Gaze up at the three tall waterfalls near this village and hike to the coastal caves for a look at a dramatic blowhole.
The rural village of Tiarei has spectacular natural features amid dense forests. Among the highlights are a coastal blowhole and a set of three waterfalls that plunge into lagoons. Embark on the maze-like trails through the eclectic coastal terrain.
The main draws of the area are the Faarumai Waterfalls, which consist of three separate falls at the end of hiking paths. Trek through the forest with your family and cross wooden bridges over streams to reach the tall Vaimahutu falls. Gaze up at the impressive water chute, which is stronger in the wet season from November through April. Note that the area is driest in August, although the waterfalls flow year-round.
Continue on foot through the forest for another 20 minutes to get to the Haamarere Iti and Haamarere Rahi waterfalls, which stand side by side. Snap photos of the awe-inspiring feats of nature. Some visitors bathe in the water at the foot of the cascades however, swimming in the lagoons was prohibited after a rock fell on a visitor’s head. Bring sufficient bug repellent to keep mosquitoes away.
Visit the coast for the nearby Arahoho Blowhole, where crashing waves rise up through a hole in a cave. Hear the ferocious sound and feel the spray of the water, as it splashes up to the rocks. Be careful on the slippery surfaces here. It is said that the Tiarei warriors would throw lifeless bodies of their foes into this cave.
Sunbathe on one of the beaches and meander between the rows of palm trees that adorn the shore. Swim in the crystal clear water in this uncrowded area.
The village is located in the northeastern section of the island of Tahiti. It is part of the Hitia’a O Te Ra commune, which contains the areas of Hitia’a, Maha’ena and Papeno’o. Fly to the Faa’a International Airport and drive east for about 45 minutes to get here.
Tiarei is a serene area of impressive natural phenomena.
