Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts was the first member of Relais & Chateaux in the Islands of Tahiti. Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts is a 5-star property on its own motu, a small islet poised between the reef and the lagoon, 35 minutes from the Raiatea airport and five minutes away from the village of Tapuamu with the resort’s shuttle boats.

If you are coming in from Bora Bora, the 14-minute helicopter flight is a must, for the breathtaking views over our stunningly gorgeous lagoons, the wave-fringed reef and the majestic ocean.

Le Taha’a’s authentic Polynesian architecture and interior design, the luxurious grounds and the time-honored tradition of Tahitian hospitality will transport you to another world. Whether you stay in one of our iconic Overwater Suites villas or in a Pool Beach Villa, Le Taha’a will be a dream of an island home come true.

The three restaurants offer French-Polynesian fusion food, from beachside snacks to gourmet dining. The Tāvai Spa will introduce you to Polynesian well-being rituals and restore your mind-body balance.

LOCATION
The island of Taha’a, Uporu by its ancient name, is located in the Society Islands, in the same lagoon as the island of Raiatea. Raiatea played a major role in Polynesian migrations throughout the Pacific Ocean and is still an important historical and cultural center, witness of well-alive civilization and traditions.

Taha’a is also known as the Vanilla Island. Its fertile land and climate produce what chefs and gourmets around the world think is the tastiest, most fragrant vanilla on earth. Tahitian pearls are also produced in Taha’a.

A few pearl farms take advantage of the island’s pure lagoon to grow endless variations of the famous pearl. A stay in Taha’a is a unique experience. The island is blessed with lush mountains and valleys, turquoise lagoons, virgin motu islets.

The Vanilla Island has it all, not least of all because it retains its Polynesian flair : people still share a truly authentic, friendly and relaxed way of life. Fishing, vanilla and agriculture, pearl farming and tourism are part of their daily lives.

There is something magical and poetic about Taha’a, and it just seems like time has stopped, allowing each and every one to enjoy this land of beauty at their own pace.

SUITES & VILLAS
All suites and villas at Le Taha’a are built in the pure Polynesian tradition, exquisitely blending thatched pandanus roofs, bamboo, exotic woods, stones, corals, Marquesan “tapa” cloths, and woven coconut “nape” ropes.

Whether on the beach or above the shimmering lagoon, you will enjoy the idyllic surroundings and the tropical outdoor lifestyle Le Taha’a offers. Refined elegance and bare luxury.

ROYAL POOL BEACH VILLA
The Royal Pool Beach Villas are amazing units boasting two bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, as well as two outside bathtubs and showers. They also feature a plunge pool and thatched roof gazebo set in a private tropical garden to enjoy the islands’ way of life at its best: the outdoors! Those villas are ideal for families or friends wishing to stay close.

POOL BEACH VILLA
The Pool Beach Villas (and the Royal Pool Beach Villas) are our signature accommodations. Totally blended in the motu’s environment, the Beach Villas open onto the white sand beach and the dazzling lagoon.

They offer one bedroom and a separate lounge, and have their own plunge pool, thatched roof cabana and tropical garden. There is also an outside bathtub and shower to fully enjoy the starlit skies of the Tahitian islands.

TAHA’A OVERWATER SUITE
The Taha’a Overwater Suite offers the unique feeling of floating above the crystal-clear lagoon with exquisite views of the lush Vanilla Island.

BORA BORA OVERWATER SUITE
Looking out to Bora Bora, the Coral Garden and the chain of motu islets, the Bora Bora Overwater Suite is without a doubt a favorite.

DINING
Staying at Le Taha’a is much more than palm trees, beaches and lagoons. It is also a true culinary journey, pillar of the Relais et Châteaux identity and philosophy. In each of the 3 on-site restaurants, explore our creative menus of subtle delicacies inspired by French savoir-faire. You will be pleasantly surprised to find such variety on such a small island.

For any dietary requests, please advise us in advance so that our Chef may best meet your needs. Special arrangements for romantic dinners, private picnics or more can be made upon request.

THE HAWAIKI NUI RESTAURANT
The Hawaiki Nui, the resort’s main restaurant, is open for breakfast and dinner. Set high up among the trees, you will enjoy restful views of the Taha’a lagoon and the property’s lush gardens.

The Hawaiki Nui is the perfect place for a great start to the day with our selection of freshly squeezed juices, delicious danish, muffins, French “pain perdu”, tropical fruit, hot and cold buffet. Breakfast is served from 7:00am to 10:00am.

Dinner is served from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. The dinner menu offers a wide selection of local and international specialties. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are available.

POLYNESIAN EVENING
Le Taha’a’s homage to Polynesian culture and traditions… A buffet featuring Tahitian delicacies and international options, as a local band serenades you through the night. Traditional dances and a not-to-be-missed fire dance will highlight the evening.

Fire dance shows are usually only seen at festivals or big events; Tavita, one of the best fire dancers, also known as one of the most tattooed men in French Polynesia, performs at the resort every week ! (Please note that the show is weather permitting).

THE OHIRI
The Ohiri Restaurant is the resort’s gourmet and gourmand dining option. The Chef will delight you with some creative French- Polynesian fusion cuisine. As will the sommelier with the diverse and renowned wines from our cellar. The atmosphere is nice and cozy, warm and romantic…The Ohiri can be privatized for families or groups.

TITIRAINA RESTAURANT
This restaurant is open for lunch, from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. Enjoy this ‘al fresco’ restaurant, right on the beach and feet in the sand!

The Chef’s specialties include some delicious fresh, colorful salads, tasty grilled fish or meat, sashimi and of course Tahitian’s famous poisson cru, a salad of raw tuna marinated with vegetables, lime juice and freshly squeezed coconut milk. The beach Bar, ‘Manuia Bar’, takes over for light snacks once Titiraina restaurant closes.

CATCH OF THE DAY
Local fisherman bring their catch of the day to our chefs and those are displayed at the Titiraina restaurant on a bed of ice. Guests choose the fish they like, it is then weighed, just grilled on the barbecue and served with coconut rice, fresh squeezed coconut milk and lime. Needless to say this is so tastylicious! This does not fall under the pre-purchased lunch option but charged fully to the room.

BARS
The Manuia Bar is open from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Located next to the Titiraina restaurant, the Manuia Bar (pool bar) is perfect for a refreshing cocktail while relaxing by the pool or on the beach. The bar offers light snacks from 3:00pm, and happy hour from 4:00pm to 5:30pm.

The Tiki Bar is open from 6:00pm to 10:30pm. Next to the Hawaiki Nui restaurant, the Tiki Bar is the place to be for evening cocktails, with an exhaustive choice of cocktails and drinks as well as the Chef’s tapas selection! After dinner, stay for a digestif…Don’t forget to enjoy the happy hour each Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm.

ROMANTIC SERVICES
Dinner on the beach or in the privacy of your suite or villa, a private lunch on our heart-shaped sandbank in the middle of the lagoon, breakfast delivered to your room by canoe, a Polynesian wedding ceremony or renewal of vows, our Concierge team will be more than happy to assist in creating the most magical moments.

WEDDINGS
A memorable event, led by your Polynesian master of ceremony, featuring traditional dances and songs, a wedding gift and cocktails, transfer of the couple from an Overwater Suite to the resort’s small motu.

Our selection of Polynesian ceremonies ranges from the most intimate version to the most extravagant ones, and can all be tailor-made. Professional photography and video upon request. As a reminder, these outdoor experiences are subject to weather conditions and venues may be modified.

ROMANTIC RENDEZ-VOUS
Breakfast delivered by outrigger canoe to your overwater suite, dinner served on the beach or on your overwater deck, your wish is our command and the resort’s team is here to make your dream a reality.

TE PUROTU, THE ULTIMATE ONE
The Tahitian islands are the epitome of romance. Seize the occasion to seal your love the Polynesian way! The ceremony will take place on the resort’s private ‘motu’ islet, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, offering a magnificent view of Bora Bora in the distance.

Dressed in a pareo with flower leis and heis, you will be transferred by outrigger canoe from your suite to the ‘motu’. (You are welcome to wear your own clothes). Tahitian songs and dances will greet you and the Master of Ceremony will proceed with the whole Polynesian blessing.

In the local traditions, the bride and groom receive a Tahitian name as symbol of their union. The ‘tifafai’ (Tahitian quilt) wrapped around the happily married couple will seal the ceremony. You will enjoy a tropical cocktail and the Chef’s treats as the dance troupe performs a traditionnal show.

TE VANIRA, THE INTIMATE ONE
A Polynesian blessing in all intimacy, celebrated on the beach… Dressed in the traditional pareo, flower hei and lei, you will be escorted to the ceremony site to the sounds of a “ukulele” (you are welcome to wear your own clothes).

Under a floral arch, the Master of Ceremony will proceed with the blessing and present you with a wedding certificate, symbol of your commitment and love. You may also choose to exchange vows and rings once again, in this pristine Tahitian environment..The ceremony can be done late afternoon or at sunset time.

TE UPORU, MOTU WEDDING
The ceremony will take place on the resort’s private ‘motu’ islet. Dressed in a pareo with flower leis and heis, you will be transferred from your overwater suite to the ‘motu’ by outrigger canoe. (You are welcome to wear your own clothes for the ceremony).

A local trio will greet you with Polynesian music and the Master of Ceremony will proceed with the Polynesian blessing. The ‘tifafai’ (Tahitian quilt) wrapped around the happily married couple will seal the ceremony.

You may choose to exchange vows and rings during the ceremony and reaffirm your love to one another under the Tahitian sky. You will enjoy a tropical cocktail to the sounds of a Polynesian ‘ute’ song.

BEACH DINNER
Set in a nice and quiet area of our islet, enjoy a glamorous evening under the stars as a Polynesian duo serenades you through dinner. Champagne and wine will accompany the exquisite dinner prepared by our Chefs.

MILKY WAY DINNER
The Milky Way Dinner is served in the privacy of your overwater suite or beach villa, decorated with tropical flowers. Enjoy a 3-course refined meal, under the stars. Pure bliss and perfect romance…

MOTU TAUTAU DINNER
Set on the resort’s beautiful grouds, enjoy a romantic evening under the Tahitian sky. A local dance troupe will greet you with the ‘Pu’ (typical Polynesian welcome) and songs from the islands.

Champagne will be served as drums, songs and dances transport you to ancient Tahiti. To the sounds of ukulele, enjoy a sumptuous 4-course dinner.

MOTU LUNCH
After a short outrigger ride from the resort’s beach, drift into a world of culture and traditions as your Tahitian hosts initiate you to the art of opening and grating a coconut. You will also learn how to extract the milk to prepare Tahitian renowned ‘poisson cru’.

You will be treated to a delicious lunch of grilled fish, seafood, meat, ending on sweet note with fresh tropical fruits. Your Robinson Crusoe experience Le Taha’a way, surrounded by crystalline waters.

FACILITIES & SERVICES
The entire resort was built around the endemic flora. The Owners’ wish was to keep the resort as natural and as green as possible, using seaweed as fertilizer.

Beautiful and venerable trees, colorful flowers and plants cover the resort’s grounds, making our motu quite an exceptional site even by Polynesian standards. You will not even see club cars driving around the property, because we value your serenity above all else.

TĀVAI SPA
This little haven of peace is a true escape to a world of deep well-being and newfound energy. Let us introduce you to the ancient art of Polynesian massage, an integral part of traditional medicine.

The Spa is nestled in a beautiful exotic garden, surrounded by bamboo trees and overlooking the calm resort’s inland laguna. A wide range of massages as well as body scrubs and wraps are available. Our couple’s whirlpool will be your best ally after a long flight.

Monoi, the traditional, flower-infused coconut oil is used in most of our treatments. Tamanu oil, the best-kept Polynesian secret, is also an essential ingredient. Tāvai Spa will awaken your senses, soothe your mind and reenergize your body.

AFTER SUN TREATMENT WITH TAMANU OIL
Try on your skin the rejuvanating and healing properties of the tamanu oil in a studied treatment to regenerate your skin after sun exposure. This treatment features also a refreshing Aloe Vera gel.

THE TAMANU OIL
Treat yourself with this unique 100% polynesian product and bring with you all the flavor and benefits of Polynesian nature. It is the perfect souvenir, apply it on your skin to feel its millenary and curative properties.

Tamanu, the local term is “Atì”, one of the most sacred tree in French Polynesia. Have a look in the gardens of Le Taha’a Resort to find this majestic tree, depending on the period of the year you will notice the fruit, a green ball, 1 inch in diameter, seen frequently in clusters.

The oil is obtained by mechanical cold extraction and is totally organic as no pesticides are used in Polynesia to treat these strong trees.

HYDROTHERAPY & POLYNESIAN RELAXING
Relax deeply while soaking in a warm water facing the beautiful internal lagoon of the Spa. This water therapy prepares your body and mind to a complete surrender for the following expert Polynesian Relaxing Massage.

LE TAVAI ROYAL TREATMENT
A dream in Polynesian paradise. Begin soaking in a warm whirlpool bath to relax body and mind, and then fall into deep relaxation with head and feet reflexology massage, applied with nurturing and revitalizing Polynesian ingredients.

Allow your body and mind to unwind, through a Relaxing Polynesian massage and a gentle cleansing facial treatment.

POLYNESIAN BEAUTY
Cultivate your beauty and trust the healing power of our therapists touch. The treatment begins with a cleansing feet ritual and follows with a purifying body exfoliation.

Pure indulgence Polynesian Relaxing Massage will accompany you to a deep state of relaxation where finally a full facial treatment with black pearl remineralizing mask will awake and rejuvenate your complexion.

POLYNESIAN RELAXING
Rediscover your inner balance, surrender yourself to the Polynesian art of a rebalancing massage, in the local language Taurumi. Allow your body and mind to unwind, be lulled by long strokes from feet to head, and fluid movements that resemble to sea waves on your body.

VANILLA DREAM
Pamper yourself to the true organic Taha’a vanilla perfume. This balancing treatment for the body will bring you to discover all the glorious fragrances of vanilla. A sweet feet ritual is followed by a relaxing moment in our private jacuzzi.

Enjoy a norturing hair vanilla balm and then let go to the deep relaxing effects of Vanilla Monoï oil over your body for a 50 minutes Polynesian Relaxing Massage. Taha’a is the Vanilla island. Let your senses be captured by the scent of this rich Tahitian treasure.

POLYNESIAN DEEP TISSUE
Since the ancient times of Polynesian ancestors, intense pressure massage has been a traditional art of enhancing wellbeing and healing. This massage combines long and deep strokes to ease muscle tensions and reactivate your body and mind.

FITNESS CENTER
Maintain your daily exercise routine in a state-of-the-art fitness facility featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resort’s inland laguna, full-length mirrors, audio system and advanced cardio-fitness equipment.

POWER WALK & JOGGING
Power walking throughout the resort can be a beautiful start to your day, unless you prefer long walks in the crystal-clear lagoon. You may also catch our shuttle boat to the main island of Taha’a to enjoy alternative walking or jogging options. Shuttles to Taha’a are free of charge until 5:00pm.

TENNIS COURT
Located by the Fitness Center, the flood-lit tennis court will allow daytime or night-time practice. Gear is available from the Front Desk.

WATERSPORTS
Kayaks and outrigger canoes are available for every guest’s enjoyment. Our fleet of water toys also include stand up paddle boards, offering a different way to explore Taha’a’s pristine lagoon. A great way to combine fun and exercise!

ACTIVITIES
Taha’a shares her lagoon with the neighboring island, Raiatea, a unique feature that doubles the fun and opens the door to a large choice of excursions.

Whether you are drawn to culture and history, water sports, or nature discovery, you will find your perfect Taha’a! The Concierge team will assist you in choosing the best tours to make your stay as exciting and eye-opening as possible. Private options are available.

LAND
Taha’a is known as l’Île Vanille –Vanilla Island – where the most sought-after vanilla beans in the world are grown. Explore a vanilla plantation, see how vanilla flowers are hand-pollinated and how beans are sun-dried with loving care. Not only is Taha’a known for its amazing vanilla, but the island is now also home to some of the finest rhum!

You can visit a distillery and try some ‘rhum agricole’. Located walking distance from the small pier of Tapuamu, access is easy and the distillery staff will pick you up or drop you off if you do not want to walk.

As a reminder, shuttle boats from Le Taha’a to our base is complimentary during the day. Tahitian pearls are special, and unique to our corner of the earth. Visit a pearl farm and find out how they are nurtured, sometimes for years, before being turned into fascinating jewelry pieces.

4×4 excursions on Taha’a or Raiatea will let you see the other side of our islands, their majestic valleys and tropical foliage. Step back in time and discover the sacred marae Taputapuatea, designated as a Unesco Heritage site.

Raiatea is the sacred island of all Polynesians, the center of the Polynesian triangle from which the ancient migrations to Hawaii, Easter Island and New Zealand were launched. The marae was the seat of political and religious power over several of our islands.

SNORKELING
Le Taha’a is surrounded by pristine waters and is located steps from a spectacular coral garden. You will get up close and personal with the teeming, colorful sea life.

The most adventurous guests will try drift snorkeling, and let the incoming tide carry them from the small reef at the edge of the islet right to the heart of the coral garden.

SCUBA DIVING
The warm Tahitian waters have some of the world’s best diving spots. They are particularly famous for the plentiful marine fauna. Immerse yourself in the world of silence and magnificent beauty around Taha’a and Raiatea, inside or outside the lagoon.

Whether you are a certified diver or wish to discover scuba diving, do not miss the opportunity to explore the wonders of the underwater world.

WATER
The lagoon is your playground, and there are so many ways to enjoy it ! A jet-ski tour, an ATV expedition, a fishing expedition, a boat tour or kayak ride upstream through the jungle of Raiatea’s Faaroa River are easily arranged. On site at Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts, you will find non-motorized water toys such as standup paddle boards and kayaks, are available to our guests.

GETTING TO FRENCH POLYNESIA
Tahiti is an 8-hour flight from Los Angeles, a 20-hour flight from Paris, a 5-hour flight from Auckland, or a 12-hour flight from Tokyo.

Air Tahiti Nui, which is the national carrier and Air France operate from Paris and Los Angeles, Hawaiian Airlines has one flight per week from Honolulu as does LAN from Chile. French bee, a low cost airline company operates from Paris and San Francisco. United Airlines operates also from San Francisco.

You can also reach Tahiti from Auckland with a 5-hour flight on Air Tahiti Nui or Air New Zealand. For details on visas and entry, please check with the French Consulate closest to you or the Tahiti Tourisme website or office in your area.

The Faa’a International Airport is located on the main island, Tahiti. Domestic flights depart from the same airport. Air Tahiti is the domestic flights carrier and the fastest way to travel between the islands.

After a 45-minute flight from Tahiti with the only one domestic airline Air Tahiti, you will see both islands, Raiatea and Taha’a. The island of Taha’a, Uporu by its ancient name, is located in the Society Islands, in the same lagoon as the island of Raiatea.

To reach Taha’a, one will fly to the island of Raiatea. From there, the resort’s own private shuttle boat operates the transfers between the airport and the resort.

The 35-minute ride is the occasion to enjoy a beautiful coastal navigation, with Taha’a on one side and the silhouette of Bora Bora on the other side. You may also connect between Tahiti and Taha’a or Taha’a and Bora Bora by helicopter.

Rooms: 60

Price: from 691 EUR per night

Source: www.letahaa.com