Introduction
Tahiti is an island in French Polynesia, located in the Pacific Ocean. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, turquoise lagoons, rich culture and colorful wildlife. If you are planning to visit this dream destination, here is a list of things to see and do to make the most of your trip.
The beaches
Tahiti’s beaches are renowned for their scenic beauty. The most popular beaches on the island are Punaauia Beach, Lafayette Beach, Matavai Beach, Papara Beach and Temae Beach. These beaches all offer crystal clear waters, white sands and a cooling breeze that make them a perfect place to relax.
Punaauia Beach
Punaauia Beach is located on the west coast of Tahiti and is close to the city of Papeete. This beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Lafayette beach
Lafayette Beach is a secluded beach located in the Taiarapu-Ouest district, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the lagoon. This beach is ideal for those looking for a quiet and romantic getaway.
Matavai Beach
Matavai Beach is located in the district of Mahina, in the east of Tahiti. This beach is known for its powerful waves, which make it a favorite spot for surfers.
Papara Beach
Papara Beach is located in the Papara district, in the west of Tahiti. This beach is known for its great surfing conditions and evening beach barbecues.
Temae Beach
Temae beach is located on the island of Moorea, which is accessible by boat from Tahiti. This beach offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and is known for its tranquility.
Nautical activities
Tahiti is famous for its nautical activities. Some of the most popular activities include surfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and deep sea fishing.
Surf
Surfing is a popular activity in Tahiti, especially in the areas of Punaauia, Papara and Teahupoo. Teahupoo is considered one of the most dangerous surf spots in the world, with waves over 6 meters.
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Paddleboarding is a recent activity in Tahiti, offering the possibility of exploring the lagoons of the island while practicing physical activity. It is an ideal activity for beginners as there are no waves to overcome.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Diving is an unforgettable experience in Tahiti with the possibility of observing green sea turtles and black tip sharks in their natural habitat. Popular dive sites include the Catalina Plane Wreck, Maraa Cave and the Coral Garden.
The kayak
Kayaking is a popular activity in Tahiti, offering magnificent views of the island’s lagoon, bays and caves. It is possible to take a guided tour or explore independently.
deep sea fishing
Tahiti is a world famous fishing destination. Fish sought after include yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, blue marlin and wahoo. It is possible to rent a boat with a captain to go on the high seas.
Polynesian culture
Tahiti is rich in Polynesian culture, with a unique history and traditions to discover. Among the cultural activities in Tahiti are traditional dance performances, visits to museums and archaeological sites, as well as the discovery of local gastronomy.
Traditional dance performances
Traditional dance performances are a popular activity in Tahiti, offering the opportunity to see the dances and colorful costumes of the Polynesian islands. The most popular shows take place in large hotels, but it is also possible to find them in local villages.
Museums and archaeological sites
The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands and the Paul Gauguin Museum are two must-see museums to visit in Tahiti. Apart from these museums, it is possible to visit archaeological sites such as the marae platform of Arahurahu, where the ancient Tahitians paid homage to their gods.
The local gastronomy
The local gastronomy of Tahiti is renowned for its raw fish marinated in Tahitian spices, called “poisson cru”. It is possible to taste other traditional dishes such as fafa, a dish made with taro leaves, or chicken fafa, a chicken dish cooked in taro leaves.
The must-see places in Tahiti
To discover Tahiti in all its splendor, it is necessary to visit these must-see places on the island.
Papeete market
The Papeete market is a lively market where you can buy local products, such as tropical fruits, vegetables, fish and souvenirs. The market is open every day except Sunday.
The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands
The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands is a must-see museum to discover the history and culture of Tahiti. The museum offers a collection of Polynesian heritage objects, as well as temporary exhibitions.
The belvedere of Tahiti
The Belvedere of Tahiti is a viewpoint over the city of Papeete and the Papenoo Valley. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the island and its mountains.
Teahupoo Beach
Teahupoo Beach is located in the Taiarapu-West district and is famous for its waves over six meters in height. This beach is a favorite spot for surfers looking for thrills.
Conclusion
Tahiti is a dream destination for those looking to relax, explore and discover a unique culture. With its magnificent beaches, its nautical activities, its rich culture and its must-see places, Tahiti offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are looking for thrills or relaxation, Tahiti will amaze you.