Like many of the Polynesian islands, Tahiti was settled thousands of years ago during a mass migration from Southeast Asia, and, though its people share many traits and even language roots with the peoples of other surrounding islands like the New Zealand aboriginals and even Hawaiians, it has its own distinct and fascinating culture. The island remained untouched by Europeans until 1767, when lieutenant Samuel Wallis first landed there in the HMS Dolphin. Over the years, Tahiti has fascinated outsiders the world over, and has become a prominent and friendly destination for travelers.

What does this tropical getaway have to offer? Like most remote islands that still feature access to pristine pockets of nature, some of the best activities in Tahiti are snorkeling and scuba diving in its clear waters. Even if you’re not much of a snorkeler, you can visit one of its many lagoons to get close and personal with the local fish, eels, crustaceans, and other sea creatures during a helmet dive, or you can tour the lagoon on your own motorized underwater submarine scooter.

If you’re into sea mammals most especially, you can go out into the ocean for a whale-watching tour and experience the many species of whale and dolphin that inhabit the waters surrounding Tahiti. For a dryer look at these natural wonders, you might also take a glass-bottom boat tour and watch the aquatic wildlife from the dry comfort of a vessel. Are you more of a risk-taker? One of the most exciting excursions you can go on in Tahiti is swimming with the native sharks and stingrays in Bora Bora. Find a guide to take you out into the shallows and feel the excitement of spending some close-up time with some of nature’s most fascinating predators.

If you’re not one for swimming with schools of fish and exploring the reefs, perhaps you’d like to take a swim at one of Tahiti’s famous beaches. Step into the champagne-colored waters near the shore and watch your feet sink into the white sand. While you’re there, why not get in on some surf lessons and learn to ride the waves with the help of an experienced native? If you want to step it up a notch, you can also try kite surfing or jet skiing along the coast of Bora Bora. When you’re ready to head further into the horizon, try some deep sea fishing and get a chance to reel in one of Tahiti’s many diverse kinds of fish.

Once you’re done checking out the wide, sparkling lagoons of Tahiti, you might want to head inland and explore the body of the islands, along with their culture. One of the best ways to do this is to rent a bicycle and visit the local villages at your own pace, getting a taste for the authentic side of Tahiti and getting a feel for what the native population is really like when the tourists aren’t watching. If you want to bring home more than just souvenirs, but rather a wealth of experience, sign up for some traditional dance lessons and learn the nuances of this Tahitian art form. Dress in the traditional pareo before learning how to move to the same music that Tahitians have danced to for hundreds of years.

When you’re ready to get a wider look at the landscape, many options for tours of the islands are available. One of the best ways to see nature in Moorea is via ATV, where you can explore some of the unique mountains and terrain of Tahiti and get to know many of the local species of plants and wildlife. You can also take a Jeep safari and explore all kinds of landscapes that are inaccessible by other means. Take a tour through different plantations and juice factories to gain an understanding of Tahiti’s fascinating economy.

As the sunset approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity for rekindling that spark of love between you and your partner. Rent a private boat and go out into the lagoons to spend some quality time together in the silence and peace of Tahiti’s paradise. Before you’re ready to turn in for the night, though, you’ll definitely want to take in a dinner show with your family, and see native Tahitians putting on one of their famous fire dances.

No matter where you go in Tahiti, there are fun and fascinating adventures that await you, whether it’s checking out the beautiful landscapes and wildlife, or simply enjoying the quiet, pure beaches with the natives. If you consider yourself to be a world traveler, Tahiti should most definitely be on your bucket list.

For more information visit: tahitinow.com.au