This month marks one year since my mom and I took our dream mother-daughter trip to Tahiti, such an amazing trip!
Last year my mom and I had “big birthdays”, you know the ones that start a new decade, so we wanted to do it up right. We had talked for years about taking a big trip together, and when we started throwing around ideas, French Polynesia quickly made its way to the top of the list. Since we’ve both danced Tahitian for most of our lives, it felt like one of those once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list places we just had to experience for ourselves.
Here’s a twist: for the first time ever… I didn’t plan the trip.
Instead of my usual notion orgranized, over-researched itinerary (shocking, I know), my mom booked us a package deal that took us island hopping from Huahine to Bora Bora, with a private catamaran in between (yes, it was as fantastic as it sounds). And while giving up control felt a little weird at first, it ended up being one of the carefree and seamless trips I’ve ever taken.
In this post, I’m breaking down our full Tahiti itinerary, sharing what we loved, what we’d change, and everything you need to know if you’re planning your own trip to paradise.
If Tahiti has been sitting on your bucket list… this is your sign to check it off ASAP.
Packing for your own trip? Swipe my Tahiti Packing List!
Day 1: Island Hopping Begins: Welcome to Huahine
Took a late flight (the only flight) out of LA and arrived in Papeete, Tahiti early in the morning. Our flight arrived late so our flower lei welcome was rushed as we hustled our way to our connecting flight to Huahine. From there we took a shared taxi to our hotel, Le Mahana Huahine. Fortunately it was not super busy so we were able to check in to our room early. We had a Semi-Detached Garden Bungalow, which was very nice! We lucked out and our room didn’t have a bungalow blocking our view of the water so that was great, some of the garden ones only had the garden view.
Once settled in we went to explore the hotel. We discovered that the edge of water is full of sea cucumbers, while they are harmless they are slimy and will expel more slime if stepped on. This grossed me and mom out a ton so we avoided them. We took out the paddle boards for a couple hours then went to the room to get ready for dinner.
Dinner at the hotel is included for us which was nice, the hotel isn’t close to anything really so you will likely eat there whether it not it was included. I had the chicken dish, and my mom had a steak. It was good. It wasn’t a meal to rave about but it was good. For dessert I had a pavlova and my mom had a pineapple thing. Hers was great! We actually ordered it all the nights we stayed there. Mine would have been better if the grapefruit hadn’t been so sour. We also ordered piña coladas but we were not impressed.
Day 2: Road Trip to Explore Huahine (and Avoiding Sea Cucumbers)
We kicked off the second day with breakfast at the hotel before getting a rental car to take a trip about the island, well islands. Huahine is not a very big island you can drive the larger (nui) and smaller (iti) in about 3/4 hours depending on the stops. We did not set out with a specific itinerary, the plan was the take the long way to Farea.
There was a short walk to an architectural site a few miles from the hotel we stopped at first.
Then we found a beautiful look out.
We stopped at a few little stops and then made our way to Fare pote’e maeva huahine. This is a great stop to learn about the history of Tahiti and the island of Huahine.
From there we went on to Farea. The biggest (not big) city on the island of Huahine. Our first stop was for a yummy smoothie at a cute little stand right on the Main Street by where we parked. Then we opted for a swim since it was so hot and this part of the island did not have the grody sea cucumbers. Then went grocery shopping for snacks and items for the hotel and our upcoming boat journey.
With our groceries we headed back on the circle to the hotel for dinner. I got the pasta and really enjoyed that, my mom had the fish. It began to rain on us mid way through dinner so we had to book it to the inside dining area. Definitely pay attention to the weather in the spring time the rain comes on quick but also leaves quick, its also warm so its not a big deal as long as you can get to cover.
Day 3: Resort Day… Was It Worth It?
Today we hung around the resort. We got back on the paddle boards and found a beach down the way to board to, we explored the area before paddling back to hang out on the sand. We got bored and decided to test out our snorkel gear around the pier at the resort. I wouldn’t call it great snorkeling, but there were definitely some pretty fish and something fun to do around the resort. Then we watched the sunset while we had dinner.
I am going to be frank here this was out least useful days, unless you are very in to lounging around a resort (which we are not) then if you are planning your own trip I would use this day elsewhere. I would have rather had a night in Pepeete, Bora Bora or added another night to the catamaran tour.
Day 4: Catamaran Life Begins (Best Decision Ever)
This was our last day at Le Mahana. We started the day with the breakfast buffet. Then hung around the resort waiting for our boat pick up. Not gonna lie, we were pretty bored by lunch time we were chomping at the bit for the boat to come pick us up.
Finally, 2 o’clock came around, and we saw our catamaran on the horizon. We waited at the edge of the dock to meet our captain, who, we were pleasantly surprised to see, was a woman. Not that we card either way, but it was an added bonus. We gathered up our stuff and the captain, Jennifer, took us to the catamaran. My mom decided to get us a chartered catamaran with Tahiti Yacht Charter for this leg of the trip. So we had this nice little boat all to ourselves! The cruise took us from Huahine to Bora Bora with some stops along the way.
The first night we stayed around Huahine but at a different part of the island. We found a nice spot, went for some snorkeling and then had some dinner. I will say the meals we had on this catamaran were the best food we ate our whole stay. There is something to say about having a private chef I guess. lol. Once it was dark the captain turned on some cool blue lights and we got to watch sting rays swim under the boat. It was so peaceful.
Day 5: Swimming with Sharks in Taha’a
Today we set off to Taha’a on the catamaran. Due to the timing of this leg we did not really spend much time on this island. We stayed on the water around the island.
On the way to Taha’a our captain found the perfect spot to swim with the reef tip sharks. It was amazing! They are so docile and beautiful.
We did get to touch land though by going to the pearl farm to learn about and buy some Tahitian pearls. These black pearls are almost exclusively farmed in French Polynesia so we could not miss checking them out. My mom chose to get the traditional pearls. I chose the all natural ones, something about them all rough and different looking was so pretty to me.
Black Tahitian pearls are famous for their naturally dark, iridescent tones, which can range from charcoal and deep green to peacock, aubergine, and silvery gray. They are cultivated primarily in French Polynesia, most often from the black-lipped oyster, and their value is accessed by luster, surface quality, size, and how rich and even the color appears. Because each pearl develops its own unique overtone, it is worth taking time to compare them in different light before choosing a piece that feels the most “you.”
Day 6: Vanilla Farm & Bora Bora Charm
Today before we left Taha’a we paid a visit to the Vanilla farm. Tahitian vanilla, often grown on islands like Taha’a, is prized for its rich, floral aroma and naturally sweet flavor. The beans come from orchids that need careful hand-pollination and months of curing, which is why good vanilla is so expensive. The tour we took gave us a glimpse on this, we got to see the flowers, how they polinate the flowers and how they dry them. Locals use it in everything from pastries and ice cream to vanilla-infused rum, and the scent alone makes a visit to a vanilla farm feel like stepping into a warm, fragrant greenhouse. of course, we took some home with us.
Once we made out way to Bora Bora the captain took us to a quaint little part of the island to anchor for the night. We were able to take the dihngy to an area to swim with the rays. We only saw a couple but it was so neat, one that i found was blue with spots she looked just like the one from Finding Dory.
From there she took us to land to a very local place called Arii Motu Grill, We were greeted by a pack of sweet puppies who welcomed us with a fish. The owners were so sweet, we got fresh coconuts, seriously the BEST coconut I have ever had. The small islands that surround Bora Bora are so skinny that we were able to walk to the other side while we were there.
Then we went back to the boat for my yummy food and one more sunset from the catamaran.
Day 7: Overwater Bungalow Dreams Come True
Woke up to a little rainbow behind the mountains and packed up as we made the way to Vaitape where we were gong to catch a hotel transfer shuttle to the last stop on our journey, the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort. They did not have the abilty for us to check in early but we had planned ahead and wore our suits so we could hang out poolside before the room was read.
This report has a few places local unlike the last one so we set off to a local place for lunch. It was called Lucky House. Super cute, very local. We got nachos, as southern Californians, these were pretty meh, they reminded us more of a chili dog on chips but thats ok, gave us the fuel to get us to dinner, and we discovered they did pizza much better.
We got to check in to our overwater bungalow with a beach view. Talk about a bucket list item! The room was lovely. It had a coffee table with a removable top so we could feed the fish below. I fed the chips lol. We swam off the deck and got comfy. Then decided to grab some cocktail/mocktails at happy hour then grabbed a pizza from Lucky House, much better than the nachos.
We wanted to enjoy the room as much as possible so we took it to go and had it on the deck so we ordered dessert to bring back to the room from the report restaurant. We were going to do room service but it was a lot more and we didn’t mind the walk. It was very tasty. They had a little ball pastry that surprised us to have ice cream inside.
Day 8: Resort Life Done Right
Today on the Tahiti Itinerary, was mostly enjoying the resort. A breakfast buffet was included with our stay and it was very good! Best bacon we had while were there (note: i don’t really like bacon so this is more of a compliment than it sounds like).
We took the paddles out around the little cove of the resort. The water was so warm and so clear. I found lots of fish and a ray! We shared a fancy sundae for lunch. Back to the room for a bit before heading to Bora Bora Beach club for dinner. I had some super fresh fish and chips while we watched the sunset.
Day 9: Local Life, Dance Class & Taxi Drama
Breakfast again at the resort then snorkeled around the room. We took a taxi to Vaitape later in the day to walk the town and do some shopping. We had the taxi drop off at Ia Ora Na gelato. I got the Corossol, since I hadn’t heard of it before, So good!
We walked the town then headed towards where we were taking a dance class. My mom and I have dance Tahitian for many years so we had to take a class while we visited. Very cool.
We learned a very important information about the taxis. We liked the lady that picked us up so we took her card and arranged for the pick up later. it cost us like 20 bucks to get in to town. it was implied that this is the cost to get back. Despite giving the details and the pick up time, we got a lecture at pick up how the taxis only pick up from one place and that she was being “nice” by picking us up and that they always charge more after a certain time so the ride home was twice as much even though that was never brought up until drop off. So if you take a taxi, ask lots of questions but don’t be surprised if they swindle you anyway.
Day 10: Back to Reality (and the Worst McDonald’s Ever)
We said goodbye to our bungalow after breakfast and jumped aboard the boat transfer to the smallest airport I have ever been to. They did have some of the gelato though, so that was a win. We flew to Papeete and then managed to navigate the bus system to get downtown to explore. They have storage lockers at the airport that you can store you stuff in.
Our first stop was Papeete Market for some suvenieers. We did not realize that they close early sometimes we even though we got there just before 3pm, a lot of stands were closing. Although, we still got to walk about and get some good stuff though. We also missed a downpour while we were there.
From there we walked to Hoa Brewery. I had a lemonade and my mom a beer. Its a really nice little brewery if you appreciate micro breweries. From there way made our way back towards the center of town with every intention of finding a good place to eat but nothing really stood out or was more fancy that we were looking for so in true American style we opted to try Mcdonalds. I have had several foreign Mickey D’s and they have been great, this one? no. it was some how worse that in the states. would not recommend.
Officially tired we opted to just get a taxi back instead of deal with the busses. Our package included access to a lounge so once we got checked in we went up there for the snacks and to clean up a bit before the flight home.
E fārerei fa’ahou tātou (Till we meet again)
We boarded the red eye home and said good bye to paradise. I was happy to get home to my sweet girl but it was definitely tough to leave that lovely bungalow on the water in Bora Bora.
What We Loved (and What We’d Change)
This trip was honestly everything we hoped it would be—and then some. But like any trip, there are a few things we’d absolutely do again… and a few we’d tweak next time.
What We Loved about this Tahiti Itinerary
The Catamaran (1000% worth it)
If there is ONE thing I would tell you to splurge on, it’s this. Having a private catamaran for a few days was hands down the highlight of the trip. The food? Incredible. The experience? Unreal. Swimming with sharks, snorkeling off the boat, watching sting rays at night. It felt like something out of a dream. Also, not having to think about anything for a few days? Perfection.
Huahine’s Laid-Back Vibe
Huahine felt untouched in the best way. It’s quiet, not overly touristy, and super easy to explore in a day. Driving around the island, stopping at random viewpoints, and just figuring it out as we went was such a fun change of pace.
Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora
Yes, it’s cliché and it’s expensive, but, yes… it’s worth it.
Waking up, jumping straight into that crystal clear water, feeding fish through the coffee table (still not over that), and watching the sunset from our deck—this was peak “we made it” energy.
All the Unique Experiences
Swimming with reef sharks, visiting a pearl farm, learning about vanilla production, taking a Tahitian dance class—this trip wasn’t just pretty, it was interesting. Those are the things that really made it memorable.
What We’d Change about this Tahiti Itinerary
Less Resort Time
We are not “sit by the pool all day” people, and we definitely felt that on Day 3. If you love relaxing at a resort, you’ll be in heaven. If you’re like us and need a little more movement, I’d cut a resort day and add more time on the catamaran, another island (like Moorea or Bora Bora earlier) or even a night in Papeete.
More Time on the Catamaran
The Catamaran leg of the trip was so much fun! I would have loved to have an extra day to have explored more of Taha’a.
Ask More Questions (Especially About Taxis)
Learn from us: confirm pricing, timing, and everything ahead of time. What you think is agreed upon… may not be what actually happens.
Airport Arrival
One thing we didn’t plan well is that the check in starts 3 hours before. we showed up right at the 3 hour mark and it was packed already. We had just been wondering the airport before so we should have just gotten in line before it opened. We still had plenty of time but would have been nice to not wait in line.
Is a Tahiti Package Tour Worth It?
Short answer: Yes… but it depends on your travel style.
This was actually our first time doing a package-style trip, and I had mixed feelings going in. I am usually the planner (Type A travel girl through and through), so handing over control felt… weird.
But honestly? It was also kind of amazing to just show up and enjoy.
Why It Was Worth It
It Took the Stress Out of Planning
Flights, transfers, hotels—all handled. We didn’t have to worry about logistics between islands, which can get complicated fast in French Polynesia.
Everything Was Seamless
Even when things were rushed (rushed lei moment), the transitions were smooth. Transportation showed up when it was supposed to, and we always knew where we needed to be.
It Introduced Us to Experiences We Might Not Have Planned
Would I have booked a catamaran on my own? Maybe… but probably not in the same way. That ended up being the best part of the trip.
When It Might NOT Be Worth It
If You Love Full Control
If you’re someone who wants to pick every hotel, activity, and timeline—this might feel restrictive. There were moments where I wished we could tweak things (like cutting a resort day).
If You Want to Save Money
Package deals aren’t always the cheapest option. You’re paying for convenience, not necessarily budget travel.
If You Prefer More Adventure/Flexibility
This trip leaned more toward “relaxing luxury” than “go-go-go exploring.” If you want constant movement and spontaneity, planning it yourself might be better.
Final Take
For a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list trip like Tahiti?
A package tour is a really solid option, especially for your first time.
It gave us a stress-free way to experience multiple islands, while still leaving room for some exploring and unique experiences.
Would I do it again?
Yes… but with a few tweaks. (Less resort, more boat. Always more boat.)
Tahiti Travel Tips: What You Need to Know
Brush up on your French: They speak mostly French in Tahiti, we got around ok being english speaking but some basic french will get you far (and show respect!) and google translate on your phone for menus!
Bring reef-safe sunscreen: Coral reefs are fragile, and many regular sunscreens contain chemicals that damage them. Look for mineral-based options with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Pack water shoes: Many beaches and entry points have coral, rocks, sea urchins and slimy cucumbers. Water shoes will protect your feet.
Carry cash: While larger resorts and restaurants accept credit cards, smaller local shops, markets, and food trucks often prefer cash. The currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF).
Plan for higher costs: Tahiti is remote, so most goods are imported and prices are higher than you might expect. Budget accordingly for meals, activities, and souvenirs.
Download offline maps: Internet and cell service can be spotty, especially on smaller islands. Download maps and important information.
Try local food: Don’t miss poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), fresh tropical fruit, and food trucks called “roulottes” in Papeete for affordable, delicious meals.
Bring a waterproof camera or case: You’ll want to capture the incredible underwater scenes, colorful fish, rays, and sharks. A GoPro or waterproof phone case is essential.
Be mindful of Sunday closures: Many shops, restaurants, and services close on Sundays, as it’s a day for family and church. Plan your activities and meals accordingly.
Book activities in advance: If you are not doing a package like we did then be sure to book popular tours like shark and ray snorkeling, catamaran charters, and cultural experiences well in advance.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun: The tropical sun is intense. Drink plenty of water, wear a hat, and reapply sunscreen frequently.
