Which tahiti island is the best to visit?

Tahiti, the main island and its beating heart

Tahiti, the largest and most populous of the French Polynesian islands, is home to the dynamic capital, Papeete, where tradition meets modernity. Visit Papeete’s central market to buy local produce, black pearls and enjoy the scent of tiare flowers, the island’s symbol.

Venture inland to discover the spectacular Faarumai waterfalls or climb Mount Aorai for a panoramic view of the Leeward Islands.

History buffs will appreciate the Gauguin Museum, dedicated to the painter who drew his inspiration from these landscapes. For a moment of relaxation, the black-sand beach of Pointe Vénus gives a setting steeped in history, where the first European explorers docked.

Recommended accommodation: InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

This 5-star hotel, ideally located just a few minutes from the airport, provides bungalows on stilts overlooking the lagoon and Moorea. You’ll find two infinity pools, tropical gardens and a spa center for a luxurious stay in the heart of Tahiti.

Must-do excursion: 4×4 safari in the island’s interior

Explore Tahiti’s inland valleys, impressive waterfalls and volcanic landscapes on a 4×4 safari. This excursion takes you deep into the mountains, where few tourists venture.

Bora Bora, the pearl of the Pacific

Bora Bora, nicknamed the “Pearl of the Pacific”, is French Polynesia’s most emblematic island. Its turquoise lagoon and unusual accommodations attract visitors in search of luxury and romance. In Bora Bora, you can explore the coral gardens by snorkeling or enjoy a farniente break on the paradise beaches.

For the more adventurous, there are boat trips to observe sharks and manta rays, while a hike up Mount Otemanu offers breathtaking views of the island’s lagoons and white sand beaches.

Recommended accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Located on a private islet, the Four Seasons proposes absolute luxury with its sumptuous suites, floating villas, world-class wellness center and breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu.

Must-do excursion: Sunset cruise in the lagoon

A private sunset cruise in the Bora Bora lagoon ends with a romantic dinner on the water, offering a magical experience.

Moorea, Tahiti’s nature and adventure island

Just 30 minutes by ferry from Tahiti, Moorea is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. This volcanic island, with its craggy peaks and verdant valleys, is ideal for hiking, particularly at Belvedere, with amazing views of Opunohu and Cook bays.

Moorea’s lagoon is perfect for water sports, such as kayaking, Polynesian pirogues and scuba diving, showcasing a rich marine fauna.

Recommended accommodation: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

In Moorea, the Hilton hotel, located between bays, provides bungalows with direct access to the lagoon and a spa nestled in tropical gardens. Surrounded by pineapple and coconut plantations, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable stay on the islands of Tahiti.

Must-do excursion: Snorkeling with rays and sharks

Dive into Moorea’s lagoon and swim with stingrays and blacktip sharks.

Raiatea and Tahaa, Tahiti’s sacred sisters

Known as the sacred islands of French Polynesia, Raiatea and Tahaa share a lagoon, creating a unique symbiosis. Raiatea, the ancient religious capital, is home to the Taputapuatea marae, a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks the start of the great Polynesian migrations.

Tahaa, nicknamed Vanilla Island, is covered in plantations. Visitors can discover the production process of this spice. The island also allows you to dive in its crystal-clear waters to explore coral gardens.

Recommended accommodation Vahine Island Private Island Resort

Vahine Island is an idyllic retreat located on a private motu. It offers Polynesian bungalows nestled in a coconut grove, facing a serene lagoon. This setting is perfect for relaxing or exploring the vibrant coral gardens through snorkeling or kayaking.

Must-do excursion: Cruise around Tahaa

Explore the tranquil waters of Tahaa on a private cruise. Visit black pearl farms and vanilla plantations while enjoying the serenity of the lagoon.

The Tuamotus, a diver’s paradise

Comprising more than 70 atolls, the Tuamotu archipelago is a diver’s paradise. Its calm, translucent lagoons are home to exceptional marine life, from multicolored fish to gray sharks.

Rangiroa, one of the world’s largest atolls, is famous for its dive sites where currents attract sharks and dolphins. For a more tranquil experience, the island of Fakarava is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It offers unspoiled coral and secluded beaches. This makes the Tuamotus a haven from the modern world.

Recommended accommodation: Kia Ora Resort & Spa (Rangiroa)

The Kia Ora Resort, located on the coral atoll of Rangiroa in the Tuamotus, offers an authentic and luxurious setting with its 58 bungalows, surrounded by gardens and a crystal-clear lagoon. Come and experience total disconnection in Tahitian hospitality and culture.

Must-do excursion: Diving in the Tiputa pass

Explore the famous Tiputa pass, where you can observe dolphins, sharks and other marine life in their natural environment. An unforgettable experience for experienced divers.

Tahiti’s hidden islands: Marquesas and Australs

The Marquesas Islands, almost 1,500 km from Tahiti, offer a journey off the beaten track, combining spectacular landscapes of sheer cliffs, dense forests and secluded beaches. Known for their rich Polynesian culture, the Marquesas are home to ancestral traditions such as sculpture, dance and tattooing, as well as being the final resting place of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel.

In contrast, the Australs are less-frequented islands, known for their authenticity and tranquility, ideal for those in search of solitude. Rurutu, in particular, attracts visitors with its impressive caves and humpback whale watching between July and October.

In conclusion

A trip to Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia is a unique experience in paradise. Bora Bora for luxury, Moorea for adventure, the Tuamotus for diving, or the Marquesas for cultural immersion… No matter which island you choose, you’ll always be surrounded by turquoise lagoons, white or black sand beaches, and warmly welcomed by the Polynesian people.

✨ FAQ

What’s the most beautiful place in Tahiti?

Moorea’s belvedere and Tahiti’s Pointe Vénus are among the most beautiful spots, offering breathtaking views of the lagoon and mountains.

What to do in Tahiti for 15 days?

A 15-day stay would allow you to explore Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, and a wilder island like Taha’a or the Marquesas. Between lagoon excursions, hikes and cultural discoveries, the activities are varied.

How long will it take to visit Tahiti?

For a complete experience, we recommend spending at least 7 days in and around Tahiti. This will enable you to discover Papeete, the beaches and the interior.