Our guide to the best beaches in Tahiti to visit
Few things can conjure up a vision of grass-skirted dancers, lush tropical vegetation, vanilla-scented sea breezes and breathtaking stretches of sugar-sand beaches like the word “Tahiti”. If Tahiti is not already on your travel bucket list, it’s high time to add it. Spectacular beaches await with swaying palms, idyllic lagoons and coconut cocktails.
When tourists refer to Tahiti, they might be referring to any of a multitude of islands that make up French Polynesia. Technically, the island of Tahiti is part of a group of islands known as the Society Islands – just one group among five making up French Polynesia. Some of the best beaches in Tahiti can be found in the Leeward Society Islands and islets, known to be sparsely populated, unspoiled, and perfect for sailing on the gentle trade winds. Among these are the islands of Huahine, Tahaa, and most famously, Bora Bora with its spectacularly beautiful lagoon nestled under the towering silhouette of jagged Mt. Otemanu.
Join us for a drift through these idyllic islands of French Polynesia to discover the best beaches to visit in Tahiti.
Our top five recommended Tahiti beaches
1. Fare Beach, Huahine a culturally preserved sanctuary
The island of Huahine is a favourite of those seeking stunning scenery and authentic, slower pace of old Polynesia. With just eight small villages scattered across the island and little tourism, residents are happy to share warm smiles and local secrets for making the most of your stay. Fare Beach’s powdery white sand and mountainous jungle backdrop makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. No Tahiti beach bar, music, or loud tourists here – just the wind and the sea.
2. Motu Tiapaa, Maupiti Island
Perhaps best for adventurers, this tiny coral atoll is the smallest and most remote of the Society Islands – an untouched tropical paradise where tranquillity reigns. The best beaches in Tahiti are often found on the motus, or sandbars, that ring the main island. Motu Tiapaa is known to be one of the most spectacular, surrounded by a shimmering lagoon and perfect for snorkelling and kite boarding. Be sure to pack your lunch for this far-flung playground, as there is nary a restaurant to be found.
3. Temae Beach: Best beach in Moorea
This wide, uninterrupted stretch of palm-fringed beach commands glorious views across the lagoon to Tahiti. Be sure to bring your sandals – beautiful Temae Beach is made up of coral, so seek soft sand between your toes elsewhere. Snorkel gear is also a mush, as a short wade into the water yields fantastically clear waters teeming with vibrant tropical fish.
4. Deserted Joe Dassin Beach, Taha’a
This tiny secret stretch of sand may be the smallest on our list, but its thoroughly remote location and jungle-wild backdrop will have you thinking – much to your delight – you’ve been stranded at sea. Located on the southwest side of Taha’a, a local in the village of Pati can show you the trailhead to reach the beach. Be sure to bring along your snorkelling gear and water bottle!
5. Matira Beach: Bora Bora’s most popular beach
It would probably be a challenge to find a place on Bora Bora that isn’t stunningly gorgeous. But if it’s one of the best beaches in Tahiti that you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Matira Beach. In fact, it’s often described as the most beautiful beach in the world! The expanse of soft white sand is enveloped in foliage and swaying palms for natural shade, and gently slopes to the sandy bottomed lagoon of warm shallow water. And if you’re motivated enough to disrupt your sunbathing, tasty local treats are found at the beach’s snack bar.
Sailing in Tahiti to discover the best beaches
Discover the French Polynesia by sailing Tahiti Islands with our by the cabin charters.
If the sights, scents and sounds of and exotic Tahitian beach are calling, a yacht charter will allow you to island-hop through the best of French Polynesia. While most tourists choose a hotel and use crowded local ferries to visit a nearby island, a liveaboard yacht charter lets you see all the islands and motus with complete freedom and luxury. Moor your yacht at the perfect secluded beach for the night and enjoy a star-lit dinner on deck, long after the day trip ferries have departed.
Find out more
Choose to charter by the cabin, a bareboat to sail yourself, hire a skipper to sail the boat for you or, for a luxurious sail, choose an all-inclusive crewed yacht for complete ease and relaxation on your cruise through paradise. Learn more about planning your perfect holiday of a lifetime on our blog.
