South Pacific Spotlight: Why Visit Tahiti?

When you think of Tahiti, images of an idyllic island blessed with reef-ringed lagoons, luminous beaches, majestic waterfalls and a dreamy, romantic ambiance most likely fill your imagination. And rightly so. Located in one of the most remote corners of the world, Tahiti and its neighboring islands are pure bliss, an enchanting region that promises one-of-a-kind experiences, from catamaran sailings in crystal-clear sapphire waters and inspiring cultural immersions to thrilling off-road adventures in lush hillsides. So whether you’re making a return visit or realizing a bucket-list travel wish, paradise awaits in the South Pacific.

What to Experience

Papeete, on the island of Tahiti, is the capital of French Polynesia, with much to offer visitors, from the Marche de Papeete and the Robert Wan Pearl Museum to the relaxing Jardins Paofai. Enjoy observing the surfers on their longboards as well as local highlights including Faarumai Waterfalls, the Arahoho Blowhole and the Maraa Fern Grottos.

On the dreamy island of Nuku Hiva – one of the most remote islands in French Polynesia – visit the entrancing Vaipo Waterfalls and Cascade Tevaipo, one of the world’s tallest falls at over 1,100 feet. Wander the black-sand beaches, marvel at the giant tiki at Piki Vehini or get adventurous on an all-terrain vehicle excursion around the craggy island.

On Tahiti’s sister island of Moorea, soak in the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, from the verdant mountains to the azure seas and white-sand beaches. Enjoy a canoe ride through the crystal-clear lagoon, snorkel, scuba or helmet-dive the reefs, or immerse yourself in nature with a stunning hike up to the Afareaitu Waterfalls.

The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora. Choose from a variety of activities including a reef-ringed lagoon tour, jet ski adventures, off-road adventures and a Polynesian day with lunch on a motu – a small sand island.

Pure, pristine and dreamlike, the ecosystem of the island of Fakarava is home to extremely rare birds, plants and crustaceans. Quaint villages, old coral churches and welcoming people are intertwined with a spectacular lagoon creating a paradise like none other in the world.

The South Pacific atoll of Rangiroa is a natural aquarium with its lagoon brimming with colorful marine life. Highlights include visits to pearl farms, diving with manta rays, exploring the atoll’s unique winery or relaxing on a pink-sand beach.

Featured Tahiti Voyages:

Tahitian Legends: 10 Days Roundtrip from Papeete (Tahiti) aboard Nautica
Departs January 20, 2024 & February 15, 2025
In the South Pacific, there is a legend that after the gods created the earth, they created the islands of the South Pacific to be their home. Discover heaven on earth on this incredible exploration of paradise that features an overnight stay in Bora Bora as well as Papeete.

Lands of Captain Cook: 31 Days from Papeete (Tahiti) to Sydney aboard Nautica
Departs February 19, 2024
Spend a month soaking up the Southern Hemisphere’s languid, sunlit days amid a plethora of divine Polynesian atolls and islands. In New Zealand and Australia, discover charming cities and hidden pearls cradled by gorgeous, unspoiled scenery.

Tahitian & Hawaiian Hues: 18 Days from Los Angeles to Papeete (Tahiti) aboard Nautica
Departs January 8, 2025
Bask in the vibrant spirit of Hawaii and French Polynesia, where verdant peaks provide the dramatic backdrop to soft-sand beaches and aquamarine lagoons. You’ll appreciate generous overnight stays in enchanting Papeete and Bora Bora.

When will you discover paradise in Tahiti with Oceania Cruises? Tell us on Facebook.