Whale Watching Experience in the Tahiti Islands

Each year, from August to October, a large number of humpback whales visit Polynesian seas to mate and give birth before traveling to the Antarctic.

During this time, one can see these whales around Tahiti and Moorea, either alone or with their pups.

Many diving facilities welcome you to join their whale-watching cruises to see this unusual mammal’s migrating behaviors.

I suggest taking it to the next level and participating in a snorkeling session with whales and their young. An amazing experience! Joining a tour allows you to witness the magnificence of Humpback Whales without difficulty. Tour rates typically vary from 160.81 to 178.68 USD.

11. Wander at Taharuu Beach

Taharuu Beach, on Tahiti’s southern shore in Papara, is distinguished by its volcanic black beaches, lush green palm trees, and breadth. This beach is spacious, with lots of areas to lay out and take up the sun, surrounded by deep blue ocean and foamy white waves.

This beach is popular with families, residents, and visitors, and it also has excellent swimming conditions. You could even see some surfers practicing their talents. There is also an on-site snack bar and park.

Taharuu Beach is enclosed by small islands and bays, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling sports. The water here is very clear, so you can observe all types of aquatic life while you enjoy yourself underwater!

12. Eat the Polynesian Way at Tahiti’s Food Trucks

Food trucks in Tahiti are similar to ones that are thriving in cities, meeting the demand for quick, easy, and accessible meals. These mobile eateries are a true tradition in French Polynesia, part of the native cultural legacy that values sharing and conviviality.

Tahitian cuisine specialties are inescapable, particularly raw fish in all its varieties. Some trucks also serve delicious breakfasts and large pizzas.

However, Polynesians like steak with French fries. Beware: it’s a massive rib steak with a generous serving of fries. This is one of the benefits of food trucks: they do not scrimp on quantity!

13.Come over to the Paul Gauguin Museum and Enjoy its Exterior

The Gauguin Museum, built in 1964 by Father Patrick O’Reilly with the collaboration of the Singer-Polignac Foundation, is located near Mataiea on Tahiti Nui’s west coast. Famous painters resided here on their first visit to Polynesia in 1891.

In 1965, the museum was donated to the French Polynesian Territory. The museum is entirely dedicated to the artist’s life and works, and it has a collection of over 350 paintings and drawings.

This museum, which has been closed for years and has no plans to reopen, appears to be trapped in time, dealing with the same problem.

14. Relax in an Overwater Bungalow

Tahiti is maybe the world’s most exclusive overwater bungalow destination. It’s a tropical paradise, complete with blue oceans, lush jungled peaks, and white sandy shorelines.

The usual price range for lodging is between $300 and $2600. If you want to enjoy the luxury life in Tahiti, I recommend staying at The Four Seasons Resort.

It provides an amazing experience with its iconic overwater bungalows. Perched over a crystal-clear lagoon, its luxurious bungalows have long set the standard for overwater resorts.

Whether you prefer to soak up the sun on your private terrace, take a refreshing dive in the pristine waters below, or simply sit within with panoramic views of paradise, the overwater bungalow experience is a symphony of tranquility.

15. Take on an Adventure through Papenoo Valley by a 4×4

This is where Tahiti excels. The undeveloped interior of Tahiti is teeming with waterfalls, the famed Lac Vaihiria, an impossibly green vegetation, and jade-colored water.

Experience the natural beauty of French Polynesia’s Queen Island with the spectacular Papenoo Day Tour in 4×4 on Tahiti. You’ll journey into the heart of the island’s highlands, including the breathtaking Papenoo Valley.

Explore Tahiti’s natural wonders with our 4×4 Papenoo Day Tour. Expect to be immersed in the heart of Tahiti, its mountains and beautiful landscapes, full of mystery and legends. All with impassioned comments from actual guides.

Top Tips When Visiting Tahiti

As you begin your journey to this South Pacific paradise, a little planning may go a long way toward ensuring a smooth and memorable visit. Here are some crucial recommendations for making the most of your trip to Tahiti.

The Best Time to Visit Tahiti

Tahiti is a tropical paradise with enough sunlight and just sufficient rainfall to keep things lush. The atmospheric temperature varies from one archipelago to the next.

Overall, high volcanic islands are more humid because the islands are densely vegetated and the atolls have a greater exposure to trade winds.

There are only two major seasons in Tahiti. Summer lasts from November to March when the weather is somewhat warmer and more humid. It might rain more regularly during this period, but the islands seldom have a wet season.

Winter, also known as the dry season, lasts from April to October and is marked by significantly colder temperatures and lower humidity. During this time, the underwater visibility is excellent for scuba diving and whale watching.

Winter also happens to be the ideal time for trekking and boating. July and August are the coldest months of the year, thanks to southeast trade winds referred to as maraamu.

Set a Daily Budget

While the draw of this tropical paradise is clear, you must find a balance between enjoying the island’s beauty and staying within your budget. Setting a daily budget is an efficient strategy to ensure an enjoyable vacation while remaining financially responsible.

Tahiti is well-known for its luxurious resorts, superb restaurants, and a wide range of aquatic sports. However, the cost of living is very high when compared to other places.

Setting a daily budget allows you to understand their spending restrictions and make educated decisions about where and how to spend their money.

Internet Access in Tahiti

Internet connectivity is widely available in Tahiti, however it might occasionally operate on island time. If you’re bringing a laptop or tablet, keep in mind that not all hotels have full Wi-Fi coverage, so you may need to utilize an Ethernet cable in your room.

More resorts are beginning to provide free Wi-Fi in public places, and some even provide free Internet access throughout your stay. If you don’t have a laptop or tablet, many hotels feature business centers.

What To Pack When Visiting Tahiti

Clothing that is relaxed and comfy is appropriate for the environment and lifestyle. Pack airy natural textiles and lots of shorts. Bring your own compass and a dive certification card if you have been certified. Most essential, carry a camera to document each occasion.

Parker also suggests reef shoes and, while the virus is still there, snorkeling equipment if you don’t want to hire from a local operator. Though Tahiti is warm all year, it never hurts to pack a light garment or two for chilly evenings.