Tahiti, a volcanic island, is the largest of the 118 islands that make up the archipelago of French Polynesia. Here’s where you experience balmy weather, pristine beaches, and laid-back, tropical life. Shaped like a turtle, Tahiti is ringed with beautiful black beaches surrounded by clear, tranquil waters ideal for a wide range of nautical activities like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and water sports. South of Tahiti, Austral Islands is where you can go whale-watching and also swim with humpback whales.