PARADISE FOUND
The allure of French Polynesia is legendary: lush green mountains, clear azure waters, white sand beaches, warm tropical breezes. It is just far enough away to leave the crowds behind but close enough to fly direct and remain in Hawaii’s time zone. Go for the overwater bungalows but return for the cerulean waters, the profusion of stars, and the feeling that you are far, far away from it all.
WHERE TO GO
The island of Tahiti is the economic and political center of French Polynesia and home to the only international airport in the region. If your flight arrives in the early evening, overnight at one of the many hotels nearby. The Hilton has a soaring, open air lobby looking out over a giant pool to the sea and islands beyond. Our ocean view room was simple with a clean, crisp design and pretty tile bathroom. Luxury travelers will need only one night before catching a flight or ferry to the less populous islands.
*Sustainability Shoutout: an extensive solar array offsets the use of fossil fuels.
Mo’orea is a quick ferry ride from Tahiti and has been described as the most beautiful place on Earth. Of course, the beaches are spectacular but it is the stunning peaks that set it apart from many other islands. We spent an afternoon with a local guide hiking past pineapple fields and ancient temples, through thick jungle, and up to a high point looking out at the steep ridges, tall spires, and waters in every shade of blue. Trail lovers rejoice!
The Hilton Mo’orea Resort is one of the few upscale properties on the island and the only one with a beach bathed in sunlight all day long. We opted for a Garden Pool Bungalow which was spacious and handsomely designed. The large private deck and plunge pool were not much of an asset, however; the high walls ensured privacy but also shielded our view of the surrounding gardens. Choose an overwater bungalow when staying at this property.
Our next stop was Le Taha’a, a private islet resort off Taha'a and Raiatea. It is an intimate five star resort that is a member of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux network embracing sophistication and authenticity in harmony with the environment and local people. We LOVED it!
Our overwater bungalow was beautifully finished in warm woods and came with sunset views of Bora Bora. There was an “aquarium box” at the foot of the bed opening to the turquoise waters and sea life below. An expansive private deck was perfect for yoga and lounging; it also included a swim platform where we dipped in and out of the lagoon and launched our floaties.
We spent an afternoon exploring Taha'a with a local guide and learning about life on the island, pearl farming, vanilla production, and rum distilling. The highlight of our stay at Le Taha’a was snorkeling through the extensive coral gardens, “flying” with the tide over the marine world below. There was a spa, complimentary water toys, three restaurants serving regional cuisine, and Polynesian entertainment a few nights per week. We would return in a heartbeat!
Bora Bora is one of the most popular islands, offering a plethora of luxury resorts and excellent restaurants. Our final stop was at The Four Seasons Bora Bora and she did not disappoint. Our overwater bungalow was enormous with a full living room, king bedroom, and generous bathroom including a deep soaking tub with large sliding windows letting the outdoors in. The furnished deck had a swimming platform and outdoor shower and was mostly private except when swimming (sorry skinny dippers!). Some bungalows include a deck plunge pool and a few connect for small families. Larger families or groups will LOVE the multi-room beach villas with dining areas, living rooms, expansive gardens, private beaches, and maybe even a swimming pool and outdoor kitchen.
The four restaurants on property were excellent and diverse. We were so happy here that we never left to explore the main island! As expected, Four Seasons service was top notch; the staff always offering a warm smile and can-do attitude. One highlight was a cart ride to breakfast during which our smiling drivers serenaded us with local song and ukulele music. Happy staff, happy stay!
*Sustainability Shoutout: bulk bathroom products rather than plastic mini-bottles, compostable to-go boxes and utensils, solar panels discreetly placed throughout the property, a marine biologist on staff to manage the coral growing project and educate guests. Brava Four Seasons!
Service by tricycle
How to get there
French Polynesia is an easy flight from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oahu with Seattle service scheduled to commence this fall. Flights typically arrive in the early morning or early evening. United’s Premium Plus class is perfect for the daytime flight offering much more comfortable seating and better cabin service. If you opt for the overnight flight, build Business class into your budget so you arrive to or from paradise as your best self!