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Tiarei

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village
—°7
Tiarei (French Polynesia)
ℹ️

Practical info — Tiarei

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • The Arahoho Blowhole is most impressive on days with high swells; stand clear of the splash zone!
  • Stop at the three Faarumai Waterfalls (Cascades de Faarumai), the first one is an easy, short walk from the parking area.
  • Rent a car for the east coast of Tahiti, as public buses (Trucks/RTCT) are infrequent outside Papeete.
  • Wear mosquito repellent when visiting the waterfalls, as the humid forest area is prone to bugs.
  • Be cautious when driving the coastal road; it can be narrow and winding in this section.

🍽 Food

🍽
Roadside Coconuts

Refresh yourself with a fresh, cold drinking coconut from small vendor stalls near the blowhole.

🍽
Firi Firi

Polynesian fried donuts; look for them at local bakeries or small shops early in the morning.

🍽
Maa Tahiti

Traditional Tahitian food baked in an earth oven; sometimes offered by local guesthouses on Sundays.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Monoi Oil

Pick up local tiare-scented coconut oil from roadside artisans or small convenience stores.

🛍
Local Fruits and Jams

Buy locally made tropical jams and fresh fruits directly from the growers on the main road.

🧘
Faarumai Waterfalls

The trail to the second and third falls is often quieter and provides a peaceful forest walk.

🧘
Black Sand Beaches

Explore the dramatic and often deserted black sand beaches along the Tiarei coastline.

Tiarei is situated on the rugged northeast coast of Tahiti Nui and serves as a major draw for nature enthusiasts. The most famous landmark here is the Arahoho Blowhole, a geological marvel created by an ancient lava tube where crashing surf forces seawater upward in a powerful fountain. Just a short distance inland lie the three Faarumai Waterfalls, set within a lush valley. The first fall, Vaimahuta, is easily reached and drops nearly 30 meters into a shaded pool. The sister falls, Haamaremare Itti and Haamaremare Rahi, are accessible via a brief hike through dense rainforest filled with giant ferns and tropical flora. The area is characterized by dark basaltic cliffs and bustling greenery, offering a stark contrast to the deep blue of the Pacific. For those touring the island's perimeter road, Tiarei provides some of Tahiti's most dramatic natural scenery far from the urban bustle of Papeete.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272727272726252525262627
Rain mm190175134116906952474084113221

Geography

Population
2,795 (2006)
Coordinates
-17.53000, -149.38000

Facts

  • Population: 1,032 (2017 census)
  • Land area: 14 km²
  • Church built: 1875
  • Distance from Papeete: 55 km
  • Number of bays: 3
  • Annual banana production: 300 tons

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Tiarei (7)

Temple Beteleda

House of prayer in Tiarei, place of worship.

Salle paroissiale

Parish hall in Tiarei, used for church activities.

Trou du souffleur

Natural blowhole on the coast of Tiarei, water spurts through rocks.

Église Pentecôtiste

Pentecostal church in Tiarei, place of worship.

Les 3 cascades

Three waterfalls inland of Tiarei, popular for hiking.

Église de J-C des St des derniers jours

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Tiarei.

Cascade Vaimahuta

Vaimahuta waterfall in Tiarei, viewpoint.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of place is Tiarei?
Known for its impressive waterfalls.
When is it best to visit?
May to October features better weather.
How long to stay?
One day for the waterfalls is enough.
How to get to Tiarei?
By car from Papeete.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, convenient for an excursion.
Tiarei: where is it located?
Tiarei is located in French Polynesia.
Tiarei: what is there to see?
Highlights include Temple Beteleda, Salle paroissiale, Trou du souffleur.
Tiarei: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Tiarei: why is it worth visiting?
Tiarei is situated on the rugged northeast coast of Tahiti Nui and serves as a major draw for nature enthusiasts.
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