Marriage Requirements
Tahiti follows the same marriage laws as the rest of French Polynesia, and if you’re looking to have a legal wedding ceremony in Tahiti, most requirements are equal to those in other destination wedding hotspots.
This means that you must:
- Notify the local government 45 days before the ceremony
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have at least one witness who is at least 18 years old (this can be a friend, family member, photographer, or even resort staff)
- Have both a valid government-issued ID and a birth certificate
- If necessary, provide a valid divorce certificate
However, there are also some local quirks that must be paid attention to:
- Ceremonies are not permitted on Sundays or national holidays
- All ceremonies are completed in French although a translator is always allowed
A wedding planner or agency can help with any local requirements like translating your birth certificate, notifying the local government, and more.
The majority of destination wedding couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony while away (and make it legal at home, afterwards). In the case of having a symbolic destination wedding in Tahiti, these requirements do not apply.
Travel Information
Travel Documents
For travelers with US, Canadian, and EU citizenships, you will not need a visa to enter Tahiti for stays of up to one month. However, it’s advisable to have a return or onward ticket before entering.
Language
French and Tahitian are the official and most spoken languages in Tahiti. Tahitian is the original language of the island, but French quickly became the official language once the island was declared a French Colony in 1880. Today, native Tahitians continue to use and teach their historic language alongside French and other world languages. Since tourism is a major cornerstone of the economy, you'll find that English is commonly used at resorts, tourist attractions, and border crossings. Also, take note of the unique Tahitian-French accent that most natives have while speaking English. It's an accent that's unique to the island, and it's a great blend of Tahiti's history and culture!
Some common and useful phrases that you may hear in Tahitian include:
- Welcome = Maeva (ma-eh-va)
- Good morning = La ora na (la ora nah)
- Goodnight =Toto maita’i (my-ta-ee)
- Bye = Nana (nah-nah)
- Ocean = Moana (mo-ah-na)
- Cheers = Manuia (ma-new-ee-ah)
- Yes = E (ay)
- No = Aita (ah-ee-ta)
Some common French phrases include:
- Hello = Bonjour (bahn-jur)
- Thank you = Merci (mehr-si)
- Goodbye = Au revoir (ah re-vwa)
Currency and Tipping
Tahiti, along with the greater French Polynesia, uses the French Pacific Franc. The currency is written as CFP or XPF Franc in markets. One US dollar equals roughly 100 CFP Francs. A bus ride may cost about 300 CFP Francs on average which is equivalent to about $3.
You can exchange your US dollars or other major currencies at the international airport, in downtown banks, and at some resorts. However, currency exchanges may come with flat fees and percentage fees.
For the best deal, use your debit card at one of the numerous banks and ATMs at either the international airport or one of the featured banks downtown. Some ATMs may charge a small flat fee for the transaction and your issuing bank may as well. Major credit cards are also accepted throughout Tahiti, but you should keep cash on hand for bus tickets, smaller cafes, and handmade souvenirs.
Tipping is not necessary in most circumstances, and may even be seen as strange in some situations. However, Tahitians have a lot of experience with international visitors, so feel free to tip if someone goes above and beyond what was expected.
Climate & Beaches
Climate
Tahiti enjoys a warm climate with average yearly temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. November through April is often very hot and humid with periods of tropical rainfall. From May to October, Tahiti is pleasantly warm with gusts of refreshing wind.
If you're planning a destination wedding and want an outdoors ceremony, you may wish to book it between May and October since you’ll have less chance of rainfall or strong winds. The strong humidity from November to April can make activities and wearing fancy clothing more difficult, so you may wish to have an in-doors celebration to keep cool.
Beaches
Tahiti is full of sprawling and scenic beaches alongside secluded lagoons. This destination is famed for its turquoise water plus calm and sometimes dramatic waves. Papeete is full of both massive and quaint resorts that provide direct beach access, and the surrounding areas are full of versatile beaches for any occasion. Plus, Tahiti is full of both white sand beaches plus unique black sand beaches that cannot be missed!
While many beaches offer gentle and rolling waves that are perfect for kayaking and floating in, there are also some spots that feature the region’s most intense and wild waves which are not for beginners. Luckily, these spots are complete with numerous large signs that are hard to miss, and you’ll have no problem viewing the thunderous waves from a safe but picturesque distance.
Some top beaches around the island include:
- La Plage de Maui which features a sprawling stretch of white sand that is perfect for lounging and viewing the crystal clear water
- Taharuu which is a marvelous black sand beach with gentle waves that's perfect for surfers and swimmers of all skill levels
- La Plage de Vaiava (also called PK18) is one of Tahiti's best beaches for lounging around and enjoying the tropical climate
- Papeno'o Beach features some of Tahiti's largest and most intense waves making it a great spot to watch professional surfers
Getting Around
All international and most regional flights will arrive at Faa’a International Airport (coded as PPT.) Situated right near the capital city Papeete, Faa’a International Airport provides an effortless way to arrive in Tahiti or explore other nearby destinations.
You can take a bus from the airport to reach Papeete quickly and affordably, and you can generally use the city bus to get anywhere you need to go for roughly $3 per person each way. Private taxis and shuttles are also available for a slightly higher fee, or you may rent your own car for roughly $100 per day. Take note that many rental cars are stick-shift, so either ask for a manual car beforehand or be prepared to learn on the spot.
Bicycles and scooters can be rented easily around town. If you wedding or honeymoon trip includes nearby islands, you can get there by ferries or catamarans. These options range from cheap and practical ferries to more deluxe and premium yachts. You may also rent your own private boat and either sail it yourself or pay for a private crew.
Activities & Attractions
Activities
Tahiti is home to a several natural wonders that are ripe for exploration. Plus, there are endless opportunities for shopping, adventure, relaxation downtown and near your all-inclusive resort.
Some top sights include:
- Fautaua Waterfall where you can enjoy a difficult hike to witness the massive 1,000ft waterfall and lush jungle
- Le Trou de Souffleur where water crashes forcefully against the rocky shoreline creating a wonderful geyser-like effect
- The vibrant and perfectly manicured gardens in Papeete
Tahiti is home to several natural wonders that are ripe for exploration . Plus, there are endless opportunities for shopping, adventure, and relaxation downtown and near your all-inclusive resort.
For a bachelorette party, enjoy a day of premium spa treatments with a coastal view. Sample drinks along the beach and then go on a private catamaran cruise through the surrounding islands. Bachelors can also enjoy their own taste of luxury or opt for something more active, like a trip to nearby waterfalls, a game of beach volleyball, or jet skiing along the vibrant coast.
Your wedding guests will also have endless opportunities for fun including classic activities like zip-lining, hikes to scenic peaks with tremendous views, and snorkeling with turtles in colorful coves. Kayaking is another perfect option, and you can travel effortlessly along the coast to beautiful lagoons and other secluded areas outside of the main attractions.
Papeete is also home to many malls and craft markets where you can buy souvenirs and experience the brilliant local culture. Go to a museum, check out one of the exciting new cafes in town, or take a moment to relax by the pool at your resort. Whatever you and your guests decide to do, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time!
Nightlife
Tahiti features a lively and diverse nightlife with something to offer for everyone. Head into downtown Papeete and enjoy tropical drinks alongside soothing music in a dimly lit club. Enjoy dinner and a show either on the beach or at a restaurant, and then go dancing at one of the countless open-all-night bars nearby. There are plenty of exciting venues here – from rock n’ roll clubs to European discotheques, karaoke bars, and more.
Some clubs may get rowdier than others later at night, but you’ll have no problem finding the right venue for your mood at any hour! Whether you’re looking to dance with your friends before the big day or you want to enjoy a romantic evening with your partner after tying the knot, your destination wedding in Tahiti is sure to be unforgettable!
With activities for all ages and tastes, you and your guests will have the time of your lives in this stunning tropical paradise.