Tahiti is a French Polynesian island located in the South Pacific. With its beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal clear waters, it is an adventurer’s paradise. Adventure travel is a popular way to explore Tahiti, and with so many exciting activities to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to begin. In this beginner’s guide to adventure travel in Tahiti, we will explore five subtopics that will help you plan your dream trip to this beautiful island.
Getting to Tahiti
Tahiti is a remote island located in the South Pacific, and getting there requires some planning. Most travelers will need to connect through Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Honolulu. There are limited direct flights to Tahiti from major cities, and these flights can be expensive. The most common airlines that fly to Tahiti are Air Tahiti Nui and Air France.
If you are traveling from the United States, you will need to fly to one of the connecting cities before boarding a flight to Tahiti. Flights to Tahiti from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu take approximately 8-10 hours. There are also flights to Tahiti from Auckland, Sydney, and Tokyo, among other cities.
It is important to note that Tahiti uses the French Pacific franc as its currency, and it may be challenging to find a currency exchange office in the United States. It is recommended to exchange currency upon arrival at the airport in Tahiti. Alternatively, you can use a credit card for most purchases and withdrawals from ATMs.
Once you arrive in Tahiti, you will need to take a domestic flight or ferry to other islands in French Polynesia. Air Tahiti is the main airline that operates within French Polynesia, and they offer frequent flights to the various islands. The ferry is also a popular way to travel between islands, and it is a more affordable option than flying. (Tahiti travel guide)
Accommodations in Tahiti
Tahiti offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. For those seeking a luxury experience, there are many high-end resorts located on private islands. These resorts offer overwater bungalows, private beaches, and an array of amenities such as spa treatments, fine dining, and water sports. Some popular luxury resorts in Tahiti include the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, and the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa.
For those on a budget, there are guesthouses and Airbnb options available on the main island. These accommodations provide a more authentic experience and a chance to interact with locals. Some popular guesthouses in Tahiti include the Pension de la Plage, which is located on a black sand beach, and the Relais Fenua, which is located in the heart of Papeete, the capital city of Tahiti.
Camping is also a popular option for adventurous travelers, and there are many campsites located on the various islands. These campsites offer a unique experience and a chance to get close to nature. However, it is important to note that camping is not permitted on private property, and some areas may require a permit. (Tahiti travel guide)
Water-based Activities
Tahiti is renowned for its crystal clear waters and is home to some of the best water-based activities in the world. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities in Tahiti, and there are many dive sites to choose from, including wrecks, coral reefs, and underwater caves. The waters around Tahiti are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, sharks, rays, and dolphins. Some popular dive sites in Tahiti include the Moorea Lagoon, the Tiki Dive Center, and the Tetiaroa Atoll.
Surfing is also a popular activity in Tahiti, and the island is home to some of the world’s best surf breaks, such as Teahupo’o, which is known for its massive waves. Teahupo’o is located on the southwestern coast of Tahiti and is a popular destination for experienced surfers. Other popular surf breaks in Tahiti include Papara, Taapuna, and Maraa.
Stand-up paddleboarding is another popular water-based activity in Tahiti. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to explore the calm lagoons and coastline of Tahiti. The waters around Tahiti are usually calm, making it an ideal destination for beginners. Many resorts offer SUP rentals, and there are also several SUP tours available that take you to some of the island’s most beautiful spots.
Boat tours and cruises are also popular water-based activities in Tahiti. These tours allow you to explore the islands’ lagoons and reefs and get up close to marine life such as sharks, rays, and dolphins. Many tours also offer a chance to swim with these amazing creatures. Some popular boat tours in Tahiti include the Bora Bora Lagoonarium and the Moorea Lagoon Tour. (Tahiti travel guide)
Land-based Activities
While Tahiti is primarily known for its water-based activities, there are also plenty of opportunities for land-based adventures. Hiking is a popular activity in Tahiti, and there are many trails to explore, including the Fautaua Valley Trail and the Opunohu Valley Trail. These trails take you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and up to stunning viewpoints.
Horseback riding is another popular land-based activity in Tahiti. Many tours take you through scenic trails and offer a unique way to explore the island. You can ride along the beaches, through the forests, and up to some of the island’s most beautiful viewpoints. Some popular horseback riding tours in Tahiti include the Teahupoo Horseback Adventure and the Opunohu Valley Horseback Ride.
Cycling is also a great way to explore Tahiti’s natural beauty. There are many cycling tours available that take you through the island’s villages, forests, and beaches. These tours provide a chance to see Tahiti from a different perspective and explore areas that are off the beaten path. (Tahiti travel guide)
Cultural Experiences
Tahiti is a melting pot of cultures, and there are many opportunities to experience the island’s unique traditions and customs. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Tahitian culture is to attend a traditional dance performance. These performances, known as “ori tahiti,” showcase the island’s vibrant music and dance traditions.
Another great way to experience Tahitian culture is to visit a local market. The markets in Tahiti are a feast for the senses, offering fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. You can find everything from tropical fruits to handmade pareos (sarongs) at these markets. Some popular markets in Tahiti include the Papeete Market and the Moorea Market.
Lastly, a trip to Tahiti would not be complete without experiencing the island’s famous cuisine. Tahitian cuisine is a blend of French, Polynesian, and Asian influences and features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and locally grown vegetables. Some popular Tahitian dishes include poisson cru, a dish of raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, and fafa, a dish of taro leaves cooked with coconut milk and served with pork or chicken.
In conclusion, Tahiti is a paradise for adventure travelers, offering a range of activities and experiences for all types of travelers. From water-based activities such as snorkeling and surfing to land-based activities such as hiking and cycling, there is no shortage of things to do in Tahiti. Immersing oneself in the island’s unique culture and cuisine is also a must-do when visiting Tahiti. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, Tahiti is sure to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Book Far and Away Adventure’s latest packages and follow this Tahiti travel guide!
Our Top FAQ's
Most travelers from the United States will need to connect through cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Honolulu before taking a flight to Tahiti. The main airlines that fly to Tahiti are Air Tahiti Nui and Air France.
Tahiti uses the French Pacific franc as its currency. It may be challenging to find a currency exchange office in the United States, so it is recommended to exchange currency upon arrival at the airport in Tahiti. Credit cards are widely accepted for purchases and ATM withdrawals.
Tahiti offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Luxury travelers can enjoy high-end resorts on private islands, while budget-conscious travelers can opt for guesthouses or Airbnb options on the main island.
Tahiti is known for its crystal clear waters and offers excellent water-based activities. Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat tours are some of the popular activities to explore the marine life and stunning coastlines.
Yes, there are plenty of land-based adventures in Tahiti. Hiking, horseback riding, and cycling are great ways to explore the island’s lush forests, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
To immerse yourself in Tahitian culture, attend a traditional dance performance known as “ori tahiti.” Visiting local markets to explore fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts is also a great cultural experience. Don’t forget to indulge in the delicious Tahitian cuisine that blends French, Polynesian, and Asian influences.
After arriving in Tahiti, travelers can take domestic flights or ferries to reach other islands in French Polynesia. Air Tahiti is the primary airline for inter-island flights, while ferries offer a more affordable option for island hopping.
To plan an adventure-filled trip to Tahiti, research and book activities in advance, consider your budget and accommodation preferences, and don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine for a truly unforgettable experience.