When most people think of Tahiti, they imagine a newlywed couple snuggling on the deck of their overwater bungalow watching the sunset. While this is certainly true, the islands of Tahiti offer so much more than a romantic escape for couples.
I just returned from the Four Seasons resort in Bora Bora with my multigenerational family group (think infants to grandparents) of 42 and it was the most amazing vacation for all. Yes, we were in the iconic overwater bungalows and yes we saw breathtaking sunsets and even a rainbow or two, but we also experienced so much as a family. It started with a private group check-in and breakfast at the Otemanu Pavilion especially for our group. That evening we enjoyed a special private welcome dinner on Otemanu beach complete with local musicians and Heiva dancers. The dancers were wonderful in getting the group to join in and setting the stage for a week of fun and relaxation ahead.
Working with the Four Seasons management team, I arranged several private activities for our group so together we could jet ski around the island, snorkel with black-tipped sharks and eagle rays, enjoy a sunset cruise which led us to a private island where we discovered the beauty of the night sky and learned about the stars from our expert astronomer Tahi. We couldn’t squeeze in the ATV tour or parasailing during our 6 night stay, which initially we thought would be too much time on one island.
Even with all of the scheduled private activities, there was ample time to relax by the pool or enjoy down time reading. Being in overwater bungalows also meant we could jump right into the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon from our back deck. This is especially fun if you have several bungalows together as we did so you can swim between them!
Tahiti has a special place in my heart, not only because of the sheer beauty of the islands or the incredible warmth and hospitality of the people, but also because it's where my husband Guri and I came for our honeymoon and during this trip, celebrated our 23d wedding anniversary. For our special evening, we opted to dine on our deck and the Four Seasons' team surprised us with a special turn down service which made it an extra-special evening!
The spa at Four Seasons is incredible. We selected the couples Kahaia Haven ritual in their special VIP Overwater Spa Suite. This three-hour indulgence (my husband's not really a spa guy, but even he enjoyed it) included a body scrub, a Polynesian massage, an express facial and was topped off by a coconut milk bath overlooking the tropical foliage and waters of the inner lagoon. The massage tables in the suite look down through a glass bottom to the marine life in the lagoon below and the private deck offers a tub surrounded by candles and sheer drapes for privacy. This is one experience which is a must if you want some quality time with your loved one and was a capstone to our time in Bora Bora.
The meals were also fantastic. We arose to a bountiful buffet breakfast at Tere Nui restaurant, lingering sometimes for hours over the delicious coffee and made-to-order crepes and waffles. Lunch was enjoyed poolside or in the uber comfortable pool cabanas-I chose the watermelon salad with chicken on days I wanted a lighter meal but had to sample the tandoori chicken burger everyone raved about. Delicious! The truffle fries were to die for-the best I've tasted anywhere and I indulged in more than my share over the course of the week!
Dinner was split between the three restaurants- Sunset Bar (Sushi and Japanese inspired menu), Fare Hoa (tables in the sand, most varied menu and nightly entertainment) and Arii Moana (fine dining and where we enjoyed our final night on the island). The quality of the meals was wonderful and everything I sampled from the poolside burger to the lobster at Arii Moana was incredible. Let's not even talk about the molten lava cake with vanilla ice cream-plan to add a few extra pounds while you're here, even with the array of active excursions.
Dinner was split between the three restaurants- Sunset Bar (Sushi and Japanese inspired menu), Fare Hoa (tables in the sand, most varied menu and nightly entertainment) and Arii Moana (fine dining and where we enjoyed our final night on the island). The quality of the meals was wonderful and everything I sampled from the poolside burger to the lobster at Arii Moana was incredible. Let's not even talk about the molten lava cake with vanilla ice cream-plan to add a few extra pounds while you're here, even with the array of active excursions.
Overall, I would say the group thoroughly enjoyed their time on Bora Bora. It was one of the most memorable vacations we've taken together and we are all ready to go back to our bungalows overlooking Mount Otemanu.
It took a year of planning for a week of adventure, but these memories will stay with us for a lifetime!
The islands of Tahiti are a destination that some visit annually, opting to go between two islands or even cruise between several islands to get a more varied experience. Tahiti and Moorea have diverse landscapes for beginner to advanced hikers and also offer golfing options (Tahiti has the Olivier Breaud International Course which is part of the Australian PGA circuit and Moorea has a Jack Nicklaus-designed course). Tetiaroa is Marlon Brando's private island and home to the ultra-private The Brando resort which showcases its sustainability efforts. All islands offer incredible diving opportunities and Tahaa is not only the "vanilla island" but offers some of the best sailing anywhere.
It took a year of planning for a week of adventure, but these memories will stay with us for a lifetime!
The islands of Tahiti are a destination that some visit annually, opting to go between two islands or even cruise between several islands to get a more varied experience. Tahiti and Moorea have diverse landscapes for beginner to advanced hikers and also offer golfing options (Tahiti has the Olivier Breaud International Course which is part of the Australian PGA circuit and Moorea has a Jack Nicklaus-designed course). Tetiaroa is Marlon Brando's private island and home to the ultra-private The Brando resort which showcases its sustainability efforts. All islands offer incredible diving opportunities and Tahaa is not only the "vanilla island" but offers some of the best sailing anywhere.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy Tahiti. The weather is mild, the winds are warm and there are plenty of cultural activities including the Heiva festival. As a certified Tahiti Specialist, I can create the perfect trip to help you check off this bucket-list destination. What are you waiting for? The islands of Tahiti are calling...
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