Tahiti

tropical island · Pacific Ocean · French Polynesia · volcanoes

Born from volcanoes. Tahiti was created by two shield volcanoes that erupted long ago and then went extinct. The island's two main parts, Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti, are what's left of these ancient volcanoes after erosion wore them down over millions of years.

Mountainous and dramatic. Most of Tahiti is high and mountainous, with dramatic peaks rising up from the sea. These mountains make the island look like a giant fortress rising out of the Pacific Ocean.

Connected by a bridge. Tahiti's two circular land masses are joined together by a narrow strip of land called an isthmus. This creates a unique figure-8 shape when you look at the island from above.

Surrounded by coral. Beautiful coral reefs circle the entire island, creating protected lagoons and amazing places for fish to live. These reefs are super important for fishing and bring many tourists to swim and snorkel.

Paradise for visitors. With its white sand beaches, warm tropical weather, and stunning scenery, Tahiti attracts people from all over the world. Tourism is one of the most important industries on the island, along with fishing.