Discover art in an unexpected place. The famous French expatriate artist lived in Tahiti for a few years, and a museum bearing his name celebrates his life with ongoing exhibitions of his work. The museum works out trade arrangements with collections around the world, so you never know which work might be on display. The rest of the museum highlights the other artistic developments of French Polynesia during the last century. GauguinMuseum, 011-689-57-10-58.
Hike the falls. Keep yourself limber by climbing Fautaua, an almost one thousand foot waterfall. If you can’t make that trek, the nearby Faarumai Falls are just as beautiful, though not as punishing on your calves. Puarai Excursions, 011-689-48-16-24.
Climb every mountain. Even novice climbers can scale Tahiti’s lush hills. It’s worth it. Whether you take a quick climb and return to your bungalow or your camp overnight in the mountains, you’ll relish the unforgettable views. Just make sure you remember to bring your camera. Polynesian Adventure, 011-689-43-25-95.
Charter a catamaran. Set sail for a relaxing afternoon cruise or you head out on the open seas on a two-day fishing adventure. Even for first-time sailors, the luxury vessel Tara Vana makes the voyage smooth and heavenly. Islands in the Sun, 888-828-6877.
Join an island safari. Hop in a custom 4x4, the only vehicle capable of navigating many of the islands mountain trails. Explore the inner heart of the island, and study the artifacts from ancient Tahitian cultures. Patrick Adventure, 011-689-83-29-29. http://www.papeete.com/patrick
Find your own pearl. Discover the secrets
of Tahiti’s black pearls. Visit a working pearl
farm, where locals teach you to find and harvest your
own memento of your romantic vacation. Imagine how long
your bride will be able to tell the story of the pearl
you found for her! For an even deeper experience, you
can reserve a room in the guest house and stay the night.
Havaiki Pearl Farm, 011-689-934015. http://www.bnbchoices.com/
tahiti/havaiki.bnb
