Must-see places in Tahiti
Make the most of your stay in French Polynesia by visiting the must-see places, especially on the island of Tahiti
Excursions
Faarumai Waterfalls
The Three Waterfalls
In Tahiti, there are many waterfalls, the most popular and most accessible are the three Faarumai Waterfalls, also known as the Faarumai Waterfalls or the Three Waterfalls. You can reach them by taking the path that crosses through the dense forest to the parking area. From there, a 5-minute walk leads you to the first waterfall, Vaima Hutu. It's a truly impressive sight, with crystal-clear water cascading down a steep rocky wall.
Venus Point
… and its lighthouse
Its name was given following the landing of James Cook aboard the Endeavour in preparation for the observation of the transit of Venus in 1769.
Pointe Vénus is located to the north of the island of Tahiti at KM 10 in the commune of MAHINA. The point is part of a series of spaces that border the lagoon along almost the entire coastline. It is linked to the large black sand beach of Matavai Bay, a popular and highly frequented beach. By the sea, Pointe Vénus has the particularity of being very close to the coral reef, making it easily accessible by boat. In the flat area located to the north and east of the site, a channel has been created for the passage of certain vessels.
The transit of Venus in 1769 is the second transit of the planet in the 18th century. Like the previous transit in 1761, it leads to numerous observations around the world, in order to accurately measure the value of the astronomical unit, the distance between the Earth and the Sun.
A picnic area by the water allows you to enjoy the location.
The Blowhole
Arahoho « the howling cave »
Located at the boundary of the Papenoo and Tiarei communes, the Blowhole, Anahoho « the cave that howls », is a « marine geyser ». During strong swells, waves enter an underwater cavity, creating significant pressure, which triggers the water to jet outwards. The noise accompanying this phenomenon is just as impressive.
A viewpoint with picnic area will allow you to enjoy the surroundings.
Vaipahi
The Water Gardens
On the mountain side, you will find a scenic area dotted with tropical flowers and plants, crossed by paths interrupted by footbridges crossing streams. A beautiful little waterfall catches the eye and offers an idyllic setting for the green site. Pools of water fed by a string of fresh water springs are filled with Lotus and other aquatic plants.
Once reserved for religious rites of purification and the rebirth of the souls of the Teva clan's deceased, this magnificent natural site invites you on an enchanting walk, with hiking trails that allow you to gain elevation and discover the Polynesian forest of Tahiti.
By the sea, picnic tables allow you to refuel during your lunch break.
Teanateatea Caves
Better known as Mara’a Caves
At Pae’a, barely visible from the ring road, as it is hidden within lush vegetation, this site features three natural caves carved into the rock. Permanent water seepage has formed small, clear and cool inland lakes.
From the ceiling of each cave hang numerous mosses and ferns. The largest of the caves, Te-ana-pape-ō-Vai-pōiri, has the particularity of presenting an optical illusion. It seems much smaller than it actually is. The ceiling of the cave is in the shape of an arch and gives the impression of sloping downward toward its end. The other two caves, Mata-va’a and Vai-pātōtō, are lower.
Teahupo’o
One of the world's most beautiful waves at KM 0
Located at the end of the road on the peninsula of Tahiti « Tahiti Iti », Teahupo’o is a globally renowned surf spot for its beautiful and large reef waves. A surf competition is held every year starting from mid-August. To get close to the famous wave, you must cross the bridge that spans the river mouth and walk along a path between the beach and the houses. The site is also frequented by many families who enjoy swimming in the river and in the sea.
It's difficult to make an exhaustive list of places to visit in Tahiti, as there are many other sites waiting to be discovered, such as Maroto, the Belvedere on the peninsula, the Taravau plateau, the Mara'e scattered around the island, the botanical garden in Papeari, and the Lavatubes...