The going around the island.
In order to really take the time to discover and appreciate the history, culture and landscapes of the country, you should reserve about one day for these purposes.
Tahiti is lined with historic sites across the island such as where famous 18th century navigators Wallis, Cook and Bougainville arrived. Places such as the Bay of Matavai, Venus Point Lighthouse and Hitia are also great historical and touristic sites to visit.
The going around the island is also an opportunity to learn about traditional Polynesian (Mao'hi) culture. In Paea, visit the Marae Arahurahu, an ancient Polynesian ceremonial ground. Visiting the “Museum of Tahiti and its Islands” in Punaauia is also a good idea if you wish to learn more about Polynesian history and traditions.

As you travel around the island, you will also discover how Tahiti has been influenced from the outside world by immigrants and explorers from different time periods and countries. Their half-caste descendants, “Demis” as they are called here are numerous. Since the beginning of the last century, the arrival of Chinese immigrants has contributed to the diversity of the Polynesian population. Today, East of Papeete in Mamao, you can visit the Chinese community’s magnificent red pagoda temple. To the South, there is the botanical garden, the work of Harrison Smith, an American ex-patriot, who fell in love with Tahiti. He gathered plants and trees from all over the world into a magnificent garden in Papeari. Nearby, there is the Gauguin Museum. Though they are not originals, it is an opportunity to get to know Paul Gauguin’s genius and work. To learn about the literary work of James Norman Hall and his friend Charles Nordhorff, authors of the classic Mutiny on the Bounty (later adapted by Hollywood), visit the House of James Norman Hall in Arue.
As you make your way around the island you will finish by visiting the southern end of Tahiti known as “Tahiti iti” (literally meaning “little Tahiti”) its beaches and surfing spots have become well-known internationally, namely Teahupoo, a name all too familiar to surfers. What’s more, Taravao’s plateau might be a little confusing at first as you will find cattle grazing throughout the area, thus giving you the impression of being on a farm … while really you’re still in the tropics!

Across the island you will discovery exotic and lush vegetation, natural sites such as waterfalls, underground caves and natural water springs such as Vaïma’s natural spring.

One should really spend at least one full day to visit Tahiti.

Another worthwhile adventure is to take the Maroto Road in Papenoo. The interior of the island is also accessible. You can walk along hiking paths to discover the pristine nature, and witness the magnificent mountainous crests surrounding you. In the past ancient Polynesians resided in Papenoo’s Valley. There are many restored archaeological sites to visit, such as the Vaihiria lake where one can find sacred eels. There are also captivating legends about Polynesian gods and mythological characters that were said to once grace these magical places.

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia. At the center of Papeete, The Mandarin Hotel offers its clientele an ideal location. Within walking distance you can find, if needed, all of the government's institutional offices: the French government governor’s office, the presidency of French Polynesia, and foreign consulates.
Town hall in Papeete, a colonial style building surrounded by a beautiful garden, is located right across from the hotel; a little further down the street you will find the police station. In the area around the hotel, you can purchase your everyday essentials and souvenirs as well as make your necessary bank transactions. Regarding your health, Papeete has two medical clinics and a modern, well-equipped hospital.

Not far from the hotel you can visit Papeete’s main market right in the heart of the city making it a popular destination. The market opens its doors every morning starting at 5:00 AM. Inside, you’ll find the store booths bursting with colorful flowers, vegetables, fruits and freshly caught local fish. Everything is within arm’s reach: ice cold coconuts to drink, shellfish necklaces, multicolored paréos, and plenty of souvenirs and decorative objects made by talented local artisans. The aroma around the market is a pleasant mixture of both Tahitian vanilla and coconut. The atmosphere is really quite unique. The market’s flamboyant colors paint a living Polynesian fresco, just like the scenes portrayed in many of Paul Gauguin’s paintings. You will be infatuated by its liveliness!

Near the hotel, you should also consider visiting Vaiete Square along Papeete’s main port. There are boat ferries to provide transport between Papeete and Moorea all day long. All around you will find a bustling city. There are often cruise ships in the harbor inviting you to other exotic journeys… At the end of day, as the sun slowly fades behind the island of Moorea, creating spectacular sunsets, Vaiete Square becomes alive. One by one, concession trailers get settled, awnings are raised, tables unfolded and barbecues are lit. Pizzas, crepes, chow mein, grilled fish and all sorts of other barbecued delights fill the air with such a sweet smell that passersby will really want to consider stopping to try it out… there’s something for everyone. Vaiete Square, is an ideal place for an evening stroll near the harbor, or simply to check out and try the delicious food being prepared around you. There are also live bands who play nightly under the music pavilion. Papeete by night is definitely something not to miss!

From The Mandarin Hotel, you can stroll along the sea front and Pomare Boulevard, all while making your shopping purchases. There are stores and boutiques all along the walkways.
Bus stops are likely to draw your attention as there are many inhabitants from neighboring districts that make their way to Papeete to make their purchases. As you arrive at the Vaima Shopping Center, you will notice there are several high-end fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, bookshops, travel agencies, art galleries, and restaurants.
Black pearls, also known as "Tahitian Pearls" are the pride of our islands. Each pearl is unique and its color varies depending from which island it comes. Tahitian Pearl colors can vary from a deep black to champagne pink or dark green or blue. Whether it is a perfectly round or odd shaped pearl, they are world renowned and appreciated in all jeweler circles. Sales clerks are more than happy to assist you in choosing the right pearl for you. Local jewelers create jewelry that is inspired by the Polynesian culture surrounding them. Engraved pearls, carved shark teeth and golden Tikis are made into exotic necklaces.
While strolling in Papeete, you will also discover sights such as Papeete’s cathedral as you walk down Jeanne d'Arc Street (Jean of Arc). You can also walk up the large, shaded avenue towards the Presidency, or along the sea around Toa'ta and Papeete’s cultural Center, where all of Tahiti’s main spectacles and concerts are held. There, one really feels at peace with Papeete and the sea...