The name “Tahiti” conjures images of blue lagoons, powdery sands, and a Polynesian culture that welcomes visitors from all over the world. Tahiti, though, is just one island out of 118 islands and atolls that make up French Polynesia. Not sure where to go from there? Here are just a few of our favourite Islands of Tahiti.
Tahiti is your culture-rich gateway.
As the cultural, economic, and transit hub of French Polynesia, Tahiti is one of the most fascinating islands in the South Pacific, offering a close look at Polynesian culture both traditional and modern.
Papeete is French Polynesia’s capital and is home to many of French Polynesia’s best museums and restaurants, plus favourite spots like Les Roulottes. This famed collection of food trucks and eclectic restaurants was serving locals and tourists alike fresh, delicious meals decades before “food truck cuisine” took off in North America. You can also visit natural wonders like Faarumai Waterfalls and Vallee de Papenoo, amazing museums like the Museum of Tahiti and The Islands, and explore the archipelago’s best shopping and nightlife.
Moorea is Tahiti’s honeymoon island.
Located just a short ferry ride or flight away from Papeete, Moorea offers that classic Tahitian experience, with its magnificent encircling lagoon, white sand beaches, overwater bungalows and green hinterland. It’s one of the most popular of The Islands of Tahiti, ideal for cost-savvy travellers or families. It’s a fantastic spot for hikers too, with eight mountain peaks dominating its geography, and when your legs need a rest, switch to thrilling ziplining.
Moorea’s not all about active adventures; it’s a feast for the eyes with countless lookout points. That’s why it is no surprise that it’s a popular spot for destination weddings. Plus, its inviting beaches and gentle waters offer the chance to interact with active underwater life.
Bora Bora is French Polynesia at its most luxurious.
When you see images of French Polynesia where a black volcanic plug towers over green slopes lined with gentle, white sands, which disappear beneath clear, blue waters, the temperature of which hovers around 26°C (79°F) year-round…welcome to Bora Bora. Often seen as the jewel in French Polynesia’s crown, Bora Bora captures the best of what The Islands of Tahiti have to offer, concentrated in one relatively compact atoll. It offers several resort options for all types of travellers including many with overwater bungalows and world-class restaurants that lure chefs from around the world, each keen to bring their own style to the nation’s Polynesian flavours. It’s a premiere destination, but undeniably worth it.
Taha’a, Huahine, and beyond offer a chance to explore French Polynesia’s variety.
Each of The Islands of Tahiti offers its own unique experience beyond its luxury resorts. Taha’a is famous for its vanilla production. Huahine is considered the cradle of traditional Polynesian culture and contains the largest concentration of marae (ancient temples) in French Polynesia. The Marquesas Archipelago—known as “The Land of Men”—is famous for soaring mountains and rugged wildlife, while the Tuamotu Islands like Rangiroa and Fakarava offer some of the world’s best diving.
No matter if you’re looking for extreme luxury or a more specialized vacation, there’s an island in Tahiti calling your name.
Christian’s first globetrotting adventure saw him get lost exploring the streets of Saigon. Following his nose to Asia’s best coffee, two lifelong addictions were born. A freelance writer and novelist, Christian’s travels have since taken him around his native Australia, Asia, Europe, and much of North America. His favourite trips have been through Japan, Spain, and Brazil, though with a love of off-beat, artsy cities, he’ll seize any opportunity to return to Paris, New York, or Berlin.
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