Things to do in Tahiti

There’s only one thing better than unwinding on a tropical island with bluer-than-blue tranquil waters. And that’s waking up directly over those waters. A trip to Tahiti isn’t complete without spending at least one night in an overwater bungalow. French Polynesia is world-renowned for these sublime huts that straddle the ocean on stilts. Get the best night’s sleep in your life in your own private thatched-roof cottage with the sound of waves becoming the soundtrack of your dreams. Rise from bed and descend a few steps into the calm waters of your own backyard. There’s an option at every price point, ranging from simple overwater bungalows to ones that offer a five-store amenity experience.

What’s the best way to truly explore a country that spans the size of Europe but is 99 per cent water?  No, this is not a brain teaser. The answer is by boat! Choose the craft that matches your style or nautical abilities–sailboat, yacht, fishing boat, speedboat, catamaran or even outrigger canoe. Made up of 118 islands, discover the Pacific Island paradise by cruising into its serene lagoons and uncrowded ports-of-call. There are plenty of short jaunts if you’re short on time or long-haul trips if you’ve got nothing but time.

The South Pacific version of ceviche, poisson cru is the national dish of Tahiti. Meaning “raw fish” from French, it’s made with sushi grade tuna or some other fresh catch of the day marinated in lime juice, coconut and fresh veggies. Tart and zesty, the flavour is softened and slightly sweetened by the coconut milk. Poisson cru is perfect for a light lunch for a pre-dinner appetizer. You might even try it for breakfast.

If you dig archaeology, take a break from the sand to get your Indiana Jones on. The islands are dotted with petroglyphs—ancient rock carvings made by the islands’ original inhabitants. Researchers have not yet deciphered the meanings of some of the figures and symbols, which take the shape of turtles, spirals, sailing canoes and even a dual human figure. Tahiti’s most well-preserved petroglyphs on the lush Te Pari coast are accessible only by boat or on foot. Throw on your fedora, hire a guide and see what you can discover.

No other artist is more closely tied to the Islands of Tahiti than the decadent, amorous, bohemian French painter, Paul Gauguin. In 1901, he fled the oppressive life of polite bourgeois European society for parts unknown in the South Pacific and settled on the tiny island of Hiva Oa, where he died only two years later. Go visit this dazzling and wild island and stop by Calvary Cemetery of Atuona to visit Gauguin’s simple and lovely grave. Leave behind one of the colourful tropical flowers from which he drew so much inspiration for his artwork.

Whether you want a resort vacation, wildlife safari, city break, luxury cruise, wellness retreat, honeymoon, once-in-a-lifetime adventure or weekend escape, the trip curation experts at Mr Hudson make travel planning a breeze. Find out how we can handle the finer details of vacationing in style.