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Polynesian Paradise

Written and photographed by: Laurette Veres


A beautiful pool surrounded by a crystal clear blue water beach.


Few paradise-esque destinations match the intimate seclusion and lavish luxury of the

island of Taha’a.


Located on its own little Polynesian islet, or motu, Le Taha’a Resort and Spa sits off

the coast of Taha’a. A short flight from Moorea to Raiatea and a private water taxi ride

take you to this extravagant resort. The grounds are exquisite—expertly manicured sand

and tropical vegetation flourish. Top-of-the-line guestrooms, decadent restaurants, and

extravagant bars pepper the picturesque landscape. The lobby resembles an outrigger

with a large sail extending two stories. On the second level, you’ll find the bar—the

central point between the two signature restaurants. The spa’s treatment rooms are little

huts over looking an inland lagoon. Snorkel through the coral gardens to neighboring

motus for an unparalleled adventure; just sitting back and enjoying the view in this

Polynesian paradise is hard to beat.


If your ultimate Tahitian fantasy is an over-the-water experience, you’ll adore the striking

water bungalows. Constructed of bamboo with thatched roofs overhead, the bungalows

have tribal carvings etched into the woodwork and canoe-shaped bathtubs. Two glass

panels let you watch the fish from inside the privacy of your bedroom. One large glass

box spans the width of the queen size bed; another other is next to the bathtub—both

open for you to feed the fish. Each hut is strategically positioned so you cannot see any

other man made structure. At least a hundred yards from shore the view consists of

crystal-clear water, uninhabited motus, and the big island of Bora Bora. The spacious

patio has lounge chairs and a little outdoor hut, or fare pote to take in the view.


This distinctive parts of Taha’a are best explored through an island tour. Pearl farms,

vanilla plantations, and rainforests are hidden throughout the island. Head out on the

muddy, slippery roads in a four-wheel drive, open-air tour truck decked out in flowers.


Dine at Chez Louise for an unexpected culinary indulgence. You may be the only

customers in the small restaurant. But owner Louise, her husband, brother, and 22-year

old son—none of whom speak English—will take care of your every need. When you ask

for a wine list; a bottle of white wine will appear. You won’t receive a menu, but the rich

aroma of delicious food will overwhelm your senses. Soon over-flowing platters of

lobster, shrimp, tuna steaks, slaw with raw tuna, rice, and bread are on the table. You’ll

leave the restaurant contented by delectable fresh seafood and smiling at your discovery

of a rare lost gem.


For an exceptional romantic destination visit Taha’a for an island escape of uninterrupted

blissfulness



Gorgeous Views in LeTaha.

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