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The coastal road that circles the exterior of both Tahiti Nui and Iti is measured in pointe kilometrique markers, known as PKs. PK0 begins in Pape'ete and markers go in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, meeting in Taravao, which is PK60 counterclockwise and PK54 clockwise.The west coast has the most sights and the
The coastal road that circles the exterior of both Tahiti Nui and Iti is measured in pointe kilometrique markers, known as PKs. PK0 begins in Pape'ete and markers go in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, meeting in Taravao, which is PK60 counterclockwise an
The coastal road that circles the exterior of both Tahiti Nui and Iti is measured in pointe kilometrique markers, known
The coastal road that circles the exterior of both Tahiti Nui and Iti is measured in pointe kilometrique markers, known as PKs. PK0 begins in Pape'ete and markers go in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, meeting in Taravao, which is PK60 counterclockwise and PK54 clockwise.
The west coast has the most sights and the most traffic; it's wise to set out early on a driving tour to avoid peak-hour traffic. Grab a map so you know whether a sight is at PK10 clockwise or counterclockwise. While the distances are not far, there is quite a lot to see on the west coast—beaches, surf breaks, museums, gardens and an excellent golf course—and it may take much longer than you think.
Tahiti Nui also has a handful of short interior roads. While a standard car can access the roads to the Belvedere lookout, the Three Waterfalls, and the start of the walking and 4WD trails in the Papenoo Valley, it's not possible to cross the island from north to south, or south to north, without a 4WD.
The PK marker system also operates in Tahiti Iti, beginning in Taravao, the town at the isthmus. There are two roads: the north road of 18 km (11 mi) from Taravao to Tautira and the south road, also measuring 18 km (11 mi) from Taravao to Teahupoo. The southeast and east coasts of Tahiti Iti can only be accessed by boat, bicycle, or foot. There is one inland road, leading from near Taravao up onto the Taravao Plateau and Taravao's lookout, also called the Belvedere.
Pueu has a good surf break, ideal for beginners and body boarders. Taurita is the most remote of the three towns and has fantastic mountain...
Pueu has a good surf break, ideal for beginners and body boarders. Taurita is the most remote of the three towns and has fantastic mountain views, two churches, and is the start of the 15-km (9.3 mi) walking track to the Pari Coast and its amazing cliffs. Just off the coast of Afaahiti is Motu Nono, a small islet that can be visited on organized day trips from the town. Pueu and Tautira have at least one pension, while Afaahiti has three or four places to stay.
Look out for the signs denoting the French name trou du souffleur. However, you won't miss it because the blowhole is right on—and under—the...
Look out for the signs denoting the French name trou du souffleur. However, you won't miss it because the blowhole is right on—and under—the coastal road and there are always tourist buses around. Water rushes into a cavern and if the swell is just right it shoots out through the hole in the rocks, like a geyser. There's a viewing platform and if the sea's rough, you could get wet. Be careful driving on this section of the road, as there's a narrow, blind corner as you approach the blowhole at PK22.
PK 22, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
Pronounced Fa-ah-ah, this town is a commune (municipality area) of greater Pape'ete and houses the international and domestic airport, the...
Pronounced Fa-ah-ah, this town is a commune (municipality area) of greater Pape'ete and houses the international and domestic airport, the InterContinental Tahiti resort, along with a Faa'a town hall built in Polynesian style. The University of Tahiti sits on the side of the mountain above the town. It's more heavily populated that Pape'ete itself, although you won't see much of the place as your airport transfer whisks you along the highway to your resort.
This is the name given to the remote eastern section of Tahiti Iti, which lies between the north coast and the south coast road. A wild and...
This is the name given to the remote eastern section of Tahiti Iti, which lies between the north coast and the south coast road. A wild and rarely visited area, it's also called Te Pari due to the dramatic Te Pari cliffs. You can walk the 15-km (9.3-mi) Pari Coast trail on your own, but a couple of locals operate overnight, camping excursions. It's best to go with an operator if you want to camp overnight, but you can walk on your own for day trips. Knowledgeable guides can point out the hidden marae, caves, petroglyphs, and rock formations known as Drums of God Honu Ura and the Queen's Bathtub, which have been created by the pounding surf.
These two sights are side by side. The museum has 25 small original works by the famous artist who lived in Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands...
These two sights are side by side. The museum has 25 small original works by the famous artist who lived in Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands for the last 12 years of his life. The other major works are replicas, which can be a disappointment. On the upside, the gardens, which cover 340 acres and were created by American physics professor Harrison Smith in 1922, are beautiful with plenty of walking trails and great views over the lagoon.
PK 51.2, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
-57–10–58
Sight Details
Rate Includes: Museum 500 CFP, gardens 300 CFP, Daily 9–5
The life of this American adventurer, WWI hero, and novelist is displayed at the beautifully restored house where he lived with his wife and...
The life of this American adventurer, WWI hero, and novelist is displayed at the beautifully restored house where he lived with his wife and children for almost 30 years until his death in 1951. Hall and writer-friend Charles Nordhoff co-wrote the famous Mutiny on the Bounty (published in 1932) and The Hurricane, among other works. Set in a beautiful garden high on a hill, the house overlooks the bay and beaches. Lunch is available in the tearoom; however, one day's notice is required.
PK5.5, past Arue town hall, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
There's plenty of room for everyone at this black-sand beach at Arue, stretching for a whopping 2,624 feet (800 meters). It's on the edge of...
There's plenty of room for everyone at this black-sand beach at Arue, stretching for a whopping 2,624 feet (800 meters). It's on the edge of Matavai Bay (where James Cook and other European explorers dropped anchor in the late 1760s), with lovely views to the southwest. The Radisson Plaza Resort is situated on a section of the beach; however, the entire beach is open to the public. There's another black-sand beach a little farther east at Mahina, near the Point Vénus lighthouse.
PK 7, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
Like most French Polynesian volcanic islands, Tahiti has a belvedere or lookout that can be accessed by car (the word means beautiful view...
Like most French Polynesian volcanic islands, Tahiti has a belvedere or lookout that can be accessed by car (the word means beautiful view). However, the view from this 1,968-foot peak (600 meters) is the loftiest with views of Fautaua Valley, Pape'ete city and port, and Moorea on the horizon. The road to the top is steep and not very wide, so take it easy. There's a restaurant at the top and the start of a hiking trail to Mt. Aorai.
Turn off at PK 2.5, Coastal road, Pira'e, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
You can't miss this open-air aquarium in a fenced -off part of the lagoon as there's a huge model of a shark at the entrance. Here you can swim...
You can't miss this open-air aquarium in a fenced -off part of the lagoon as there's a huge model of a shark at the entrance. Here you can swim and snorkel with rays, turtles, eels, and hundreds of colorful reef fish. There's a lagoonarium on many islands, and the safe environment obviously appeals to many people. Guides are on hand to dive down and bring up a turtle for view and to feed the sharks at noon every day.
PK 11.4, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
Le Relais de la Maroto. Almost miraculously you'll come across the only accommodation in the interior, Le Relais de la Maroto. The pension...
Le Relais de la Maroto. Almost miraculously you'll come across the only accommodation in the interior, Le Relais de la Maroto. The pension, with three bungalows, 26 rooms, and a good restaurant, gets heavily booked, so call ahead if you're planning to stay here. It was progressively upgraded throughout 2011. 57–90–29. maroto@mail.pf.
This picturesque stretch of white sand lies just west of the Sofitel Tahiti Maeva Beach Resort. To get there take L'Truck from Pape'ete and...
This picturesque stretch of white sand lies just west of the Sofitel Tahiti Maeva Beach Resort. To get there take L'Truck from Pape'ete and get off at the Outumaoro bus stop, or ask the driver for the Sofitel stop. Wander towards the hotel and then look around for the beach.
Around PK 10 counterclockwise, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
A mile or so west of Toaroto Beach is this family-friendly beachside park complete with a little restaurant. The stretch of white sand is lovely...
A mile or so west of Toaroto Beach is this family-friendly beachside park complete with a little restaurant. The stretch of white sand is lovely, the snorkeling is good, and folks play soccer and volley ball in the park.
These three towns stretching from around PK10 to PK25 are more of interest for their black-sand beaches and the natural wonders near them: look...
These three towns stretching from around PK10 to PK25 are more of interest for their black-sand beaches and the natural wonders near them: look out for the turnoff into the Papenoo Valley (at around PK 17) and the Arahoho Blowhole and the Three Waterfalls. The most notable man-made attraction is the lighthouse at Pointe Vénus, in Mahina. It overlooks Matavai Bay.
PK 10 to PK 25 clockwise, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
The nation's cultural center is housed in a traditional Polynesian design, octagonal building which has a theater, cinema, exhibition space...
The nation's cultural center is housed in a traditional Polynesian design, octagonal building which has a theater, cinema, exhibition space, and a library. Located on the waterfront, almost adjacent to Place To'ata, this is the place to catch dance performances, film festivals, and cultural activities. Some events are free; others cost around 1,000 CFP per show. The center's Tahitian name is Te Fare Tauhiti Nui.
646 Blvd. Pomare, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
This park, with meandering pathways leading to ferny grottoes (caves), has lovely gardens and crystal clear pools. You can walk into the caves...
This park, with meandering pathways leading to ferny grottoes (caves), has lovely gardens and crystal clear pools. You can walk into the caves and adventurous folk can even swim to the Paroa Grotto, an underwater cavern. Like many of Tahiti Nui's attractions, it's not sign-posted well in advance, so slow down around PK 28 and look out for the car park.
PK 28.7, Coastal road, Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia
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