Tahiti is one of the dream locations people have on their bucket lists. You can stay in an overwater bungalow or at one of the luxury resorts in Tahiti with all of the amenities that you could ever want.
In our Tahiti travel guide, we're going to help make your dream vacation a little easier with insights on:
- Things to do
- Beaches to visit
- Where to stay
- So much more
If you've always dreamed of visiting Tahiti before, this guide will fill in the details to make the experience everything you imagined and more. Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia and the region's main international gateway, with most travelers flying into Faa'a International Airport near the capital of Papeete on a roughly eight-hour direct flight from Los Angeles.
5 Things to Do in Tahiti
Tahiti is more than just a place to stay on the water, although it's one of the activities that people tend to enjoy the most. You can also do a lot of other things, such as:
1. Mont Aorai Trail
Beautiful yet taxing, this trail spans over 20 miles and is not for beginners. With that said, it's also one of the most stunning in the world. Once you get to the top of the summit, you'll have a bird's-eye view of the best beach in Tahiti and its stunning landscapes.
2. Vaimahuta / Faʻarumaʻi Falls Trail
Another small hike will land you at the base of a stunning waterfall that fills the lake below. Take a dip in the water while looking up at the staggering waterfall pouring down. If you want a picture-perfect experience that doesn't require the same intense hiking as Mont Aorai, this is a great option.
3. Admire Street Art in Papeete
Papeete is known for its stunning street art and an annual festival that it hosts. Large murals are scattered across the city, making it one of the most fun places to walk. While you're downtown, stop by the Papeete Market for local crafts and Tahitian black pearls, then grab dinner from one of the roulottes, the roadside food trucks known for fresh poisson cru.
4. Grotto de Marae
Tahiti is filled with hidden oases, such as this grotto that mimics a botanical garden and waterfall at the same time. While beautiful and surrounded by nature, be sure to bring bug spray with you, as the mosquitoes in the area are aggressive.
5. Black-sand Beaches
Just outside of Papeete, you'll find the black sand beaches of Lafayette. Turquoise waters and green sprawling mountains are in the distance, making this one of the beach experiences you won't want to miss.
Create a free travel registry today and get started planning your Tahiti travels.
Where to Stay in Tahiti
From all-inclusive resorts to overwater bungalows, Tahiti has accommodations that will make you feel like royalty.
Not sure where to stay in Tahiti? Here are a few options to consider:
Luxury Resorts in Tahiti
Resorts offer luxury seaside rooms with pools, spas and amenities that complete your vacation. Some of the most popular options are:
- Four Seasons Resort
- Le Bora Bora
- InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
Overwater Bungalows
Many of the resorts mentioned in the last section have overwater bungalows, but other options include:
- Le Taha'a Island Resort
- Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort
Tahiti All Inclusive Resorts
Of course, Tahiti all inclusive resorts are another great option for anyone on a budget. You have the opportunity to book a resort where everything from your food to drinks is included in the price, so you never have to worry about unexpected surprises popping up.
Some of the many options in the area are:
- The Brando: A luxury resort that includes all of your meals, most beverages and daily excursions. Villas also receive daily spa services for free and have access to 24/7 room service.
- Ninamu Resort: Eco-friendly and secluded, the Ninamu Resort includes all of your food, great snorkeling, beach toys and stunning amenities.
You'll find numerous resorts that are willing to host you during your stay.
Planning a honeymoon and want some more inspiration? Read through our list of the best honeymoon resorts in Tahiti.
When is the Best Time to Visit Tahiti?
Tahiti is where you go to spend time outdoors and at the beach. Rain is the last thing tourists hope for during their once-in-a-lifetime vacation. If you prefer temperatures between 79-82°F with minimal rainfall and low humidity, go to Tahiti during the months of May to October.
Peak season is when you'll enjoy the best weather and when most honeymooners choose to go to Tahiti, but you'll also spend more on:
- Accommodations
- Tours and entertainment
- Food
June through September is the peak season. November through April will land you the best travel deals, but it's not the best time to visit Tahiti because you'll experience tropical downpours and high humidity levels.
Fewer tourists visit during this time of year, and if you get lucky and it doesn't rain, you'll save a lot on accommodations and flights.
If you plan on only visiting Tahiti once in your life, avoid the low season because there's a good chance that at least some of your stay will be filled with soggy weather. A few quick logistics worth noting: the local currency is the French Pacific franc (XPF), French and Tahitian are the official languages with English widely spoken in resorts and tourist areas, and US travelers do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
Want to explore other options? View our Bora Bora honeymoon guide.
What is the Best Beach in Tahiti?
Your preferences will shape this answer because all of the beaches in the area are world-class.
For example:
White Sands and Swimming
Plage de Vaiava (PK18) is considered the most beautiful beach in the area and sits on the western coast. Tropical fish abound, and the area has calm turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and views of Moorea.
Photos and History
Pointe Vénus sits on the northern coast of the peninsula and is known for its black sand beaches. You'll see a stunning lighthouse built in the 1800s and monuments that were erected for Captain James Cook.
Black Sands
Lafayette Beach is another option for black sands and is on the island's eastern coast. Offering secluded swimming spots and volcanic backdrops, you'll enjoy stunning views of the ocean and cliffs from this location.
Surfing
Teahupo'o sits along the southeastern coast of the island and is known for being the best place to surf. You'll find that the surf is so consistent that they often hold international surfing competitions at the beach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I visit Tahiti or Bora Bora?
Tahiti is the largest island and the international gateway, so most trips start here, and it leans toward culture, markets, hiking, and black-sand beaches at a more accessible price point. Bora Bora is the postcard luxury island known for its lagoon and overwater suites. Many travelers pair the two, and our Bora Bora honeymoon guide covers that side of the trip.
Are overwater bungalows worth it in Tahiti?
They are the most expensive accommodation option, but the direct lagoon access, glass-floor panels, and privacy are why they top so many bucket lists. You do not have to book one for your entire stay. A common move is to split nights between an overwater bungalow and a beach or garden bungalow to balance the splurge with your budget.
Can you island-hop from Tahiti?
Yes, and it is part of the appeal. Moorea is a roughly 30-minute ferry or short flight from Papeete, and islands like Bora Bora, Taha'a, Rangiroa, and Tikehau are reached on domestic Air Tahiti flights. Because inter-island flights are domestic, you skip airport security, but seats fill up fast, so book them in advance.
Is Tahiti a good honeymoon destination?
It is one of the classic ones. Overwater bungalows, private lagoons, and the calm May-to-October dry season make it a favorite for newlyweds, and you can offset the cost by setting up a honeymoon registry so guests contribute toward the trip.
Do you need to speak French in Tahiti?
French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is widely spoken across resorts, tour operators, and tourist areas, so you can get by comfortably without French. Learning a few basic phrases goes a long way on the smaller, less touristy islands.
Can you swim with sharks and rays in Tahiti?
Yes. Guided lagoon tours let you snorkel alongside blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in shallow, clear water, and they are a highlight for many visitors. Going with a licensed operator keeps the experience safe and respectful of marine life.