With over 118 islands and atolls, The Islands of Tahiti is bursting with beautiful lagoons and beaches and filled with a diverse mix of activities and resorts to suit every type of traveller’s needs. If that wasn’t already enough to persuade you to book a trip right away, several exciting updates and new openings across the beautiful islands will surely do the trick.
New Toahotu Resort begins to take shape
Construction is underway on the new Toahotu Resort in Pointe Poriro, Tahiti, with the property expected to welcome guests in late 2028. Developed by the owners of the Cook’s Bay Hotel in Moorea, the three-star property will feature 31 rooms, including beachfront and garden bungalows, alongside a restaurant, swimming pool and wellness area.
The resort will offer travellers another reason to spend more time exploring Tahiti, particularly as the destination becomes more accessible with Air Tahiti Nui’s new direct flights from Sydney to Papeete launching in December 2026.
The must-visit Three Waterfalls site reopens
Located in Tiarei, Tahiti, one of the island’s most popular natural gems is now fully accessible again for travellers. Following several months of maintenance, visitors can once again explore all three waterfalls as the site reopens. The waterfalls are considered among the must-see stops on a tour of Tahiti and a highlight for travellers seeking outdoor adventures.
New culinary initiative celebrates traditional Polynesian cuisines from across the islands
The TEch KAI project has received funding to preserve and celebrate traditional recipes across The Islands of Tahiti. With the destination renowned for its wide range of culinary specialties, the project will document local recipes and cooking techniques to help safeguard generations of culinary knowledge.
The project is the first of its kind as it aims to preserve traditional Polynesian flavours, locally inspired dishes and regional culinary traditions across the islands. The initiative will also train the next generation of chefs and food professionals through new education programmes focused on Polynesian cuisine and food production.
Whale watching experiences extended across The Islands of Tahiti
Considered one of the destination’s most extraordinary natural experiences, whale watching remains a top attraction for travellers to The Islands of Tahiti. From July to November, the majestic humpback whales return to the waters, offering a unique opportunity to observe and admire them.
Travellers now have even more opportunities to experience the majestic creatures across The Islands of Tahiti as the Government of French Polynesia extends whale watching activities to four additional islands, Mangareva, Maupiti, Rimatara and Ua Huka. This follows the Government’s decision to update regulations to strengthen the protection of marine mammals while providing operators with clearer and more flexible regulations. Updates include stronger certification requirements for captains and guides, including knowledge of Polynesian culture and the historical ties between local communities and marine mammals, as well as the introduction of multi-year permits and more specific rules governing whale approach and observation.
