A secret and enchanting world
Tahiti and the high islands of the Society, Marquesas and Austral
groups offer innumerable possibilities for hiking and excursions - all
the way to the tops of the volcanic peaks, where the dizzying views
sweep a full 360° over valleys, bays and lagoons, and far off into the
vastness of the Pacific Ocean. Tahiti and her Islands’ ecofriendliness
will suffuse you with an aura of mystery and magic. She happily
reveals her secrets to all who take the time to go seek them.
Outings and nature discovery tours
Hike through wild valleys, under the shade of the mape trees
(Tahitian chestnuts) or go searching for the mysterious marae on the
high islands. There are many paths giving access to unnumerable
unspoiled views. Perhaps ride horseback through the spectacular
scenery of marquesan valleys rich in many archeological sites
or along white sand beaches (Huahine, Moorea...) with the sunset
as a backdrop, or ride upriver through dense jungle
(Raiatea, Tahaa...). Qualified excursion guides will take you
in complete safety
Bicycling
While a basic bicycle is ideal for the flat road around the island
perimeter, a mountain bike is useful for making your way through
the islands’ interior. Many hotels have them for hire.
4x4 / Quad
Cross-country all-terrain vehicles (ATV) are the way to explore
the interior of the mountainous islands. Cars, scooters, “fun cars”
and quads are also available for hire on some islands.
You can also do a circle island tour by bus.
Helicopter
Discovering the islands from the air is a new and exciting way
to experience them. See the basalt peaks, the alignments
of peaks and plateaus as they reveal the secret allure of the islands
interior. The lagoons explode in an infinite palette of blues, dotted
with constellations of coral reefs - an unforgettable experience.
Sports and cultural visits
On Tahiti, the quality of the fairways and greens at the Atimaono golf
course are all part of the beauty of the place. Golfers will appreciate
the tropical setting of the only golf course in Tahiti.
Many island
hotels have tennis courts available for their guests. Archaeological
remains (marae) and museums give you the chance to learn a lot
about Tahiti and her Islands through their history and culture.
Right out in the ocean...
Most islands are blessed with wonderful lagoons where a broad
range of water activities is available. Activity providers offer visitors
their professional services and will share their love of the sea in
order to guide you on a discovery of rich seabeds and natural water
environments.
Underwater diving, diving-suit walks,
and the Aquascope
- a semi-submersible watercraft
Tahiti and her Islands offer some of the most beautiful diving
destinations in the world. The fairy-like world of the coral reefs
is accessible with or without tanks throughout the year, giving you
clear visibility of up to 30 meters.
Excursions by glass-bottomed boat or canoe
Discover the underwater world, picnic on a motu (small island), feed
the rays, visit the lagoon sharks. These are just some of the magical
experiences available between sea and sky.
Funboarding, surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing, and water skiing
The surfing spots on Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine are among
the world’s best. The east coast of Tahiti and more specifically
the Mahina district are ideally suited to windsurfing. The water
sports centers in the Society Islands, often located at the large
hotels, provide water sports activities as well as courses for all
levels, beginners to advanced.
Parasailing
You can fly over the reefs in optimal safety: exceptional views
guaranteed.
Canoe, kayak, outrigger canoe (va’a)
and jet ski hire
Whether for the sport or just for a quiet trip around the lagoon, here
is yet another way to discover the islands - from the sea.
Sailboats / Charters
Companies hiring out mono-hull sailboats or catamarans are based
in Tahiti, Moorea, and especially in the Leeward Islands.
They provide a choice of hire with or without skipper or hostess
or the weekend, a few days or a week.
Big game fishing
This sport is widely practiced in the Society Islands where big game
fishermen can hire boats by the day and track marlins, mahimahi or
swordfish.
We can book all those activities for you and you'll save on prices! With our easyConcierge service, you'll be able to contact us during your holiday and we'll book the appropriate activity for you at a discount rate.
TAHITI'S TOP TEN
Picnic on your own private idaho.
Grab a canoe, a bottle of french wine and baguette from the local supermarket and head on out to your own slice of heaven for the day.
Stay with a Tahitian family.
It’s fun and anyone can afford it, plus its a great way to get to know the locals. The stunning locations and authentic Tahitian experience leave a lasting impression. www.haere-mai.pf
Have breakfast with local stingrays.
They’re tame, they like to swim with the tourists, and no, they don’t like jam with their croissants. Take a snorkel, fins, some fish and swim into the shallows with them. Do it at least once in your lifetime.
String along with some black pearls.
Half the amazement is the trip out to the Tuamotus, on lagoons in the atolls. The other half is how they farm these slippery pearls. If you don’t buy the pearls, eat the oysters.
Spot Gauguin’s impression of Tahiti.
Drive down the west coast and picture the landscapes that inspired this french impressionist. On your way back stop at one of 'le snack' for lunch and a local beer.
Treat yourself to an overwater bungalow.
Even if you’ve had your honeymoon, this is a must. Tahitian love songs accompany an outrigger canoe bringing you a breakfast of fresh pastries and fruit. Love the French influence.
Celebrity spottingat Bloody Mary’s.
Dinner at this Bora Bora institution is a must-do experience. Fresh but simple seafood bbq, next to the see-who celebrity board. Pull up a coconut stump, the 'Hoff' may have sat there before you. Or maybe Ms Stone.
Surf the legendary break, or start at school.
The infamous Teahupoo reef break is a sure hollow massive left tube, but it's serious stuff. For more mild-mannered surfing, there's Moorea's north and west coast. Or for surfschool, try Papeete. They rent boards too.
A facial that'll sinkinto your soul.
The Helene Spa beautician collects papaya, banana, vanilla, mint, pineapple and Tahitian grapefruit daily. Every pore in your body will thank her. Try an evening massage for you and your soulmate under the stars.
Take a 4 wheel driveand see how the other half live.
A guide can show you the backbone of Tahiti,its beautiful and friendly locals. See how they live off fresh fruit, fish and flowers. And check out their stunning tattoos
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