13 Reasons To Visit Tahiti for Your Next Island Getaway
Posted by on 26 Mar 2025 , in Islands
Of the 118 islands and atolls in the stunning French Polynesia, many might argue that the islands of Tahiti are the most breathtaking of all. Composed of the larger island of Tahiti Nui and a smaller isle of Tahiti Iti, it’s the largest island in the much-loved Society Islands. From its beachy coasts to its lush rainforests, Tahiti’s natural charm is sure to pique any traveller’s interest.
Need more convincing? Here are 13 of the best reasons to visit Tahiti the next time you’re looking for a tropical escape!
1. Sunny, Tropical Weather Year-Round
Everyone says that the best time to go to Tahiti is from June to August for the cool temperatures and favourable weather. And while that’s true, it’s also undeniable that there’s no bad time to come to Tahiti. The island is consistently warm, balmy and pleasant, making it the perfect go-to beach destination year-round.
2. Gorgeous Beaches
Whether you want to swim or sunbathe, you’ll love the beaches dotted all over Tahiti’s coasts. While most of the beaches have black sand, there are a handful of white-sand beaches as well. We highly recommend Lafayette Beach for the finest black sand, as well as Toaroto Beach, a more secluded white-sand beach.
3. Deep Blue Lagoons Teeming With Marine Life
Meet sea creatures left and right as you go snorkelling or scuba diving in the blue lagoons all over Tahiti. From colourful coral reefs to friendly sea turtles and stingrays, there’s always something cool to see below the surface of the waters. Tahiti is also fantastic for humpback whales, with the BBC calling it “an ethical and safe place” to swim with the gentle giants.
4. Unlimited Water Sports
You can also do a bunch of other water activities on the island, from paddleboarding to kayaking to kiteboarding. This is perfect for families and anyone who wants a little adventure and action while admiring Tahiti’s ocean views.
5. A Surfer’s Paradise
Tahiti is known as one of the best surf spots in the world. The village of Teahupo’o probably attracts the most surfers on the island, thanks to its enormous, world-famous waves that can reach up to 20 feet tall. It’s also where Laird Hamilton famously rode the Millennium Wave in 2000. If you love surfing, you can’t sleep on Tahiti’s gnarly waves!
6. Unique, Luxurious Overwater Bungalows
Sure, beachfront hotels and luxury resorts are nice. But there’s nothing like staying a few nights in Tahiti’s signature overwater bungalows. In these unique accommodations, you can watch the sunset, enjoy the ocean views and maybe even take a dip in the waters straight from where you sleep. These chic bungalows have become somewhat of an icon in French Polynesia, so you must add it to your bucket list when visiting Tahiti.
7. Rich, Vibrant Tahitian Culture
Being in Tahiti also gives you a front-row seat to the vibrant traditions and culture Tahitians hold close to their hearts. Discover Polynesian music and dance firsthand when you visit a traditional village, or learn how to speak Tahitian by conversing with the locals. If you love art, head to the Paul Gauguin Museum to see the French painter’s works inspired by Tahitian culture. You can even plan your trip in July to coincide with the annual Heiva i Tahiti, a festival honouring French Polynesian culture and the oldest festival in the Pacific.
8. The Friendliest Locals
Tahitians are known for their warm hospitality and eagerness to show travellers their culture and laid-back island lifestyle. As soon as you get to Tahiti, you’ll feel at home thanks to their welcoming smiles and genuine nature. Being surrounded by people like that makes travelling in a new place that much more comfortable. Ask them for their recommendations around the island to know the best places to go from a local’s point of view!
9. Fresh and Flavourful Polynesian Cuisine
One of the best reasons to visit Tahiti is to taste their flavourful cuisine and local delicacies. Seafood and fresh tropical fruit are extremely abundant on the island. And with a dash of French influence, these ingredients are cooked and prepared to be their most robust and vibrant.
While you’re in Tahiti, don’t forget to try poisson cru—the island’s ceviche-like national dish prepared by marinating raw fish and seasonal vegetables in coconut milk and lime juice. It’s for sure one of the must-try dishes in Tahiti.
10. Island Markets for Tahitian Souvenirs
Explore Papeete Market to buy all sorts of Tahitian handicrafts and souvenirs to bring back home after your trip. Among the most popular buys in the vibrant market include Tahitian black pearls, shell necklaces, fish and fruit, Tahitian art and many more.
11. An Abundance of Natural Spas
After a day of water sports in Tahiti’s beautiful lagoons, you can head to one of the island’s many natural spas to experience traditional treatments, from fresh-flower baths with fragrant plumeria and tiare flowers to body scrubs using sea salt, volcanic black sand or grated coconut. Every holistic treatment is extremely invigorating and will bring you even closer to the nature and traditions of Tahiti.
12. Hiking Mont Orohena
Mont Orohena is the highest point of Tahiti Nui and is one of the most popular hikes you can take on the island. You’ll walk through lush rainforests and traverse the island for six hours before arriving at the peak of the mountain, which stands at 7,352 feet tall. Once you get to the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the island, the azure waters surrounding it and the many islands around French Polynesia.
13. The Proximity To Other Beautiful Islands in French Polynesia
Lastly, travelling to Tahiti means being in close proximity to some of the other popular islands in French Polynesia, like Bora Bora and Moorea. This means you can easily go island-hopping to explore as much of the region as you can with Tahiti as your home base!
Pack Your Bags and Head to Tahiti With Entire Travel Group!
From turquoise waters to colourful marine wildlife to the jaw-dropping panoramic views of Mont Orohena, there are plenty of reasons to visit Tahiti. Feel like this picturesque, postcard-worthy French Polynesian island is calling your name? Book a Tahiti holiday package with Entire Travel Group and make your tropical getaway dreams a reality today!
