Beat of Hawaii is traveling to Tahiti, home to its own long-standing controversy, and now the site of the surfing competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This journey will bring insights contrasting a unique destination that’s similar to but different from Hawaii. Tahiti has been mentioned in hundreds of comments, some below, as a highly desirable alternative to Hawaii, and now, we we’ll bring you updates directly from French Polynesia.
Why Tahiti for the Surfing Olympics?
Tahiti, located in French Polynesia, in Hawaii’s time zone, and just five hours by air from Honolulu, is hosting the Surfing Olympics at world-famous Teahupo’o. Known for its massive and challenging waves we’ve witnessed first-hand before, Teahupo’o is a dream destination for surfers. This venue selection highlights Tahiti’s prominence in the surfing world, offering thrilling and formidable surf conditions beyond what’s found for example in France’s other renowned surf-town, Biarritz, close to San Sebastian along Spain’s border.
Exploring and contrasting Tahiti and Hawaii, including controversies.
When it comes to beaches and surf, Hawaii offers diverse surf spots suitable for all skill levels. The islands boast world-class beaches among other incredible features that include active volcanoes, providing a wide range of beach and other activities.
Tahiti on the other hand, is famous for the powerful waves of Teahupo’o. It attracts expert surfers seeking thrilling and unique experiences. The islands also features black sand beaches, lush mountains, and are fringed with crystal-clear, fish-rich lagoons.
Controversies in Tahiti and Hawaii.
Both places are replete with controversy, albeit of very different kinds.
Tahiti’s nuclear legacy.
Tahiti, as part of French Polynesia, to this day is burdened by its controversial and tragic past linked to France’s nuclear testing conducted there for nearly thirty years, from the 1960s to the 1990s. Studies have shown that more than 100k people were affected by radioactive fallout from tests conducted on France’s Mururoa Atoll. The tests were far more contaminating than was previously revealed, and led to significant health impacts while sparking ongoing discussions about long-awaited compensation and justice for those affected.
Hawaii tourism challenges.
Hawaii faces its own set of controversies, primarily related to the impacts of over-tourism for decades. High costs of living, including housing and utilities, burden residents. The influx of tourists has led to overcrowding, which strains infrastructure, natural resources and attitudes among both visitors and residents. Additionally, there are debates over pending regulations aimed at balancing tourism including vacation rentals with preserving culture, community and the environment. These challenges continue to fuel discussions about the future of Hawaii tourism and the need for different approaches to visiting the islands.
Cultural experiences in Tahiti and Hawaii.
Hawaii offers visitors a taste of Polynesian culture, all within the convenience of a U.S. destination. However, it grapples with issues of cultural preservation amid commercial tourism. Conversely, Tahiti presents a fascinating blend of Polynesian and French influences. While the island exudes an exotic allure, travelers must navigate the logistical complexities of international travel. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into how these elements shape visitor experiences.
Crowds and accessibility in Hawaii and Tahiti.
Hawaii’s easy access via direct flights from mainland U.S. cities makes it a bustling and sometimes overcrowded destination. Meanwhile, Tahiti offers a more intimate escape with fewer flights, less tourists, and a longer travel time required to reach its shores. This balance between accessibility and seclusion are among key factors in choosing between these tropical paradises. Our upcoming coverage will explore how these dynamics impact travel experiences in both locations.
Comparing Tahiti and Hawaii travel costs and experiences.
Flights to Tahiti have become more affordable with more competition, yet they remain pricier than those to Hawaii. While Hawaii offers a range of accommodations and experiences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays, Tahiti provides a less commercialized vibe including unique exclusive resorts with over-water bungalows and tranquil beaches. Our future articles will examine these differences in greater detail, offering insights into planning a dream getaway.
Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic mountains to open-ocean beaches, attract tourists seeking adventure and cultural enrichment. Tahiti’s allure lies in its coral reefs, black sand beaches, and serene lagoons, providing a peaceful contrast to much of Hawaii’s vibrant energy.
Your comments about Tahiti.
These comments are all from BOH regulars who together previously left well over one thousand comments about Hawaii:
- Rich: “I went to Tahiti in March. It had competitive pricing compared to Maui and I didn’t encounter one local that showed a negative attitude. If Maui doesn’t want my tourist money, I’ll just wave as I fly over on my way to the South Pacific.”
- Debbie: “We love Hawaii but stayed away in 2023, opting for Tahiti instead.”
- Kim: “There is no place like Hawaii. We felt unwelcome and disrespected in Tahiti which is more expense without as much to do.”
- Sandi: “We are headed to Tahiti where we are welcomed with open arms and totally enjoy ourselves.”
- Richard: “So wife and I have booked our trip this fall to Tahiti where we will spend 15 days.”
- Robert: “I love Maui, but my last big vacation was to French Polynesia. It was wonderful. The people were so sweet and kind, and the environment was beyond insanely beautiful. Sorry Maui, but you sort of alienated me with fees.
- Janet: “Nope, no way. Tahiti, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Alaska, national parks…… Those are our upcoming plans. I’m tired of being in a dysfunctional relationship.”
- Nick: “Spending my money in Tahiti and Europe this summer. Not sure if or when I’ll ever go back to Hawaii.”
- Troy: “Tahiti won and Hawaii lost, mostly because Tahiti is now cheaper.”
- Sandi: “Thinking of trying Tahiti next.”
Stay Tuned for More About Tahiti and Hawaii
As we embark on this journey, join us for an in-depth exploration of Tahiti and Hawaii. We’ll provide exclusive content, detailed comparisons, and our tips to help you decide on your next tropical getaway.
Lead photo: Tahiti Tourisme.
We went to Tahiti and Moorea during one of their COVID open intervals And found the people there to be friendly and the islands beautiful. We felt like we were really appreciated for coming when their tourism was suffering. Hawaii on the other hand the last few times has definitely not shown the aloha spirit. Restricting our access to beaches and parks and making us pay through the nose. The anti-tourism vibe it’s definitely hurting the experience for us. Despite it being a longer flight there are more than enough non-stops from Los Angeles to Tahiti.
I just got back from a week in Waikiki. Very crowded. I expected this. I am never disappointed in the locals and Hawaiians. Friendliest people I ever encountered. I also visited Kona for the Ironman race in October. Planing to visit a different island next year.
This will be our last trip to Hawaii sadly..if the trip wasn’t already paid for we’d cancel and go somewhere else. The animosity, anger and price gouging is a Big turn off…we will spend our hard earned money on other islands who appreciate people coming there to support their economy. Good luck Hawaii- Your people ased for this.
You wrote: “Good luck Hawaii- Your people ased for this.” (spelling error copied from OP.)
There is an assumption that because HI has been in the Military Industry and Tourism Industry forever, that we want to keep it that way. Many of us have been asking for change for 30 or more years.
Maybe what we are asking for is not what you wish for us to ask for. Less tourism, more development of industries that pay residents well enough that our children don’t have to move to the mainland just to obtain a living wage job in their chosen career. So that we don’t have to live 3-4 generations in small homes. So that we can take vacations elsewhere the way that others take vacations to HI.
What you seem to imply is that we deserve to suffer because of changing attitudes about tourism.
There is an assumption that because HI has been in the Military Industry and Tourism Industry forever, that we want to keep it that way. Many of us have been asking for change for 30 or more years.
Yes, you are right on mark. The economy was more balanced before free trade eviscerated the Islands’ agricultural industry in the 70s. Ironically, the Hawaiian Islands exported agricultural goods and beef to America in the 19th century, before annexation, and through the 1970s in the territorial and early statehood eras, but very little today.
Unfortunately, unless Tahiti carefully manages tourism in both number of visitors and increases in hotel rooms, it will eventually suffer the current dynamic in the Hawaiian Islands where the unfettered expansion of the tourist industry degraded the experience bothe for resident’s and visitors. And I’m not talking out of my ok__ because I lived on O’ahu between the early 60s into the early 70s beforethe Islands had been ground down by over tourism.
We’re headed back this November via Fiji-Tonga-Rarotonga-Aututaki before cruising through the Society Isles and then headed back to Hawaii. For those considering a first trip (or their 13th like us)to French Polynesia, consider seeing the beauty of the Societies on the Paul Gauguin cruise ship. With 360 passengers and its small size, she can navigate where other cruise ships cannot. Consider this as well: a trip to Fa’a’a Airport from Honolulu is the same as flying to LA. What you’ll find on the smaller islands is what Hawaii used to be before WWII up until its massive tourist surge in the 70’s-80′-90’s. We still have an Hanai on Moorea daughter and will see her on this trip again. So beautiful, and no matter what you read on this thread, a welcoming people.
You wrote: “Consider this as well: a trip to Fa’a’a Airport from Honolulu is the same as flying to LA.”
Did you actually look this up, or make assumption based on the price from the West Coast?
Because this is not my price checking exp., as Tahiti has been a lifelong bucket list experience for me. So, excitedly I double checked it tonight after reading this.
I randomly picked Oct as the month, and the Lowest outbound economy basic seat. Roundtrip prices were astonishing. The Lowest priced flight takes 54 hours, leaves at 10:45 PM and arrives 3 days later at 5:05 am and costs $1863. I can fly to LA for anywhere from $200-350 for economy basic, and about $400 to $550 for better economy seating. Heck, I can often get a deal on FC to LA for $800-900.
Gauguin Cruises, nice as they are supposed to be, inclusive as they are, for a mid oct Seven Night start at $6050 Per Guest.
We’ve been to Hawaii more times than I can count and I lived on the BI as a kid for a couple of years. We tried Tahiti last year instead of Hawaii. It’s stunningly beautiful and the people were friendly (other than the airport workers-yikes). The language barrier was an issue for us because we do not speak French. I like the food in Hawaii better and the US currency is certainly easier. From California it was a longer flight, so Hawaii has that advantage. Both places are beautiful but financially prohibitive, so traveling to either place is probably not on our list much longer, if at all. Hawaii priced itself out of the market, in my opinion.
Flights to Tahiti would be about $1400 round trip for us, compared to about $600 to Hawaii. Flight time about twice as long. Just not sure it’s worth it, especially when we love Hawaii so much. If we don’t go to Hawaii, we generally do something very different, like an Alaskan cruise — not an island vacation. But I’m really interested to hear about the BOH experiences in Tahiti!
Good day~ Having been to Taihiti 3x times, first was to propose to my wife, I can say it is wonderful place for a good vacation. The only drawback is a long flight, so not as conducive as hoping on a 4 hour flight to Hawaii on a whim. Definitely laid back with a friendly attitude. We always bought the meal package in advance, as food was rather expensive ala carte, but maybe that has changed since we were there last.
Hawaii will always be a special place and I hope it can get its grove back. We go to Kauai 3-4 times a year (STR owners) and have not experienced the negative attitude as many readers have on these pages. Sometimes, you have to look inwards and make sure you are not helpig spread the negative vibe when you treat locals as they are your servants. Seen that happen more than I wish and my wife and I always cringe. Respect the locals, be genuine in your interest, learn a little and it will go a long way. If you still are treated badly, then time for a change. Cheers
Both Hawaii and French Polynesia share the same sad legacy of having their native languages almost completely erased from history by colonial influences and policies. Both have struggled to rebuild their languages.
Tahiti is competitive in price for those who live on the West Coast. There are direct flights from LAX and SFO. For the cost-sensitive traveler there are nice little places to stay called “pensions” (guesthouses) across the main island, and its sister island Moorea. Most importantly, on average I feel like I am treated better there now than I am in, well, Maui.
We would like to go to Tahiti but at our age the trip is just too long.
We will keep going to Kauai once a year instead of twice a year.
Tahiti may be more expensive rooms but no car rental required. Laid back and no real night life, great food and treated like we were more than welcome. Anniversary and our hostess every morning would put flowers at our table. Seattle flight only 9 hours customs was easy to get through and over water bungalow was great for snorkeling. Will be in Kauai in Dec and back to Tahiti in Feb.
Will be trying Tahiti and its neighboring islands next. We’ve been to Guam and Saipan and enjoyed those places. There are a lot of islands as beautiful and more inviting than Hawaii these days, although their negative attitude has long been barely under the surface but now is full blown. We have been coming to Hawaii and all its islands from 1976 through 2019 for at least twice a year for personal and business visits. We visited Oahu in 2023 and it was “just leave your money here” and leave. So very disappointing.
WE are going to Maui in two weeks. It was always my happy place. I know they are facing a lot of challenges, but instead of listening to all the sound bites, I want to check it out for myself. However, I just found out that, without Lahaina, there are no dinner cruises on the west side of the island that you can board from a dock but I am sure there are other things to enjoy during our visit. My heart goes out to the people of Lahaina for their unimaginable loss.
Tahiti is cheaper and the budget hotels don’t charge a bunch of ridiculous “resort fees” the ones in Hawaii do. Also the culture is far more authentic in Tahiti and not “Americanized” like Hawaii. Plus for like $30 round trip you can take the ferry to Moo’rea and have a whole nother island to explore.
On my way to Tahiti. Goodbye Maui forever. They have lost a good customer. We went every year for 2 weeks, but no more!
I have been visiting Maui annually for 2 to 4 weeks per visit for the last 20 years. Last year we made the break and went to Tahiti (cheaper and the people were super friendly and welcoming). I’ll check in with my Maui friends every so often to see if there has been any changes to the anti tourist attitude we’ve felt during our last 5 or 6 visits and sadly we hear it’s gotten worse with the potential short term rental elimination threats. Perhaps one day the local government will realize that they went too far with their fees and tourist gouging. Sadly, I feel it will be too late as folks like us move on to more enjoyable, drama free vacations. I’ll always think back on my time in Maui fondly but shake my head that things didn’t need to get so out of control to alienate the tourists whose spending helped the local economy. 😢