Tahiti and French Polynesia are world-famous as one of the best places to visit for romance. From loved-up couples to newlyweds on honeymoon, these stunning islands in the South Pacific are as close to paradise as it is possible to get.
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But why should couples get all the fun? Tahiti isn’t just about love and romance, and many of the reasons why it is such a great honeymoon destination apply equally well to other travellers. For families with kids, Tahiti is a delight, with an array of amazing experiences and activities that are perfect for young kids, teens, and parents, not to mention the exquisite beauty and charm of the archipelago.
Thanks to its pristine beaches, warm shallow waters, gentle tides, and incredibly friendly atmosphere, French Polynesia is as family-friendly a vacation destination as you could hope to find. So if you are cruising to Tahiti with the kids and luggage in tow and want the perfect adventure, here are some of the best family-friendly things to do in French Polynesia!
Best places to visit in Tahiti
Faarumai Waterfalls
Traveling in Tahiti can sometimes be an expensive business, but these stunning cascades offer one of the best free experiences that the islands have to offer. A remarkable natural wonder, Faarumai Waterfalls comprises three separate falls which combine in a delightful lagoon at the bottom where kids can safely splash while watching the surging water. It is a refreshing break from the heat of the day, and a special adventure into the gorgeous natural world of Tahiti.
Moorea
The island of Moorea could almost have been designed as a family-friendly vacation destination. Every corner of this stunning spot offers wonderful experiences and activities that are perfect for kids and adults alike, and it is probably the best place in French Polynesia to visit with little ones. From amazing snorkelling in the warm shallow waters off Temae Beach and the amazing Lagoonarium (a natural aquarium) to the stunning views and excellent hiking trails up to Belvedere vista, Moorea is family adventure personified.
Black sand magic of Tahiti
The black sand beaches of French Polynesia are famous, and your kids will be enchanted by the magic and wonder of the natural volcanic phenomenon. The Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort on Matavai Bay is one of the best examples on the island of Tahiti, offering the chance to experience the beach from the comfort of a sun lounger, and cool off in the pool if the salt water isn’t to your taste. Other black sand beaches on Tahiti include Lafayette Beach, Plage de Taharuu, and the beach by Arahoho Blowhole!
Food truck flavours
Papeete is a charming city, the capital of French Polynesia, and a great place to soak up the culture and traditions of Tahiti and the islands a little more deeply. For kids, one of the best ways to do this is through food, and in particular through the iconic food trucks which congregate in downtown Papeete. Offering an authentic, traditional taste of Polynesian cuisine, these trucks sell Poisson cru, crepes, grilled meats, and freshly-caught seafood, in frankly outrageous portions (and at bargain-basement prices!).
Tiki Village Cultural Center
For an even deeper exploration of the rich cultural traditions of Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific, take the family to the Tiki Village Cultural Center on Moorea. From traditional dances to fascinating exhibitions, it is a great way to get a little more understanding about the indigenous peoples of the islands and to learn about their traditional way of life, crafts, and rituals. Your tour will include hands-on activities like basket weaving, as well as a delicious feast at the end of the day!
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