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While a stay in the famously lavish resorts of Tahiti and Bora Bora may be a dream vacation for many, the local guesthouses offer travelers a deeper look into Polynesian culture and life.

Overview

Located on a gorgeous, very private stretch of black-sand beach, Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort offers affordable, modern rooms, many of which feature spacious layouts, private Jacuzzis, and ocean views. Guests can also look forward a massive infinity pool, a luxurious spa, and meticulously maintained grounds, complete with fresh flowers and lush grass. The onsite Hita Mahana Restaurant and Bay Bar are outdoors but covered, offering sweeping views of the sunset across the ocean to Moorea. Note: This resort is very close to the airport so it’s ideal for those arriving late at night or leaving early in the morning.

Tahiti Iti, Tahiti‘s smaller sister island that’s connected to the main island at the southeast coast, is home to one of the most famous surfing waves in the Pacific, Teahupoo. This powerful reef break most certainly should not be attempted by anyone but the best surfers—a fall means being dragged by the current across the sharp coral right below the surface. That edge of drama makes for a tense but enjoyable afternoon of observation (from the beach). The left break is best between April and October. The Billabong Pro competition is held here August.

You can drive the 71-mile circular road around Tahiti Nui in a day, either by renting a car for a day or by joining a guided tour (your hotel will have info for either). Either way, the loop road takes you along the wild and rocky east coast, where you will see spectacular black sand beaches, many hosting excellent surf breaks. By contrast, the island’s west coast is tamer and features peaceful lagoons for swimming and even a few white sand beaches, like popular Maui Beach. Extend the drive by continuing into Tahiti Iti, the smaller section of the island at the south end, and forming a figure eight loop to return to Papeete.

If you have a design in mind, there’s a good chance the Tahiti Pearl Market can make it in a few hours. It’s great fun to sort through the loose pearl bins to find the perfect specimen.

The South Pacific is a rich collection of islands and archipelagos with a dizzying array of options for visitors. The easiest way to travel among them is by cruise ship. Here’s our guide to the best ones.

From tattoo culture and flowers to dance and farm-to-table dining, it’s easy to follow your bliss for a life-affirming trip that makes you feel treasured in The Islands of Tahiti.

The quintessentially French Polynesian luxury cruise ship “Paul Gauguin” has been freshly remodeled and explores some of the region’s more remote island destinations.

Yacht charters offer a blend of immersive access, eco-friendly exploration, and luxurious digs.

In The Islands of Tahiti, life is deeply connected to water. With water-based activities for all skill levels, such as surfing, waterfall hikes, diving, and outrigger canoeing, here’s how to experience it yourself.

From over-the-top experiences including skydiving, parasailing, and scenic flights to more relaxed offerings such as dining alfresco, here’s why simply breathing in The Islands of Tahiti makes for rewarding travel.

Fly round-trip from the USA to France, Japan, Tahiti, and New Zealand over the course of a year with Air Tahiti Nui’s new one-year, multi-flight pass. Here’s how to get one.

Sail with Paul Gauguin Cruises aboard their intimate ship for a once-in-a-lifetime trip filled with culture and adventure in the Islands of Tahiti.

Why Tahiti’s spectacular natural and cultural experiences are the ultimate way to embrace the slow travel movement