The Islands Of Tahiti Paradise…Just 5 Hours Away

The Islands of Tahiti are a mythical destination. The mere mention of Tahiti calls to mind visions of an idyllic island paradise and once you’ve visited, you’ll discover that your imagination isn’t too off the mark.

With 118 equally as beautiful islands to choose from, there’s an abundance of accommodation options from luxurious overwater bungalows, guesthouses run by locals, catamarans and boutique cruise lines…even private islands. The Islands of Tahiti are uniquely well-suited for travel in a post-pandemic world. Travellers visiting the islands can feel confident in choosing the destination for their next trip, knowing that they can truly relax amid pristine beaches, intimate and secluded bungalows, and feel as isolated as Robinson Crusoe.
The Islands of Tahiti are like one encompassing, natural spa. The crystal-clear lagoons are ‘thalasso-therapy-warm’ and the occasional tropical afternoon rains are naturally invigorating. With a range of hotel and cruise spa offerings to complement its natural outdoor spa experience, The Islands of Tahiti is the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

 

Activities:

While The Islands of Tahiti are typically known to be the ultimate romantic destination, with its overwater villas, azure-blue lagoons, lush forests and crystal white beaches, there’s so much more to experience in the destination that many probably aren’t aware of. Activities that can be experienced in The Islands of Tahiti includes:

• Horse riding across the spectacular landscapes in the Marquesas Islands or along white-sand beaches with the sun setting as your backdrop
• Hike or bike through the lush valleys and over hilltops where you’ll have a 360-degree panoramic view of the islands
• Canoeing on a traditional Polynesian outrigger that you put together yourself
• Soaring over the sea on a paraglider
• Quad-biking or flying in a helicopter, landing on a hilltop taking in the majestic view
• Known for its unparallelled water activities there’s a range of options which includes diving, snorkelling, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming with whales and manta rays, kite surfing and windsurfing just to name a few

 

Culinary Tahiti:

Internationally renowned for their modern take on French cuisine with a strong Polynesian influence, culinary experiences in The Islands of Tahiti are like no other in the world. There’s a wide range of options from chic and elegant restaurants to local and casual eateries. Some of the most traditional dishes include:

• Tahiti’s signature dish poisson cruwhich consists of raw tuna marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, mixed with diced vegetables
• Chevreffes, another mouth-watering entrée of freshwater shrimp cooked with creamy coconut milk and vanilla
• Poulet fafa, a chicken dish usually cooked in the ahima’a, a traditional oven of a hole dug in the ground covered with leaves and volcanic stones

But, for now, take a look at just a few of the top resorts – book one of them and then decide what your time will be done here.

www.tahititourisme.nz/en-nz

1 – Conrad Bora Bora Nui:
Discover the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, a blissful and luxurious resort where relaxation and unparallelled views await you. Located on a private island – Motu To’opua, you will experience the longest private stretch of soft white sand beaches nestled between the soaring backdrop of Mt. Otemanu and the mesmerising lagoon. Enjoy the best of both worlds whilst on the island and experience the ultimate relaxation and adventure.
Take your taste buds on a culinary journey through a variety of distinct dining options. Raise your Polynesian experience to the next level with their one-of-a-kind dining events. Join them on the beach for a traditional Polynesian dinner. A true cultural dining experience, with dishes cooked for up to 12 hours in an underground oven made from coconut leaves and rocks.
Experience the innovative take on classic French cuisine at the Iriatai open-air restaurant. Amid the fabled banyan tree, discover an à la carte menu with a variety of seafood, creative dim sum and beloved wok-fried classics.
Or perhaps enjoy Tamure Beach Grill Restaurant for casual all-day dining with your toes in the sand. Tamure is their enchanting beachside dining spot offering local culinary dishes, located under a pandanus roof, the restaurant provides cool relief from sunny Bora Bora afternoons.
Afterwards, indulge in fine wines and creative cocktails at one of the bars, and for absolute indulgence, visit Hina Spa Nestled in invigorating volcanic rocks, for a total body and mind relaxation. Feel relieved while enjoying Hina Spa’s unique scenery, overlooking both iconic Mt. Otemanu and Maupiti Island. Step onto the lookout point with its views of the lagoon in various shades of blue.
Let your kids experience a world of adventure and learning. From fun-filled beachside games to traditional craft creations, Tamariki Kids Club program offers parents a chance to unwind while children enjoy an engaging escape.
From the comfort of your villa, discover the wonders of the French Polynesian starry sky or live a castaway dream come-to-life at their Motu Tapu private islet.
For the adventurous, explore the resort by bike, swim with the sharks, discover the giant gentle Manta Rays, master your swing in the only golf & sports simulator in French Polynesia, enjoy the resorts jogging track or learn how to navigate as a Polynesian on this guided tour on the crystal clear water, all whilst being met with the surroundings of the most incredible views in the world.
www.hilton.com/en/hotels/pptbnci-conrad-bora-bora-nui

 

2 – Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora:

The newly-enhanced Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a cultural paradise, a blend of romance, relaxation and tranquility. The resort combines the highest standards of service with the natural ease and gracious hospitality of Polynesian culture. Guests can lose themselves in the deep serenity of the location, immerse themselves in the customs and traditions of local culture, or set off on one the island’s many adventures, from outrigger canoeing to diving and snorkel excursions among rays and reef sharks, to deep-sea fishing and inland safaris – creating truly unforgettable experiences.

Set upon Bora Bora’s surrounding coral atoll, away from the bustle of its mainland, the resort is a vast tropical grove, replete with coconut palms and pandanus trees. Meandering channels of pure turquoise lead to the property’s main beach or to smaller lagoons, creating secluded private beaches waiting to be discovered. Every vista is breathtaking and all have been incorporated into the design of the resort: views of the open water and its vast sky contrast with the lush green of the island’s mainland, capped by the towering monolithic peak of Mt. Otemanu and the domed summit of Mt. Pahia.

The resort offers only suites – 108 spacious overwater bungalows and seven sprawling beachfront villa estates, all designed with thatched roofs and decorated with indigenous artwork.
Four distinct restaurants offer a vast selection of creative culinary experiences, from Polynesian to French to traditional favorites,are complemented by special open-air dining, from private oceanside dinners to Tahitian beach parties with musicians and firedancers. An infinity-edged pool with private cabanas faces the white sand beach, as the lagoon sets the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon under the tropical sun.

A full-service spa, perfectly balanced by the powerful rhythms of the Pacific Ocean and the secluded tranquility of the island’s lagoon – and featuring open-air treatment decks amid the kahaia trees – offers a combination of relaxation and exhilaration that only Bora Bora’s unique location can provide. The pièce de résistance here is the overwater couples spa suite, where local ingredients such as monoi oil and vanilla are highlighted in pampering and therapeutic treatments.

The connection Four Seasons has with the island community provides a truly authentic Polynesian experience. Local guides are available for many excursions, as are the resort’s own marine biologist and black pearl expert, providing a wealth of learning opportunities, whether scientific or cultural. Guests can enjoy learning of local culture through specially arranged cooking and local craft making classes.

The architecture of Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is the fruit of a unique collaboration that brings together the cosmopolitan flair of Paris-based architect Didier Lefort and the modern elegance of San Francisco design firm BAMO, with the Polynesian authenticity of renowned South Pacific architect Pierre-Jean Picart. Accommodations are designed to create privacy, capture the gentle breeze, all the while taking great care to conserve the beautiful natural landscape of the island.

www.fourseasons.com/borabora

 

3 – Hilton Moorea Lagoon & Spa:

With immaculate white shores, dazzling blue tides, mesmerising natural features, glorious over-water accommodations and scenic unobstructed starry skies, it is little wonder the majestic and idyllic Moorea is, for many, synonymous with Paradise.

At Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, soak yourself in seductive views of the sea and the island’s most fiery and spell-binding sunsets from the exquisite Eimeo Bar. Or take your taste buds on an astonishing culinary journey and enjoy a plethora flavours while dining under the stars at the resort’s signature crepe restaurant, the Toatea creperie & bar…the only over the water restaurant in French Polynesia where dining right above a glorious ballet of tropical fish, sting rays and sharks is made possible!

In fact, from epicurean gourmet to local classics, sumptuous island style breakfast buffet to fine cuisine at night, family-friendly to enchantingly romantic, the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa boasts a veritable smorgasbord of wide-ranging dining choices to delight your senses.

Nestled between two bays and set against a graceful mountain backdrop which melts into a crystal clear lagoon, the only 5-star resort on the island boasts the most astonishing and unparallelled scenery. Moreover, thanks to its perfect location on the northside of the island, travel exquisitely and bathe in the vibrant hues of the Pacific sun all day long from sunrise to sunset!

The 104 bungalows provide modern convenience balanced with luxurious exotic wood interiors to create a relaxing Polynesian experience from elegant overwater accommodations to spacious Garden bungalows.

All the overwater bungalows have glass floor panels for you to bask in the dancing spectacle of tropical fish below, enticing you to explore from your own private landing. Whilst Garden bungalows, all having their individual pool, afford melting views of the luscious garden from your own personal terrace.

Completely redone in modern island decor, these peaceful retreats (with expansive suites and connecting bungalows ideal for families) are set amid the lush greenery of the resort’s gardens with special touches like private plunge pools secluded behind walls of teak.

The resort also offers a beachfront spa specialising in finely curated Polynesian treatments. There, pamper yourself and indulge your mind, body and soul on a blissful and regal sanctuary of peace and elegance. Its exquisite treatments and delicately scented local products will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Finally, let nature be your guide and find yourself at the epicenter of all the historical and cultural activities. Surrounded by an epic array of delicious culinary and major departure points for most island discovery tours, your tropical adventure is just beyond your doorstep!

On an island where the service is as warm as the Polynesian sun, create everlasting memories with unparallelled experiences including a unique and bespoke adventure! Let yourself immerse in an exotic getaway and learn its most renowned yet delightful ways such as tying your own Polynesian attire or creating your own flower lei, with the help of their cultural specialists.

www.hilton.com/en/hotels/pptmlhh-hilton-moorea-lagoon-resort-and-spa

4 – Manava Beach Resort & Spa, Moorea:

The Manava Beach Resort & Spa is nestled on the beach in an ideal location, between the majestic Cook’s Bay and the Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course. It is conveniently located just 10 minutes from the airport, 15 minutes from the ferry and within walking distance of boutiques, restaurants and a small shopping in the village of Maharepa.

The resort combines the traditional and the contemporary with a powerful sense of Polynesia. There are 28 over-water bungalows, 8 bungalows on the beach and 28 spread through the beautiful grounds with their own plunge pools and private courtyards. The remaining 18 hotel rooms and 8 duplex (room with Mezzanine ideal for families) of this 90-unit resort are in a small building.

Whichever accommodation you choose, you will have air-conditioned comfort (the bungalows also have ceiling fans), an outside terrace, mini-bar, flat-screen television and WiFi.

Each bungalow has an outside terrace with comfortable loungers. From the over-water bungalows, there is direct access to the lagoon. The premium over-water bungalows are especially well situated, close to the coral reef ledge, offering fabulous snorkelling and exploration of the tropical fish and exotic corals.

Near the over-water bungalows, the resort has developed its own coral nursery – To’a Nui – a coral regeneration project and commitment to protecting the fragile environment that surrounds us.

For dining and entertainment there are 2 restaurants, 2 bars and for an injection of culture and entertainment, there is a weekly Polynesian Buffet & Floor Show. Other facilities include a boutique and a full range of activities and excursions both on land and on the water, including a dive centre, a Polynesian tattoo facility and one of the largest infinity pools of the island. The Manea Spa, specialising in massages and treatments, uses traditional Polynesian methods and 100% natural products.

You will find a luxurious and convivial resort on a human scale, offering a warm welcome to honeymooners, families, nature lovers and scuba-divers.

For 2023 Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea is introducing a new package to meet the needs of clientele that want to take the time to live, to discover, to meet with the locals and to minimise the impact of their trip on the environment. For stays of 7 nights or more guests will enjoy a daily activity, be it regenerative (coral grafting), eco-sensitive (E-bike ride) or cultural (flower lei workshop or traditional Polynesian dance show), plus American buffet breakfast daily and a Polynesian buffet dinner and dance show.

www.manavamoorearesort.com/en

 

5 – Motu Nao Nao, Raiatea:
Located within the lagoon of Raiatea, Motu Nao Nao is a private island escape from the demands of everyday life. The island abounds in lush flora and fauna, gifted with two idyllic beaches.

As an all-inclusive retreat, the island is available for exclusive use for up to 6 guests. Artfully designed, the three villas are steps from the beach and lagoon accommodating two guests in each. The main villa has an extraordinary outdoor living space for dining and relaxing, as well as containing a fully equipped kitchen, wine cellar, mini bar (replenished daily), state-of-the-art sound system and projector.

Included activities range from paddle boarding and sailing to visiting a black pearl farm and a sacred marae site on the island of Raiatea. Or explore your 25 hectare paradise and relax with a cocktail while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.

Motu Nao Nao has its very own private chef preparing meals from locally sourced ingredients. Everything that is served is gathered ethically and responsibly.

Just 40 minutes flying time from Tahiti, Motu Nao Nao is easily accessed by boat or helicopter providing a personalised service while maintaining attention on sustainable experiences with a small ecological footprint. An ideal escape for friends, family or to enjoy a special event away from prying eyes.

www.motunaonao.com

 

6 – Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea:

(Images courtesy of Gregoire Le Bacon)

With its one hundred and ten units, scattered in the gardens, along the beach and overlooking the sublime lagoon of Moorea, the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is the embodiment of the Polynesian art of living.
A way of life in which the gastronomy holds a central place, as demonstrated daily at the hotel’s four dedicated dining locations. A rule that prevails more than ever with the K, the only fine-dining restaurant of the island, which reopened in June after two years of closure related to the Covid health crisis.

The Sofitel Kia Ora Beach Resort, acquired in 2020 by the Polynesian group Wane, and reinvented by its new General Manager, Sabine G. Lamberts, has always provided exceptional culinary experiences to its residents and visitors. A recently unified cooking squad, emphasising the skills of each team member, follows a new partition led by a talented duo of newcomers – Alexandre Darzi, Food and Beverage Manager and Frédéric Gigou, Executive Chef.

They both share the same desire to push the limits of personalisation offered to the guests with the help of their talented team. An inspired duo, who reign over the resort’s four dining outlets.

In the centre is The Pure with its splendid view… a must on Moorea! The Pure restaurant is the true heart of the resort and can seat two hundred guests, in a contemporary setting with panoramic views overlooking the lagoon and the island of Tahiti.

Local and international cuisine is offered daily, for lunch and dinner, as well as a wide range of breakfasts, with Asian and Polynesian options (only on Sundays for the latter). Private breakfasts can be served on the beach or delivered by outrigger canoe to the overwater bungalows. How cool is that?

Sunday brunches are available once a month or on specific occasions such as Mother’s Day. Spread over several spaces, including a large outdoor terrace and a pontoon where romantic dinners are held, the restaurant features local dance shows every Wednesday and Saturday. On Saturday, guests can discover the ahi ma’a, the Polynesian oven with its delicious selection of traditional dishes. A ukulele trio, with renowned local lady singer, Hauata, performs every Sunday morning, adding to the authentic atmosphere.

The Pure is located near the most important bar area of the resort, the Vue Bar, which has just been completely renovated and enjoys the same breathtaking panoramic view of the lagoon and the island of Tahiti. With Happy Hour offered daily from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and its musical atmosphere, the bar is a guest’s favorite and sets the tone for a relaxing evening. A tapas menu completes the dining offers available.

A stay at Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is not complete without a dinner at the K, its unique fine-dining restaurant. “We are delighted to be able to share once again this iconic place, which welcomes you with your feet in the sand under a majestic cathedral ceiling made of rare Kahaia wood from the Tuamotu. K reserves a refined tasting experience for its twenty guests for precious dinners offered on Thursday and Friday evenings”, Lamberts explains.

“Simplicity and elegance are the two key elements of the place, showcased in both design and dining, to provide unforgettable memories.” In this enchanting setting, refinement is everywhere, from the china selection to the composition of the plates.Guests are invited to choose between two tasting courses, which are renewed every month. Each dish uses exceptional products, deliciously paired with wines selected by their team of culinary experts.

Currently open two evenings a week, the K follows the same bespoke service offered throughout the resort. All other days, the restaurant is available for private dinners or private events on request. Almost everything is possible, and naturally, any preference or restriction expressed by the guest is considered. This concept also prevails in all the dining outlets, including the authentic Beach Bar, which provides all-day dining on the beach from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

www.sofitel-moorea-kiaora.com

7 – St. Regis Bora Bora:

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is located on the pristine and magical island of Bora Bora. Reaching out across 44 acres of lush landscaping, edged by powdery white sands and a crystalline lagoon with the majesty of Mt. Otemanu for an iconic backdrop, it represents the epitome of carefree elegance.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort features 90 Overwater and Land Villas exquisitely appointed to embrace indulgent island living, some with whirlpools or private swimming pools, culminating in the expansive magnificence of the Three-Bedroom Royal Estate, unmatched in the entire Pacific for its size and luxury.

With a minimum size of 144 sq.m, all Overwater Villas are air-conditioned; include separate bedrooms and living rooms, with large glass panels on the floor to reveal the translucent lagoon below, as well as a large open air living area.

Generous Italian marble bathrooms offer both sumptuous sunken tubs and refreshing showers. Starting at 168 sq.m, all Land Villas are air-conditioned and include separate bedrooms and living rooms, as well as a large open air living area enhanced by private pools. Featuring both sunken bathtubs and refreshing rain showers, generous Italian marble bathrooms opening into enclosed gardens with outdoor showers.

In all villas, rooms are equipped with at least two 50-inch plasma TVs and surround sound, DVD/CD players, espresso machines and water heaters, minibars, individual air conditioning, individual safes, an outdoor shower and free Wi-Fi access.

Also discover an aquatic haven with two swimming pools, a naturally filtered and a private Lagoonarium. The Main Pool with swim-up bar adjoins the Main Beach while the more intimate Oasis Pool is surrounded by private cabanas for adults only. The Lagoonarium houses a colourful array of tropical fish for snorkelling.

Other complimentary activities include snorkelling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles and tennis. Choose to relax at Iridium Spa, located on its own private island within the Lagoonarium offering a serene escape for the senses with a selection of Sothys’s treatments. A fully equipped fitness centre is available next to the tennis court.

With four diverse restaurants and two bars to choose from as well as the private dining and bespoke offerings for special occasions, The St. Regis Bora Bora is the destination of choice for the discerning palate and epicurean mind. Set over water their signature restaurant, Lagoon by Jean-Georges, is a unique French and Asian gourmet experience exalting romance and atmosphere. Guests can sip on pre-dinner cocktails on the terrace of the 727 bar, while admiring the spectacular sunset view behind Mt. Otemanu.

Embark on a culinary journey, from Japanese and Chinese cuisine at Bamboo restaurant to Italian traditional food at Farniente, or you may prefer to enjoy one of their themed nights with a magical French Polynesian show or a night around sea’s flavours.

During your stay, guests have access to the signature St. Regis Butler Service. This service has been a treasured hallmark of the St. Regis experience for more than one hundred years.

www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bobxr-the-st-regis-bora-bora-resort