Tahiti Island: Private Tour with Waterfalls, Grottoes & Black Sand

Summary

Private half-day Tahiti tour waterfalls grottoes surf beach lighthouse

You’ll trace Tahiti’s wild coastline with a local guide, pausing at sacred Marae Arahurahu, wandering Maraa Grotto’s fern-ringed pools, feeling spray from Faarumai Waterfalls, and sinking your feet into Point Venus’ black sand beach. Expect laughter in the van and quiet moments by lily ponds—a day that lingers longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start my morning in Tahiti standing in front of a mossy stone altar, but there we were—Marae Arahurahu, tucked under the trees, still damp from last night’s rain. Our guide, Manu, told us how people used to gather here for ceremonies. I tried to picture it: the air thick with chanting and flower garlands. It smelled green—like wet leaves and earth. Someone’s phone went off and we all laughed; not exactly ancient ritual vibes.

We bumped along the coast in an air-conditioned van (thank goodness), windows down just enough to catch the salty wind. At Maraa Grotto, I touched the cave wall—cool and slick—and Manu pointed out ferns that Paul Gauguin supposedly wrote about. I don’t know if I believe him, but it made me look harder at the little details: water dripping off roots, a flash of orange flower. The road curved past villages where kids waved as we passed. There was this moment at Faarumai Waterfalls when everyone just went quiet listening to the water hit rocks—no one said anything for a good minute. Kind of rare these days.

Vaipahi Gardens was more peaceful than I expected. Paths wound between ponds and lilies; signs in French and English explained all these plants I’d never heard of (I still can’t pronounce half their names). We had time to wander alone—honestly, I lost track of everyone for a bit and didn’t mind at all. Later, standing on Point Venus’ black sand beach, Manu pointed out Captain Cook’s old landing spot and that odd lighthouse built by Robert Louis Stevenson’s dad. The sand felt gritty between my toes; the sea looked almost emerald under patchy clouds.

By the end, my shoes were full of sand and my head was full of stories—some real, some maybe not—but that’s kind of why you come here, isn’t it?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tahiti's natural and historic sites

• Visit Marae arahurahu archaeological site
• Explore Maraa Grotto and freshwater pools
• Walk through Vaipahi Gardens
• See Faarumai Waterfalls near Tiarei village
• Visit the blow hole
• Discover Venus Point and lighthouse
• Relax at black sand beach

Top questions

How long is this private Tahiti island tour?

The tour lasts about 5 hours total.

What are the main stops on this Tahiti day trip?

You’ll visit Marae Arahurahu archaeological site, Maraa Grottoes, Vaipahi Gardens, Faarumai Waterfalls, a black sand surf beach, and Point Venus lighthouse.

Is hotel pickup included in the private island tour?

The tour includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, there are restrooms at every stop along the route.

Can infants or small children join this Tahiti island tour?

Yes; infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is lunch included on this half-day Tahiti tour?

No lunch is included; fresh bottled water is provided.

How many people can join this private island tour?

The maximum group size is 6 people per booking.

Is this day trip suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle with live commentary from your local guide as you explore both west and east coasts of Tahiti Nui; fresh bottled water is provided throughout and there are restrooms available at every stop before returning after about five hours.