Tahiti

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.

The Allure

Papeete is a vibrant and multicultural city with busy boulevards and a bustling harbor. The downtown municipal market, Le Marché, is an exciting place to purchase all things Tahiti including vanilla beans, monoi oil and colorful pareos. Just down the street at Le Centre Vaima is the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, which is a great place to start if you're hoping to purchase a Tahitian black pearl during your stay. To live like a local, head to Vai'ete Square after sunset. This waterfront promenade comes to life at night when gourmet food trucks, Les Roulottes, open their windows to serve a range of affordable meals including Chinese food, French crépes, steak frites, fresh fish and pizza.

Celebration

Tahiti really is the hub of all cultural activity. Every July, the annual Heiva I Tahiti transforms the island into a spectacular celebration of Polynesian culture and dance. Year round, you can also catch an authentic Tahitian dance show at the InterContinental Resort every Friday and Saturday night. Permanent historical fixtures include the house of James Norman Hall, Point Venus, the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, the Paul Gauguin Museum, and the Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens. These can all be seen on a guided Circle Island Tour, or you can rent a car and explore the island at your leisure.

Final Impression

Often overlooked by travelers eager to experience the outer islands, Tahiti is more than just a means to an end. How much time you choose to spend here is up to you, but give yourself a chance to see everything the island has to offer—beyond the initial view from the plane.

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Accommodations

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Tahiti Accommodations

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Paul Gauguin Cruises

Designed specifically for Polynesia, the Paul Gauguin is a deluxe vessel offering all-inclusive small-ship luxury to just 332 guests. Flawless, friendly service from a European-trained staff emulates the delightfully unhurried and unregimented Polynesian way of life. Spacious ocean-view staterooms, most with balconies or verandas, open to sweet-scented tropical breezes and lush island vistas. Fine international and French cuisine is served on an open-seating basis in three restaurants. Polynesia's translucent, shimmering aqua lagoons are begging to be explored and there is no better place to do so than from the Paul Gauguin's retractable watersports marina.

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InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is the largest luxury resort on the island of Tahiti. Located just five minutes from the airport, it is also the most convenient. Despite this proximity to downtown, the hotel provides a nice Polynesian oasis with some of the best views of Moorea on the horizon. Elegantly engulfed by tropical gardens, this is the ideal place to begin your visit to French Polynesia.

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Hilton Hotel Tahiti

The Hilton Hotel Tahiti is Papeete`s newest oceanfront resort. After completing a multi-year renovation, it opened in the Fall of 2021. The hotel boasts an elegant, contemporary design with finishings that celebrate its rich island heritage. Its multiple food and beverage venues, sweeping panoramic views of Moorea, and central location, just minutes from the airport and downtown Papeete, make it a popular choice for international visitors.

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Aranui 5

The Aranui V is a working cargo freighter that also operates as a cruise ship, taking passengers to the most remote island group in French Polynesia—the Marquesas. The ship departs every three weeks from Papeete and transports everything from food and liquor to medicine and fuel to the small, inhabited islands of Ua Pou, Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva, Tahuata and Ua Huka, as well as Fakarava and Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Atolls.

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Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

Situated along an exotic black sand beach, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts features lush surroundings and beautiful waterfront views. Conveniently located just ten minutes from Papeete, it's the ideal place for any honeymoon, vacation or business getaway. The resort's ocean view rooms and suites boast a contemporary design that highlights local artisan handcrafts and colonial photography.

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Te Moana Tahiti Resort

The Te Moana Tahiti Resort is a modern hotel situated alongside the water, offering scenic views of Moorea across the lagoon. Located on the western coast, this hotel is only ten minutes from the airport. The rooms feature their own kitchenette and complimentary Wi-Fi, making this a popular choice for families and business travelers. With the largest infinity pool on the island, this is the ultimate place to unwind after your flight.
NOTE: The resort will close on January 1, 2026, for renovations and is expected to reopen in January of 2027.

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Vanira Lodge

Vanira Lodge is nestled in the hills above Teahupoo, on the south east coast of Tahiti Iti, with stunning panoramic views of the ocean. The bungalows are constructed with high ceilings, natural wood and coral, outdoor bathrooms and feature verandahs with spectacular views.

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Hotel Tahiti Nui

The Hotel Tahiti Nui is the newest hotel on the island. It features a clean, modern design with a young and trendy ambiance. Unlike the other beachside resorts in Tahiti, this hotel is located at the heart of downtown Papeete, putting you right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. This provides convenient access to the shops, restaurants, nightlife and other attractions, but removes you slightly from the shoreline.

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Maitai Express Tahiti

The Maitai Express is located in the heart of Tahiti`s bustling capital, Papeete. It is a perfect home base for exploring the city within easy walking distance of popular shops, restaurants, attractions, and cultural sites. It offers standard rooms and suites with modern amenities and a contemporary Polynesian-inspired design. As a city hotel without resort facilities, it is an excellent value option for those stopping over in Papeete before departing for neighboring islands.

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Royal Tahitien

The Royal Tahitien is a small, Polynesian hotel with a laid-back, mid-century modern, retro island and a tropical garden setting at the edge of a black-sand beach. Within the hotel’s seven acres of delightful tropical gardens and koi ponds, you will discover a lovely pool and Jacuzzi framed by rock waterfalls. The simple, clean guest rooms are situated around the gardens and deliver excellent value.

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Recreation

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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Half-Day 4x4 Jeep Safari Tour

Journey through Tahiti`s deep valleys and thick rainforests on this guided 4x4 Jeep Safari with Marama Tours. Your English-speaking driver will take you to the volcanic crater that originally formed Tahiti over a million years ago. You will stop at One Tree Hill, take a short drive along the scenic coast to Papeno`o Valley, and explore lush landscapes and beautiful waterfalls at the island`s interior. Operates: Everyday

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$78

Teahupoo Olympic Journey

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the natural wonders of Tahiti Iti, by land and sea. Your adventure starts with a stop at the Vaipahi Garden and waterfall before heading to Teahupoo, PK0 - the end of the road. From here you will board a boat to view the mythical wave and site of the 2024 Olympic surfing competition, up close. Your captain will then head to Fenua Aihere, the wild part of the island, accessible only by foot or boat. You will venture into these virgin forests via the Vaiau River with a stop at the pristine, freshwater swimming hole. Finally, your captain will take you to a sandbar for refreshments and snacks. At the sandbar, you may snorkel the coral gardens to view the tropical marine life. Transfers and refreshments are included. Maximum 8 guests. Operates: Everyday

Private tour also available.

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$205

Tahiti Automatic Car Rental with A/C

Tour the island of Tahiti in your own rental car from Avis Pacificar and have the freedom to go wherever your curiosity takes you and the roads permit. You can enjoy spectacular views and visit numerous historical sites around the island. Includes unlimited mileage, comprehensive insurance with deductible (CDW), third party insurance and VAT. Other vehicle options available upon request.

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$221

Vaihiria Quad - Tahiti ATV Adventure

Discover Tahiti's untamed interior on an ATV. Traverse on roads, trails and across rivers to reach Tahiti's famed Lake Vaihiria and the Blue Lake. Throughout your journey you will see waterfalls, learn the history and legends of the beautiful valleys and swim in refreshingly cool waters. Guests must be at least 18 years of age in order to drive the ATV. Tour includes a welcome fruit juice, a bottle of water, fruit and coconut water for each person. Price is per person based on two people sharing one ATV.

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$225

Tahiti Sunset Cruise and Dinner at Casa Bianca

Enjoy a leisurely 90-minute cruise with a cocktail in hand and a dramatic view of the sun setting behind Moorea in the distance. Return to the marina for dinner and dessert at Casa Bianca, a casual oceanfront restaurant on Tahiti. This activitiy is a great option for travelers with an extended layover between inter-island and international flights out of Papeete. Price is per person, including transfers and luggage storage. Operates: Everyday

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$230

Private Luxury Island Tour

Embark on a private island adventure showcasing cultural landmarks and natural wonders, including the marae, sea grottos, Botanical Gardens, Vaima Springs, waterfalls, the blowhole, Point Venus, famous surf spots, and the historic King Pomare V monument. Please note, for your comfort and safety, some sites may be modified or skipped depending on weather or accessibility. Price is per person based on two persons.

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$245

Surfing Private Lesson, Aloha Surf School

Learn to surf some of the best waves in the world with private instruction from Aloha Surf School. This surf lesson can accommodate anyone over the age of 4 years old. Your experienced instructor will make sure you can master the basic techniques before you venture to multiple surfing spots along the western coast of the island. Price includes transportation and a surfboard. Operates: Everyday

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$255

Kaoriki Boat Half Day Private Snorkeling Tour

Embark on a private snorkeling adventure aboard the Kaoriki, a 24-foot motorized Catamaran. After a stop at the famous Taapuna pass, you will explore the bay of Nuuroa to snorkel with green and hawksbill turtles. Then you will stop at the aquarium of Faa`s to snorkel with the many tropical fish around shipwrecks. Finally, you will stop at the Taapuna sandbank for a relaxation moment prior to going back to your hotel. Price is per person based on two people, maximum 12 persons. Operates: Everyday

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$325

Private Luxury Tahiti & Teahupoo Cultural Tour

Enjoy a private full island and Tahiti Iti tour, with your friendly, expert guides, Vanessa and Mana. Visit Tahiti's natural and cultural highlights, including; the marae, grottos, Botanical Gardens, Vaima Springs, waterfalls, the blowhole, Point Venus, surf spots, King Pomare V monument, Teahupoo PK0, Taravao plateau, and the Marche. Your guide will also stop for lunch at a Taravao restaurant (at your own expense). Should you want to arrange stops at specific additional locations, these can be arranged with your guide. Price is per person based on two persons.

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$445

Check Out What Our Clients Are Saying

Allen Gill

My wife and I wanted to experience our 25th Wedding Anniversary in Bora Bora. We worked with Joe Medina with Tahiti.com and he was beyond extraordinary. I first reached out to Joe in 2020 and he informed me that he could My wife and I wanted to experience our 25th Wedding Anniversary in Bora Bora. We worked with Joe Medina with Tahiti.com and he was beyond extraordinary. I first reached out to Joe in 2020 and he informed me that he couldn't provide concrete numbers for our 2025 trip but he would most definitely get back to me when those numbers became available. He remembered and reached out and and his customer service is outstanding. He listened purposefully to what we wanted and he suggested the Le Bora Bora and the Le Taha'a by Pearl resorts for our stay and we could not have been more satisfied with this choice. We experienced 8 wonderful days between the two resorts and our trip was nothing short of amazing and it all start with Joe Medina with Tahiti.com. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND JOE AND TAHITI.COM for your French Polynesian vacation/getaway needs.

18 July, 2025

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Shawn Farver

We did a 3 island 10 day vaca in FP and it was amazing. All the logistics went smooth as can be. Lisa C was our agent. Her recommendations were on point and she took the time to help us mold our dream stay. We cant thank We did a 3 island 10 day vaca in FP and it was amazing. All the logistics went smooth as can be. Lisa C was our agent. Her recommendations were on point and she took the time to help us mold our dream stay. We cant thank her enough. Moorea, Le Taha'a & Bora Bora are amazing. Tahiti.com is the way to go

11 July, 2025

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Cara Laiolo Becker

I reached out to Tahiti.Com and one other outlet when I began the planning process for our 10th anniversary trip. Candice responded and became my point of contact for all aspects of our trip planning and travel. She won I reached out to Tahiti.Com and one other outlet when I began the planning process for our 10th anniversary trip. Candice responded and became my point of contact for all aspects of our trip planning and travel. She won my business when she identified a discount we could qualify for that got us into a top tier resort at a within budget price. The other outlet missed this and would have had us not staying in the Conrad, which was the highlight of our trip. Candice helped with booking all of our excursions, choosing wonderful business partners who follow-through on the quality experience shown in the pamphlets. Candice even contacted us during our trip when there was a last minute flight change, to update us on departure times and make changes to our transfer schedule. We absolutely love Bora Bora and Moorea and when we inevitably go back, we'll be contacting Candice and Tahiti.com!

04 July, 2025

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Jenn Stagn...

We were extremely happy with the trip to Tahiti that Candice planned for us! Everything went smoothly as far as transportation, accommodations, and activities. The Manava Beach Resort along with the jet skiing, ATV tour, We were extremely happy with the trip to Tahiti that Candice planned for us! Everything went smoothly as far as transportation, accommodations, and activities. The Manava Beach Resort along with the jet skiing, ATV tour, and snorkeling with sting rays, sharks, and colorful fish in the reef, was amazing and unforgettable. We can't thank Tahiti.com and Candice enough for helping us have the perfect honeymoon!! For any future ventures we plan to take in the future to Tahiti, we will be sure to reach out to them again.

01 July, 2025

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Jennifer Stagn...

01 July, 2025

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Emma Brodzik

Wow! Tahiti.com more than delivered on a seamless travel experience. Candice did our booking and was very communicative and answered all of our questions before the trip. On the trip, everything was laid out and exact to Wow! Tahiti.com more than delivered on a seamless travel experience. Candice did our booking and was very communicative and answered all of our questions before the trip. On the trip, everything was laid out and exact to the itinerary for excursions, airport transfers and flights. Every time we showed up the proper person was there to take us to our next location. We visited 3 islands and all were gorgeous with their own unique qualities. If this is a bucket list trip I highly recommend booking with Tahiti.com!

24 June, 2025

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Luis Esteban Valencia Moreno

(Translated by Google) Our trip to French Polynesia was completely incredible and unforgettable, the service that Joe Medina provided us was perfect, the flights, transfers, hotels, prices were totally unmatched by any o (Translated by Google) Our trip to French Polynesia was completely incredible and unforgettable, the service that Joe Medina provided us was perfect, the flights, transfers, hotels, prices were totally unmatched by any other agency, if you are planning a trip to French Polynesia, I recommend that you do it through Tahiti.com (Original) Nuestro viaje a la polinesia francesa fue completamente increible e inovidable, el servicio que Joe Medina nos prestó fue perfecto, los vielos, transfers, hoteles, precios fue totalmente inigualable por alguna otra agencia, si estás planeando un viaje a la Polinesia Francesa, recomiento que lo hagan medianta Tahiti.com

02 May, 2025

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Cheryl Cejka

Our trip was fabulous! We worked with Lisa at Tahiti.com and visited Tahiti, Moorea, Taha’a and Tikehau. All our resort accommodations were wonderful. We also spent three nights around Bora Bora on a catamaran operated b Our trip was fabulous! We worked with Lisa at Tahiti.com and visited Tahiti, Moorea, Taha’a and Tikehau. All our resort accommodations were wonderful. We also spent three nights around Bora Bora on a catamaran operated by Tahiti Yacht Charter. Captain Hugo and his wife found awesome places to swim with sharks and sea life, and to snorkel. The food was amazing! All our transfers, pickups, guides and tours were top-notch. Highly recommend!

28 April, 2025

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Janet Eglitis

Just got home from a trip to Tahiti, Mo’orea and Bora Bora and it was fabulous! All of the details were meticulously handled by Tahiti.com. All of our transfers, tours and accommodations were handled seamlessly and we al Just got home from a trip to Tahiti, Mo’orea and Bora Bora and it was fabulous! All of the details were meticulously handled by Tahiti.com. All of our transfers, tours and accommodations were handled seamlessly and we always knew everything was going to be on time. We stayed in huts over the water and they were lovely and had great A/C which was needed with the high humidity. There were lots of moving parts to our trip and Tahiti.com did not drop the ball once. We had a great experience and saw some wonderful shows and excursions and would definitely use Tahiti.com again!

24 April, 2025

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John Sisson

Our first time to Tahiti could not have been better. Tahiti.com made that possible with a fantastic itinerary, resorts, food, activities and everything in between. Tahiti.com made everything easy to navigate, all within Our first time to Tahiti could not have been better. Tahiti.com made that possible with a fantastic itinerary, resorts, food, activities and everything in between. Tahiti.com made everything easy to navigate, all within our budget. Even when there was one, and only one, hiccup with a pick-up, they jumped on making it right, without question. Going to Tahiti for your first time? You won't find a better organization to set up a fantastic experience! Thanks to Amalia too for making it all happen!

21 April, 2025

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Marc Dippold

Amalia provided outstanding travel consultation services and developed an outstanding comprehensive transportation, hotel and excursion plan that was executed flawlessly across four different islands. We had a wonderful Amalia provided outstanding travel consultation services and developed an outstanding comprehensive transportation, hotel and excursion plan that was executed flawlessly across four different islands. We had a wonderful experience that blended fun excursions with time to truly relax and enjoy the unique culture of each island. Thanks for creating new awesome life-long memories!

19 April, 2025

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Kim Galloway

Candice booked our package to Bora Bora, and we had an amazing trip! She has extensive knowledge of the South Pacific, and she was able to guide us toward a top resort with a fantastic package including breakfast and din Candice booked our package to Bora Bora, and we had an amazing trip! She has extensive knowledge of the South Pacific, and she was able to guide us toward a top resort with a fantastic package including breakfast and dinner and a couples massage! She handled all of the airfare as well, and she even verified that our US flights that we booked would align appropriately with our international flights. Upon our arrival into Bora Bora, one of our suitcases was unfortunately lost, and I reached out to Candice who had the situation resolved within a few minutes, and my bag was put on the next flight over from Tahiti. Fantastic service! Highly recommend!

11 April, 2025

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Sandy Strehlow

Amalia did a fabulous job of planning our trip to Moorea and Bora Bora! I have done most of our vacation planning in the past, but was really clueless in planning this one. Every detail was planned and taken care of for Amalia did a fabulous job of planning our trip to Moorea and Bora Bora! I have done most of our vacation planning in the past, but was really clueless in planning this one. Every detail was planned and taken care of for us. It was a wonderful vacation with beautiful accommodations, great excursions and beautiful scenery. Amalia worked with us to come up with an itinerary that was specific to our age and answered every question that we had in the planning stages and even a few I threw in just before we were departing. I highly recommend French Polynesia and Amalia in helping to plan a wonderful trip! Sandy and Frank

08 April, 2025

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Mimi Tiede...

We are deeply grateful to Candace Webster and Tahiti.com for putting together an unforgettable 30th Wedding Anniversary experience in French Polynesia. We felt special from the moment we arrived. Every detail was arrange We are deeply grateful to Candace Webster and Tahiti.com for putting together an unforgettable 30th Wedding Anniversary experience in French Polynesia. We felt special from the moment we arrived. Every detail was arranged for us. The complete planning and flawless execution of every aspect allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience. From transportation to accommodations and excursions, each detail was thoughtfully arranged, freeing us to enjoy every moment of our Tahitian paradise without worry. I highly recommend Candace and Tahiti.com for your Tahitian vacation. You won't be disappointed.

03 April, 2025

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Krithi Kartik

I couldn’t be happier about how perfect our honeymoon at Bora Bora was. Our agent, Lea not only curated our travel package (including 3 islands) but also included activities and recommendations based on our interests. Le I couldn’t be happier about how perfect our honeymoon at Bora Bora was. Our agent, Lea not only curated our travel package (including 3 islands) but also included activities and recommendations based on our interests. Lea was very responsive on email making it so easy to get any assistance. We were stress free the entire trip because our travel, accommodation, meals, pick ups, drop offs, etc were all taken care of. A few other special mentions: 1. Nono and Tuki from Akivai Snorkeling Tour were great! They were so entertaining and shared so many interesting facts about the islands and historic stories. 2. The hospitality at Conrad Bora Bora was top notch. I am a vegetarian and was initially concerned about my meal options. However, the chefs at all the restaurants went out of their way to prepare dishes basis my preferences. This made me really happy because they put their guests first. Overall-fantastic trip and service! We are back with our hearts full.

30 March, 2025

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Tahiti

TAHITI.COM DISTINCTION

DISCOVER VACATIONS

Featured Tahiti Vacations

Tahiti Black Sand Retreat

Accommodations

Tahiti Accommodations

Paul Gauguin Cruises

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Aranui 5

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts

Te Moana Tahiti Resort

Vanira Lodge

Hotel Tahiti Nui

Maitai Express Tahiti

Royal Tahitien

Recreation

Tahiti Activities

Half-Day 4x4 Jeep Safari Tour

Teahupoo Olympic Journey

Tahiti Automatic Car Rental with A/C

Vaihiria Quad - Tahiti ATV Adventure

Tahiti Sunset Cruise and Dinner at Casa Bianca

Private Luxury Island Tour

Surfing Private Lesson, Aloha Surf School

Kaoriki Boat Half Day Private Snorkeling Tour

Private Luxury Tahiti & Teahupoo Cultural Tour

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