Tahiti and Moorea are the most accessible islands in French Polynesia and serve as the perfect introduction for families. Tahiti is the largest island and the economic heart of the country. While many tourists rush to leave, families should spend time visiting the Papeete Market. It is a sensory overload of colors and smells, where you can buy fresh tropical fruit, flower leis, and local crafts. Just outside the city, the black sand beaches of Point Venus offer a unique geography lesson and a safe place to swim near a historic lighthouse.
Tahiti Nui (the main island) features lush interior valleys. A drive to the Faarumai Waterfalls is easy and requires only a short walk from the parking area, making it accessible even for toddlers. For a glimpse of the island's surf culture, families can visit Teahupo'o on the smaller Tahiti Iti peninsula. While the wave itself is for pros only, boat tours can safely take you close enough to watch the action from the channel.
Moorea, located just a 30-minute high-speed ferry ride away, feels like a different world. It is widely considered the best family destination in the country due to its convenience and variety. The lagoon here is shallow and teeming with life. The "Lagoonarium" is a cordoned-off section of the reef where children can snorkel safely holding onto a rope while guides attract fish. Another major highlight is the Opunohu Agricultural School, where families can walk through pineapple fields and taste fresh jams and ice creams made from fruit grown on-site.
The geography of Moorea is stunning, with the two deep bays of Cook's and Opunohu carving into the green mountains. A drive up to the Belvedere Lookout provides a panoramic view that requires no hiking to enjoy. For active families, renting a small roadmap car or taking a 4x4 tour into the crater reveals ancient marae temples and river crossings.
Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to family-run guesthouses (pensions), and the presence of Carrefour supermarkets on both islands makes it easy to buy diapers, snacks, and familiar foods for picky eaters.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Home to iconic overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons with world-class snorkeling among sharks and rays. The dry season (Jul-Sep) provides the 10m+ visibility and calm seas required for elite diving, while the monsoon season (Nov-Apr) brings heavy rain and high humidity that degrade the experience.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Offers world-leading luxury spa retreats specializing in traditional Polynesian 'Taurumi' massage and secluded wellness environments. Peak months align with lower humidity (68-69%) and pleasant temperatures, whereas the off-season humidity (>72%) and extreme rainfall (up to 539mm) can be oppressive for relaxation.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Dramatic volcanic peaks and lush interior rainforests offer authentic hiking and unique ecosystems. Peak months are essential for navigating steep trails safely and enjoying humpback whale encounters, while the heavy tropical rains of the wet season make mountain exploration hazardous.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
The 'Heiva i Tahiti' in July is a globally significant festival of Polynesian dance and culture, while August-October is peak humpback whale season. These authentic experiences provide a deep connection to local heritage and nature that is not available during the rest of the year.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Features world-class surfing at Teahupo'o and exceptional sailing and outrigger canoeing conditions. The peak period captures the most consistent southern swells and trade winds, while the wet season's unpredictable storms and low visibility are unsuitable for high-standard sporting activities.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Papeete provides an authentic blend of French and Polynesian culture through its vibrant markets, cathedrals, and pearl museums. July is the peak cultural window due to major festivities, while the remainder of the wet season makes urban walking tours uncomfortable due to extreme heat and heavy precipitation.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Rich opportunities for learning about marine biology, coral reef conservation, and Polynesian navigation at dedicated research centers. Peak months offer the best weather for field-based learning and interactive lagoon tours, whereas the off-season rain limits access to archaeological and ecological sites.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
The circuit roads of Tahiti and Moorea offer spectacular views of bays and mountains, particularly from the Belvedere Lookout. Dry months ensure the high visibility and safe road conditions necessary for a premium scenic driving experience, which is frequently compromised by intense tropical downpours.
Attractions (54 total)
National Park / Nature Reserve
Belvedere Lookout
Moorea
The most famous panoramic viewpoint in Moorea, offering families a stunning vista of Cook's Bay, Opunohu Bay, and Mount Rotui.
Papenoo Valley
Pape'eno
Tahiti's largest river valley, providing an immersive wilderness experience with dramatic volcanic cliffs, river crossings, and hidden waterfalls.
Faarumai Waterfalls
Tiarei
A popular natural site featuring three majestic waterfalls accessible via short, family-friendly forest paths through lush jungle.
Opunohu Valley Trails
Moorea
A protected historical and natural area filled with ancient stone temples (marae) and easy-to-moderate hiking trails through tropical forests.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Belvedere Lookout Moorea
Moorea
An iconic panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of Cook's Bay, Opunohu Bay, and the towering Mount Rotui.
Point Venus Lighthouse
Mahina
A historic 19th-century lighthouse situated on a scenic peninsula where Captain Cook observed the transit of the planet Venus.
Arahoho Blowhole (Trou du Souffleur de Arahoho)
Tiarei
A powerful natural landmark where seawater blasts through a volcanic rock vent, creating a dramatic geyser-like effect.
Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale de l'Immaculée Conception)
Papeete
The oldest Catholic church in Tahiti, featuring a unique blend of Gothic and colonial architecture in the center of Papeete.
Papeete Town Hall (Mairie de Papeete)
Papeete
A stunning colonial-style building with lush gardens that serves as the administrative and cultural heart of the capital.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Cook's Bay
Paopao
One of the world's most beautiful bays, characterized by deep blue waters and a backdrop of jagged emerald-green mountains.
Pointe Vénus
Mahina
A scenic peninsula with a historic lighthouse and black sand beach, serving as a popular picnic and swimming spot for families.
Visit website →Maraa Grotto
Paea
A series of fern-draped caves containing deep, clear freshwater pools nestled into the side of a cliff.
Arahoho Blowhole
Tiarei
A natural maritime phenomenon where seawater is blasted through a shoreline rock crevice, creating a powerful geyser-like spray.
Magic Mountain
Papetoai
A steep lookout point providing a breathtaking 360-degree view of Moorea's north coast, coral reefs, and volcanic peaks.
Major International Festival / Cultural Event
Heiva i Tahiti
Papeete
July, approximately 18 days. Established in 1881, this is the world's most prestigious celebration of Polynesian culture, featuring elite competitions in traditional dance (Ori Tahiti), polyphonic singing, and ancient sports like stone lifting. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors and participants. Families can enjoy handicraft villages, food stalls (roulottes), and daytime athletic events.
Visit website →Humpback Whale Migration Season
Moorea
July to early November, 4-month window. This is a globally renowned natural spectacle where humpback whales migrate to the island's sheltered bays to mate and nurse their calves. Moorea is one of the few places on Earth where swimming with whales is legally permitted and strictly regulated. It draws thousands of international eco-tourists and photographers annually for family-friendly boat expeditions.
Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Marae Arahurahu
Paea
A fully restored ancient Polynesian stone temple used for religious ceremonies, offering a serene glimpse into pre-European Tahitian culture.
Museum of Tahiti and the Islands
Puna'auia
The premier cultural institution of French Polynesia, housing significant historical artifacts and archaeological exhibits on a beautiful oceanfront site.
Visit website →Point Venus
Mahina
The historic landing site of Captain Cook and Captain Bligh, featuring a white lighthouse and monuments marking the observation of the 1769 transit of Venus.
Marae Titiroa
Opunohu Valley
Located in the lush Opunohu Valley, this atmospheric archaeological site features ancient stone foundations surrounded by towering mape trees.
James Norman Hall Home
Arue
The meticulously preserved historic residence of the 'Mutiny on the Bounty' co-author, showcasing early 20th-century life in French Polynesia.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Marché de Papeete
Papeete
A vibrant two-story historic market filled with local crafts, fresh tropical produce, and the lively daily atmosphere of Tahitian culture.
Tiki Village Cultural Center
Ha'apiti
An authentic-style Polynesian village offering cultural workshops, traditional dance performances, and a glimpse into ancestral island life.
Visit website →Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Moorea Island Circle Road
Circular
60km paved loop (1.5-2 hours). A stunning coastal drive encircling the island, providing access to the deep turquoise waters of Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay, traditional villages, and vast pineapple plantations on the valley floors.
Visit website →Tahiti Island Circle Road
Circular
114km paved coastal loop (3-5 hours). This scenic circuit around Tahiti Nui passes landmarks like Point Venus, the Arahoho Blowhole, the three Faarumai Waterfalls, Maraa Grotto, and the Vaipahi Tropical Gardens.
Visit website →Tahiti Iti Coastal Road to Teahupo'o
Taravao
18km paved coastal route (30 minutes). Beginning at the Taravao isthmus, this quiet road follows the rugged southern coast of Tahiti's smaller peninsula to the world-famous Teahupo'o surf break, passing lush cliffs and black sand beaches.
Visit website →Moorea Belvedere Lookout Drive
Opunohu Bay
4km paved mountain ascent (15 minutes). This steep, winding road climbs from the base of Opunohu Bay through dense rainforest and ancient marae ruins to a panoramic overlook with iconic views of Mount Rotui and the twin bays.
Visit website →Papenoo Valley Trans-Island Road
Papenoo
~40km unpaved 4WD track (4-6 hours). A rugged interior route crossing the heart of Tahiti Nui. It winds through the Papenoo Valley, passing the Relais de la Maroto, the island's tallest waterfalls, and offering views of Mount Orohena.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Mount Aorai Trail
Pirae
19.3km challenging out-and-back trek, typically taking 10-12 hours with 1,830m elevation gain. This is Tahiti's most famous high-altitude hike, following a narrow ridgeline to the summit. It features two refuge huts for overnight stays. Expert difficulty due to steep drops and weather changes.
Visit website →Tahiti Coastal Road Circle Route
Papeete
114km moderate cycling route, 5-8 hours duration, approx 600m total elevation gain. The 'Ceinture' circles Tahiti Nui, passing lagoons, black sand beaches, and botanical gardens. Bike rentals: E-Bike Tahiti (ebiketahiti.com) or Hello Scoot. Mostly flat with some coastal rolling sections.
Visit website →Three Coconut Trees Pass (Col des Trois Cocotiers)
Opunohu
7.1km moderate loop, approximately 3 hours duration, with 350m elevation gain. This iconic Moorea trail connects the Belvedere lookout to the ridge overlooking both Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay. The path winds through mahogany forests and ancient chestnut trees.
Visit website →Mount Marau Ridge Trail
Faa'a
14km moderate-to-challenging out-and-back hike or mountain bike descent, 4-6 hours duration, 900m elevation gain. Follows a 4x4 track up to radio towers at 1,441m. Offers views of Moorea and the interior valleys of Tahiti. Popular for downhill mountain biking.
Visit website →Opunohu Valley Pineapple Route
Papetoai
12km easy-moderate cycling/hiking route, 2-3 hours duration, 250m elevation gain. A scenic route through Moorea's pineapple plantations and archaeological sites (Marae). Ideal for gravel or mountain bikes. Bike rental: Moorea E-Bike (moorea-ebike.com) or E-Bike Moorea (ebikemoorea.com).
Visit website →Fautaua Valley and Waterfall Trail
Papeete
10.5km moderate out-and-back hike, 4-5 hours duration, 320m elevation gain. Leads to the 135-meter Fautaua Waterfall, ranked as one of the world's tallest. Requires a permit from the Papeete Town Hall (Mairie). The route follows an old colonial road and jungle paths.
Visit website →Mount Rotui Trail
Piha'ena
8.5km expert out-and-back hike, 5-7 hours duration, 850m elevation gain. A very steep and technical climb on the ridge separating Moorea's two bays. Offers the most dramatic views of the island's interior. Known for being overgrown and slippery; strictly for experienced hikers.
Visit website →Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Musée de Tahiti et des Îles (Te Fare Iamanaha)
Puna'auia
This newly renovated national museum offers a comprehensive look at Polynesian natural history, archaeology, and culture through interactive exhibits and a beautiful botanical garden.
Visit website →Fare Natura (Ecomusée Te Fare Natura)
Moorea
An innovative eco-museum and discovery center that uses interactive technology to explain the marine biology and unique terrestrial ecosystems of the Polynesian islands.
Visit website →Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Musée de Tahiti et des Îles - Te Fare Iamanaha
Puna'auia
This premier cultural institution features beautifully renovated galleries showcasing ancient Polynesian carvings, textile arts, and regional history.
Visit website →Robert Wan Pearl Museum
Papeete
The world's only museum dedicated to the black pearl, exploring the intersection of natural science, history, and the art of pearl jewelry.
Visit website →Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Pointe Venus Beach
Mahina
A historic black sand beach featuring a 19th-century lighthouse and calm waters perfect for family swimming and picnics.
Temae Beach
Teavaro
An iconic Moorea beach with vast white sands and a crystal-clear turquoise lagoon ideal for swimming and reef exploration.
Vaiava Beach (PK 18)
Puna'auia
Tahiti's most popular white sand beach, offering exceptional snorkeling in a shallow lagoon with stunning views of Moorea.
Ta'ahiamanu Beach
Papetoai
A picturesque public beach on Opunohu Bay lined with coconut palms, offering a peaceful setting for snorkeling and sunset views.
Taharuu Beach
Papara
A large and beautiful black sand beach on Tahiti's south coast, highly regarded for its surf conditions and family-friendly atmosphere.
Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
Te Fare Natura (The Ecomuseum)
Papetoai
A state-of-the-art eco-museum featuring immersive aquariums and interactive exhibits that detail the volcanic origins and marine biodiversity of French Polynesia.
Visit website →Te Mana O Te Moana (Sea Turtle Care Center)
Vairao
A dedicated sea turtle rehabilitation center offering visitors the chance to learn about marine conservation and see rescued turtles being cared for by scientists.
Visit website →Coral Gardeners
Paopao
A pioneering coral conservation center where families can participate in educational workshops and learn about reef restoration efforts in a beautiful tropical setting.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Vaipahi Water Gardens
Mataiea
A lush public park featuring cascading waterfalls, spiritual archaeological sites, and well-marked trails through exotic Polynesian flora.
Visit website →Harrison Smith Botanical Garden
Papeari
Created by an American botanist in 1919, this historic garden showcases a massive collection of exotic trees, giant bamboo, and lily ponds.
Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Moorea Tropical Garden
Opunohu
A hilltop rural garden featuring a vanilla greenhouse and diverse fruit plantations with panoramic views over Opunohu Bay.
Plateau de Taravao
Taravao
A scenic highland area known as 'Little Normandy,' offering a unique rural landscape of rolling green pastures and grazing dairy cattle.
Lycée Agricole d'Opunohu
Opunohu
An educational farm where visitors can walk through extensive pineapple fields and taste homemade tropical fruit jams and juices.
Visit website →Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Rainbow Park Tahiti
Pirae
A family-oriented hilltop park featuring mini-golf, zip-lining, and animal encounters with scenic views of the island's coastline.
Visit website →Tiki Parc Moorea
Papetoai
An aerial adventure park offering multiple zip-line and rope courses set within the lush tropical canopy of the Opunohu Valley.
Visit website →