When my mother informed me she wished to go to Bora Bora for her fiftieth birthday – I used to be pleasantly shocked that this journey would routinely embody Tahiti too! The reality is, till this journey, I hadn’t totally researched French Polynesia – what a mistake!
So, you’re headed to French Polynesia, stopping in Tahiti, and questioning — what are the perfect issues to do in Tahiti? Tahiti is the most important island in French Polynesia – a tropical paradise recognized for its beautiful magnificence, vibrant tradition, and sometimes called a stopover to another island in French Polynesia.
Positioned within the South Pacific Ocean, Tahiti is a well-liked vacation spot for honeymooners, adventurers, and people searching for a calming getaway.
We made a cease in Tahiti when touring to Bora Bora for my mother’s fiftieth birthday – and I need to say Tahiti, is NOT only a layover! There are many lovely locations in Tahiti. It has a allure of its personal.
On this publish, I’ll cowl:
You will discover extra images & movies on @StephBeTravel.
Sundown view from the foyer of the Intercontinental Resort & Spa in Tahiti
About Tahiti
Location
Tahiti is positioned within the archipelago of Society Islands in French Polynesia, roughly 8 hours by aircraft from Los Angeles and 5 hours from Auckland, New Zealand.
Geography
The island is split into two foremost components: Tahiti Nui (Massive Tahiti) and Tahiti Iti (Small Tahiti). Tahiti Nui is house to the capital metropolis of Papeete, whereas Tahiti Iti is thought for its rugged magnificence and pristine seashores.
Tradition
Tahiti is wealthy in Polynesian tradition, with conventional dance, music, and artwork enjoying a central position in each day life. Guests can expertise conventional performances, go to native markets, and study in regards to the historical past of the island at museums and cultural facilities.
Accessibility
Tahiti is positioned on the continent of Oceania, simply accessible from main cities all over the world, with common flights to and from Papeete’s Faa’a Worldwide Airport.
Who It’s For (Everybody!)
French Polynesia is usually pigeon-holed right into a honeymoon vacation spot. On one finish, sure, it’s that particular and it worthy of a trademark second. On the opposite finish, it’s not simply cheap to, however simply as lovely to expertise with anybody. I noticed seniors, households with younger youngsters, lady journeys, and extra whereas staying in Tahiti. I personally spent a while there touring solo, and a few with my adults-only household. Tahiti is a really romantic vacation spot, its appropriate for {couples} — and everybody else.
When to Journey to Tahiti
Whereas Tahiti is a dream vacation spot year-round, there are actually execs and cons to visiting throughout the low season.
Let’s begin with the low season, which usually falls between November and April. We visited throughout the low season. Listed below are some execs and cons:
Professionals:
- Decrease Costs: Low season often means decrease costs for lodging, flights, and actions. You may snag some improbable offers on lodges and resorts, permitting you to expertise luxurious at a fraction of the associated fee.
- Fewer Crowds: One of many greatest perks of touring throughout the low season is the diminished crowds. You’ll have more room to your self on the seashores, at well-liked points of interest, and through excursions. This will result in a extra peaceable and intimate expertise of Tahiti’s pure magnificence.
- Extra Vibrant Landscapes: The upside is that waterfalls are sometimes at their most spectacular throughout this time
Cons:
- Climate Dangers: The low season coincides with Tahiti’s moist season, which implies there’s a better likelihood of rain and tropical storms. When you can nonetheless take pleasure in loads of sunshine, you’ll must be ready for infrequent downpours. This may influence outside actions like mountain climbing and snorkeling. It briefly rained twice throughout our journey, and we didn’t have an issue with it.
- Restricted Facilities: Some resorts and tour operators cut back their companies throughout the low season as a result of decrease demand. This might imply fewer eating choices, restricted spa companies, or diminished tour availability. Make sure to verify forward to see in case your favourite facilities shall be accessible throughout your go to. We didn’t have any points aside from one resort that we have been interested by that was closed for transforming throughout the low season.
- Flight Availability: Whereas flights could also be cheaper throughout the low season, there might be fewer choices accessible, particularly when you’re touring from a much less well-liked departure metropolis or touring inter-island. Make sure to e-book your flights properly upfront to safe the perfect offers and guarantee you will have choices on your journey dates.
In conclusion, visiting Tahiti throughout the low season generally is a improbable possibility for budget-conscious vacationers who’re keen to commerce off some facilities for decrease costs and fewer crowds. Simply be ready for the potential of rain and plan accordingly. In the end, irrespective of once you go to Tahiti, you’re positive to be enchanted by its pure magnificence and heat hospitality.
Getting Round in Tahiti
Tahiti is a small island, nonetheless, not walkable. Guests can prepare an airport switch by means of their resort or e-book a rental automobile, previous to arrival. Alternatively, hail a taxi cab and pay in money. Taxis don’t take card in Tahiti. Observe {that a} customer can’t simply name an Uber or Lyft. We booked a non-public driver throughout our keep, which for this vacation spot was our most well-liked technique of transportation.
Viewpoint of the sailboats from the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
3 Finest Issues to Do in Tahiti
Earlier than I dive into the perfect experiences in Tahiti, I’d like to focus on that I’m assuming that you’re stopping in Tahiti on the best way to different islands in French Polynesia. Some actions are greatest reserved for different islands, and so I’m addressing experiences which can be wholly distinctive to Tahiti. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to’t go flawed the place you do which exercise. For instance, whereas I took a helicopter tour in Bora Bora, I belief that one in Tahiti can be simply as scenic.
With that in thoughts, listed here are the three “Should-Dos” of Tahiti, which can be distinctive to the vacation spot.
1. Fa’arumai Waterfalls and Mountains
Tahiti is house to lush tropical rainforests, majestic waterfalls, and towering mountains. The inside of the island is ideal for mountain climbing and exploring, with trails that result in panoramic viewpoints and waterfalls.
Fa’arumai Waterfalls, also called the “Three Waterfalls,” is a hidden gem. Tucked away within the lush valleys of Tahiti’s inside, this sequence of cascading waterfalls gives a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Fa’arumai Waterfalls
Right here’s an outline of Fa’arumai Waterfalls:
Location
Fa’arumai Waterfalls is located within the Papenoo Valley on the island of Tahiti. The waterfalls are simply accessible by automobile, with a brief hike (aka very snug stroll) resulting in the viewing space. It’s simply accessible from Papeete, the capital of Tahiti, making it a preferred day journey vacation spot for each vacationers and locals. The waterfalls are an important place to flee the warmth and benefit from the pure fantastic thing about Tahiti’s inside.
Scenic Magnificence
The waterfalls are set towards a backdrop of lush tropical vegetation, making a picturesque scene that’s excellent for nature lovers and photographers. The crystal-clear waters cascade down the rocky cliffs, making a soothing and serene ambiance.
Fa’arumai Waterfalls
Mountain climbing Trails
The hike to Fa’arumai Waterfalls is comparatively straightforward and takes guests by means of verdant valleys and tropical forests. Alongside the best way, hikers can benefit from the sights and sounds of the encompassing nature, together with unique birds and plush vegetation. It’s a simple stroll that you are able to do in sandals and/or with kids.
Cultural Significance
Fa’arumai Waterfalls holds cultural significance for the individuals of Tahiti. In line with native legend, the waterfalls are inhabited by spirits often known as “Aitu,” and it’s believed that swimming within the pool can carry good luck.
2. The Blowhole & Black Sand Seashores
Tahiti is house to a novel geological formation often known as a blowhole. Positioned alongside the shoreline, a blowhole is a pure phenomenon created by underwater caves or lava tubes that launch pressurized air and water, leading to a spectacular spout of water taking pictures up into the air. The Arahoho Blowholeis positioned alongside one in every of Tahiti’s many black sand seashores.
One of many distinctive options of Tahiti, its black sand seashores, are created by volcanic exercise. These seashores supply a putting distinction to the turquoise waters of the lagoon and are a preferred spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Right here’s an outline of the blowhole black sand seashores of Tahiti:
Arahoho Blowhole
The blowhole in Tahiti is positioned on the southern coast of the island, close to the village of Teahupo’o. The world is thought for its rugged shoreline and highly effective surf, making it a preferred spot for surfers and nature lovers.
Left: the divider between the blowhole and the “no title” black sand seaside,: Proper: Arahoho Blowhole
- The blowhole is fashioned by underwater lava tubes or caves which have been eroded by the fixed pounding of the waves. When a wave enters the cave, it compresses the air inside, forcing it out by means of a small opening within the floor, creating the spectacular spout of water.
- Along with the blowhole itself, the encompassing space is thought for its pure magnificence, with rugged cliffs, lush vegetation, and panoramic ocean views. Guests can take within the sights and sounds of the blowhole whereas having fun with the beautiful surroundings of Tahiti’s shoreline. I favor this to the opposite, extra well-known black sand seashores of Tahiti.
- The blowhole in Tahiti is well accessible by automobile, with parking accessible close by. Guests can stroll alongside the shoreline to succeed in the blowhole and benefit from the views from the shore.
- Whereas the blowhole is a captivating pure phenomenon to witness, it’s necessary to watch it from a secure distance. The world may be harmful, particularly throughout excessive surf situations, so it’s important to train warning and observe any posted security tips.
- Total, the blowhole in Tahiti is a outstanding pure surprise that showcases the ability and fantastic thing about nature. Whether or not you’re a nature fanatic or just trying to expertise one thing distinctive, a go to to the blowhole in Tahiti is certain to go away you in awe.
The no-name black sand seaside the place locals surf
You’ll see this little retailer throughout from the blowhole and no-name seaside.
Venus Level
Venus Level is a picturesque black sand seaside positioned on the northern coast of Tahiti. It’s the most well-known black sand seaside. The seaside is called after the HMS Venus, which anchored in Tahiti in 1769 throughout Captain James Prepare dinner’s first voyage to the South Pacific. As we speak, Venus Level is a well-liked spot for picnicking and having fun with the beautiful views of Moorea Island throughout the bay.
The lighthouse at Venus Level
3. Journey Actions
Along with its pure magnificence, Tahiti gives a variety of journey actions, together with snorkeling, diving, browsing, and paddle boarding. The island’s heat waters and ample marine life make it a paradise for water sports activities lovers. One of many experiences that I missed, was canyoning in Tahiti. You may expertise the lava tubes in Vaipurau, and whereas I can’t personally vouch for it, it made the highest of my record after a lot analysis.
All the locations I’ve talked about are free. I skilled these places by reserving a non-public driver to take us from spot to identify. Instagram message our driver right here. He additionally has a price range Airbnb accessible for lease.
The Finest Resorts in Tahiti (& the Finest Issues to Do at them!)
Amongst the perfect methods to speculate your time in Tahiti is simply — laying again and having fun with its resorts!
Simply quarter-hour from the Papeete airport are two tropical lodges: the Intercontinental Tahiti, and the Hilton Tahiti. We keep at each and I like to recommend each.
The Hilton Tahiti (Photographs)
The Hilton Tahiti is located on the waterfront, the resort incorporates a personal dock, providing company easy accessibility to water actions and beautiful views of the ocean. With a deal with privateness and personalised service, the Hilton Tahiti supplies a tranquil escape for vacationers trying to unwind in paradise. It has wonderful cocktails and the perfect purchasing.
The Hilton Tahiti dock and resort
The pool on the Hilton Tahiti Lodge
The Hilton Tahiti suite… throughout a late night time arrival!
The Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa (Photographs)
The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is a premier luxurious resort positioned in Tahiti, French Polynesia, providing a bigger and extra bustling expertise in comparison with a few of the smaller resorts on the island. Located on the west coast of Tahiti, the resort boasts beautiful views of the ocean and the close by island of Moorea. It has stay music and a turtle sanctuary.
On property on the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
A child turtle on the sanctuary
Suites on the Intercontinental Tahiti
A stroll on the seaside and lagoon on the Intercontinental Tahiti
Tahiti’s pure magnificence, wealthy tradition, and opulent facilities make it a really unforgettable vacation spot for vacationers searching for a tropical paradise. Whether or not you’re in search of journey, rest, or a romantic getaway, Tahiti has one thing for everybody.
From exploring the seaside to mountain climbing by means of lush rainforests, there’s no scarcity of unforgettable experiences available in Tahiti.
For these searching for the final word in rest and facilities, the Hilton Tahiti Lodge and the Intercontinental Tahiti stand out as high selections. Each resorts are conveniently positioned only a brief drive from Tahiti’s capital, Papeete, making it straightforward for company to discover the island’s outlets, eating places, and points of interest. These resorts supply a slice of paradise that’s exhausting to beat.