Rent a car and drive to the east coast. Stop at Tahara’a Vista Point for amazing views of the coast and mountains. Then drive north to Point Venus, the sandy peninsula where Captain James Cook observed the transit of the planet across the sun in 1769. There is a good black-sand beach to relax on. You can even rent paddle boards in this area, a perfect outdoor activity. I suggest stopping at the store and picking up some snacks to have a picnic on the black sand beach.
TAHITI Half a Day: Scuba Diving
Try scuba diving with our onsite Dive center. The TOPDIVE Tahiti is located on the beach of the hotel. If you have never dove before I suggest the Introductory dive of the helmet dive. The staff of the dive center are professional and know how to introduce you to the underwater world to make unforgettable experiences. Dives are available everyday of the year.
TAHITI Two Hour : Dolphin Watch
Every morning from the activities center a 2 hour dolphin cruise departs towards the Taapuna Pass an area where the lagoon opens up into the ocean. In this area, everyday, there is a family of dolphins for you to visit. If the water and the dolphins are calm you may even jump into the water with a mask and snorkel to observe up close. Best to make reservations the day before.
TAHITI Museum of Tahiti & Her Islands
The Museum of Tahiti features exhibits of Polynesian history, culture, envirnment and ethnology. You can see such historical artifacts as James Cooks ship anchor which is over 200 years old. Other fascinating archeological artifacts include the twins stone, straw hats, baskets, fishing equipment, ancient weapons and large tiki gods. The entry fee is 600cfp. There is a beach just in front of the museum where if you are lucky you may see dolphins here.
TAHITI Black Pearl Museum
Tip: To learn all about pearls, their history and farming techniques, we suggest visiting The Robert Wan Pearl Museum which is adjacent. This will assist you in making a educated purchase.
This high-quality shop is the place to find Tahiti's unique black cultured pearls. Robert Wan is the Pearl Emperor of Polynesia
Delectable bites nearby
Les Roulottes
international
Try the grilled fish, fresh from the sea. Take your pick from one of the many local roulotte restaurants on the waterfront. These mobile restaurants actually gather every evening on the port of Papeete and set up their restaurants. You can actually see your dish being cooked in front of you. They serve everything from chow mein to steak with french fries.
L'O à la Bouche
french
Located in downtown Papeete, this restaurant features delicious French cuisine in a Mediterranean atmosphere, and serves fresh fish with extravagant sauces that will make your mouth water. Ask the chef for the special of the day.
This romantic gourmet restaurant sits right on the beach and features an astonishing view of Moorea, inviting you to have a pre dinner cocktail in the garden before the waiter guides you inside. Your concierge will be happy to help you secure a required reservation.
La Casa Bianca, situated five minutes from the Resort at the Marina Taina, serves Italian cuisine. They are well known for their 1 Meter Pizza and local events that change every week at their Dinghy Bar. Take a stroll to walk off your dinner on the marina and see local "Poti Marara" boats and super yachts.
Pink Coconut
french
The Pink Coconut is located at the edge of the Marina Taina, and is a great place for lunch, dinner or to simply enjoy a cocktail at sunset with a outstanding view of Moorea in the background. It is so close to the edge you'll feel as if you are eating on one of the many beautiful yachts docked in front of the restaurant. The owner is Teiva LC, a famous local singer who occasionally takes the stage at the restaurant.
Jimmys
chinese
Jimmy's, located in downtown Papeete next to City Hall, is said to have the best Asian cuisine in Tahiti. If you're looking for Chinese, Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, look no further; this is the spot for you. Try one of the deliciously fragrant curries.
Le Retro
international
Le Retro Restaurant serves French and local cuisine, and is situated on Boulevard Pomare, in front of the Vaima shopping center. It is a fantastic spot for lunch after visiting downtown Papeete, or to simply sit and watch others walk along the sidewalk.
