20 Must-Visit Attractions in Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia and is known as the island of love. It is the most exotic place on earth and one of the most romantic getaways ever. Read on to see the top 20 must-visit attractions in Tahiti.

The water lagoons and isolated beaches are the main places to visit while staying in the Tahiti islands. However Tahiti is not only about the warm sun and pristine beaches, its offers tourists a great deal more in the form of delicious cuisine, beautiful local wares and some interesting historical buildings and museums.

1. The Faarumai Waterfalls

One of the main waterfalls in Tahiti, the Faarumai waterfalls would leave you in awe. The crystal clear water and the clean inviting pool into which it gushes are a sight to behold.

Make sure to bring along your cameras to capture nature in all its beauty. These waterfalls are the best tourist attractions and draws a large number of visitors during peak holiday season.

Photo credit: (flickr)

2. Venus Point

In 1876, James Cook was able to track the transit of the planet Venus from Tahiti’s northern most extremity. Thus it was named Venus point. It is a famous picnic spot and one of the best known Tahiti attractions.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 3. Mara Grotto

Well known for its ferny caves, Mara Grotto in the Tahiti islands is one place you must visit. A romantic walk in the caves and a swim in the underwater tavern are high on the list of things to do while visiting Mara Grotto.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 4. Vaipahi Gardens

The Vaipahi gardens are located south of the Tahiti Island. These gardens are famous for their cultural heritage and represent the Tahitian culture to quite an extent.

The archeological relic are a crash course in history and even if you aren’t too keen on looking at old ruins, Vaipahi gardens offers other majestic views of natural beauty as well.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 5. Papeete

The small yet bustling capital of Tahiti has a certain charm. The locals offer a variety of wares from fruits to delicious French pastries all at a very nominal price. It houses the black pearl museum which is one of the main tourist attractions in Papeete.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 6. Punaauia Beach

Easily the most accessible beach in Tahiti, Punna uia beach is thronged by a multitude of tourists. Humpback whale watching, shark feeding, swimming with the sting rays are only few of the activities in which tourists can indulge.

Last but not the least you can even get a chance to peek at Paul Gauguin’s burial place!

Photo credit: (flickr)

 7. Tahiti Lagoonarium

Of all the Tahiti Attractions, the lagoonarium is one place that you should visit while staying on the Tahiti Islands. The array of colorful tropical fishes is indeed fascinating to observe. In fact spending a day with gentle sea creatures like the sting ray and the not so gentle sharks will make you feel one with nature.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 8. Paul Gauguin’s Museum

It is said that Gauguin painted some of his best masterpieces while he stayed in the Tahiti Island. The museum consists of the painter’s famous works which are a sight to behold and depict Tahitian culture from the artists point of view.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 9. Plage de Taharuu

You may have heard of beaches with the whitest sands, but this classic beach has got black sand. That’s right, you have got to visit this Tahiti Attraction to get a load of what we are talking about!

Photo credit: (flickr)

 10. Maui Beach

One of the most picturesque and beautiful beaches of Tahiti, the Maui beach is thronged by thousands of tourists. The best part is that you can enjoy the surf and sand along with sampling some of the local wares sold there by the natives.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 11. Tomb Of King Pomare V

One of the last ruling monarchs of Tahiti, his reign lasted for a mere 3 years before he succumbed to death. The tomb is essentially beautiful to look at and is a work of art. It gives a rare insight into Tahiti’s past.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 12. Motu Islets in Tahiti

Motu islets or the small islets surrounding the bigger Tahiti islands are like a smaller version of paradise. An impromptu picnic to a motu island can be the ultimate source of relaxation. You can have a pleasant picnic with family or your better half, soaking up the sun and enjoying the calm sea.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 13. Mount Orohena

The highest peak on the Tahiti Islands, Mount Orohena provides opportunities for avid hikes. If you love a good strenuous hike then make sure you visit Mount Orohena.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 14. Municipal Market

From odd trinkets to life sized souvenirs, you will find just about everything in the Municipal markets. You can even taste the local delicious cuisine which is mouth watering and a delight for the taste buds.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 15. Tautira

Out of all of Tahiti’s attractions, Tautira is one place you shouldn’t miss. At Tautira, a picturesque beach village, you will find flavors of local culture infused with unsurpassed beauty. A visual delight with it’s over water cabanas; Tautira is one place you should visit!

Photo credit: (flickr)

 16. Arahoho Blowhole

If you haven’t ever seen a blowhole, the one at Arahoho should get you to know what it exactly is. It is actually a geographical oddity, a tunnel which opens up into the sea. It’s spectacular to look at. The sight of gushing water, as it splashes skywards have left many a tourist wondering at this miracle!

Photo credit: (flickr)

 17. The Papeete Market

The Papeete market is two storeys high and is well known for the many local wares and colorful knick knacks sold at reasonable prices.

The best time to visit the market is in the morning when it is relatively cooler and less crowded. So if you are in some mood for shopping in the Tahiti Islands, make sure to visit the Papeete market!

Photo credit: (flickr)

 18. Tiki Theater Village

This beautiful cultural village mimics the everyday life at a village in Tahiti. There is a dance show and a Tahitian feast for the tourists.

The only drawback is that you might have to struggle a bit with language issues because all the staff doesn’t converse in English. However it’s a good experience and lets you see life in the Tahiti Islands.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 19. Maeva Maraes, Huahine

Situated in Huahine, the Maeva encompasses the pagan worshiping customs of Tahiti. The stone structures were built by the ancients to offer sacrifices to their pagan gods. A must visit for the history buff and all those interested in a bit of Tahitian past.

Photo credit: (flickr)

 20. Le Belvedere Restaurant In Tahiti Islands

The Le Belvedere Restaurant is one of the best tourist attractions of Tahiti. It’s often the highlight of any tourists visit in French Polynesia.

The spectacular view 2000 ft above Moorea is what sets it apart from other restaurants. The food is delicious as well. So if you are in the mood for some good food and great view get yourself reserved at the Le Belvedere!

Photo credit: (flickr)

Tahiti Island is a sort of paradise with about the best possible views and remote areas with plenty of privacy. If you love adventure sports you are going to love the many Tahiti attractions offered in this beautiful paradise, from snorkeling to Scuba diving and everything in between.

The best way though to spend your Tahitian holiday would be with a lovely cocktail in one hand and a spectacular view of the ocean from the beach!