As wanderlusts, we’ve spent our fair share of time seeking out the ultimate haven – a slice of heaven on earth. And, for us, the enchanting archipelago of Tahiti is that very sanctuary. Beyond its breathtaking natural splendor, this Polynesian gem boasts a treasure trove of cultural heritage, mouth-watering local cuisine, and a rich tapestry of traditions waiting to be unraveled. It’s no wonder then that the Islands of Tahiti have captured our imagination, beckoning us with promises of a truly unforgettable experience.
Visiting The Islands of Tahiti
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Tahiti and its surrounding islands are a treat not only for nature enthusiasts but also for those who appreciate warm hospitality and delectable cuisine. The Islands of Tahiti are renowned for their friendly residents, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to unwind in paradise.
Located in the southern Pacific Ocean, French Polynesia comprises 118 islands and atolls scattered across five archipelagos, equivalent in size to Europe. The proximity of these islands allows for easy island-hopping, allowing visitors to explore multiple islands during their stay.
During my week-long trip, I had the opportunity to visit Tahiti, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora – all part of the Society Islands chain. Other popular islands to visit include Rangiroa, Moorea, Huahine, and Fakarava, with Moorea being a personal favorite.
The peak travel season in Tahiti typically runs from May to November, but I visited mid-April, just outside the peak period. The average temperature during my stay was 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit), making it perfect for soaking up the sun. Interestingly, most residents speak a mix of Tahitian and French, although English is also widely understood.
I had the pleasure of sharing this experience with Isabelle Cheng, Allons.y, and Maria Koustogiannis, Food by Maria. Be sure to check out their posts about our trip as well! I’d like to extend a special thank you to those who helped me capture the memories through photography.
Tahiti
As I stepped off the plane from LA to Papeete with Air Tahiti Nui, the tranquil atmosphere of Faa’a International Airport enveloped me, a stark contrast to the bustling LA airport just hours prior. The warm reception by traditional dancers and singers, complete with lively drums and ukulele melodies, immediately put me at ease and left me feeling eager to explore more of this enchanting island. Their genuine hospitality was a harbinger of the authentic Polynesian culture that would soon surround me.
To stay connected on my journey, I opted for a wifi box rental, booking it online before departure and collecting it upon arrival in Tahiti. This proved to be a wise decision, as the router worked seamlessly across all islands and was significantly more affordable than relying on my home data plan.
Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort
Located amidst stunning natural beauty, my two-night stay at the Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort was a treat to remember. The resort’s crowning glory is its striking black, volcanic sand beaches, which offered me breathtaking views of the Matavia Bay and an unforgettable sunset experience that surpassed anything else I encountered during my island-hopping adventure.
Local Market
As we embarked on our culinary journey through the islands, I was thrilled to explore the unfamiliar flavors of Tahitian cuisine. Our first stop was the bustling local market, where we joined forces with Polynesian Planner and expert Evy Hirshon for a cooking class that would set the tone for our gastronomic adventure. Amidst the vibrant stalls, we discovered an array of fresh seafood, exotic flowers, and an abundance of organic produce. It’s no secret that I’m a sucker for local markets – not only do they offer a unique cultural experience, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to stock up on healthy snacks at reasonable prices. For someone with dietary restrictions like myself, the market proved to be a treasure trove of safe and delicious options.
Cooking Class with Evy Hirshon
In the heart of Tahiti lies a culinary gem – Evy Hirshon, a passionate local chef devoted to promoting healthy eating habits amidst one of the highest diabetes rates in the world. Her mission extends beyond her kitchen, as she visits schools and shares valuable insights on nutrition and sustainable living. The emphasis on locally sourced produce is a crucial aspect of her philosophy, and it’s no wonder that her cooking class at her home was an invitation we couldn’t resist. As we settled in, Evy greeted us with a refreshing concoction she dubbed ‘power juice made right,’ a harmonious blend of turmeric, ginger, and lime juice renowned for its cold-fighting properties. With this energizing elixir in hand, we joined forces with Evy to prepare a sumptuous raw vegan lunch featuring exclusively local ingredients – an experience that left us craving more than just the flavors on our plates.
Cooking Class with Maheata Banner
As our culinary adventure continued, we had the pleasure of attending another cooking class with renowned local Tahitian chef, Maheata Banner, who also kindly invited us to join her in her own home for the session. To get a glimpse into the dishes we crafted during the class, be sure to check out my vlog.
Punaauia
As we continued our journey, the enchanting town of Punaauia caught our eye, boasting stunning white sand beaches that seemed like a hidden gem just waiting to be unearthed.
Papenoo Valley
As we ventured further into the island, we had the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Papenoo Valley, nestled amidst lush green mountains and an abundance of waterfalls. The crystal-clear waters of the Papenoo River provided the perfect spot for us to take a refreshing swim, leaving us feeling invigorated and revitalized. Our journey to this natural wonder involved a 20-minute hike that proved to be well worth the effort, as the stunning views from the top were nothing short of breathtaking. We embarked on this adventure with Iaorana Tahiti Expeditions, taking part in a 4×4 safari tour that allowed us to fully appreciate the island’s unique beauty, even on a rainy day when we received a brief reprieve from the clouds.
Traditional Canoe
Paddling is an integral part of Polynesian culture, whether it’s traditional sailboats or canoes – known as va’a in our local dialect. This communal activity often requires collaboration and guidance from others to navigate effectively.
Our sailing adventure on Lafayette Beach allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the surroundings. With a knowledgeable guide from Moana Explorer at the helm, we were free to relax and take in the breathtaking views. The serene morning paddle remains one of my most cherished memories from our trip.
For a more immersive experience, check out my Islands of Tahiti vlog on YouTube for high-quality footage.
Raiatea and Taha’a
We embarked on a short but scenic flight from Tahiti to Raiatea with Air Tahiti, which offered breathtaking views from every angle. If possible, secure a window seat to fully appreciate the stunning vistas. Our brief sojourn on Raiatea was followed by a boat transfer to Taha’a, where we would spend the next 48 hours immersed in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
Taha’a Island Resort
We had the privilege of staying at Le Taha’a Island Resort and Spa, a luxurious 5-star property that sits atop Motu Tautau, an islet boasting breathtaking views of Taha’s shores. This was also my first experience in an overwater bungalow, and I must say it was nothing short of magical. My abode was surrounded by some of the most stunning waters I’ve ever had the pleasure of gazing upon. For a closer look at my incredible bungalow, be sure to check out my vlog for a comprehensive tour.
Canoe Breakfast
A stay at the Taha’a Island Resort and Spa offers more than just a comfortable bed and delicious meals. One unique experience worth exploring is the canoe breakfast, which I highly recommend. Imagine paddling through crystal-clear waters while savoring your morning coffee and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Another must-do activity is visiting the heart-shaped island nearby, accessible by borrowing paddleboards from the resort. This secluded gem is a perfect spot to unwind and take in the breathtaking views. Don’t miss this opportunity to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.
Coral Reef Snorkeling
As I embarked on my snorkeling adventure, I couldn’t wait to dive into the underwater world. Our full-day tour with Taha’a Tours Excursions kicked off at a picturesque lagoon, where we spent time exploring the vibrant coral garden teeming with an array of colorful fish. The experience was truly mesmerizing, allowing us to get up close and personal with these marine wonders.
Vanilla Plantation
As we ventured to the enchanting Tahitian vanilla plantation, La Vallée de la Vanille, our senses were transported to a world of pure delight. Located on Taha’a – aptly dubbed the ‘vanilla island’ due to its staggering 90% contribution to global Tahitian vanilla production – this paradise oozed an intoxicating aroma that left us utterly besotted.
Rum Distillery
During our excursion with Taha’a Tours, we had the pleasure of visiting the Domaine Pari Pari rum distillery, which exudes a warm and welcoming family-like atmosphere. This small-scale distillery is not only renowned for its high-quality rums but also produces a range of organic oils, including coconut and vanilla infused varieties.
Bora Bora
As our journey continued, we embarked on a scenic flight from Raiatea to Bora Bora aboard Air Tahiti. The breathtaking beauty of this renowned island unfolded before us, with its crystalline waters stretching as far as the eye could see. This tranquil paradise is a haven for aquatic enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling, and simply immersing oneself in the refreshing turquoise depths.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
During our stay in Bora Bora, we had the pleasure of residing at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, a luxurious hotel situated on the picturesque Motu To’opua island. The hotel’s unique location between the turquoise lagoon and the majestic Mount Otemanu ensured that our views were nothing short of breathtaking.
The Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste, including stunning garden suites and overwater villas. To make getting around the resort even more convenient, the hotel provides bicycles for guests to use.
ATV Tour
Experience the thrill of adventure on a guided ATV tour with Bora Bora ATV, where you can explore breathtaking vistas and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. Our excursion took us to scenic vantage points offering stunning ocean views, and although we got covered in dust and dirt, it was an unforgettable experience that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking a unique and exhilarating activity.
Swimming with Stingrays and Sharks
I’ll never forget my experience swimming alongside stingrays and blacktip sharks in Bora Bora’s crystal-clear waters. Our excursion with Manu Taxi Boat was the highlight of our trip, as it allowed us to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures. As an animal lover and sea life enthusiast, I was thrilled to discover that all marine life in Bora Bora is dosile, meaning they’re incredibly submissive and pose no threat to humans. This made for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.One of the most breathtaking moments came when we stumbled upon a lagoon teeming with hundreds of fish. The vibrant colors underwater were like nothing I’d ever seen before – it was as if we’d entered an aquatic dream world. Tahiti, in my opinion, is the very embodiment of paradise. It’s a place where locals warmly welcome you with a tiare flower necklace, symbolizing their nation’s spirit. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning natural beauty or unique Polynesian culture, Tahiti has something for everyone. I sincerely hope to have the opportunity to explore more of this enchanting archipelago in the future.