With a superficy of 1042 km2, Tahiti is the largest of the Polynesian islands. Tahiti population is also the most concentrated especially in Papeete.

Tahiti is actually divided into Big Tahiti and Little Tahiti and joined by an impressive isthmus. A delightfully scenic introduction to Tahiti is a 114 kilometre drive - or cycle - around the big island, over the isthmus and along the coast of the little island. The road passes villages, plantations and forests. There are beautiful beaches to stop at and play on, rugged volcanic mountains, the Arahoho Blowhole, Faaruumai Waterfalls and lava tubes.

There are historical and archaeological points of interest, including Point Venus, where Captain Cook made his observations of that mysterious planet, and Marae Arahuruhu with its ruined temples, tikis and petroglyphs.

A glimpse of Polynesian life can be gained at the Central market in Papeete, with its amazing array of local foods downstairs and an equally intriguing line-up of local clothes and handcrafts upstairs. The lovely Papeete waterfront is the place to sit and watch the world go by, particularly in the evenings when caravans offer a variety of ethnic foods. Most larger hotels have at least one night a week where visitors can experience Polynesian culture close up. Traditional feasts, including a variety of seafood and delicacies baked in an earth oven, are accompanied by the compelling performance of traditional dances and music.