With French Polynesia’s only international airport, the island of Tahiti is a transit hub for many people vacationing in the South Pacific nation. But with plenty of things to do in Tahiti, it’s worth sticking around. Capital city Papeete is a great place to find authentic Tahitian food. The volcanic black-sand beaches contrast dramatically with those found on other islands, and some incredible waterfalls and blowholes make a trip around Tahiti’s perimeter worthwhile before flying to Bora Bora or catching the ferry to Moorea.
The most popular time to visit Tahiti is from May through October, the dry season. You’ll get plenty of crowds this time of year, and it’s particularly busy in August when the French take their summer vacations. If you don’t mind a few showers, the wet season (September–April) is great for avoiding crowds, except for around Christmas and New Year’s.
If you’re staying in the heart of Papeete, you won’t need a car as everything of interest is within walking distance. If you plan to head out for the day, there are local buses that cater primarily to area residents. However, if you don’t speak French, you may find it easier to rent a car or motor scooter or explore the island on a guided tour.
While French wine is widely available in French Polynesia, you may be surprised to learn that the Polynesian nation produces wine of its own on, albeit on the island of Rangiroa. Fortunately, you don’t have to hop on a flight out to the winery to try French Polynesian wine. Look for it on the wine list at hotel restaurants right on the island of Tahiti.
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Tahiti is known as a tropical South Pacific beach destination, with black sand beaches, waterfalls, and a blend of French and Polynesian culture. While Tahiti is sometimes used to refer to the whole of French Polynesia, it is the name of the island where the capital, Papeete, is located.
...MoreMany travelers find that one or two days is enough time to spend on Tahiti island. The capital, Papeete, is a transit hub for travel to or from other islands in French Polynesia. Tahiti’s black sand beaches, waterfalls, and blowholes are worth a visit.
...MoreLike elsewhere in French Polynesia, recreational activities you can enjoy in Tahiti revolve around nature and the outdoors. Swimming, surfing, snorkeling, boating, and visiting waterfalls are popular recreational activities in Tahiti. You can also shop for black pearls and eat at day and evening markets in Papeete.
...MoreNo, US dollars are not widely accepted in Tahiti. You may find some upmarket boutiques, restaurants, and hotels accept US currency, but it’s not the norm. Instead, rely on credit cards to get a cash advance from an ATM, or exchange US dollars for the local currency, the French Pacific Franc.
...MoreFor a safe trip, avoid eating raw or uncooked food, take precautions to avoid insect bites, and be aware of theft. Tahiti is generally safe, but it’s easy to fall ill to food poisoning, insects can carry diseases such as the Zika virus or chikungunya, and petty crime does occur.
...MoreYes, Tahiti is generally a safe tourist destination. Violent crime rates are low. Like anywhere, take sensible precautions such as not walking alone in unlit areas at night and keeping your personal belongings close to you. Insects such as mosquitoes pose some risk, as do natural weather events like cyclones.
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