Things to Do

Besides taking in the gorgeous surroundings and enjoying the ever-present sea breeze, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy in Tahiti. Shoppers will find exotic wares to peruse, and active travelers will be pleased with the wide array of water sports available.

The public market in Papeete can offer many diversions. It's where the best native goods of Tahiti are bought and sold. Handmade treasures like woven hats and baskets, colorfully dyed fabrics, wood carvings and seashell jewelry can be found along with spectacular black pearls and fragrant soaps.

The azure water around the islands provides a stunning backdrop for a vacation, but it also offers many opportunities for exploration. Tranquil lagoons are well-suited for snorkelers and swimmers, while diving enthusiasts can enjoy the shipwrecks and underwater caverns farther from shore. The marine life includes coral gardens, clams, tropical fish, rays, dolphins, sharks and migrating whales.

Adventurous guests can enjoy a wide variety of water sports, everything from surfing, sailing and jet skiing to deep-sea fishing, canoeing and kayaking. If you don't want to get wet, you can enjoy the islands' museums, archaeological tours or a helicopter ride to take in all of the sights.

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