TAHITI

… and to Tahiti Nui and Tahiti It, the quintessential heartland of French Polynesia. Acclimatise to the local lifestyle on the beach at Pointe Vénus where shaded palms guard the distinctive black sands and historic visitors include Captains Cook and Bligh. Tread in their footsteps with a walk to view the peninsula’s famed lighthouse – the only one to be found on the island. Catch the action on Plage de Taharuu, a top surfing destination and popular weekend hangout for locals thanks to a long, crescent beach and great waves. Swap sea water for the jaw droppingly gorgeous sight of Faarumai Waterfalls. This cascading trio are a short forest walk away from civilisation and a not-to-be-missed experience.

Tahiti’s remoteness is no barrier to sophistication and the see-to-be-seen destination on everyone’s itinerary is Marina Taina. An on-trend locale patronised by the chic yacht crowd and populated by a profusion of local bars and restaurants, this is the ideal stop-off point to meet fellow charter guests and exchange travel stories. The food also merits a mention with a choice of local and international dining hotspots including Pink Coconut and Restaurant le Quai, both of which are renowned for their authentic Tahitian repertoire. Be sure to sample a freshly pressed noni juice, renowned for its antioxidant benefits and used for centuries as a natural remedy.

Add a spot of cultural exploration and make a point to visit Marae Mahaiatea, widely considered the finest example of a communal meeting place used by Polynesians for religious and social gatherings. The Mara’a Grotto is also a must-see with its vivid gardens, deep freshwater pools and fern-ringed hollow leaving inspiring the likes of French Post-Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin.