Few locations can match the Tahitian Islands’ beauty and tranquility when it comes to tropical holidays. These islands, which are situated in the South Pacific, are well-known for their stunning natural settings, clean waters, and extensive cultural history. Yet picking which islands to visit might be difficult with over 118 to choose from. To assist you in creating your ideal trip, we’ll look at five of the best Tahitian islands in this post.
Bora Bora
Among all the Tahitian Islands, Bora Bora is undoubtedly the most well-known and well-liked. This island is a veritable heaven on earth with its immaculate white sand beaches, beautiful waters, and renowned overwater villas. About 160 miles northwest of Tahiti, Bora Bora is reachable by either short aircraft or ferry ride.
The magnificent lagoon in Bora Bora, which is encircled by a barrier reef and has some of the best snorkeling and diving locations in the world, is one of the island’s main attractions. The lagoon is ideal for exploring by kayak or stand-up paddleboard and is home to a variety of vibrant fish, corals, and other marine life. A lagoon cruise is another well-liked thing to do in Bora Bora. It gives you a new view of the island and lets you explore some of its hidden jewels, such as the gorgeous Matira Beach and the coral gardens of Tupitipiti Point.
Bora Bora also has a number of hiking routes that let you explore the verdant interior of the island if you’re looking for a more strenuous trip. The ascent of Mount Pahia, which provides sweeping views of the lagoon and the other islands, is one of the most well-liked hikes. The best resorts and restaurants in the Pacific can be found in Bora Bora, making it the ideal destination for a lavish getaway.
Moorea
Moorea, which is a smaller and more relaxed alternative to Bora Bora and is only a short ferry trip from Tahiti, provides a more genuine and reasonably priced island experience. Although Moorea is a smaller island, it has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Pacific, with soaring green mountains, immaculate beaches, and a healthy coral reef.
The Belvedere Lookout, which provides a panoramic view of Moorea’s famous Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, is one of the island’s major tourist attractions. Swimming with stingrays and sharks in the lagoon is another well-liked activity. It’s a wonderful experience that lets you get up close and personal with these friendly animals. The Moorea Dolphin Center, where you may swim with dolphins in their natural environment, is also located on Moorea.
Moorea provides a range of outdoor pursuits, including horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking, for those looking for a more challenging trip. The Three Coconut Trees Trail, one of the most well-liked hikes, passes through a luxuriant tropical forest and provides breathtaking views of the lagoon and the other islands. Together with kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, Moorea is an excellent location for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Tahiti
Tahiti, the biggest and most populated island in French Polynesia, is frequently disregarded by tourists who are drawn to the more remote, smaller islands. Tahiti, however, has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty, therefore this is a mistake. The capital of the island is Papeete, where you may visit regional shops, galleries, and eateries as well as see traditional dance and music performances.
The Tahiti Pearl Market, one of the island’s main tourist destinations, sells a variety of Tahitian pearls, including the region’s only black pearls. Visiting the Paul Gauguin Museum, which features the life and works of the renowned French painter who spent time in Tahiti in the late 19th century, is another popular activity. The Arahoho Blowhole, a natural phenomena where ocean waves crash into a small opening in the rocks and shoot up into the air, is also located in Tahiti.
Tahiti is a fantastic location for outdoor pursuits like riding, hiking, and swimming. The Fautaua Waterfall Trail, which passes through a verdant rainforest and provides breathtaking views of the cascade and the valley below, is one of the most well-liked hikes. There are numerous beaches in Tahiti where you can sunbathe, go swimming, and snorkel, including the white-sand PK 18 and the black-sand Pointe Venus.
Huahine
Huahine is the ideal choice if you want to experience an island that is less frequented. Huahine is a tiny, remote island about 110 miles northwest of Tahiti that offers a special fusion of Polynesian culture, natural beauty, and tranquility.
Ancient temples and archaeological sites on Huahine, which date to the pre-European era and provide a window into the island’s rich history and culture, are among the island’s top tourist attractions. Exploring the island’s lush, tropical forests, which are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including the island’s renowned vanilla plantations, is another well-liked pastime.
Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are just a few of the outdoor pursuits you may enjoy on Huahine. A natural lagoon that is alive with marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish, surrounds the island. Huahine also has some of the best dive locations in the Pacific, with crystal-clear water and a wide variety of marine life.
Huahine is renowned for its traditional Polynesian cuisine, which features dishes created from fresh fish, tropical fruits, and vegetables, as well as its indigenous crafts like woven baskets and hats. It is also well-known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Taha’a
Taha’a is a tiny, remote island that is frequently missed by travelers but is a hidden gem for anyone seeking a genuine, peaceful Tahitian experience. Taha’a, also referred to as the “Vanilla Island,” is well-known for its enticing vanilla plantations, which are open to tourists and provide a singular and delightful sensory experience.
A magnificent lagoon that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating surrounds Taha’a as well. A trip to the Pearl Farm, where you can discover the conventional techniques of pearl growing and buy stunning black pearls as a keepsake, is one of the island’s top attractions. Taha’a is the ideal destination for anyone seeking a true break from the rush and bustle of daily life.
Taha’a is renowned for its traditional crafts like tapa fabric and wood carvings in addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities. It is also famous for its traditional Polynesian cuisine, which features dishes created with fresh fish, coconut, and breadfruit.
Our Top FAQ's
The best time to visit the Tahitian Islands is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, and the humidity is low. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, so prices will be higher, and the islands will be more crowded.
The traditional cuisine of the Tahitian Islands is a unique blend of Polynesian, French, and Asian influences. Some of the most popular dishes include poisson cru, a raw fish salad marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, and fafa, taro leaves cooked in coconut milk. Other favorites include grilled seafood, breadfruit, and tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango.
Yes, the Tahitian Islands are suitable for families with children. Many of the resorts and hotels offer activities and amenities for children, such as kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and water sports. There are also many family-friendly activities, such as snorkeling, hiking, and exploring the islands’ natural beauty.
Transportation in the Tahitian Islands can be challenging, as many of the islands are remote and difficult to access. The best way to get around is by boat or plane, as there are limited roads on most of the islands. Air Tahiti operates regular flights between the islands, and there are also several ferry services available. Taxis and rental cars are also available on some of the larger islands.