The mere mention of Tahiti evokes images of a tranquil South Pacific paradise complete with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, lush rain forest, epic waterfalls and, of course, overwater bungalows. The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti has long satisfied travelers seeking just such an idyllic island getaway. The vibrant French Polynesian capital, Papeete, lies on the northwest coast of Tahiti and is not only a major port for cargo ships but also the largest cruise port in French Polynesia, appearing on the itineraries of major luxury cruise lines.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Fa’a’ā International Airport, about 3 miles from the capital city, is the only international airport in French Polynesia, convenient to all the major hotels and resorts on Tahiti. To get around, many opt to walk around Papeete’s roughly 7-square-mile area. Taxis operate at a relatively high rate; rental cars are available at the airport. There are no rideshare options in Tahiti. To visit the other French Polynesian islands, travel by boat or smaller aircraft.
LODGING
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
This eco-friendly property offers lagoon- or garden- view bungalows with private pools. Enjoy four options for dining and drinks as well as a spa for massages inspired by ancestral Tahitian techniques.
BP 1005 Papetoai, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 55 11 11
hilton.com
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
Escape to an exotic paradise complete with overwater bungalows, a stunning beach, lush gardens, swimming pools, indulgent spa and dramatic volcanic peaks. Enjoy a romantic dinner at Le Lotus overwater gourmet restaurant, serving refined French cuisine with a local twist.
PK7, Fa’a’ā, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 86 51 10
ihg.com
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
The resort sits on Mataval Bay, where waterfront views, palm trees and local art make the perfect backdrop for a tropical getaway. Indulge in exotic treatments at the spa, then grab a drink poolside to watch the sun set. Free shuttle service to Papeete, just 10 minutes away.
Lafayette Beach PK7, Arue, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 48 88 00
letahiti.com
DINING
Hei Restaurant
The menu constantly evolves at this fine-dining venue featuring French cuisine with island flair. Open for lunch, dinner and drinks, Hei is a Papeete hot spot. Reservations are highly suggested.
FC4F+GV9, Boulevard de la Reine Pomare IV, Papeete, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 43 77 14
heirestaurant.com
Restaurant Le Sully
Creating French cuisine with a Polynesian touch, this sophisticated little gem serves sumptuous dishes like house-made smoked salmon, duck filet with thyme honey sauce and parrot fish quenelle in lobster sauce. Reservations recommended.
45 Rue du Maréchal Foch, Papeete, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 83 39 83
restaurantlesully.com
Villa THAI
Experience authentic, traditional Thai food at Villa THAI, where the menu features fresh seafood, noodles, duck, curry and vegan/vegetarian dishes.
36 Bis Rue Albert Leboucher, Papeete, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 85 60 80
ATTRACTIONS
Explore the Rain Forest
Take a four-wheel-drive Jeep into the dense jungle with a knowledgeable tour guide. Visit Mount Marau, swim at a waterfall and learn from archaeological sites along the way.
Robert Wan Pearl Museum
Discover the history and legends of pearls and how they come from the sea to appear in jewelry and art, becoming a powerful status symbol. View a collection of beautiful pearls, including the largest round Tahitian cultured pearl in existence.
56 Ave. du Commandant Destremau, Papeete, French Polynesia
tel 689 40 54 86 40
robertwan.com
Snorkel
Jump aboard a traditional Polynesian canoe and head to Moorea to snorkel in the lagoon. The crystal-clear waters offer entrance to a bustling underwater world of marine life just beneath the surface.
Read This Next
Global City Guidebook: U.S. Virgin Islands
GCGB 2023
Aug 5, 2023All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedApril 2025
Apr 9, 2025Find Inner Peace in India, the Birthplace of Yoga
How far would you travel in pursuit of inner peace? Though the wellness industry has grown in popularity for quite a while, he business skyrocketed post-pandemic, with more and more travelers booking yoga retreats in the name of serenity, spirituality and, of course, self-care. When I decided it was zen I sought, I figured I should travel to its very birthplace: India. Though the idea of traveling in India initially felt more exciting than relaxing, I found the contrast between the bustling activity outside and the quiet reflection of my yoga practice to be an intoxicating combination.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
Daily
Apr 9, 2025Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico, Announces Chef-Led Series
It’s spring and a delicious new series of culinary experiences is planned at Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Dubbed Origins of Mexico, this new, chef-led dining series is immersive in nature and lusciously focuses on regional flavors, local traditions and culinary practices from across Mexico.
April 2025
Apr 9, 2025Relax and Recharge in Blissful Bali
Known as the Island of Gods, Bali boasts more than 20,000 temples; two active volcanoes; some 2,000 species of fish and other sea life; a thriving arts scene; and an abundance of spa and wellness resorts. Its distinct religion, culture and natural setting have drawn travelers from around the globe for decades, many seeking a slice of serenity. Today Bali draws everyone from backpackers to business travelers and digital nomads to celebrities. David Bowie even dictated his ashes be scattered around Bali.
Sponsored Content
Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive
Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.
Daily
Apr 9, 2025Raffles Hotels & Resorts Comes to Lake Como
Raffles Hotels & Resorts recently announced plans for its Italian debut. The luxury brand will open Raffles Lake Como in 2027. The opening marks the first Raffles property in Italy and its fifth in Europe.
Almyra Restaurant Review
eFlyer Reviews
Apr 9, 2025Exclusive April Promotions from Viking
eFlyer Deals
Apr 9, 2025eFlyer Deals
Apr 9, 2025Miami’s THesis Hotel Debuts Wellness Offer
You can now earn an “education” in relaxation and rejuvenation at THesis Hotel Miami with its new Thesis Degree in Wellness offer. Designed to nurture overall wellbeing, this was crafted in collaboration with neighboring Hydrology Wellness Center & Spa to give guests:
Sponsored Content
A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways
This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.
eFlyer Lead
Apr 9, 2025Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Hotels, Rentals: How to Stay Safe
On March 21, Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, was found dead in a hotel room on a family vacation in Costa Rica. A few days after the tragedy, the Judicial Investigation Agency ruled his death as carbon monoxide poisoning. The family had been staying at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, a 5-star property in the Puntarenas Province. On April 1, a spokesperson for the resort claimed the carbon monoxide levels in the family’s room were not present nor deadly.
ShareThis