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FRENCH POLYNESIA TAHITI, BORA BORA AND MOOREA
Destination Weddings & Honeymoons
Tahiti , Bora Bora & Moorea
DISCOVERING FRENCH POLYNESIA
Endless Summer
French Polynesia enjoys a tropical marine climate, with lots of sun all year round and just enough rain to nurture the growth of luxuriant vegetation and all the region’s colourful flowers. We receive an annual average of eight hours of sunshine per day, with temperatures between 24°C (75°F) and 30°C (86°F), and lagoon water temperatures between 23°C (73°F) and 26°C (79°F). There are two distinct seasons in Tahiti. November to April is the wet season with January the wettest month. August is the driest month.
Tahiti isn’t just one place. It’s 118 islands in the South Pacific and it’s a lifestyle. It is a world away in mind and spirit, but only an eight-hour flight from the west coast of the United States. Immersed in a world of majestic mountain peaks, turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, visitors to the islands create memories through authentic experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. So come. Come and see what “Mana” – the Tahitian word that describes a life force and spirit that surrounds and connects all living things – is all about.
Tahiti’s west coast feels different from the rest of the island.
Papeete, the largest community in French Polynesia, almost feels like a suburb of Paris. The east coast is lush and somewhat more damp, owing to the prevailing trade winds. The west coast is flanked by sunbaked white sand beaches and spectacular views of neighboring Mo‘orea.
On this side of the island, the primary resort hotel is the Le Méridien Tahiti, tucked away on a quiet stretch of white sand beach in Puna‘auia just before the divided highway turns into a two-lane road. Here is where Tahiti almost feels like Hawai‘i several decades ago.
Moorea
The Magical Island
Believed to have inspired the mythical Bali Hai from James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific, Moorea is one of the most scenically striking islands in French Polynesia. Despite her immaculate beauty, she is far from unapproachable. Possessing a relaxed vibe and welcoming spirit, Moorea is just as warm and inviting as the Tahitians lucky enough to call this island home.
The Locale
Located only ten nautical miles from Tahiti, Moorea is easily accessible by ferry or plane from Papeete. This proximity, coupled with the island's receptive and neighborly nature, makes Moorea a favorite destination for couples, families and locals. Still, Moorea has managed to maintain its small island feel despite this popularity and the presence of a few internationally branded resorts.
The Allure
The attraction toward Moorea comes as no surprise; the island is a geographical marvel. Eight voluminous mountain peaks rise from its translucent lagoon, creating a distinctive and rugged silhouette visible from the western coast of Tahiti. Splitting the northern shore are two symmetrical bays: Cook's (Paopao) and Opunohu Bay. The island is roughly shaped like a heart from overhead; and in the theme of love and romance, Moorea is one of the top honeymoon destinations in Tahiti—second only to Bora Bora.
Recreation
This unique landscape gives Moorea a reputation for being one of the best islands for adventure and activity—both on land and on the water. This means that newlyweds aside, a Moorea vacation is ideal for families, too. Many resorts on the island offer kids programs and amenities, free meals and fun activities suited for children of all ages.
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa
The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is centrally located on a sandy beach between Moorea's two iconic bays. This northern placement creates the perfect setting to admire both the sunrise to the east and the sunset to the west from the comfort of your own overwater bungalow. The resort is also easily accessible by scenic drive from the airport or ferry dock, taking ten or fifteen minutes respectively.
The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is centrally located on a sandy beach between Moorea's two iconic bays. This northern placement creates the perfect setting to admire both the sunrise to the east and the sunset to the west from the comfort of your own overwater bungalow. The resort is also easily accessible by scenic drive from the airport or ferry dock, taking ten or fifteen minutes respectively.
The spacious bungalows at the Hilton Moorea Resort are either scattered amidst exotic flower gardens or suspended over the tranquil lagoon. They feature a contemporary Polynesian design and offer all the comforts of a luxury hotel. Guest amenities include a fitness center, infinity pool, tennis courts and a range of complimentary water activities. The resort's two restaurants serve traditional Polynesian and international cuisine, while the overwater Toatea Bar is the ideal place to indulge in a French crepe.
InterContinental Moorea Resort and Spa
Tucked between the mountains and the lagoon on the
northwest side of the island, the InterContinental
Moorea Resort & Spa is bordered by a beautiful white
sand beach and blends seamlessly with its natural
surroundings. Each cheerful and spacious garden room,
beachfront suite and overwater villa creates the ideal
peaceful retreat, whether you are traveling as a couple
or with a family.
Home to the popular Moorea Dolphin Center and Sea
Turtle Clinic, the InterContinental Moorea Resort has
become a sanctuary for the island's most precious
marine life. In addition, the Hélène Spa provides a
tranquil escape for those in search of the ultimate
relaxation. Other guest amenities include three hotel
restaurants offering traditional Polynesian and international cuisine, an outdoor swimming pool, kids club, and the widest range of water sports on the island.
Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort
The Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Resort enjoys a secluded waterfront setting on one of the island's best white sand beaches. Located on the eastern side of Moorea, closest to the airport and ferry dock, this hotel is also the most convenient. Each spacious overwater, beachfront and garden bungalow is designed in a sleek, contemporary fashion and built with an i mpressive selection of natural materials.
The overall ambiance of the Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Resort reflects an air of French style infused with Tahitian hospitality. The hotel's two acclaimed restaurants provide an intimate and romantic setting with incredible panoramic views and occasional live entertainment. The wellness center, Le Spa, is a tranquil retreat with a diverse selection of signature treatments. Other guest amenities include an infinity pool, dive center and activities desk with water sports equipment to use at your disposal.
Manava Beach Resort and Spa
The charming Manava Beach Resort & Spa maintains
a boutique hotel feel and exudes the warm, welcoming
ambiance characteristic of French Polynesia. Located
on the northeast coast, this resort is only ten minutes
from the airport and fifteen minutes from the ferry
dock, meaning it still delivers on convenience while
supplying a feeling of seclusion. (formerly: The
Moorea Pearl Beach Resort)
The resort offers a range of spacious garden rooms,
beachfront suites and romantic overwater villas,
creating an atmosphere where both couples and
families can peacefully coexist. Each overwater bungalow provides a large sundeck with direct access to the lagoon for incredible snorkeling, while each garden bungalow features a backyard with private plunge pool. The resort is also home to the largest infinity pool on the island. Other guest amenities include a poolside bar and restaurant, dive center, and activities desk with a range of excursions available.
Tahiti
Queen of the Pacific
The heart and soul of the South Pacific, Tahiti is the largest in a chain of islands that make up French Polynesia. The name can either refer to the main island or the entire destination. Commonly referred to as The Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia is a collection of 118 islands and atolls scattered across an impressive nautical surface area the size of Western Europe. Still, these tiny islands—many of which remain uninhabited—make up a total landmass of only 1,600 square miles (4,100 sq. km).
The Locale
You may be wondering, where is Tahiti? The islands are situated halfway between Los Angeles, California and Sydney, Australia. They are in the same time zone as Hawaii and located just as far south of the equator as Hawaii is north. Since the word often conjures up visions of a distant, unspoiled paradise, many assume them to be far away; but in all reality, Tahiti is only eight hours from Los Angeles.
The island of Tahiti is divided into two parts: The larger portion to the northwest is known as Tahiti Nui, while the smaller, southeastern peninsula is known as Tahiti Iti. Tahiti Nui is dominated by three extinct volcanic mountains including Mount Orohena, the tallest in French Polynesia; Mount Aorai, known for its incredible views; and Le Diadème, which appears to crown the island as the rightful queen.
Home to the capital city of Papeete, Tahiti is the economic center of French Polynesia. Since all flights arrive through Faa'a International Airport,your tailored Tahiti vacation will begin and end in Papeete. While you may be tempted to jet off immediately to the other islands, we recommend staying at least a day or two. Tahiti strikes an interesting contrast to some of the more quiet, secluded islands in the region; and with a selection of wonderful and convenient Tahiti resorts available, you will never regret staying.
The Allure
Papeete is a vibrant and multicultural city with busy boulevards and a bustling harbor. The downtown municipal market, Le Marché, is an exciting place to purchase all things Tahiti including vanilla beans, monoi oil and colorful pareos. Just down the street at Le Centre Vaima is the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, which is a great place to start if you're hoping to purchase a Tahitian black pearl during your stay. To live like a local, head to Vai'ete Square after sunset. This waterfront promenade comes to life at night when gourmet food trucks, Les Roulottes, open their windows to serve a range of affordable meals including Chinese food, French crépes, steak frites, fresh fish and pizza.
Recreation
Beyond the city atmosphere, Tahiti is also a scenic island with lush landscapes and large abounding waterfalls. Leave the more developed areas behind and you will find shady hiking trails, pleasant beaches and calm waters. This unique juxtaposition makes Tahiti one of the most diverse islands in French Polynesia. We recommend exploring these interior peaks and valleys on a guided hike or Jeep Safari tour.
Other popular activities include snorkeling, Jet Skiing and surfing. Experienced surfers should visit the famed Teahupo'o and bear witness to one of the world's most intense waves. Beginners can surf or take lessons at some of the more mellow beaches around the island. You can also enjoy a day of golfing at the Olivier Bréaud Golf Course, one of only two courses in French Polynesia.
HOTELS
InterContinental Tahiti Resort
The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is the largest luxury resort on the island of Tahiti. Located just five minutes from the airport, it is also the most convenient. Despite this proximity to downtown, the hotel provides a nice Polynesian oasis with some of the best views of Moorea on the horizon. Elegantly engulfed by tropical gardens, this is the ideal place to begin your visit to French Polynesia.
The rooms and over-water bungalows are tastefully decorated and offer all the amenities of a deluxe international resort. Although not ultra modern, this only adds to its traditional Polynesian charm. The I InterContinental Tahiti Resort features two freshwater infinity pools and provides an extensive range of activities and complimentary guest services. It is also home to the most popular traditional Tahitian dance show on the island, offered every Friday night at the hotel's Tiare Restaurant.
Manava Suite Resort Tahiti
he Manava Suite Resort Tahiti is a modern hotel
that rests alongside the water and provides scenic
views of Moorea across the lagoon. Located on the
western coast, this hotel is only ten minutes from
the airport. The rooms feature their own kitchen-
ette and complimentary Wi-Fi, making this a
popular choice for families and business travelers.
With the largest infinity pool on the island, this is
the ultimate place to unwind after your flight.
The guestrooms at the Manava Suite Resort strike a wonderful balance between contemporary design and authentic Polynesian influence, with modern furnishings and black and white cultural photography adorning the walls. The resort also features a small boutique, spa, poolside bar and fitness center. The hotel's trendy Punavai Lounge Bar offers live musical entertainment and fun signature cocktails, drawing in a mix of guests and local Tahitians, especially from Thursday to Saturday.
Le Meridien Tahiti
Le Méridien Tahiti boasts an idyllic seaside setting along a beautiful white sand beach on the western coast of Tahiti. Located farther south from Papeete than any other hotel on the island, the resort is still only fifteen minutes away from the airport, offering both convenience and seclusion. Aside from the I InterContinental Tahiti, this is the only hotel on the main island with overwater bungalows.
The rooms and suites at Le Méridien Tahiti are a blend of contemporary French style with a tropical Polynesian touch. Each one has a private deck with incredible views of Tahiti's sister is land, Moorea. Guest amenities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, a health club and an activities center with complimentary water sports equipment available. The resort also features a poolside bar and two gourmet restaurants, including the waterfront Le Carré, which provides one of the best resort dining experiences in French Polynesia.
Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort
Situated along an exotic black sand beach, the
Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort features lush surroundings
and beautiful waterfront views. Conveniently located
just ten minutes from Papeete, it's the ideal place for
any honeymoon, vacation or business getaway. The
resort's ocean view rooms and suites boast a
contemporary design that highlights local artisan
handcrafts and colonial photography. The Hiti
Mahana restaurant features delectable, innovative
cuisine, while the poolside bar is the perfect place to
catch a spectacular sunset. Other resort amenities
include a freshwater swimming pool and Le Spa,
which offers a full range of traditional Polynesian
treatments.
Bora Bora
Jewel of the South Seas
Undoubtedly the most celebrated island in the South Pacific, Bora Bora is French Polynesia's leading lady. Her beauty is unrivaled and her fame, unwavering. Bora Bora is one of the few places on earth that everyone hopes to witness in their lifetime—and once you see it, you are forever enamored.
The Allure
More than just a romantic ideal, Bora Bora is a romantic reality. It comes as no surprise that the island is an internationally acclaimed honeymoon destination. Our newlyweds who decide on a Bora Bora honeymoon often feel as though they have escaped to a private oasis tailored entirely to their special moment of marital bliss—and anyone in the midst of planning a wedding can relate to just how enticing that sounds.
The Locale
Bora Bora may feel worlds away, but this South Seas splendor is well within reach. Where is Bora Bora, exactly? The island lies just northwest of Tahiti, less than an hour away by plane from Papeete. The airport is located on a small, separate part of the island known as Motu Mete. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a warm smile and fragrant flower lei and transferred by boat to your Bora Bora resort, meaning you hardly have to wait for your first encounter with the island's famously translucent lagoon.
The inevitable love affair with this island begins right before you touch down. The view from the plane window is a moment you will not soon forget. Have your camera in hand as you begin your descent and prepare for the moment when iconic Mount Otemanu comes into view. From that point on, each experience will only continue to exceed even your highest expectations.
Accommodation
Bora Bora has become synonymous with over-water bungalows. Many of these lavish floating villas have glass floors that supply a window to the lagoon life below. This locale is unique in the fact that most Bora Bora resort hotels are built on their own tiny island, or motu, and visits elsewhere must be arranged by boat transfer. Not to worry, though, you will hardly need to leave your bungalow let alone the resort. From lounging on your own private deck and receiving room service via outrigger canoe, to indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, you will pass the time in quiet seclusion and opulent luxury.
Recreation
The wonderful thing about Bora Bora is that you can be as active or inactive as you wish to be. Should you decide to venture away from the resort, you can visit the main village of Vaitape and shop at the local boutiques or dine at one of Bora Bora's restaurants including Mai Kai Bora Bora, or the legendary Bloody Mary's. You can also explore Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu on a guided hike or Jeep Safari tour.
Since water is a way of life on the island, popular lagoon excursions include snorkeling, diving, cruising, fishing, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, Jet Skiing, and of course, shark and ray feeding. You can also take your experience to new heights by parasailing, skydiving, or touring the island by helicopter.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora exudes an effortless luxury. Located on the northeastern side of the island along the outer coral reef, this exclusive enclave is one of the premier resort options in Bora Bora. The over-water bungalows, some of which have their own private plunge pools, boast exceptional views of the lagoon or Mount Otemanu. They incorporate a fascinating architecture, featuring walls made of volcanic stone and decorative accents fashioned from mother of pearl.
While romance is the resort's specialty, Four Seasons Bora Bora is also family friendly. Three beachfront villas provide the perfect alternative when traveling with children. Kids can enjoy the Tamarii Club, which features an indoor playroom and outdoor playground with splash pad, while teens can stake claim to their own stretch of sand known as Chill Island, complete with paddleboards and snorkeling gear. The resident marine biologist is even happy to take the family on an educational snorkeling tour through the resort's inner lagoon.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
The new Conrad Bora Bora Nui is tucked in a cove of
white sand and black lava rock. Located on the south
west end of Motu To'opua, a small islet floating
between Bora Bora's mainland and coral reef, the
resort faces out toward the open ocean. Soaring Mount
Otemanu becomes the backdrop to the hotel when
approached from the water. The rooms and villas
enjoy views of the lagoon and an endless blue horizon.
The Conrad Bora Bora Nui (formerly the Hilton
Bora Bora Nui) features a variety of guest
accommodations including garden villas, infinity villas
and overwater pool villas. Guest amenities include three
restaurants, three hotel bars, an infinity pool,
complimentary water sports equipment, mini-golf,
and a private island known as Motu Tapu accessible
by boat and available exclusively for guests. The relaxing Hina Spa is found at the very peak of the hillside, providing incredible panoramic views of the resort's surrounding scenery.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is a floating oasis in the South Pacific. It features all spacious overwater villas. Found on the southeastern side of the coral reef, these luxurious accommodations face the spectacular Mount Otemanu and boast incredible views of Bora Bora. Here, modern architecture flourishes with an authentic Polynesian design, accentuating a color palette that reflects the sapphire blue of the surrounding lagoon.
Designed with the utmost environmental sensitivity, the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is a sustainable sanctuary of which the exquisite Deep Ocean Spa is the centerpiece. The resort operates on revolutionary technology that draws seawater from the depths of the ocean and reuses it for electricity. Another unique facet is the resort's stunning over-water wedding chapel, which features an impressive glass aisle and large window that frames the remarkable mountainous view.
St Regis Bora Bora Resort
The expansive and immaculate St. Regis Bora Bora
Resort is the ultimate South Pacific splurge. Located on
the secluded northeastern side of the lagoon, this
luxurious island lair is home to some of the largest
over-water bungalows in the region. While these
perched abodes are the most enticing, the resort features a diversity of accommodations including garden villas with private plunge pools and the lavish Royal Estate, which
has welcomed a number of the world's most elite.
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is duly prepared to meet
every indulgence. Signature butler service is available at
the push of a button, while the bridal boutique provides
a selection of designer wedding dresses should the
occasion arise. The resort also features two swimming
pools and a private lagoon teeming with exotic fish,
turtles and stingrays. There are four dining options, from
casual to gourmet, including the signature Lagoon
restaurant by world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Le Meridien Bora Bora
Le Méridien Bora Bora is the perfect blend of French chic and Polynesian charisma. Located on the northern tip of Motu Piti A'au, a small islet that sits along the eastern coral reef, the resort faces the main island of Bora Bora and delivers a gorgeous view of the iconic Mount Otemanu. The over-water bungalows, which make up the majority of guest accommodations at the hotel, feature the largest glass floors of any other resort in French Polynesia. There is also a selection of beach bungalows and private pool villas better suited for families. Home to the famesTurtle Sanctuary, Le Méridien Bora Bora is a true friend to the environment. The hotel features an interior lagoon where it provides protection and care for endangered sea turtles. Nearby is also an interactive touch pool filled with hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, starfish and clams, meaning the kids can enjoy a fun and safe marine biology experience during your stay. Another main attraction at the resort is the Miki Miki Bar; designed to resemble the prow of a ship, it points straight toward Mount Otemanu and provides the ideal place for sunset cocktails.
Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island
The Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island is found on a
small botanical garden surrounded by water.
Located on a private island enclosed in the
southeast end of the lagoon, the resort is only
two minutes away by boat from the main island.
Unlike many other reef resorts that have lagoon
on one side and ocean on the other, this retreat is
completely encircled by the lagoon, creating an
all-around gorgeous view of Bora Bora. It is also
reserved exclusively for adults and children over
the age of twelve, maintaining a quiet and intimate
oasis for couples and honeymooners.
The Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island Resort offers
the ultimate "motu" experience with pristine
beaches and elegant accommodations including
garden lodges with a private terrace, overwater bungalows, and an expansive luxury villa with kitchen and private Jacuzzi . The resort's main restaurant, Manu Tuki, serves refined international cuisine and comes complete with its own wine cellar. To capture the true essence of this private island paradise, you can also request an intimate dinner served on the beach beneath the stars.
InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort
The InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is one of only three hotels located on the main island of Bora Bora, affording easy access to Vaitape and Matira Point, often considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The resort's overwater and beachside bungalows share a southeastern view of the outstretched lagoon and the nearby islands of Raiatea and Ta ha'a. Each overwater bungalow also features a glass coffee table, providing your own private aquarium with access to the lagoon below.
The InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is a charming hotel where classic Polynesian design combines with an understated luxury. Noa Noa, the main restaurant, serves French cuisine infused with local flavors in an outdoor, beachside setting with live entertainment two nights a week, while the Vini Vini Bar and Terrace provides a casual poolside dining option during the day. When neither will suffice, you can always have room service delivered to your overwater bungalow via outrigger canoe.
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort and Spa
The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, a
member of the Leading Hotels of the World, boasts
some of the most traditionally designed
accommodations in Bora Bora. The resort is
located at the southern tip of Motu Tevairoa, the
largest islet dotting the outer reef toward the
northwest. Only ten minutes by boat from the
airport and fifteen minutes across the lagoon from
Vaitape, this is the most conveniently placed resort
among those located away from the mainland.
The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa features
a variety of guestrooms including garden suites
with private pools, beach suites with private
Jacuzzis, and overwater bungalows with direct
access to the hotel's nearby coral nursery, To'a Nui.
There are two hotel bars and three different restaurants serving a range of international cuisine, including one of the few Italian restaurants in Bora Bora, Fare Ambrosia. The resort's Tāvai Spa is surrounded by lily ponds and has a resident tattoo artist offering the ultimate traditional Polynesian body treatment.
Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort
The Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort is located on the eastern side of Matira Point toward the southern end of the island. This setting provides convenient access to some of the popular attractions on the mainland, including the town of Vaitape and the famed Bloody Mary's Restaurant. The resort features a variety of garden, beach and overwater bungalows, all of which overlook the coral reef and the ocean beyond, encompassing views of Raiatea and Taha'a. Italian movie producer Dino De Laurentis originally built the Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort to house the crew of his 1979 film, Hurricane. Today, the resort proudly showcases vintage photos of the cast and the crew, which are on display near the aptly named poolside Hurricane Bar. Sticking with the theme of entertainment, the main restaurant, Latitude 16°, features "show" cooking with a traditional Tahitian oven used for special Polynesian nights.
Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora
The lovely Maitai Polynesia is found on the
main island of Bora Bora near the beautiful
Matira Point, offering convenient access to the
shops and restaurants around Vaitape. This
boutique hotel is located beach side and
hillside, with a small road separating the main
building from the shore. The hotel rooms
ascend the mountain, giving the upper units
a spectacular lagoon view. Across the way are
the beach and over-water bungalows, which
offer shoreline access and incredible views of
the lagoon and beyond.
To best accompany the hotel's unique layout,
Maitai Polynesia features both a hillside and beach side bar and restaurant. The garden based Haere Mai serves a combination of French and Polynesian fare with live entertainment once a week, while the Manuia Bar (which means "cheers" in Tahitian) is the ideal place to lounge and enjoy an exotic cocktail near the main lobby. The beach side Tama'a Maitai, acting as both the bar and restaurant on the lagoon's edge, serves Polynesian and seafood dishes.
