Tahiti
Some hundred islands scattered across the South Pacific, mixing volcanic peaks with the lagoons of low atolls.
Icons
The colour of the lagoons and the ridges of the volcanoes.
- A lagoon wrapped around a peakBora BoraLeeward Islands
Mount Otemanu ringed by reef, which gives the water its bands of colour. It is where the overwater bungalow is said to have started.
- A volcanic island beside TahitiMooreaWindward Islands
Thirty minutes by ferry, with two bays cutting in like a heart. A lookout takes in both bays at once.
- An enormous atollRangiroaTuamotu Islands
One of the largest atolls anywhere, known for diving in the passes. Dolphins and sharks are routine sightings.
- The islanders’ marketPapeete MarketTahiti
A two-storey market selling flowers, vanilla and black pearls. Liveliest in the morning.
- Black pearlsPearl farmingTuamotu Islands
A local speciality whose price varies sharply with colour and lustre. Some farms can be visited.
- A wave that breaks thickTeahupooSouthwest Tahiti
A heavy wave breaking over shallow reef, and the site of a world-level surf contest. It is not a place for casual visitors to swim.
World Heritage
The ceremonial centre of Polynesian navigation.
- The heart of Polynesian voyagingTaputapuateaRaiatea
A stone ceremonial complex that was the centre of the culture which spread across the Pacific. Ceremonies are still held there.
- Stone platforms on every islandMaraeVarious islands
Open-air ceremonial platforms built from basalt survive across the islands. It is respectful not to climb on them.
Where to go
Each group of islands looks and feels different.
- TahitiThe largest islandWindward
Home to the international airport and the capital, Papeete. Most people spend a night or two before flying on.
- MooreaThe close volcanic islandWindward
Easy to reach by ferry and cheaper than Bora Bora. Good for both hiking and snorkelling.
- Bora BoraThe headline resort islandLeeward
Where the overwater bungalow resorts are concentrated. Reached by domestic flight.
- HuahineA quiet islandLeeward
Little tourist development and well-preserved marae. Suits an unhurried plan.
- The TuamotusAtoll countryEast
Low atolls without mountains, where diving is the point. Rangiroa and Fakarava are the best known.
When to go
Southern hemisphere, so the dry season falls opposite to Korea.
- Dry seasonMay to OctoberThroughout
Cooler and less humid, the easiest time to travel. Peak season, so prices rise.
- Wet seasonNovember to AprilThroughout
More rain and humidity, with the possibility of tropical cyclones. Prices fall.
- Humpback whalesJuly to OctoberSeveral islands
Humpbacks arrive to breed. Rules govern how close boats and swimmers may approach.
- Heiva festivalJulyThroughout
A major festival of traditional dance, song and canoe racing. Accommodation fills early around it.
Before you go
A French overseas collectivity with its own currency and rules.
- EntryVisa-free short stay for Korean passportsThroughout
French territory, but outside the Schengen area, with its own short-stay rules. Check current guidance before departure.
- MoneyCFP franc, not the euroThroughout
Resorts take cards, but smaller islands need cash. Prices are very high.
- Getting aroundDomestic flights and ferriesThroughout
Flights are standard between island groups, with ferries for the nearest ones. Some routes run infrequently, so book ahead.
- LanguageFrench and TahitianThroughout
English works in the resorts but French is the default elsewhere. A few phrases go a long way.
- Protecting the reefDo not stand on coralThroughout
The lagoon ecosystem is the whole reason to come, and the rules are strict. Activities such as shark feeding are restricted.
- Emergency numbers15 ambulance, 17 police, 18 fireThroughout
The French numbering applies, and 112 also connects. Medical evacuation from remote atolls takes time.
Opening hours, fares and schedules change from year to year and by season. Check the official guidance for each site and operator before you travel.