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Tahiti is home to tropical weather and bathes in sunlight for most of the year. From November to April the islands experience summer which also marks the wet season. During this period the average temperature is approximately 29 degrees and weather is incredibly muggy. February and March are the hottest months of the year and rainfall and storms are very common during this time. The dry season hits in May and continues through to October. This season is low in humidity but is still relatively sunny and warm with an average temperature of 26 degrees.
Most tourists head to Tahiti in July when the island experiences the best weather conditions. Other peak times fall around Christmas and Easter when schools are on holidays. These holidays aren’t always the best time to go as torrential rainfall can put a damper on outdoor activities. Instead, the best time to go to Tahiti is from May to October.
During this season a number of festivals and celebrations take place. In June and July the island celebrates Heiva i Tahiti, which is Tahiti’s largest annual cultural festival. Throughout Heiva i Tahiti, a range of dance, music, art, traditional sports, boat races, cultural activities and even a Miss Tahiti pageant takes place. Most local schools participate in the festival and awards are handed out.
Air
It is only possible to travel to Tahiti by air. Airlines that fly from Australia include:
A stop-over in Noumea or New Zealand may be required. Flights from Australia to Tahiti take approximately 13 to 20 hours depending on the stop over. To book the quickest flight, talk to an expert at Travel Associates. Tahiti’s Faa'a International Airport is located on the outskirts of the island’s capital Papeete.
All Inclusive Resorts
Tahiti’s luxury resorts can be found in amongst palm fronds and backing onto sheltered lagoons. Offering a range of holiday styles from relaxation, romance and adventure, these resorts boast elegant interiors, modern amenities, breakfasts and a high level of service. View Resort options
Private Islands
Holiday makers can live out their own Robinson Crusoe adventures on some of the private island resorts in Tahiti. These luxurious resorts offer accommodation for a range of travel styles from opulent suits to family friendly options and romantic honey moon rooms.
Spa Resorts
Take your relaxing holiday to the next level by staying at a peaceful Spa Resort. Spend your mornings swimming and soaking up sunlight in the lagoons and your afternoons enjoying feel-good pamper sessions at the spa. Spa Resorts are ideal accommodation for couples and those looking for an indulging escape. Talk to our Spa Holidays expert
Overwater Bungalows
We’ve all fantasised about a waking up in an island bungalow with sparkling blue water at our door step. These dreams can become a reality with an over water Bungalow holiday in Tahiti. Bungalows are ideal for honeymooners and couples looking for privacy with a breath-taking backdrop.Over Water Bungalow options
Honeymoons
Honeymooners will be spoilt for choice for romantic accommodation options. All inclusive resorts offer wedded couples intimate privacy, luxurious suites and all the trimmings to ensure their holiday is stress free and unforgettable. View Honeymoon options
To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 1800 017 849 or enquire online.
Sights to See
Great snorkelling can be found all around the island but for something truly unique come face to face with sting rays just a few meters off the coast of Moorea. This particular lagoon is also known as Stingray World and can be viewed from beneath by divers or watched from above by snorkelers. Alternatively experience a supervised shark feeding dive.
Thanks to a healthy annual rainfall, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to waterfall watching in Tahiti. The Faarumai Waterfalls are some of the islands more famous falls and are well worth visiting. This sight is easily accessible and includes three long white cascades.
Surround yourself with nature and lush greenery by taking a visit to the Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens. Green thumbs will relish the gardens here which are full of local tropical plants and numerous fragrant orchids.
Holiday makers looking to take home a shiny souvenir will enjoy the Pearl Museum in Papeete. Here you can learn all about Tahiti’s burgeoning pearl industry, their famous black pearls and the characteristics of a high quality pearl.
Don’t Leave Without…
The locals here really do wear sarongs every day so feel free to bring only casual summer clothing. Remember the temperatures can get pretty hot here so pack only a few layers and a couple of bathing suits.
The heat from the Tahitian tropical sun can get pretty deadly so bring sunscreen and don’t forget to re-apply your sun protection every few hours.
If you visit Tahiti in the wet season its more than likely you are going to get caught out in the rain. Pack a raincoat, plastic bag and shoes that can withstand the mud and make the most of the rainy days.
Local Customs
If you’re invited into a local’s home it’s respectful to remove your shoes. Depending on how many people in the room, it’s polite to shake everyone’s hand.
The western form of tattooing originated in Tahiti. As there was no writing in historic Polynesian communities, tattoos were used to indicate status. Although the practice was banned when missionaries arrived in the late 1700s, tattoos have since been revived and are now considered a sign of beauty in my culture.
The Tiar flower (commonly known as the frangipani) has significant cultural meaning when worn behind the ear. If the Tiare blossom is worn behind the left ear it means the wearer is taken. If worn tucked behind the right ear, the wearer is available.
Things to be careful of…
Language barrier
Unlike other island destinations, not everyone knows English here. It is a good idea to try and learn some basic Tahitian or French phrases before you go.
Theft
Petty theft has been known to happen in Tahiti, particularly when it comes to items left in cars. Always be sure to lock your car and secure your bags close to your person. Some tricky locals have been known to show locals around and in the process pickpocket their wallets. Politely decline these offers and discover Tahiti your own way – with your wallet still intact.
