For most, a journey to Tahiti begins on the island of Papeete. Home to nearly 150,000 inhabitants, Papeete is the largest and most populous island in the chain and host of the International Airport. Once a backwater port, the island has evolved into a modern city with chic shops and trendy districts crowding the long waterfront. Travelers flying into Tahiti will typically explore the island for no more than a day before leaving to experience the old-time Polynesia of the eastern and southern coasts.
Despite its lively reputation, Papeete has its share of quiet tropical retreats including the InterContinental, which boasts a dolphin lagoon and outdoor Tiare restaurant with more than 45 local dancers that perform traditional indigenous choreography. The crowd favorite, Bora Bora, is just a short 45-minute flight from Papeete or Moorea. While the simplistic overwater huts reigned supreme on this small oasis for years, locals have recently transformed the notion of “bungalow,” introducing a variety of luxurious resorts that encompass both traditional and modern necessities. Once an American fueling station in WWII, the small island has exploded with larger and more luxurious properties developing on every corner.
A regular for American travelers is Le Taha’a Private Island and Spa, boasting more than 48 over water suites and 23 beach suites along the coral reef of Taha'a. Lingering hints of vanilla and watermelon make this luxurious retreat modeled after the traditional and tranquil life of the Tahitians, one of the world’s best.
Locals will tell you the best way to see Raiatea is from the sea. As one of the largest islands in the chain, and the last to succumb to French rule, Raiateans remain fully vested in their traditional relics and pre-colonial history.
Cruising around the islands has become a popular option with travelers looking to experience the bungalow way of life while in motion. Larger cruise ships such as the Paul Gauguin and the smaller more intimate Tu Moana (Bora Bora Cruises) offer a unique perspective with plenty of shore time. Travelers looking to maximize their relaxation are encouraged to hire both a skipper and cook when chartering their sails.
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GETTING THERE: Air Tahiti Nui is Tahiti’s flagship airline, departing daily from Los Angeles (double daily 5 days a week) and 3 times per week from New York (JFK). Both are non-stop flights into Papeete. Flight time from JFK is about 12.5 hours. From LAX it is about 8.5 hours. Other carriers include Air New Zealand and Air France.
WHEN TO GO: Travel to Tahiti is steady all year. High season for air and accommodation is June through October and mid-December through to the first week of January. The most economical time to travel is mid January through May and November through mid December.
WEATHER: Temperatures remain stable throughout the year with average highs of 90°F and lows of 70°F. Rainfall is the highest from December to March.
WHAT TO PACK: Lots of sunscreen, plenty of film, and a hat that won’t get in the way of your cocktail umbrella.
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