Elodie Boursaus from Taapuna Puanaauia, on the west coast of Tahiti tells us about local favourites and where to soak up true Tahitian beauty…

What’s your favourite place that only a local knows about?
This would be fenua aihere (literally translated as ‘wild land’ or ‘bush land’), which is the part of the main island of Tahiti with no roads; you can only access it by boat or trekking volcanic trails. It’s green, it’s wild and it’s refreshing. It paints a picture of Tahiti in its original state.

Photo via Tahiti Tourisme

What’s your favourite popular place that is a crowd pleaser for a reason?
Moorea, but more specifically the sharks and rays sand bar there. Locals join the crowds over the weekend there and lunch at Le Coco Beach restaurant on the nearby motu (islet). An afternoon cocktail, feet in the sand, with stunning views of the mountains is a popular choice on a sunny Sunday.

Photo via Tahiti Tourisme

What is your favourite restaurant?
The Blue Banana restaurant with its jetty over the Taapuna lagoons. It’s well located, the place is relaxed and the trilogy of tuna fish is delicious!

Your favourite bar?
Locals usually show up late at bars! We usually head straight into town and some of the popular spots include the Jungle Coffee Bar and The Poke House. However, they are busy on weekends after 9pm. If we are just catching up for a sunset cocktail with girlfriends we usually go to the Pink Coconut’ or L’Instant Present at the Marina Taina to unwind with some local music.

Photo by Elodie Boursaus

What is your favourite store?
The Papeete markets, morning strolls to get French baguettes, some fresh fruits, fish and green coconut water. We usually have someone in our family who can sew, so we buy colourful and flowery fabric to make our own dresses. Fashion on the islands is effortless and a pareu (sarong) with added pearls will dress you up.

Photo via Tahiti Tourisme

Your favourite hotel?
The St Regis Bora Bora is the epitome of luxurious relaxation! Dreamy overwater bungalows with majestic views and exquisite food in the evening at the Lagoon by Jean-Georges restaurant…time just stops!

Photo via Elodie Boursaus

Your favourite way to spend time outdoors?
Tahitian women have a deep love for the ocean. We have the clearest waters and amazingly unique marine wildlife. I like to surf, dive, and spearfish and then on Sundays I put on monoi (coconut oil) and relax at the beach.

Photo via Elodie Boursaus

Who is the most interesting person you’ve met in Tahiti?
My granny! I used to call her meme coco (granny coco). She had the biggest, warmest smile. She always knew how to make things out of nothing! Bags and baskets out of palm leaves, jewellery with shells, flower crowns, she also taught me about the respect of traditions.

Photo via Tahiti Tourisme

What’s your idea of the ideal date night in Tahiti?
Dinner under the stars, ukulele playing and the sound of waves caressing the sand, French champagne and the smell of Tiare flowers.

Photo via Elodie Boursaus

Anything else that a honeymooning couple needs to know about Tahiti?
Honeymooners fall in love in Tahiti and with Tahiti.

Photo via Tahiti Tourisme

Ms Zebra Says: What great tips from a local! It’s always so nice to hear different, unique ways to experience a place – that isn’t all “touristy”! A great choice for a romantic honeymoon.

Thanks Elodie for sharing your incredible knowledge of the islands for Tahiti Tourisme. They are an economic interest group servicing the marketing, PR and events (to name a few) for the Islands of Tahiti across the world. Their website includes great information on the islands, accommodation, activities and much more!