Tahiti is the kind of place that comes to mind when you think of paradise: stunningly beautiful, relaxed, and far, far away.
But where is Tahiti, exactly? This article will pinpoint the location of Tahiti and explain what makes it such a special place in the South Pacific.
Tahiti is in the South Pacific
Tahiti is located in the South Pacific Ocean, almost equidistant between the United States and Australia. The island’s warm, tropical climate and volcanic landscape are part of its appeal.
Tahiti is part of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France. Because of this political affiliation, both French and Tahitian are considered official languages, and the island’s culture and governance are influenced by France.
The Society Islands
Tahiti is part of the Society Islands, an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean. An archipelago is a chain or cluster of islands.
Other Society Islands include Bora Bora, Moorea, and Huahine. Bora Bora, in particular, is a popular honeymoon destination. You can travel to these islands by flying into Tahiti.
The Society Islands offer a range of beautiful landscapes, from jagged volcanic peaks to colorful coral reefs teeming with life.
The Island of Tahiti
Tahiti is divided into two sections: Tahiti Nui, which is the larger part of the island, and Tahiti Iti, the smaller peninsula. Tahiti Nui is the section that most visitors see, with its resorts, beaches, and bustling towns. Tahiti Iti is more rugged and remote.
Tahiti Nui is home to Mount Orohena, a dormant volcano that rises to over 7,300 feet. The volcanic landscape is lush and green, with deep valleys and cascading waterfalls.
Papeete is Tahiti’s capital city and serves as its administrative and economic center. It’s a vibrant hub with markets, shops, and restaurants.
Faa’a International Airport (PPT) is the island’s main airport and a hub for flights to and from other islands in French Polynesia.
Tahiti is easily accessible from North America, South America, New Zealand, Australia, and Asia. Many travelers take the popular overnight flight from Los Angeles to Papeete, which clocks in at around 8 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it so expensive to go to Tahiti?
Several factors contribute to Tahiti’s high travel costs. Its remote location requires long flights, and many resorts are luxurious and all-inclusive, commanding premium prices. The French Polynesian Franc (XPF) is pegged to the Euro, making things more expensive for visitors holding USD. The island also has limited resources, so it relies on imports, which drive up the cost of goods and services. Finally, the government of French Polynesia levies a number of taxes on tourism, which increases the overall cost of visiting.
Where is Tahiti located?
Tahiti is located in the Society Islands archipelago, which is part of French Polynesia, in the South Pacific Ocean. Geographically, it’s about halfway between Australia and California. More specifically, it’s situated approximately 4,400 kilometers (2,734 miles) south of Hawaii.
What language do they speak in Tahiti?
The official languages of Tahiti are French and Tahitian. While French is widely spoken and used in government and business, Tahitian is the traditional Polynesian language. Many locals are bilingual, speaking both languages fluently. English is also spoken in tourist areas, but knowing a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
To Conclude
Tahiti is located in the heart of the South Pacific. As part of French Polynesia’s Society Islands, it’s more than just a beautiful island. It’s also a gateway to exploring the other islands in the region.
Thanks to its accessibility and central location, Tahiti is the perfect first stop for any Polynesian adventure.