TAHITI MAIN LAND

24 Hours on Tahiti’s Main Island: A Mini Guide to the Perfect Pit Stop in Paradise

Before heading off to Bora Bora or Taha’a, many travelers overlook the main island of Tahiti as just a layover—but we found a way to turn it into one of the most memorable parts of our French Polynesian trip. From renting a car at PPT to boating inside the iconic Teahupo’o barrel, here’s what to pack, wear, eat, and do if you’re spending the night in downtown Papeete.

WHAT TO PACK

• Dry bag: For the boat to Teahupo’o, trust me—you’ll want it.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: The sun doesn’t play around here.

• Water shoes: Ideal for waterfalls or shoreline exploring.

• Swimsuit + towel: You’ll want to be ready to hop in.

• Light jacket or sarong: Mornings are cooler, especially before sunrise.

• Portable snacks: There aren’t many food options near the wave if you’re out for hours.

WHAT TO WEAR

Keep it simple and tropical:

• Daytime: Breezy shorts or linen pants, tanks, and sandals.

• Boat to Teahupo’o: Swimsuit, rash guard, and sunglasses with a strap.

• Night out: A casual maxi dress or chic button-down with sandals will do the trick—Papeete is laid back, but the Kon Tiki rooftop makes you want to show a little effort.

WHAT TO EAT

You don’t need to go far—some of the best food is in your hotel.

• Kon Tiki Hotel ($225/night): Affordable, clean, and shockingly well-located near the ferry building and downtown Papeete.

• Breakfast tip: Tell the front desk the night before if you’re leaving early—they’ll pack a to-go breakfast box for your road trip.

• Dinner: Kon Tiki has two incredible restaurants and a rooftop bar worth staying in for. The cocktails and fresh fish were perfect after a long day.

• Street food: Walk to the waterfront roulottes (food trucks) near Place Vai’ete for a more local flavor—think poisson cru, crepes, and grilled meats.

WHAT TO DO

For a full day, here’s how to do it right:

• Rent a car from Hertz at PPT: It’s steps from your gate and makes island exploration seamless.

• Teahupo’o boat tour: Wake up by 5am and drive ~1.5 hours to the south shore. Book with Adventure Teahupo’o and request Haimai (find him on IG)—you’ll be in the same boat used by the Olympic team. The waves are powerful, the energy is surreal, and if you’re like me, slightly terrifying (but worth it).

• Lunch near Teahupo’o: Only one local restaurant in the area, but a great reset before heading back.

• Drive the east coast: Wrap the day with a scenic drive past black sand beaches and stop at the famous Faarumai Waterfalls before heading back to Papeete for dinner and sunset cocktails.

TL;DR: Don’t skip Tahiti. Even one night on the main island can feel like its own adventure—especially when barrels, breakfast boxes, and waterfalls are all part of the plan.