A Picnic on the Motu

The soft sand is warm, the turquoise lagoon is shimmering, and all tghat swimming and snorkeling has mad you feel a little peckish. Well, you're in luck! The table's been set in the shallow water, and a delicious poisson cru and a glass of frsh coconut juice are waiting for you! Tāmā’a maita’i! Motu is…

Tahitian first names

Tahitian first names have an exotic and poetic ring to them and are popular far beyond the shores of The Islands of Tahiti. Traditional Tahitian first names are deeply rooted in Polynesian culture and mythology. Each name has a particular significance and is never chosen lightly. If you decide you would like to give your…

A Tour of Tahiti by Truck

You should take at least a day to explore Tahiti, the main island of French Polynesia. The most authentic way to do so is on a truck, the traditional Tahitian bus. The Tere Fa'a'ati is a festive tour of the island by truck that is organized each year in January. Tahiti is the biggest and…

Hiking in Tahiti and Bora Bora

When you think of French Polynesia, the image is of coconut palms, sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons. But there is another side to the islands that is equally as beautiful. The lush green hills and valleys, waterfalls and archeological sites that you'll discover when you go hiking in the interior of The Islands of Tahiti.…

A trail with a difference

French Polynesia is spread over 4 million km², which is the equivalent of continental Europe. There are a total of 118 islands and atolls dispersed among five archipelagos: the Tuamotu, Society, Austral, Gambier and Marquesas Islands. Some of the islands are high, volcanic islands, while others are low, coral atolls. Almost all of them have…

The luxuriant Tahitian countryside

French Polynesia is a dream destination for hiking enthusiasts. The majestic mountains, lush green valleys and superb views make hiking in Tahiti an unforgettable experience. But make sure that you're properly prepared before you set off. A hike into the hills and valleys of Tahiti is a wonderful adventure. Discover the waterfalls, archeological sites and…

A Day in the Lush Opunohu Valley

In The Islands of Tahiti there is a vast choice of things to do and see. And one of the most beautiful sites on the island of Moorea is the Opunohu Valley. Here is a suggestion for an excursion to explore the valley and admire the lush vegetation, starting from the beautiful turquoise waters in…

The most beautiful sites in the Gambier Islands

At more than 1,600 kilometers from Tahiti, the Gambier Islands are a unique destination in The Islands of Tahiti. Far off the beaten track, these volcanic islands all share the same magnificent lagoon. Idyllic motu and some of the most beautiful churches in French Polynesia are just some of the sites to see.

A Visit to Papeete Market

Papeete market is a wonderful place to visit during your stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Situated right in the middle of the town, it is a colorful and lively center where you'll get a good insight into the daily life of the inhabitants of French Polynesia. The municipal market in Papeete was originally called…

A Tahitian Guesthouse: Authentic Polynesian Hospitality

There is a vast choice of accommodations in The Islands of Tahiti, from luxury hotel resorts to camp sites. Tahitian Guesthouses offer first class accommodations that is authentic and reasonably priced. Staying in a Tahitian Guesthouse you're sure of a good night's rest after a day spent visiting Papeete or diving in the lagoon. Authentic…

In the Footsteps of Gauguin and Brel in Hiva Oa

Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel (a well known French musician) are united for eternity on the island of Hiva Oa. Both of them fell for the charms of this beautiful island and spent their last days in Atuona, the main village. They are buried a few meters apart, in the island's picturesque Calvaire cemetery. "To…

Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in The Islands of Tahiti

Magnificent turquoise and blue lagoons of crystal clear, warm water and beautiful beaches of soft white, black or even pink sand. Welcome to The Islands of Tahiti! Here is our selection of the ten best beaches, but you'll find equally superb beaches on every island in French Polynesia.

Papeete, a Family Destination

Welcome to Papeete, the vibrant capital of Tahiti. Once you've settled into your accommodation, take a tour round the town center with the family. There's plenty to do for children and adults. Visit the lively market, stroll along the waterfront and let the family get its first taste of this South Sea island. A visit…

Tour of the island of Tahiti – The spots you must see

The quickest way to get to know Tahiti is to rent a car and drive round the island. A chance to see (almost) everything in just one day. This itinerary is an ideal way to begin your voyage to The Islands of Tahiti. Stopping to admire luxuriant countryside, idyllic beaches, caves, waterfalls and historic sites…

Tetiaroa by Catamaran

The island of Tetiaroa is one of the quieter and more discreet of the Society Islands. And yet it is also one of the most beautiful. The best way to visit this haven of peace for birds and sea turtles is to take a catamaran excursion from Papeete. Tetiaroa is a small atoll and it's…

Traditional Sports

The traditional Polynesian sports include stone lifting, javelin throwing, fruit carrier races, coconut tree climbing and va'a races. Most of them are far less easy than they look. Give them a try and see for yourself! The Tahitian name for traditional Polynesian sports is Tū’aro Mā’ohi. and they are another part of the ancestral culture…

The Tere A’ati in Rurutu

The island of Rurutu is in the heart of the Austral Islands, more than 370 miles from Tahiti. This small island paradise is known for its unique, authentic traditions, such as the annual Tere A'ati festival held every January. The entire population, old and young, gathers together for a grand procession around the island. A…

Preparing a Polynesian fruit salad

There is an incredible abundance of fruit in The Islands of Tahiti, including watermelon, pineapple, mango, papaya, passion fruit, lychees, bananas, star fruit, abiu, rambutan and many, many others. You'll find fruit for sale at roadside stands or in the markets. Ask to try some of those that you've never seen before. Then make a…

Ziplining in The Islands of Tahiti  

If you like heights and you're looking for thrills, visit the treetop adventure parks in Tahiti and Moorea and get your fill of both. The opportunity to combine thrills and adventure with a bird's eye view from the trees in The Islands of Tahiti. The treetop adventure parks in Moorea and Tahiti offer a fun…

Superyachts

The Islands of Tahiti is the main center for superyachts in the South Pacific. With 118 islands and atolls, spread over an area the size of Europe, French Polynesia offers countless crusing possibilities for these luxurious floating palaces The preservation of the ocean has been a priority for the government of French Polynesia for over…

Discover Bird Island in Tetiaroa

French Polynesia is blessed with a wealth of treasures and throughout your voyage you'll have the chance to visit these little corners of paradise. One of the most prercious of these treasures is Tetiaroa atoll, the private island of Marlon Brando. A veritable jewel in the crown of The Islands of Tahiti. Weigh anchor and…

Exploring Tahiti’s Peninsula

The peninsula is the perfect place for lovers of nature, authenticity and of course, surfing. Known by Tahitians as Tahiti Iti, the peninsula is of volcanic origin, mountainous and untamed. Take the time to explore this unique and special part of Tahiti during your visit to French Polynesia. Tahiti is two islands linked together by…

Tour Papeete’s Street Art

An open air art gallery on the streets of Papeete. Take your camera and explore a very different side of Papeete, the side of its buildings. Numerous walls in the city have been painted with graffiti, with the blessing of the local authorities, and are now works of art. From 2014 to 2018, a Polynesian…

Food Trucks in The Islands of Tahiti

In French Polynesia, a food truck is called a "roulotte". Delicious food, rapid service and reasonably priced menus make food trucks the favorite restaurants of the local population. Originally roulottes were mobile restaurants which catered for laborers, close to their worksite. Now they are a veritable institution and can be found throughout The Islands of…

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