After immersing yourself in the vibrant things to do in Tahiti, from snorkeling in its crystal-clear lagoons to exploring its lush volcanic landscapes, you might find yourself yearning to discover what lies beyond. Day trips from Tahiti offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich Polynesian culture and stunning natural beauty of the surrounding islands.
Venturing out from Tahiti, the scope of things to do in French Polynesia broadens, inviting you to experience the enchanting beauty of Moorea’s mountains, the untouched atolls of the Tuamotus, or the legendary waves of Teahupo’o. Each destination provides a deeper understanding of the islands’ heritage and the breathtaking diversity of the Pacific’s ecosystems.
Choosing where to stay in Tahiti is crucial for travelers looking to seamlessly blend relaxation with adventure. A well-located base allows for effortless excursions to Tahiti’s best beaches, vibrant markets, and easy day trips to nearby islands, ensuring a truly unforgettable Polynesian experience.
Discover Best Day Trips from Tahiti, French Polynesia
1. Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea, known for its stunning volcanic peaks and lush landscapes, offers activities like snorkeling, hiking, and exploring pineapple farms. It’s renowned for its beautiful lagoon and friendly dolphins.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: A ferry from Papeete, Tahiti to Moorea takes about 30-45 minutes
Transportation: Ferry, Car (GetRentacar.com) on Moorea
Main Attractions: Snorkeling, hiking, pineapple farms, dolphin watching
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry Ticket: $15
- Belvedere Lookout: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Belvedere Lookout, Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Bay
Travel Tip: Rent a scooter or a car to explore the island at your own pace, visiting viewpoints like Belvedere Lookout.
2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora, a small South Pacific island, is famous for its turquoise waters, luxury overwater bungalows, and vibrant marine life. It’s an ideal spot for romantic getaways and water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Distance: Approximately 230 km
Travel Time: A flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora takes approximately 50 minutes
Transportation: Flight
Main Attractions: Turquoise waters, luxury overwater bungalows, vibrant marine life
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Lagoon Excursion: $100-$200
Budget: Approximately $150-$300 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Matira Beach, Coral Gardens, Mount Otemanu
Travel Tip: Book a lagoon excursion for snorkeling and to experience the island’s rich underwater world.
3. Huahine, French Polynesia
Huahine, often referred to as the Garden of Eden, is known for its lush forests, untamed landscape, and fewer tourists. It’s great for exploring archaeological sites and traditional Polynesian temples.
Distance: Approximately 175 km
Travel Time: The flight from Tahiti to Huahine lasts about 35 minutes
Transportation: Flight
Main Attractions: Lush forests, archaeological sites, traditional Polynesian temples
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Archaeological Sites: Free
- Vanilla Farm Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Maeva Village, Lake Fauna Nui, Vanilla Plantations
Travel Tip: Visit a local vanilla farm to learn about vanilla cultivation and purchase some authentic Polynesian vanilla.
4. Rangiroa, French Polynesia
Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the world, is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, famous for its vast lagoon and abundant marine life. The Blue Lagoon and the Pink Sand Beaches are popular spots.
Distance: Approximately 355 km
Travel Time: A flight from Tahiti to Rangiroa takes around 1 hour
Transportation: Flight
Main Attractions: Diving and snorkeling, Blue Lagoon, Pink Sand Beaches
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Blue Lagoon Excursion: $80-$150
Budget: Approximately $100-$200 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Blue Lagoon, Tiputa Pass, Pink Sand Beaches
Travel Tip: Take a trip to the Blue Lagoon, a lagoon within the atoll, for a unique and tranquil experience.
5. Raiatea, French Polynesia
Raiatea, known as the sacred island, is rich in Polynesian culture and history. It’s home to the Taputapuatea Marae, an ancient Polynesian temple, and a great destination for sailing and exploring.
Distance: Approximately 220 km
Travel Time: The flight from Tahiti to Raiatea is about 45 minutes
Transportation: Flight
Main Attractions: Taputapuatea Marae, Faaroa River, sailing
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Marae Visit: Free
- Kayak Rental: $20
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Taputapuatea Marae, Faaroa River, Mount Temehani
Travel Tip: Rent a kayak and explore the Faaroa River, Polynesia’s only navigable river, for a scenic and peaceful experience.
6. Taha’a, French Polynesia
Taha’a, often twinned with Raiatea, is an island famous for its vanilla plantations and beautiful coral gardens. It’s a quieter alternative for those seeking relaxation and a taste of authentic Polynesian life.
Distance: Approximately 230 km
Travel Time: You can reach Taha’a by a short boat ride from Raiatea, which takes about 10-15 minutes
Transportation: Boat
Main Attractions: Vanilla plantations, coral gardens, pearl farms
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Pearl Farm Tour: $10
- Coral Garden Snorkeling: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Coral Gardens, Taha’a Vanilla Plantations, Haamene Bay
Travel Tip: Book a visit to a pearl farm to learn about pearl cultivation and maybe bring home a unique souvenir.
7. Maupiti, French Polynesia
Maupiti, a small, less-visited island, offers stunning beaches, ancient petroglyphs, and a large lagoon perfect for snorkeling and swimming. It’s ideal for those seeking a more secluded and authentic experience.
Distance: Approximately 315 km
Travel Time: A flight from Tahiti to Maupiti takes about 50 minutes
Transportation: Flight
Main Attractions: Stunning beaches, ancient petroglyphs, large lagoon
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Lagoon Tour: $50
- Mount Teurafaatiu Hike: Free
Budget: Approximately $60-$120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mount Teurafaatiu, Terei’a Beach, Maupiti Lagoon
Travel Tip: Climb up Mount Teurafaatiu for spectacular views of the island and its surrounding lagoon.
8. Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
Tetiaroa, once a retreat for Tahitian royalty, is now known for its luxury resort and pristine natural environment. It’s a sanctuary for birds and marine life, offering a truly exclusive experience.
Distance: Approximately 59 km
Travel Time: The island is accessible by a 20-minute charter flight from Tahiti
Transportation: Charter Flight
Main Attractions: Bird sanctuary, pristine beaches, luxury resort
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Nature Tour: $50-$100
Budget: Approximately $100-$250 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Bird Sanctuary, Onetahi Motu, Tetiaroa Lagoon
Travel Tip: Take a guided nature tour to learn about the atoll’s unique ecosystem and spot various bird species.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Tahiti, French Polynesia
What are the best day trips from Tahiti?
Outstanding day trips from Tahiti include excursions to Moorea Island for its stunning landscapes and watersports, a boat tour to Tetiaroa Atoll to see the rich birdlife and pristine beaches, and cultural tours to ancient marae (temples) and the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands.
Can I visit Bora Bora on a day trip from Tahiti?
While Bora Bora is further away, it is possible to visit on a day trip via a short flight. This allows for a taste of its famous turquoise lagoon and luxurious resorts, but to fully experience Bora Bora, an overnight stay is recommended.
Are there snorkeling or diving day trips from Tahiti?
Yes, Tahiti and its surroundings offer some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving spots. Day trips can take you to coral gardens teeming with marine life, such as rays and sharks, in clear blue waters.
Is a day trip to Moorea worth it?
Absolutely! Moorea is known for its dramatic mountainous scenery, lush forests, and sandy beaches. Activities include snorkeling, hiking, and exploring the island’s traditional villages.
What cultural experiences can I have on a day trip from Tahiti?
Cultural day trips can involve visiting ancient Polynesian temples (marae), exploring the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands for historical insights, and experiencing traditional Polynesian dance shows or workshops.
Can I explore Tahiti’s interior on a day trip?
Yes, guided tours are available into Tahiti’s interior, offering hikes through lush valleys, visits to waterfalls like Faarumai, and the opportunity to see the volcanic Mount Aorai.
Are there eco-tours available in Tahiti?
Tahiti offers eco-tours focusing on sustainability and conservation, such as guided nature walks, botanical garden tours, and educational visits to coral reef restoration projects.
What are the options for a romantic day trip from Tahiti?
For a romantic day out, consider a private lagoon cruise with snorkeling, a picnic on a secluded beach, or a sunset dinner cruise offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/tahiti-l32413/
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