Belvedere de Taharaa - a large building with a gate in front of it
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Belvedere de Taharaa

4.6
·120 reviews·Arue, French Polynesia

Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Matavai Bay and the Pacific Ocean, especially magical at sunset.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
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Belvedere de Taharaa - a large building with a gate in front of it

Belvedere de Taharaa

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Matavai Bay and the Pacific Ocean, especially magical at sunset.

4.6
(120 reviews)

"One of the most stunning viewpoints on the island of Tahiti, offering panoramic views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Access Nuances

Coming from Papeete? You'll need to go past the viewpoint, use the next roundabout, and return.

📸 Perfect Sunset Spot

Arrive early for sunset to snag the best vantage points. It's a popular spot for a reason!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Matavai Bay View

Panoramic Matavai Bay View

Belvedere de Taharaa

Spectacular panoramic views of Matavai Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the island of Moorea. A photographer's dream!

Sunset Over the Lagoon

Sunset Over the Lagoon

Belvedere de Taharaa

Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow over the lagoon.

Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Belvedere de Taharaa

This spot holds historical importance, having been a key location for early European navigators in Tahiti.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Aim for sunset for breathtaking colors over the lagoon and Moorea. Arrive a bit before to secure a good spot, as this popular viewpoint can get busy, especially on weekends. Be aware of road access nuances when planning your route.

Accessibility and Road Access

The Belvedere de Taharaa is easily accessible with a parking lot nearby. However, access to the parking from Papeete requires a U-turn via a roundabout. An accessible ramp is available, making it a good option for many visitors.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Belvédère du Taharaa, Tahiti, Polynésie Française 🇵🇫. SUNSET TIME 💛🧡. #polynesie #tahititourisme #tahiti #tahitilife #sunset #sunsetlovers #sunsetphotography #sunsetlover #sunset_pics #sunsets #perfect #perfectmoment #moment #instamoment #besttime #love #view #viewpoint #viewforview #pointofview #belvedere #insta #instagood #potd
tepootunuiohivaetheifara
262 likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking Access Nuances

Coming from Papeete? You'll need to go past the viewpoint, use the next roundabout, and return. Instagram

📸 Perfect Sunset Spot

Arrive early for sunset to snag the best vantage points. It's a popular spot for a reason! TikTok

Belvédère du Tahara'a -Tahiti)) Jeden z wielu punktów widokowych na Tahiti z cudownym widokiem na Zatokę Matavai i plażę Lafayette, gdzie pierwsi europejscy żeglarze zakotwiczyli u wybrzeży Tahiti))) Leży pomiędzy Mahiną a Papeete koniecznie trzeba się tam zatrzymać… Można tu parkować tylko od strony drogi prowadzącej do Papeete, więc jeśli jedzie się z Papeete, trzeba go minąć a następnie jechać ...
babcia_kasiaprzezswiat
57 likes • 0 views
Iaorana les amis 🌴 Étant résident de Arue, je tiens à vous partager un lieu que j’aime dans ma commune 🥰 « 𝙇𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙪 𝙏𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖’𝙖 » 𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙧𝙚 « 𝘽𝙚𝙡𝙫𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙪 𝙏𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖’𝙖 » Connue pour offrir une vue panoramique spectaculaire sur la baie de Matavai et l'océan Pacifique, cette colline a une signification historique en raison de son rôle lors de l'arrivée de l'explorateur James Cook en 1769. Cook a ...
heiva_ahmin_mistertahiti2023
55 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access for All

Features an accessible ramp, making it a great viewpoint for everyone. Reddit

🐔 Local Residents

Keep an eye out for the friendly army of chickens that call this viewpoint home! Reddit

📍Belvédère du Taharaa, Arue, Tahiti, Polynésie Française 🇵🇫. Sunset over the Lagoon 💛 🧡 🌅. #tahiti #tahitilife #lagoon #lagon #polynesian #frenchpolynesia #sun #sunset #sunsets #sunset_pics #sunshine #sunsetlovers #sunset_vision #sunsetphotography #sunset_madness #sunsout #sunscreen #sunset_hub #sunset🌅 #sunsetlover #sunset_stream #sunsets_captures #sunset_ig #sunshine🌞 #sunsetporn #golden #golden...
tepootunuiohivaetheifara
45 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Access Nuances

Coming from Papeete? You'll need to go past the viewpoint, use the next roundabout, and return. Instagram

📸 Perfect Sunset Spot

Arrive early for sunset to snag the best vantage points. It's a popular spot for a reason! TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access for All

Features an accessible ramp, making it a great viewpoint for everyone. Reddit

🐔 Local Residents

Keep an eye out for the friendly army of chickens that call this viewpoint home! Reddit

🚗 Road Noise Factor

It's close to a busy road, so expect some traffic noise. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(120 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views, especially during sunset, calling it one of Tahiti's most beautiful viewpoints. The easy accessibility and free entry are major pluses. However, some note the proximity to a busy road, leading to traffic noise, and the specific U-turn needed when approaching from Papeete.

"A very pleasant viewpoint. On the plus side: it's easily accessible and there's a parking lot right next to it (there's no entrance to the parking lot if you're coming from Papeete; you have to go around the next roundabout and turn back). On the minus side: it's very close to a busy road, so you can hear the cars loudly. The view is worth the trip :)"

Aleksandra Sternicka

"This is one of the most stunning viewpoints on the island of Tahiti. Offering panoramic views of the island's lush landscapes, this lookout is a must-visit for anyone exploring Tahiti. The stunning vistas provide a perfect backdrop for photos and a peaceful spot to take in the island's natural beauty along with the army of chickens."

Mild mannered biochemist

"Beautiful overlook spot. You can only park here from the side of the road that goes to Papeete so if you are coming from Papeete you will have to go past the Park and then do another roundabout and come back . Parking is free usually no wait on weekends. There is an ♿ accessible ramp. The spot to view is Papeete and moorea. It very picturesque"

corenzo wilkerson

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Beautiful sunset spot
Easy accessibility

What People Dislike

Road traffic noise
Access from Papeete

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Belvedere de Taharaa from Papeete, you'll need to drive towards Arue. If you're coming from Papeete, you'll have to drive past the viewpoint and use the next roundabout to turn back. The parking is accessible from the road leading to Papeete. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a well-known viewpoint located between Mahina and Papeete, making it relatively easy to locate. Instagram

The most common way to reach Belvedere de Taharaa is by car or scooter, as it's a roadside viewpoint. Public transport might be limited for direct access to the viewpoint itself. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot conveniently located next to the viewpoint. Parking is usually free and often available, even on weekends. Reddit

While possible depending on your starting point, it's more practical to drive or take a scooter due to its location along the main road. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Belvedere de Taharaa is a public viewpoint and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors. Reddit

As an outdoor viewpoint, Belvedere de Taharaa is accessible at any time. However, the best experience is during daylight hours, especially for sunset. TikTok

No booking is required as it's a free, open-access viewpoint. Reddit

Yes, there is an accessible ramp available at the viewpoint, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to enjoy the views. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the panoramic views. Sunset is the ideal time. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset is incredibly popular for its dramatic lighting and colors, making it ideal for photography. Golden hour before sunset also offers beautiful light. TikTokInstagram

You can capture stunning panoramic landscapes of Matavai Bay, the coastline, the ocean, and the island of Moorea in the distance. Instagram

No, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate to capture the beauty. However, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for panoramic shots. Instagram

There are no specific restrictions on photography at Belvedere de Taharaa. Enjoy capturing the scenery! Instagram

Experiment with different angles to capture the vastness of the bay and the distant islands. The accessible ramp area also offers unique perspectives. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main activity is enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of Matavai Bay and the surrounding landscape. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour to soak in the views, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere, especially during sunset. TikTok

Amenities are minimal, primarily consisting of the viewpoint itself and parking. There are no shops or restaurants directly at the viewpoint. Reddit

It can get crowded, especially during sunset and on weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning offers a more serene experience. TikTokReddit

You'll get stunning, unobstructed views of Matavai Bay, the coastline, and on clear days, the island of Moorea. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Belvedere de Taharaa is a great stop for families. The accessible ramp makes it easy for strollers, and the open space allows kids to move around safely while parents enjoy the view. The presence of local chickens can be an exciting discovery for children. It's a relatively quick stop, perfect for breaking up a longer drive. Remember to bring snacks and water, as amenities are limited. Reddit

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photography enthusiasts, Belvedere de Taharaa is a must-visit, especially for sunset shots. The panoramic vistas of Matavai Bay and the chance to capture the vibrant colors of the sky over the lagoon are unparalleled. Bring your wide-angle lens to encompass the full sweep of the landscape. Consider visiting during the golden hour before sunset for softer, more diffused light. TikTokInstagram+1

🚗 Road Trippers

If you're exploring Tahiti by car or scooter, Belvedere de Taharaa is an essential roadside stop. Its easy accessibility and stunning views make it a perfect place to pull over, stretch your legs, and capture some iconic Tahitian scenery. Factor in a bit of extra time if you're coming from Papeete due to the specific road access required to reach the parking. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Matavai Bay

Belvedere de Taharaa offers unparalleled views of Matavai Bay, a historically significant body of water on Tahiti's northern coast. This bay was a crucial anchorage for early European explorers, including Captain Cook and Louis-Antoine de Bougainville. The strategic location provided shelter and access to the island's resources, making it a focal point of early interactions between Tahitians and Europeans. Today, the bay is a picturesque expanse, framed by lush green hills and the distant silhouette of Moorea. The viewpoint allows visitors to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of this iconic Tahitian landmark. Instagram+1

Capturing the Perfect Sunset

The sunset at Belvedere de Taharaa is a major draw for visitors and photographers alike. As the sun descends, the sky often erupts in a symphony of colors – vibrant oranges, fiery reds, and soft purples – reflecting beautifully on the calm waters of the lagoon. To make the most of this experience, it's recommended to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the actual sunset time. This allows you to find a good vantage point, set up your camera, and witness the gradual transformation of the sky. The panoramic nature of the viewpoint ensures that you can capture the entire spectacle. TikTokInstagram

Historical Echoes and Local Life

Beyond its scenic beauty, Belvedere de Taharaa carries historical weight. It's a place where significant moments in Tahitian history unfolded, particularly concerning early European contact. The viewpoint itself offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the arrival of ships in the bay centuries ago. Adding to the local flavor, you might encounter the 'army of chickens' that roam the area, a charming reminder of the island's natural inhabitants. This blend of history, natural beauty, and local life makes the visit more than just a scenic stop. InstagramReddit

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