Posted by on 17 Feb 2026
, in Islands
Before you set off on your Tahiti holiday, learning a few Tahitian words can transform your experience. The Islands of Tahiti are known for turquoise lagoons, warm hospitality and cultural traditions that shape the rhythm of everyday life. Travellers who take time to understand Tahitian culture and use a few local expressions often find their holiday becomes deeper, more meaningful and truly memorable.
This guide brings together essential Tahitian phrases, pronunciation notes, etiquette tips and helpful insights into the region’s most-loved islands for your French Polynesia travel.
Fun Facts About Tahitian Language
- Tahitian, or Reo Tahiti, uses just 16 letters, giving it one of the smallest alphabets in the world and making pronunciation relatively intuitive for visitors.
- The language has a melodic, flowing sound that reflects Polynesian oral traditions, where storytelling, poetry and spoken history play a central role.
- Many familiar Polynesian words, including moana meaning “ocean,” originate from Tahitian and are shared across island cultures in the Pacific.
- Traditional chants and songs are more than performance. They preserve ancestral stories, genealogies and cultural knowledge passed down through generations.
- Tahitian is one of several Polynesian languages spoken across the islands of Tahiti and the wider region, linking communities across more than 118 islands through shared linguistic roots.
Useful Tahitian Words and Phrases for Travellers
Basic Greetings and Courtesies
- Hello – Ia orana (yo-rah-nah)
- Welcome – Maeva (mah-yeh-vah)
- Thank you – Mauruuru (mah-roo-roo)
- Good – Maitai (my-tie)
- Yes – E (ay)
- No – Aita (eye-tah)
- I love you – Uua here vau ia oe (oo-ah hay-ray ee-ah oh-ay)
- Bye/See you later – Nana (nah-nah)
- Cheers – Manuia (mah-nwee-ah)
People and Family
- Man – Tane (tah-nay)
- Woman – Vahine (vah-hee-nay)
- Child – Tamarii (tah-mah-ree-ee)
- Time and Nature
- Morning – Poipoi (poy-poy)
- Evening – Ahiahi (ah-hee-ah-hee)
- Island – Motu (moh-too)
- Ocean – Moana (mo-ah-nah)
Handy Everyday Expressions
- Look – A hi’o (ah-hee-oh)
- How are you? – Maita’i oe? (may-tie oh-ay)
- I am fine – Maita’i roa (may-tie roh-ah)
- What? – Eaha? (ey-ah-hah)
- Why? – No te aha? (noh-teh ah-hah)
- No problem – Aita pe’a pe’a (eye-tah peh-ah peh-ah)
- Let’s go – Haere tatou (ha-eh-reh tah-tow)
Places and Locations
- House – Fare (fah-ray)
- Bank – Fare Moni (fah-ray moh-nee)
- Store – Fare Toa (fah-ray toh-ah)
- Church – Fare Pure (fah-ray poor-ray)
- Post office – Fare Rata (fah-ray rah-tah)
- Hospital – Fare Ma’i (fah-ray mah-ee)
- Doctor – Taote (tah-oh-tay)
- Police – Muto’i (moo-toh-ee)
Food, Drinks and Sightseeing
- Bread – Faraoa (fah-rah-oh-ah)
- Water – Pape (pa-pay)
- Pearl – Poe (po-ay)
- Black pearl – Poerava (po-ay rah-vah)
- Beer – Pia (pee-ah)
- Flower – Tiare (tee-ah-ray)
- Cloth wrap – Pareu (pa-ray-oh)
- Drum – Pahu (pah-hoo)
- Ancient temple – Marae (mah-ray)
- Song – Himene (hee-meh-nay)
- Stone statue – Tiki (tee-kee)
Basic French Phrases for Travellers
- Bonjour – Hello
- Au revoir – Goodbye
- S’il vous plaît – Please
- Merci – Thank you
- Non – No
- Oui – Yes
- Excusez-moi – Excuse me
- Pardon – I’m sorry
- Parlez-vous anglais? – Do you speak English?
- Combien ça coûte? – How much does it cost?
Best Islands in Tahiti to Visit
For Divers: Fakarava and Rangiroa
Fakarava and Rangiroa are among the world’s top diving locations thanks to their pristine lagoons, colourful coral and abundance of marine life. Fakarava’s Garuae and Tumakohua Passes offer encounters with grey sharks, manta rays and schools of pelagic species. Rangiroa’s vast lagoon is known for its playful dolphins and superb visibility, attracting divers of all levels.
For Honeymooners: Tikehau
Tikehau’s pink-sand beaches, powder-white shores and calm lagoons create a perfect honeymoon atmosphere. Couples enjoy quiet days snorkelling, picnicking on remote motus and birdwatching at Motu Puararua. Many describe Tikehau as one of the most peaceful islands in the Tuamotus.
For Surfers: Tahiti
Tahiti’s main island has become iconic among surfers. Breaks like Papara and Teahupo’o offer impressive swells and attract experienced riders from across the world. Beginners can find gentler waves and local instructors who guide their first sessions. The surf culture adds an energetic layer to the island’s charm.
For Adventurers: Moorea and Huahine
Moorea and Huahine are ideal for travellers who want to explore both lagoon and land. Moorea’s jagged peaks create scenic backdrops for zip-lining, 4WD tours and hikes such as the popular Three Coconuts Pass. Huahine offers archaeological sites, rainforest trails and quiet beaches where traditional Polynesian life feels preserved and authentic.
Expert Travel Tips
- Book excursions, cultural activities and romantic experiences early, especially during high season. Popular lagoon tours, cultural performances and limited capacity experiences can fill quickly, particularly in peak travel months.
- Visit local markets to sample fresh pastries, tropical fruit and seafood while gaining insight into everyday Tahitian life. Markets are also a great place to observe local customs and speak with producers and artisans.
- Many traditional dishes are prepared for community gatherings, celebrations or special events rather than served daily. Ask your guide about opportunities to attend festivals or village occasions where these foods may be shared.
- Island hopping is straightforward thanks to regular ferry and flight connections. Combining Moorea, Bora Bora and Taha’a creates a well-balanced itinerary that blends lagoon scenery, culture and a quieter pace.
- Embrace the relaxed rhythm of island life. Meals, conversations and daily activities often unfold more slowly and communally than in major cities and allowing time for this pace enhances cultural connection.
Plan Your French polynesia Holiday
Understanding a few Tahitian words adds a wonderful layer of connection to your Tahiti holiday. Whether you dream of relaxing in a Tahiti overwater bungalow, learning about local traditions or exploring the Society Islands, French Polynesia promises a warm welcome.
Plan your French Polynesia holiday today and browse Entire Travel Group’s curated collection of Tahiti holiday packages designed for couples, families and adventurers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling to Tahiti
Do Australians need a visa to visit French Polynesia?
What is the best time to visit Tahiti?
May to October offers dry weather and comfortable temperatures ideal for snorkelling, overwater stays and outdoor excursions.
Is Tahitian hard to learn?
Not at all. With only 16 letters and simple pronunciation, most visitors pick up greetings quickly.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes. English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas.
Can I pay in Australian dollars?
No. The local currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF). Cards are accepted in major towns.
How many islands make up French Polynesia?
There are 118 islands and atolls across five archipelagos.
What should I wear when visiting a marae?
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees where possible.
Are overwater bungalows worth it?
Many travellers say the lagoon views and direct water access make it an unforgettable experience.
Is French Polynesia suitable for families?
Yes. Calm lagoons, gentle beaches and cultural activities make it ideal for family holidays.
