Discover the Real Tahiti

French Polynesia's main island of Tahiti is actually two islands, Tahiti-Nui and Tahiti-Iti, joined by a narrow isthmus.

Many visitors arriving in the capital of Papeete no doubt expect grass huts, pareo-clad natives and the quiet crash of the surf. They are surprised to discover that Papeete is a modern, bustling port. Just accept our promise that the Tahiti of legend does live on elsewhere on the island; then, start to enjoy Papeete's unique cosmopolitan charms.

Shopping is definitely one of them. Hop aboard le truck - as the locals call the open-air bus - to downtown, where an amazing selection of boutiques offer shell leis, woven hats, purses and other native handicrafts, while their neighbors feature the latest in French fashions.

Part of the fun of Papeete is sipping a drink and people- watching at a sidewalk cafe. In the city's many restaurants, you'll discover that Tahitians enjoy an enticing variety of native, French, Asian and other cuisines.

Away from Papeete, Tahiti's landscape changes to an array of stunning colors and rugged vistas, all surrounded by crystalline waters.

There's plenty to do on Tahiti--from a game of golf on French Polynesia's only course (72-par with majestic views of the island and outer reef), to a breathtaking helicopter ride to Mount Aorai. Or try your hand at big game fishing, water skiing, scuba diving, sailing and windsurfing. And to see the sights that have made this island a legend, try a tour to Matavai Bay, Cook's Monument at Point Venus, the Gauguin Museum, the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands or the fascinating Lagoonarium.

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Most vacationers start their island experience at the international Faa'a Airport at Papeete, Tahiti's capital and the commercial hub of French Polynesia. The small, busy city has a French flavour and laid-back atmosphere, worth exploring for its vibrant Central Market, pearl shops, attractive waterfront with its unique mobile diners, and a selection of excellent restaurants. Another must for visitors is to take a round-the-island tour, along the 73-mile (117km) road encircling the island, passing historic monuments, museums, beaches, ruined temples, waterfalls, gardens and dramatic scenery.

The island's best white sand beaches are between Punaauia and Papara, but most visitors get more of a thrill out of visiting the famed black sand beaches on the east coast, particularly renowned Pointe Venus. Besides enjoying the seaside, Tahiti also offers some interesting sightseeing, including magnificent Botanical gardens, museums, archaeological sites, the tomb of the royal family Pomare, a lake containing unique eared eels, lava tubes, and a host of other unusual experiences.

Approximate Air Travel Time

• New York City: 14 hrs
• Miami: 14 hrs
• Philadelphia: 14 hrs
• Boston: 14.5 hrs
• Los Angeles: 8 hrs
• Chicago: 12.5 hrs
• Dallas-Fort Worth: 11.25 hrs
• San Francisco: 10.5 hrs

Topography

The Society Islands are a volcanic archipelago located south of the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Most islands contained in what is known as the Society Islands are volcanic, with sharp and sudden peaks dominating the midsection of the island. Bordering both the sea and land of the islands are lagoons that are sheltered from the sea by a coral reef. The beaches have white sand and are backed by dense tropical foliage, heavy with blossoms.

Climate

The Society Islands are blessed with a mild tropical climate and temperatures that rarely vary from 75° with low humidity. The trade winds are constantly cooling the islands, and the rainy season still sees more sun than rain.

Tahiti Attractions

Harrison W. Smith Botanical Garden

A testament to the work of American botanist Harrison Smith, the Botanical Gardens at Papeari teem with footpaths where visitors can view its acres of well-cultivated plants, and feature bamboo, bananas, palms, hibiscus and mapes (an indigenous chestnut tree).

Gauguin Museum

Dedicated to the work of Paul Gauguin, the Gauguin Museum features exhibits and memorabilia from the late painter himself, including sketches, documents (mostly in facsimile), block prints, reproductions and a handful of original creations.

Vaima Center

Situated at the waterfront, the four-level Vaima Center has everything from banks and boutiques, to bookstores and restaurants. With its heavy concentration of businesses and services, Vaima Center is one of Tahiti's busiest shopping districts.

Musée de Tahiti et ses Isles (Museum of Tahiti and her Islands)

A visit to Tahiti would be incomplete without a stop to the Musee' de Tahiti, which has been judged one of the finest and most modern museums in the South Pacific. The museum features a broad range of exhibits on Tahitian culture, history and geology.

Cathedral of Notre Dame of Papeete

Located in the center of Papeete, the majestic Cathedral of Notre Dame is one of Tahiti's most awe-inspiring structures. A red-tiled spire offsets the exterior's modest grey façade and indoors, the church features gorgeous original stained glass dating back to 1875.

Tahiti Activities

Diving

Divers of all abilities will appreciate Tahiti's many world-class dive sites, which give visitors the opportunity to glimpse sunken planes, wrecks, exotic fish and sharks. Some sites even offer night diving.

Surfing

The surf is always up in Tahiti. Surfing is especially good during the winter months, when the swells break strong along the reefs, resulting in larger, "tubular" waves. Both the northern and southern coasts of Tahiti offer good surfing.

Hiking

Adventurous travelers will love the exciting guided hiking tours that lead them on explorations of Tahiti's rugged interior. Stops can include spectacular waterfalls and natural pools, mountain peaks with panoramic views, archeological sites and more.

Four-Wheel Drive Tours

Looking for spectacular views, but not on foot or horseback? Then try a four-wheel drive journey to Mount Marau, where the lookout point offers panoramic vistas of surrounding valleys and peaks.

Horseback Riding

For the horse enthusiast, Tahiti has a number of first-class riding stables. Experienced riders can saddle-up the island's New Zealand and Marquesan horses, while private lessons are available for the beginner. Rides often include picnic lunches.

Nightlife

Most of the nightlife activities in the Society Islands revolve around the resort hotels. Ask at the front desk for information on what is going on. The most popular activities include traditional Tahitian dances and plays, as well as beach parties.

For more Travel Tips and Advice for your vacation or honeymoon in Tahiti - ask a Tahiti Travel Advisor!

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