Tahiti is the largest and most important of the Society Islands, in the southern Pacific Ocean. Tahiti is one of the Windward group, or the southeastern part of the Society Islands. It is 53 km (33 mi) long and 26 km (16 mi) wide with a total area of 1,000 sq km (400 sq mi).

The island consists of two unequal and nearly circular portions connected by a narrow isthmus called Taravao, 2 km (1 mi) wide and 15 m (50 ft) or less above sea level. The island is of volcanic origin and is mountainous. The climate is warm and equable, the temperature ranging from 16° to 32° C (60° to 90° F). Rainfall is abundant, and the island is covered with luxuriant vegetation