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The Vanilla Island
Taha'a is a true botanical beauty. Her fertile valleys and sloping hillsides are covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves. Suitably shaped like a flower, the island is also an immense natural greenhouse for the highly prized Tahitian vanilla orchid. Thanks to this abundance, the intoxicating scent of vanilla pervades the air in Taha'a, meaning this island is just as sweet as it sounds.
The Allure
Taha'a grows nearly 80% of all vanilla produced in French Polynesia. This sumptuous spice is therefore used in everything from the local cuisine to relaxing aromatherapy. We recommend visiting one of the many plantations and purchasing vanilla beans or extract to take a taste of Taha'a home with you.
The Locale
Beyond the fragrant fruits, Taha'a will draw you in with her ivory beaches, intricate coral gardens and secluded tranquility. Adding to this appeal is the fact that Taha'a is only accessible by boat from sister island Raiatea. These two islands are surrounded by a single continuous coral reef and share the same translucent lagoon. Once you arrive at the small airport on the coast of Raiatea, a 45-minute flight from Tahiti, Taha'a is just a few short minutes away by boat.
Final Impression
Sweet and seductive, the island of Taha'a will engage and heighten each of your senses. One of our favorite picks for a romantic honeymoon escape, this is a wonderful island to pair with Bora Bora—or even visit instead of Bora Bora. Stay on the northwest coast and you can admire Bora Bora from afar, watching the sun set behind her iconic silhouette on the nearby horizon as you breathe in the irresistible scent of vanilla.
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The mainland of Taha'a is surrounded by tiny islets, or motu, which lay scattered across the lagoon. Each is an idyllic locale with flawless beaches covered in white sand and swaying palms. Many are isolated and provide the ultimate setting for a picnic lunch during your stay. The others feature some of Tahiti's most secluded hotels. Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa is an elegant resort that is part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux Group. Another option is the charming Vahine Private Island Resort, which features a limited selection of intimate overwater bungalows and beachfront suites.
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Experience the luxury of private yacht cruising in Tahiti with custom cruise itineraries through Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a and Huahine aboard your own private catamaran. Enjoy secluded white sand beaches, stop at a remote motu and swim in translucent lagoons – the beauty of Tahiti Yacht Charter is you can do as much or as little as you want. The crew will tailor your sailing experience to your desires, taking into account the type of catamaran, the season and the duration of your cruise. The fleet of 30 modern and luxurious catamarans can accommodate anywhere from two to twelve people. Each is equipped with two kayaks, two floating hammocks, dinghy, snorkeling and fishing gear.
Our Rating
Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa is an elegant resort and a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux Collection. Located thirty minutes by boat from the island of Raiatea, this luxury hotel is situated on a small, private islet with spectacular views of Taha'a and Bora Bora and easy access to an extraordinary coral garden. Each overwater bungalow features a large deck with privacy enclosure, while the beach villas feature their own secluded courtyard with plunge pools hidden behind rock walls.
Our Rating
Vahine Island is located on a small private islet along the northeastern coral reef surrounding Taha'a. Only thirty minutes away by boat from Raiatea, this prime placement delivers scenic views of Taha'a, Raiatea, Huahine and Bora Bora. Tucked inside a pristine coconut grove, this intimate boutique hotel provides the ultimate privacy and blends seamlessly with the island's natural environment.
Our Rating
Experience a refined small-ship cruise through Bora Bora's sparkling lagoon and the natural wildness of Taha'a. The Haumana offers 3-night cruise itineraries between the islands of Raiatea, Taha'a and Bora Bora. Each cabin is newly refurbished and features large windows and Polynesian accents. The onboard chef creates menus based on fresh and local produce with a well-complemented wine selection.
Activities onboard include kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, land excursions to a pearl farm and leisurely visits to private motus. All crew members onboard are Polynesian and very proud of their traditions and culture. Learn ancestral techniques such as pareo painting and enjoy traditional song and dance performances each evening.
Our Rating
La Pirogue Api is located on a small private motu off the eastern coast of Taha'a. Just twenty minutes away by boat from Raiatea's airport, this boutique hotel commands beautiful views of Taha'a and Bora Bora in the distance. Nestled amidst a lush coconut grove, this intimate retreat provides blissful seclusion and an authentic French Polynesian atmosphere.
Our Rating
Since the scenery here is especially remarkable, Taha'a is ideal for hiking. You can explore these ascending slopes and deep valleys while discovering the diverse flora and fauna along the way. We also recommend a Jeep Safari tour of the island. Most guided excursions include a visit to the vanilla plantation and a local pearl farm, which really encompasses the primary attractions on the mainland.
Snorkeling is also a popular pastime in Taha'a. There is a shallow coral garden between Motu Maharare and Motu Tautau where you can drift snorkel amidst scores of intensely hued tropical fish. The current carries you effortlessly through the reef, allowing you to simply float across the surface and gaze at this underwater maze. You can also enjoy Jet Skiing, fishing, sailing and diving. Across the lagoon, the island of Raiatea is the nautical center of Tahiti, meaning you can easily reserve a catamaran for the day. Raiatea is also home to the UNESCO designated historic site, Taputapuatea, one of Polynesia's oldest and largest ancient temples called a 'marae'. The waters between these two islands are home to a number of caverns and shipwrecks, creating a nirvana for avid scuba divers.
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Learn how to sway your hips to the sounds of the Tahitian drums and the ukulele. Your instructor will first show you the different ways to wear a Polynesian pareo, then teach you the basics of this traditional art. You`ll learn the movements that make up the Oritahiti (rapid, rhythmic dance) and of the Aparima (slow, sensual dance). Price is per person based on two people traveling together. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$38
PP
Explore Raiatea's lush jungle interior with a guided kayak excursion down the Faaroa River, French Polynesia's only navigable river. It is recommended that you bring a hat, bug spray, and sunscreen. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa and La Pirogue Api.
FROM
$65
PP
Explore the beautiful interior of Taha`a by 4x4 and discover its luxurious tropical vegetation with a friendly guide. You`ll taste the local fruit and admire breathtaking views of the magnificent turquoise bay of Haamene. This excursion also includes a visit to the pearl farm and a traditional vanilla plantation. Available for guests staying at Le Taha`a Island Resort and Spa.
FROM
$84
PP
Your local guide will lead you on a discovery of his culture, passed down from generation to generation. Learn of the abundant richness of the environment as he shares his passion for the island's flora and fauna. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$95
PP
Discover a wide range of dive sites near the islands of Taha`a and Raiatea. You`ll have the opportunity to admire a variety of marine species that thrive in this extraordinary aquatic environment. A wide variety of options are available for divers, inquire at time of booking. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$96
PP
Explore the lagoon of Taha'a by Jet Ski. You`ll be accompanied by a local guide and stop for a portion of time to snorkel. Price is per person for 2 people sharing a jet ski. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$109
PP
Watch stingrays and sharks being fed in their natural environment from the hands of your local guide. You`ll have the unique opportunity to swim with these surprisingly gentle creatures. This half-day excursion requires a minimum of four people to operate. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$116
PP
Journey through Taha`a and discover the island`s expansive coral garden. You`ll first visit the island`s vanilla plantations, pearl farms, and turtle protection sites. Then, you`ll end your adventure at a beautiful coral garden where you`ll have the chance to swim with colorful fish. This full-day excursion includes a complimentary lunch on an idyllic motu. This excursion is available in a 6 or 8 hour tour. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$122
PP
Discover the Faaroa River, Tahiti's only navigable river, by kayak with your expert guide leading the way through Raiatea's verdant interior. Then by car you will visit the ancient marae temple at Taputapuatea, which was recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will learn about it's Polynesian origins, enjoy a local picnic lunch, and finally enjoy time for shopping in downtown Uturoa. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa and La Pirogue Api.
FROM
$130
PP
Begin your 2.5-mile hike on the east coast of Raiatea, below Mt. Temehani. You will snake your way between the giant roots of the Tahitian chestnut tree and along a river that leads you to a succession of waterfalls. Giant ferns mark the path before reaching a 60-ft waterfall. From there, travel up a steep path with the help of a rope to a stunning 100-ft waterfall that empties into a natural swimming pool. Intermediate skill level. Price is per person. Available for children 8 and older. Only available for guests of La Pirogue Api.
FROM
$151
PP
Enjoy the beauty of Raiatea and Taha'a's lagoon while at the helm of your very own Hobie Cat catamaran. With the assistance of your experienced guide, you will learn the art of using the wind to direct your boat and will visit some of the most beautiful parts of the lagoon, including getting close to the reef. A full-day tour with a picnic lunch is also available, inquire for pricing information. Ages 6 and up, must be in strong physical condition. Price is per person.
Only available to guests of La Pirogue Api.
FROM
$158
PP
Discover the beautiful island of Taha`a by both land and sea. You`ll begin your adventure by jeep and explore the island`s inner rainforest where your local guide will take you on the ultimate botanical tour. You`ll even have the chance to enjoy a complimentary fruit tasting. On the second half of the excursion, you`ll explore the magnificent lagoon by Jet Ski. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Resort and Spa.
FROM
$171
PP
Embark on a scenic 11-mile hike to Mount Temehani in the center of Raiatea. Begin in the shade of the Caribbean pine trees and scale rocky inclines. You will stop at the first crest for wonderful panoramic views of the lagoon and the islands of Taha'a, Huahine, Bora Bora and Maupiti in the distance. Continue on a narrow path amongst the local flora and fauna, crossing a few shallow rivers before arriving at the top of Mt. Temehani with breathaking views of the Raiatea coastline, lagoon and bordering islets and the island of Huahine in the distance. Sandwiches will be provided for lunch. Advanced skill level, ages 12 and up. Price is per person.
FROM
$209
PP
Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise with Polynesian melodies played by a local guide and his ukelele. Appreciate the moment when the sun disappears behind the ocean line bordering the majestic Bora Bora Island. Price listed is per person based on 2 persons cruising together.
FROM
$217
PP
Capture magical memories of your time in Taha'a with a personal photo shoot by a professional photographer. Choose either morning for hues of blue and amazing contrasts, or afternoon for warm sunlight and deep green landscapes. Photo shoot includes 50 photos on a USB key, delivered within 24-48 hours. Price is per person, based on one couple traveling together.
FROM
$220
PP
Live like a Polynesian for the day. Spend the morning discovering the lagoon on a fishing journey. Cruise the lagoon while trolling, then enjoy a local lunch on your guide's motu. If you're lucky, your meal could feature your catch from earlier in the day! After lunch, enjoy an afternoon snorkeling, swimming or relaxing on the beach. Price is per person based on one couple traveling together.
FROM
$373
PP
Enjoy a one-hour cruise to the lagoon of Bora Bora (depending on weather and sea conditions) aboard the fully air-conditioned 45-ft O' Hanalei II. You will have the opportunity to swim with the rays and sharks and snorkel in the Lagoonarium. For lunch you will have an unforgettable picnic set on an idyllic island motu. Return to Taha'a in time for a sunset cruise in the lagoon, with Bora Bora standing majestically in the background. Price is per boat, with a maximum of 10 passengers. Available only to guests of Le Taha'a Island Resort and Spa.
FROM
$5,350
PP
Polynesian Church on the Shores of Taha'a
Aerial View of Vahine Island Resort on Taha'a
Taha'a Lagoon Views
Coconut Tree Groves on Vahine Island
The Shores of Le Taha'a Island Resort
Le Taha'a Island Resort Overwater Bungalows at Sunset
Drift Snorkeling at Le Taha'a Island Resort
Traditional Pearl Farms on Taha'a
Black Pearl Cultivation on Taha'a
Black Pearl Cultivation on Taha'a
Black Pearls From Taha'a
Polynesian Fire Dancers at Le Taha'a Island Resort
Le Taha'a Island Resort Overwater Bungalows with Bora Bora's Mt Otemanu in the Distance
Aerial View of Le Taha'a Island Resort
Snorkeling in the Crystal Clear Waters of Taha'a
Aerial View of Vahine Island Resort on Taha'a
Fresh Vanilla Beans from Taha'a's Vanilla Plantations
Taha'a Sunsets with Bora Bora in the Distance