Understanding the Map of Tahiti

When looking at a map of Tahiti, many travellers are surprised by just how widely the islands are spread across the South Pacific. What appears on a map as a small collection of islands is actually a vast region of ocean dotted with volcanic islands and coral atolls.

The destinations featured in our Tahiti Travel Guide sit mainly within two island groups of French Polynesia. The Society Islands include Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine and Raiatea & Taha’a. These are the dramatic volcanic islands most visitors imagine when they think of Tahiti, with lush mountains rising above brilliant turquoise lagoons.

Further northeast lie the Tuamotu Islands, where Rangiroa and Tikehau reveal a very different landscape. Instead of towering mountains, these islands are coral atolls – delicate rings of reef surrounding immense lagoons filled with vibrant marine life.

The distances between these islands are larger than many visitors expect. Travelling from the Society Islands to the Tuamotu atolls spans a distance roughly comparable to flying between Melbourne and Brisbane in Australia. Because of this geography, most travel between islands is done by short scenic flights rather than ferries.

Viewing the islands on a map helps bring this geography to life. It also explains why island-hopping is such an essential part of experiencing Tahiti. Each island offers its own landscape, culture and lagoon environment, from the soaring volcanic peaks of Moorea to the immense lagoon of Rangiroa.

Use the map above to explore the islands included in our Tahiti Travel Guide and see how these remarkable destinations are connected across the South Pacific.