A Comprehensive Guide to Tahitian Paradise

Introduction

Welcome to Tahiti and The Islands of French Polynesia – a destination that transcends paradise. This 10-day itinerary is designed for discerning travelers seeking an authentic blend of luxury, adventure, culture, and natural wonder. From the vibrant capital of Papeete to the serene lagoons of Moorea, this guide encompasses the best experiences the islands have to offer, complemented by curated dining recommendations and exclusive shopping destinations[1][2].

This itinerary balances cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, culinary excellence, and relaxation across two distinct islands – Tahiti and Moorea – allowing you to experience both the cosmopolitan heart and the tropical tranquility of French Polynesia

Trip Overview & Stay Structure

Accommodation Split

Days 1-4: Papeete, Tahiti (Urban Cultural Experience)

• Location: The capital city of French Polynesia

• Purpose: Cultural immersion, dining excellence, shopping, historical sites

• Base hotel in downtown Papeete or nearby Arue district

Days 5-10: Moorea (Island Paradise)

• Location: 12 kilometers from Tahiti, accessible by 10-minute ferry or 5-minute flight

• Purpose: Beach relaxation, water activities, lagoon exploration, hiking

• Resort stay with overwater or garden bungalow accommodation

This split stay provides optimal experience balance: urban sophistication followed by island serenity[1].

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Days 1-2: Papeete Arrival & Cultural Exploration

Day 1: Arrival in Papeete

Morning

• Arrive at Arue International Airport (PPT), 5 km from downtown

• Immigration and customs clearance

• Transfer to hotel in downtown Papeete

• Check-in and settle into your accommodation

• Rest and acclimatization

Afternoon

• Explore downtown Papeete on foot

• Visit the iconic Cathedral, featuring Neo-Romanesque architecture

• Stroll through the scenic Harbor and Paofai Park

• Watch traditional outrigger canoe activities (va'a) if timing permits

• Sunset walk along the waterfront

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: Le Grillardin - Renowned for French Polynesian fusion cuisine featuring local fish and exotic ingredients prepared with classical French techniques[1][2]

• Overnight in Papeete

Day 2: Market Culture & Historical Sites

Morning (8:00 AM start)

• Visit Papeete Municipal Market on a weekday morning for authentic local culture[1]

• Explore produce, tropical fruits, handicrafts, and local goods

• Browse for monoi (traditional coconut oil infused with tiare flowers) and Tahitian vanilla

• Photography opportunities of vibrant island commerce

Mid-Morning

• Tour the Museum of Tahiti and The Islands (Musée de Tahiti et des Îles)

• Discover pre-European Polynesian history and contemporary culture

• View traditional canoes, ceremonial artifacts, and cultural exhibits

Afternoon

• Visit the Pearl Museum (Museum of Pearls)

• Learn about black pearl cultivation and history

• Browse pearl jewelry (excellent investment pieces and souvenirs)

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: L'O a La Bouche - Award-winning fine dining establishment featuring French classics with Tahitian ingredients, including foie gras with Tahitian vanilla. Exceptional service and intimate ambiance[1][2]

• Optional: Polynesian dance show performance at resort or cultural venue

• Overnight in Papeete

Days 3-4: Island Adventure & Culinary Excellence in Tahiti

Day 3: Natural Wonders & Waterfall Adventures

Early Morning (6:00 AM)

• Guided full-island tour with expert local guides

• Visit Vaipahi Garden and Waterfall - spectacular botanical gardens with natural falls

• Explore waterfalls and pristine natural pools

Mid-Day

• Stop at Botanical Gardens and Vaima Springs

• Photography of tropical vegetation and endemic plant species

• Lunch at local snack bar or food truck (roulotte)

Afternoon

• Visit Teahupoo area (PK0) - site of the famous 2024 Olympic surfing competition

• Viewpoint of the mythical Teahupoo wave

• Scenic coastal drive with photo opportunities

• Explore grottos and caves along the route

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: Hei Restaurant - Contemporary Polynesian fine dining with seasonal menus and innovative preparations using local seafood and island produce[1]

• Overnight in Papeete

Day 4: Papenoo Valley & Interior Exploration

Early Morning (7:00 AM)

• Papenoo Valley Tour (recommended booking 2 weeks in advance as tours frequently sell out)[1]

• Experience one of Tahiti's most spectacular interior valleys

• Guided hike through lush rainforest

• Waterfall discoveries and hidden pool swimming

• Archaeological site exploration

• Botanical interpretation of endemic species

Afternoon

• Optional: Lake Vaihiria 4x4 Adventure - Access to French Polynesia's only natural lake via four-wheel-drive exploration

• Scenic mountain drives and valley viewpoints

• Photography of the island's volcanic interior

Late Afternoon

• Return to Papeete

• Relax at hotel spa or beachfront

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: meherio tahitian bistro - Authentic Tahitian cuisine featuring poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk), with live Marquesan band entertainment on weekends. Right on the waterfront near the marina[1]

• Overnight in Papeete

Days 5-10: Moorea Island Resort Experience

Day 5: Transfer to Moorea & Lagoon Orientation

Morning

• Hotel checkout in Papeete (arrange luggage storage if needed for early ferry)

Mid-Day Transfer Options

• Ferry Option: Aremiti high-speed ferry, 10-minute journey. Depart 8:00-11:00 AM

• Flight Option: Air Moana domestic flight, 5-minute journey (more expensive but direct to resort area)

Noon Arrival in Moorea

• Check-in at resort (most allow check-in after 3:00 PM; early check-in subject to availability)

• Settle into your overwater or garden bungalow

• Welcome orientation from resort staff

Afternoon

• Beach relaxation and lagoon acclimatization

• Swimming in turquoise lagoon waters

• Sunset viewing from your bungalow deck

Evening

• Welcome dinner at resort restaurant

• Optional beachfront dinner with island specialties

• Early night after travel day

Day 6: Moorea Lagoon Activities & Marine Experience

Full Day

• Lagoon Cruise & Snorkeling Excursion (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

  • Sail across crystal-clear lagoon waters

  • Snorkel at coral gardens teeming with tropical fish

  • Encounter with stingray feeding (supervised and safe)

  • Champagne toast at sunset viewpoint

• Afternoon Beach Time (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Beach relaxation at resort private beach

  • Swim and water activities at your leisure

  • Spa treatment (massage or body treatments featuring monoi oils)

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: K' Restaurant at Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea - High-end resort dining featuring fresh seafood, French culinary technique, and island ambiance. Direct lagoon views[1]

• Optional: Beach bar evening entertainment or bonfire gathering

Day 7: Island Exploration & Hiking Adventure

Full Day

• Guided Island Tour (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)

  • Explore Opunohu Bay and Cook Bay scenic viewpoints

  • Visit ancient archaeological sites and marae (temples)

  • Pineapple plantation visit with tropical fruit sampling

  • Cultural discussion with local guides

• Afternoon Hiking Options (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Mount Rotui Trail: Moderate hike with panoramic lagoon views

  • Belvedere Viewpoint: Scenic drive to stunning overlook of both bays

  • Alternative: Leisurely beach walks and village exploration

Evening

• Dinner at casual beachfront restaurant with fresh catch of the day

• Evening stroll through resort and stargazing

• Optional: Karaoke or evening entertainment at resort

Day 8: Water Sports & Adventure Day

Morning Activity (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

• Kayaking in Lagoon - Paddle through shallow turquoise waters with expert guides

  • Snorkel stops at coral formations

  • Motu island exploration

  • Marine life observation (fish, rays, sea turtles)

Afternoon Activity (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

• Scuba Diving Option: Intro dive or certification course (for certified divers)

• Alternative: Paddle Board Adventures with guide through lagoon channels

• Water sports combinations available at resort activity desk

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: Resort dining with lagoon views

• Relaxation evening after active day

• Sunset cocktail at beach bar

Day 9: Relaxation, Shopping & Culinary Exploration

Morning

• Leisurely beach time

• Swimming and water activities at own pace

• Spa morning: Traditional Polynesian massage or facial treatment using island-derived ingredients

Late Morning to Afternoon

• Optional: Village exploration and local shopping

  • Artisanal crafts and handicrafts

  • Local boutiques featuring Tahitian designs

  • Monoi oil shops and cosmetics stores featuring Tahitian vanilla

• Or: Poolside relaxation at resort infinity pool

Evening

• Dinner recommendation: Sunset Beach Dinner - Resort can arrange private or semi-private beachfront dining

• Gourmet menu featuring fresh local fish, French wines, and island-inspired cuisine

• Romantic ambiance with sound of lapping waves

Day 10: Departure Preparation & Final Experiences

Early Morning

• Final beach time and lagoon swim

• Last photos and memories from your resort

Mid-Morning

• Hotel checkout (typically 11:00 AM)

• Arrange luggage storage at resort

• Lunch recommendation at resort restaurant or poolside café

Afternoon

• Return ferry or flight to Tahiti

• Transfer to airport

• Departure flight (overnight international flights typically depart 11:00 PM - 2:00 AM)

Pro Tip: Arrange return ferry/flight to arrive at Papeete 3-4 hours before international departure to account for airport procedures.

Top 10 Activities in Tahiti & Moorea

Must-Do Experiences

1. Papeete Municipal Market Exploration - Immerse yourself in local culture at the largest market in French Polynesia, vibrant with colors, sounds, and authentic island commerce[1]

2. Papenoo Valley Guided Tour - Experience one of Tahiti's most spectacular hidden valleys, featuring lush rainforest, hidden waterfalls, and untouched natural beauty (book 2 weeks in advance)[1]

3. Moorea Lagoon Cruise with Snorkeling - Sail crystal-clear turquoise waters, encounter stingrays, snorkel coral gardens, and enjoy champagne sunset toasts[1]

4. Lake Vaihiria 4x4 Adventure - Access French Polynesia's only natural lake via thrilling four-wheel-drive expedition through mountainous terrain[1]

5. Teahupoo Wave Viewing - Visit the legendary surf spot featured in the 2024 Olympics, famous for its massive and dangerous waves

6. Moorea Island Hiking - Ascend Mount Rotui or reach Belvedere Viewpoint for panoramic lagoon vistas spanning both Opunohu and Cook Bays

7. Kayaking Through Motu Islands - Paddle through shallow lagoon channels to pristine islets, snorkel in secluded coral gardens, and swim in natural paradise

8. Scuba Diving Experiences - Explore world-class coral reefs, encounter tropical fish species, and potentially spot reef sharks (thrilling but controlled environment)

9. Tahitian Cultural Immersion - Watch traditional va'a (outrigger canoe) activities, attend Polynesian dance performances, and learn about pre-European island history[1]

10. Botanical Garden & Waterfall Tours - Discover the Vaipahi Gardens, hidden waterfalls, and endemic plant species with expert local guides providing ecological and cultural context

Top 10 Attractions in Tahiti & Moorea

Essential Destinations & Landmarks

1. Papeete Cathedral - Neo-Romanesque architectural landmark in the city center, beautifully maintained and iconic symbol of Tahiti

2. Museum of Tahiti and The Islands - Comprehensive cultural institution showcasing pre-European Polynesian history, traditional canoes, ceremonial artifacts, and contemporary island culture[1]

3. Pearl Museum - Educational facility explaining black pearl cultivation, Tahitian pearl history, and featuring world-class pearl jewelry exhibitions and sales

4. Vaipahi Garden and Waterfall - Natural botanical paradise with manicured gardens, waterfalls, natural pools, and tropical vegetation perfect for photography[1]

5. Botanical Gardens - Extensive cultivated gardens displaying endemic tropical species, providing peaceful walking trails and horticultural education

6. Teahupoo Wave Site - Internationally famous surfing location, 2024 Olympic venue, and dramatic coastal landscape (viewable from shore)

7. Papeete Harbor and Paofai Park - Scenic waterfront area featuring traditional va'a activities, park facilities, and waterfront dining opportunities[1]

8. Opunohu and Cook Bay - Iconic Moorea bays with spectacular mountain backdrops, accessible via Belvedere Viewpoint overlooking both bays simultaneously

9. Ancient Marae Sites - Archaeological sites featuring traditional temple ruins, providing insight into pre-European Polynesian religious practices and architecture

10. Coral Gardens & Motu Islands - Natural protected coral reef ecosystems accessible via lagoon tours, featuring pristine small islands and exceptional marine biodiversity

Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants with Chef's Recommendations

Culinary Excellence Across Tahiti

Papeete Fine Dining (Days 1-4)

1. Le Grillardin (Papeete)

   • Cuisine: French Polynesian Fusion

   • Specialty: Seared tuna with vanilla sauce, grilled lobster, fresh seafood preparations

   • Chef's Focus: Classical French technique applied to pristine island ingredients

   • Atmosphere: Upscale casual, excellent service, locally acclaimed

   • Price Range: $$$$
     - Website: Contact through tahititourisme.com[1][2]

2. Hei Restaurant (Papeete)

   • Cuisine: Contemporary Polynesian

   • Specialty: Seasonal tasting menus, innovative local seafood preparations

   • Chef's Focus: Modern Polynesian cuisine with artistic plating

   • Atmosphere: Sophisticated, boutique fine dining experience

   • Price Range: $$$$
     - Website: Contact through official tourism board[1][2]

3. L'O a La Bouche (Papeete)

   • Cuisine: French Classics with Tahitian Ingredients

   • Specialty: Foie gras with Tahitian vanilla, traditional French dishes elevated with island products

   • Chef's Focus: Michelin-level French culinary standards

   • Atmosphere: Intimate, exceptional service, award-winning establishment

   • Price Range: $$$$
     - Website: Contact through tahititourisme.com[1][2]

4. meherio tahitian bistro (Papeete Waterfront)

   • Cuisine: Authentic Tahitian

   • Specialty: Poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk), traditional island dishes

   • Entertainment: Live Marquesan band performances on weekends

   • Atmosphere: Casual waterfront charm, authentic local experience

   • Price Range: $$$
     - Website: Contact through Papeete tourism office[1]

5. L'Alpha B (Papeete)

   • Cuisine: French Bistro

   • Specialty: Charcuterie plates, French appetizers, wine selections

   • Atmosphere: Indoor and outdoor dining, friendly staff, welcoming ambiance

   • Price Range: $$$
     - Website: Contact through dining reservation systems[1]

Moorea Fine Dining (Days 5-10)

6. K' Restaurant at Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

   • Cuisine: French Polynesian Fine Dining

   • Specialty: Fresh seafood, lagoon fish preparations, French culinary technique

   • Atmosphere: Lagoon views, upscale resort dining, exceptional service

   • Chef's Focus: High-quality local ingredients prepared with classical French methods

   • Price Range: $$$$
     - Website: sofitel-kiaoramoorea.com[1][3]

7. Restaurant at Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa

   • Cuisine: French Polynesian Fusion

   • Specialty: Local fish, tropical fruits, French-inspired preparations

   • Atmosphere: Lagoon views, resort fine dining, warm Polynesian hospitality

   • Price Range: $$$$
     - Website: hiltonmoorea.com[1]

8. Thatched Roof Beach Bungalow Dining (Manava Beach Resort)

   • Cuisine: Contemporary Polynesian

   • Specialty: Fresh catch of the day, lagoon-side preparations

   • Atmosphere: Private beach setting, sunset views, intimate dining

   • Price Range: $$$
     - Website: manavabeachresort.com[1]

9. Beachfront Resort Dining (Various Moorea Resorts)

   • Cuisine: Mixed Polynesian & International

   • Specialty: Fresh seafood daily specials, island fruits, coconut-based dishes

   • Atmosphere: Casual to semi-formal beach dining, tiki torch ambiance

   • Price Range: $$$
     - Website: Individual resort websites[1]

10. Local Moorea Snack Bars & Casual Dining

• Cuisine: Casual Polynesian

• Specialty: Poisson cru, grilled fish, tropical fruit plates, casual local fare

• Atmosphere: Authentic, budget-friendly, local experience

• Price Range: −$
  - Website: Ask resort concierge for recommendations[1]

Culinary Notes

All restaurants feature fresh local ingredients including:

• Local Seafood: Tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, sea urchin

• Signature Ingredients: Tahitian vanilla, Tahitian black pearls (used in some dishes), coconut milk

• French Wine Selection: Most fine dining establishments maintain exceptional wine cellars with European selections

• Reservation Requirements: Always book 24-48 hours in advance for fine dining establishments[1][2]

Top 10 Shopping Destinations

Retail Excellence & Authentic Treasures

Papeete Shopping District (Days 1-4)

1. Centre Vaima (Downtown Papeete)

   • Description: French Polynesia's largest shopping center with over 60 shops

   • Categories: Fashion, footwear, jewelry, accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, art, handicrafts, souvenirs

   • Location: Directly opposite cruise ship quay in downtown Papeete

   • Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Sat 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Sun Closed

   • Website: centrevaima.com[1][2]

2. Boutique Hinano Life Tahiti (Papeete)

   • Specialty: Local Tahitian fashion, contemporary island-inspired clothing

   • Products: Men's and women's apparel, accessories, lifestyle items

   • Vibe: Modern boutique, locally designed pieces

   • Contact: boutique-hinano.com or through Centre Vaima[1]

3. Boho's Pearl (Papeete)

   • Specialty: Black pearls, pearl jewelry, fine pieces

   • Products: Designer pearl rings, necklaces, bracelets, certified authentic gems

   • Investment: High-quality pieces suitable as investment and souvenirs

   • Contact: Through Centre Vaima or Papeete tourism[1]

4. Elite Tahiti (Centre Vaima)

   • Specialty: Tahitian streetwear and local fashion brand

   • Products: Contemporary island-inspired apparel for men and women

   • Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Sun Closed

   • Contact: Facebook: Elite Tahiti[1]

5. Bamboo Kultur (Centre Vaima)

   • Specialty: Home linens and apparel from Tahiti and surrounding islands

   • Products: Bed linens, home textiles, men's and women's clothing from local designers

   • Contact: jmmilanotahiti@gmail.com[1]

Specialty & Artisanal Shopping

6. Batik (Papeete)

   • Specialty: Women's apparel and accessories boutique

   • Products: Batik-designed clothing, hand-painted fabrics, accessories

   • Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Sat 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Sun Closed

   • Contact: batiktahiti@gmail.com[1]

7. Billabong (Centre Vaima)

   • Specialty: Surf apparel and beachwear

   • Products: Surfboards, wetsuits, casual beach clothing, accessories

   • Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Sun Closed

   • Contact: Through Centre Vaima[1]

8. Viper Va'a (Centre Vaima)

   • Specialty: Paddleboards and water sports equipment

   • Products: Stand-up paddleboards, kayak accessories, water sports gear

   • Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sat 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Sun Closed

   • Contact: Facebook: Viper Va'a[1]

Specialty Markets & Artisanal Shopping

9. Papeete Municipal Market

   • Specialty: Local artisanal crafts, souvenirs, authentic island goods

   • Products: Monoi oil (infused with tiare flowers), Tahitian vanilla, handicrafts, local textiles, traditional items

   • Timing: Browse weekdays for handicrafts, Sunday mornings for food vendors

   • Experience: Authentic local culture and commerce

   • Venue: Central market in downtown Papeete[1]

10. Moorea Local Boutiques & Village Shopping

• Specialty: Artisanal shops in Moorea villages

• Products: Local handicrafts, handmade jewelry, Polynesian souvenirs

• Recommendation: Ask resort concierge for village shopping recommendations

• Experience: Authentic island shopping, direct from artisans

• Contact: Through resort activity desk[1]

Shopping Recommendations by Category

Black Pearls & Jewelry:

• Boho's Pearl, Centre Vaima shops, Pearl Museum gift shop

• Ensure certificates of authenticity for investment pieces

Monoi Oil & Tahitian Vanilla:

• Papeete Municipal Market (best selection and prices)

• Centre Vaima specialty stores

• Resort boutiques (higher prices but convenience)

Fashion & Casual Apparel:

• Centre Vaima for mainstream brands

• Boutique Hinano, Elite Tahiti, Bamboo Kultur for local designers

• Beach/resort shops for casual wear

Souvenirs & Handicrafts:

• Papeete Municipal Market for authentic local items

• Centre Vaima concept store for curated artisanal products

• Moorea village shops for handmade pieces

Official Tourism Websites & Resources

Essential Links (Top 40 Official Sites & Resources)

Primary Tourism Boards

1. Tahiti Tourisme - Official Destination Site

   • https://www.tahititourisme.com

   • Comprehensive information on all islands, activities, accommodations, dining[1][2]

2. Tahiti Tourisme - Tourism Organization

   • https://tahititourisme.pf/en-pf/

   • Official DMO (Destination Marketing Organization) resources and trip planning[1]

3. Tahiti Tourisme - Corporate Information

   • https://tahititourisme.org/en-org/about-us/about-tahiti-tourism/

   • Official organizational information and destination statistics[1]

4. Tahiti Specialist Programme

   • https://tahitispecialist.org/en-au

   • Official travel specialist certification and information resources[1]

Transportation & Getting Around

5. Air Tahiti - Domestic Flights

   • https://www.airtahiti.com

   • Inter-island flight bookings, schedules, reservations[1]

6. Aremiti - Ferry Services

   • Ferry schedules between Tahiti and Moorea

   • High-speed ferry information and booking[1]

7. Tahiti Arue International Airport (PPT)

   • Airport information, arrival/departure details, transportation options[1]

Accommodation & Resort Information

Premium Resorts - Moorea

8. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa

   • https://hiltonmoorea.com

   • 54 overwater bungalows, lagoon views, luxury amenities[1][3]

9. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

   • https://sofitel-kiaoramoorea.com

   • 38 overwater bungalows, beachfront, K' Restaurant fine dining[1][3]

10. Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea

    • https://manavaspa.com

    • 28 overwater bungalows, spa facilities, water activities[1]

11. InterContinental Resort Tahiti by IHG

    • https://www.intercontinental.com/tahiti

    • Luxury accommodation with Moorea views (Days 5-10 alternative)[1]

Papeete Hotels

12. Arue Hotels & Accommodations

    • Various 3-5 star hotels in the Arue district adjacent to downtown Papeete[1]

Museums & Cultural Sites

13. Museum of Tahiti and The Islands

    • https://www.museetahiti.pf

    • Official cultural institution, visiting hours, admission information[1]

14. Pearl Museum (Musée de la Perle)

    • Pearl cultivation information, exhibition details, gift shop[1]

Restaurant & Dining Reservations

15. Le Grillardin (Restaurant)

    • Fine dining reservations through tahititourisme.com[1][2]

16. Hei Restaurant

    • Contemporary Polynesian fine dining, reservations[1][2]

17. L'O a La Bouche

    • French fine dining, award-winning establishment[1][2]

18. meherio tahitian bistro

    • Waterfront Tahitian cuisine, reservations available[1]

Shopping & Retail

19. Centre Vaima Shopping Center

    • https://centrevaima.com/en/shopping

    • Official site with tenant directory and information[1][2]

20. Elite Tahiti (Local Fashion Brand)

    • https://www.facebook.com/elitetahiti

    • Contemporary island-inspired apparel[1]

21. Boutique Hinano Life Tahiti

    • Local fashion boutique information and collections[1]

22. Bamboo Kultur

    • Home linens and apparel from Tahitian artisans

    • jmmilanotahiti@gmail.com[1]

23. Batik (Boutique)

    • Women's apparel and accessories specialist

    • batiktahiti@gmail.com[1]

24. Boho's Pearl (Pearl Jewelry)

    • High-quality black pearl jewelry and investment pieces[1]

25. Billabong (Surf Apparel)

    • Beachwear and surfing equipment retailer[1]

26. Viper Va'a (Water Sports Equipment)

    • Paddleboards and water sports accessories

    • https://www.facebook.com/vipervaa[1]

Tourism Information & Planning

27. Tahiti Tourism Statistics & Data

    • https://tahititourisme.org/en-org/our-resources/market-sectors-and-statistics/

    • Official visitor data, market statistics, tourism information[1]

28. UNESCO World Heritage Sites - French Polynesia

    • https://whc.unesco.org

    • Information on Fakarava Biosphere Reserve, Taputapuātea Marae, Marquesas Islands[1]

29. Sustainable Travel in The Islands of Tahiti

    • https://tahititourisme.pf/en-pf/

    • Responsible travel guidelines and eco-tourism information[1]

30. Tahiti Tourism Board - Australia

    • https://tahiti-tourisme.com.au

    • Regional tourism information and packages[1]

Activity & Tour Operators

31. Lagoon Tours & Snorkeling

    • Booking through resort concierge or activity desks

    • Official tour operator information on Tahiti Tourisme[1]

32. Guided Island Tours - Tahiti

    • Professional guide associations and tour operator information

    • Accessible through tahititourisme.com[1]

33. Papenoo Valley Tours

    • Recommended booking 2 weeks in advance through resort

    • Tour operator information and scheduling[1]

34. Scuba Diving Operators - Moorea

    • PADI certified operators accessible through resort activity desks

    • Professional diving association information[1]

35. Kayaking & Water Sports - Moorea

    • Resort-based activity booking and professional operator information[1]

Travel Guides & Information

36. Tahiti.com - Comprehensive Travel Guide

    • https://www.tahiti.com

    • Detailed island information, hotel guides, activity descriptions[1][2]

37. Travel Health & Safety Information

    • Official Government of French Polynesia health recommendations

    • Vaccination and travel insurance information[1]

38. Official French Polynesia Government Portal

    • Government information and services

    • Official documentation requirements[1]

39. Tahiti Tourism - Interactive Maps & Resources

    • Digital maps, downloadable guides, planning resources

    • Available through tahititourisme.com[1]

40. Islands of Tahiti - Comprehensive Destination Site

    • https://www.tahititourisme.com/islands/

    • All-encompassing resource for multi-island vacation packages and information[1][2]

Practical Travel Information

Before You Go

Documentation

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended)

• Check visa requirements for French Polynesia (many nationalities receive visa-free entry)

• Travel insurance (highly recommended for medical coverage)

• Vaccination requirements (consult travel clinic, yellow fever vaccine may be required depending on origin)[1]

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season: May - October (optimal weather)

• Warm Season: November - April (humid, occasional rain)

• Current January travel: Warm season, occasional showers, fewer tourists, excellent accommodation rates

Currency

• French Pacific Franc (XPF)

• USD and EUR widely accepted in tourist areas

• ATMs available in Papeete

Language

• French (official language) - many English speakers in tourism industry

• Tahitian language (local language)

• Consider language guide or translation app

Getting Around

Inter-Island Transportation

• Ferry: Aremiti high-speed ferry (Tahiti ↔ Moorea, 10 minutes)

• Flights: Air Tahiti domestic flights (5 minutes, more expensive)

• Car Rental: Available in Papeete and Moorea for island exploration

Taxis & Transportation

• Taxis available from airport and around towns

• Negotiate fares in advance (meters not universal)

• Resort transfer services often included or arranged

Dining Tips

• Reservations essential for fine dining (24-48 hours advance)

• Dress code: Casual to smart casual for dining (resorts expect covered shoulders/knees for dinner)

• Tipping: Rarely expected but appreciated (5-10% in upscale restaurants)

• Island Time: Meals often served later than mainland (dinner often 7:00-8:00 PM start)

Money-Saving Tips

• Visit Papeete Municipal Market for affordable authentic meals

• Eat lunch at casual "roulettes" (food trucks)

• Book combination packages through tahititourisme.com

• Travel during shoulder seasons (Nov-Dec or April-May) for better rates

• Book accommodations directly with resorts for discounts

Health & Safety

• French Polynesia is generally very safe

• No venomous land animals

• Ocean safety: Heed warnings about stonefish, sea urchins, occasional sharks

• Travel insurance essential (medical care is expensive)

• Tap water is safe in Papeete and major areas

• Mosquito protection recommended

References

[1] Tahiti Tourisme. (2025). Official destination guide and tourism information. https://www.tahititourisme.com

[2] SimCorner. (2025, December 29). Top things to do in French Polynesia 2026: Travel guide. https://simcorner.com/en-us/blogs/travel-guides/best-things-to-do-in-french-polynesia

[3] Lesdeuxpiedsdehors.com. (2025, July 9). Best hotels in Moorea Island in 2026: Comprehensive guide. https://lesdeuxpiedsdehors.com/en/hotel-moorea-french-polynesia/

[4] Mel On The Go. (2023, March 19). Eating in Tahiti: Fine dining restaurants guide. https://melonthego.com/eating-in-tahiti/

[5] Tahiti Tourism Board Australia. (2025, August 21). Tahiti Tourisme front page. https://tahiti-tourisme.com.au

[6] Les Deux Pieds Dehors. (2025, July 7). What to do in Tahiti in 2026: Local perspectives. https://lesdeuxpiedsdehors.com/en/what-to-do-in-tahiti/

[7] Jyo Shankar. (2026, January 14). The ultimate travel guide to French Polynesia. https://jyoshankar.com/2026/01/the-ultimate-travel-guide-to-french-polynesia/

Appendix: Quick Reference Checklist

Pre-Departure Checklist

• [ ] Passport validity confirmed (6+ months)

• [ ] Visa requirements verified

• [ ] Travel insurance purchased

• [ ] Vaccinations completed

• [ ] Flights booked and confirmed

• [ ] Accommodations reserved and confirmed

• [ ] Fine dining reservations made (24-48 hours before)

• [ ] Activities pre-booked (Papenoo Valley 2 weeks in advance)

• [ ] Currency exchanged or ATM plan confirmed

• [ ] Language translation apps downloaded

• [ ] Emergency contacts documented

Packing Essentials

• [ ] Lightweight, breathable clothing

• [ ] Swimwear and water shoes

• [ ] Sun protection (SPF 50+, sunglasses, hat)

• [ ] Lightweight rain jacket (tropical showers)

• [ ] Reef-safe sunscreen (marine protection)

• [ ] Formal dining attire (resort dinner)

• [ ] Comfortable walking shoes

• [ ] Underwater camera or GoPro

• [ ] Medications and first-aid supplies

• [ ] Adapter for French electrical outlets

During Visit - Important Notes

• [ ] Exchange money upon arrival in Papeete

• [ ] Register emergency contact with accommodation

• [ ] Learn basic French phrases

• [ ] Respect local customs and cultural sites

• [ ] Follow ocean safety warnings

• [ ] Stay hydrated in tropical heat

• [ ] Book return transportation from Moorea 3-4 days in advance

This 10-day Tahiti itinerary balances luxury, adventure, culture, and natural beauty across two distinct islands – the cosmopolitan capital of Papeete and the tropical paradise of Moorea. By strategically splitting your stay, you'll experience both the sophistication of island urban life and the serene tranquility of lagoon living.

The carefully curated restaurant selections offer culinary excellence ranging from Michelin-level French techniques applied to pristine island ingredients, to authentic Tahitian cuisine served with traditional hospitality. Shopping opportunities span from artisanal markets featuring local handicrafts and Tahitian vanilla, to international boutiques in the Centre Vaima offering luxury goods.

Activities range from culturally immersive experiences – visiting museums, markets, and archaeological sites – to thrilling adventures including lagoon cruises, waterfall hikes, and water sports. Every element has been selected to create a memorable, well-balanced vacation that showcases the very best of French Polynesian hospitality.

Mahalo (thank you) for choosing Tahiti and The Islands of French Polynesia as your next destination. May your journey be filled with unforgettable memories, warm island breezes, and the genuine hospitality of the Polynesian people.

Guide Last Updated: January 2026
Compiled in Tahiti, French Polynesia