French Polynesia's main island of Tahiti (meaning 'the gathering
place') stands sentinel over her surrounding sisters like a proud
queen, her soaring interior mountains sheltering deep valleys,
plummeting waterfalls and crystal streams flowing down to the
rugged coastline of black and white sand beaches and blue lagoons.
The island is actually two islands, Tahiti-Nui and Tahiti-Iti,
joined by a narrow isthmus.
Most holidaymakers start their island idyll at the international
Faa'a Airport at Papeete, Tahiti's capital and the commercial hub
of French Polynesia. The small, busy city has a French flavour and
laid-back atmosphere, worth exploring for its vibrant Central
Market, pearl shops, attractive waterfront with its unique mobile
diners, and a selection of excellent restaurants. Another must for
visitors is to take a round-the-island tour, along the 73-mile
(117km) road encircling the island, passing historic monuments,
museums, beaches, ruined temples, waterfalls, gardens and dramatic
scenery.
The island's best white sand beaches are between Punaauia and
Papara, but most visitors get more of a thrill out of visiting the
famed black sand beaches on the east coast, particularly renowned
Pointe Venus. Besides enjoying the seaside, Tahiti also offers some
interesting sightseeing, including magnificent Botanical gardens,
museums, archaeological sites, the tomb of the royal family Pomare,
a lake containing unique eared eels, lava tubes, and a host of
other unusual experiences.
