Queen of the Pacific
The heart and soul of the South Pacific, Tahiti is the largest in a chain of islands that make up French Polynesia. The name can either refer to the main island or the entire destination. Commonly referred to as The Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia is a collection of 118 islands and atolls scattered across an impressive nautical surface area the size of Western Europe. Still, these tiny islands—many of which remain uninhabited—make up a total landmass of only 1,600 square miles (4,100 sq. km).
The Locale
You may be wondering, where is Tahiti? The islands are situated halfway between Los Angeles, California and Sydney, Australia. They are in the same time zone as Hawaii and located just as far south of the equator as Hawaii is north. Since the word often conjures up visions of a distant, unspoiled paradise, many assume them to be far away; but in all reality, Tahiti is only eight hours from Los Angeles.
The island of Tahiti is divided into two parts: The larger portion to the northwest is known as Tahiti Nui, while the smaller, southeastern peninsula is known as Tahiti Iti. Tahiti Nui is dominated by three extinct volcanic mountains including Mount Orohena, the tallest in French Polynesia; Mount Aorai, known for its incredible views; and Le Diadème, which appears to crown the island as the rightful queen.
Home to the capital city of Papeete, Tahiti is the economic center of French Polynesia. Since all flights arrive through Faa'a International Airport, your tailored Tahiti vacation will begin and end in Papeete. While you may be tempted to jet off immediately to the other islands, we recommend staying at least a day or two. Tahiti strikes an interesting contrast to some of the more quiet, secluded islands in the region; and with a selection of wonderful and convenient Tahiti resorts available, you will never regret staying.
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Featuring Te Moana Tahiti Resort
Experience the beauty of Tahiti with round-trip airfare from Los Angeles, daily breakfast, five nights at Te Moana Tahiti Resort in a Garden Suite, and free non-motorized water equipment. Explore Tahiti Iti`s natural wonders, visiting Vaipahi Garden and waterfall before heading to Teahupoo, PK0. Board a boat to see the legendary Olympic surfing wave, then venture into Fenua Aihere`s untouched forests, swim in a freshwater pool, and snorkel at a sandbar. Conclude your adventure with a 4x4 Jeep Safari through Tahiti`s lush valleys, volcanic craters, and stunning waterfalls.
FROM
$2,295
PP
5 Nights
Featuring Le Tahiti Resort and Tavai Spa
Experience Serenity and Culture in Tahiti. Unwind with 5 unforgettable nights at Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts, set on the island’s iconic black sand beach along Matavai Bay. Stay in a spacious Signature Ocean View Room with Hot Tub and enjoy exclusive Signature Room amenities. Reconnect with a relaxing couples massage, then discover Tahiti’s rich heritage with a guided East and West Coast island tour. Dive into local flavors on a Papeete Street Food Tour, and enjoy daily cultural activities and fitness classes at the resort. This package includes round-trip international airfare from select West Coast cities, daily breakfast, business class lounge access on departure and more.
FROM
$3,095
PP
5 Nights
Home to the capital city of Papeete, Tahiti is the economic center of French Polynesia. Since all flights arrive through Faa'a International Airport, your tailored Tahiti vacation will begin and end in Papeete. While you may be tempted to jet off immediately to the other islands, we recommend staying at least a day or two. Tahiti strikes an interesting contrast to some of the more quiet, secluded islands in the region; and with a selection of wonderful and convenient Tahiti resorts available, you will never regret staying.
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Beyond the city atmosphere, Tahiti is also a scenic island with lush landscapes and large abounding waterfalls. Leave the more developed areas behind and you will find shady hiking trails, pleasant beaches and calm waters. This unique juxtaposition makes Tahiti one of the most diverse islands in French Polynesia. We recommend exploring these interior peaks and valleys on a guided hike or Jeep Safari tour.
Other popular activities include snorkeling, Jet Skiing and surfing. Experienced surfers should visit the famed Teahupo'o and bear witness to one of the world's most intense waves. Beginners can surf or take lessons at some of the more mellow beaches around the island. You can also enjoy a day of golfing at the Olivier Bréaud Golf Course, one of only two courses in French Polynesia.
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