Ten things to do in Tahiti

<p> Tahitian black pearls are French Polynesia's biggest export and visitors can admire them in all their glory at the pearl farms in Taha'a, Huahine and the Tuamota Atolls. Observe the pearl cultivation process, watch the grafting of the black-lipped oysters that create them and take home your own lack pearl straight from the source. Book a visit at <a href="http://www.tahiti-pearl-online.com/Pearls-of-Tahiti/pearl-farm.html" target="_blank">The Champon pearl</a> farm off the island of Taha'a to see the latest pearl harvest set into exquisite pieces of jewellery.</p>

<p> Stranded in the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean, Tahiti's turquoise waters contain vast coral reefs teeming with marine wildlife. Swim near grey, yellow and black-fin sharks and get up close and personal with the stingrays in Moorea Lagoon in the society islands. Swim beneath the crystal-clear sea at Huahine's Coral City and marvel at the canary-yellow coral gardens.</p>

<p> Get lost in the local markets and go on a treasure hunt for traditional Tahitian souvenir. Try the colourful Papeete Marketplace for a rainbow-hued Pareo - a dyed sarong that the local women wear - vanilla pods, Monoi oil or hand-carved wooden bowls, drums and jewellery.</p>

<p> Even before the invention of man-made spas, the Polynesians practiced rejuvenation techniques with a combination of natural elements and the natural oils found on the islands. Most of the hotels across the islands have their own spas set in beautiful locations, which offer a mix of western and traditional Tahitian treatments such as full-body wraps in banana leaves and clay, papaya and pineapple.</p>

<p> Tattoos in Tahiti have great symbolic significance, representing cultural identity and pride and a new generation of tattoo artists are making a name for themselves on the islands, especially with visiting tourists. Leave with a souvenir that lasts a lifetime with a Polynesian tattoo unique to you.</p>

<p> Not only did the annual <a href="http://www.billabongpro.com/" target="_blank">Billabong Pro Surfing Competition 2012</a> take place last August in Tahiti, you can catch some incredible waves at Teahupoo from May to November as well as take a surf lesson in the calmer waters of Papara or Taapuna on the east coast. Seasoned surfers should do as the locals do and tackle the towering waves south of Huahine.</p>

<p> The varied terrain and craggy peaks make exploring the islands by foot an adventure. Trek along Pineapple Road on Moorea, crossing rivers and lush forests, climbing up to the island's tallest peak at 1,200 metres. Climbers can try the strenuous terrain of Mount Rotui and be rewarded by panoramic views of the entire island. Hikers should try to find the sacred Haukai Valley and the huge waterfall hidden within the canyon.</p>

<p> Visit in July to catch the annual <a href="http://www.tahiti-tourisme.com/discover/events.asp" target="_blank">Heiva Va'a i Tahiti and Heiva i Bora Bora</a> 'Celebration of Life' festivals and get involved in the dancing, cultural celebrations, cafes, cuisine and canoe race events. Test your musical skills at The Ukulele festival in June or your dance moves at the Hura Tapairu festival, which invites dancers to compete in different categories of traditional Polynesian dance.</p>

<p> Endless seascapes and exotic scenery make Tahiti a paradise for sailors. Enthusiasts should dock at Raiatea, the 'sailing island' where beginners can learn the ropes in sheltered lagoons and experienced sailors can seek out the trade winds further out at sea.</p>