Often called "The Island of Love," Tahiti is the largest of the islands. Born in a series of volcanic upheavals nearly three million years ago, the island of Tahiti is a range of lushly forested peaks plunging deep into the sea. The island's interior is astounding; waterfalls cascade over sheer cliffs into rainforests below and rivers cut through dense valleys of giant ferns, wild fruit trees, and iridescent flowers. Most hotels are on the northwest coast of the island on a 6-mile stretch between Punaauia and Papeete. While a visit to the town itself doesn't constitute a true visit to the island, there are interesting things to do there - - shop at numerous boutiques or the open-air marketplace, visit one of several waterfront cafes and restaurants, or tour the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands nearby.