Tahiti & Moorea with Manava Hotels

TAHITI, queen of the Pacific

Tahiti is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that make up French Polynesia. The island of Tahiti is divided into two parts : the larger portion to the northwest is known as Tahiti Nui, while the smaller, south eastern peninsula is known as Tahiti Iti. The capital city of Papeete, is the economic center of French Polynesia. It hosts the government offices, hospitals, banks, airlines and travel agencies, boutiques and black pearl shops. Papeete is a vibrant and multicultural city with busy boulevards and a bustling harbour. The downtown municipal market, “LeMarché”, is an exciting place to purchase all the souvenirs and gifts that French Polynesia has to offer including vanilla beans, monoi oil and colourful pareos. The waterfront is attractive, with a tree lined promenade along a marina with an international yachting community. This waterfront promenade comes to life at night when gourmet food trucks, “Les Roulottes”, open their windows to serve a range of affordable meals including Chinese food, French crepes, steak frites, fresh fish and pizza. Papeete hums with happy sounds in a tropical atmosphere with French flavor and a Tahitian easygoing disposition !

MOOREA, the magical island

Located only ten nautical miles from Tahiti and less than 30 minutes away by ferry are the deep, spectacular bays and white sandy beaches of Moorea. The island is roughly shaped like a heart from overhead; and in the theme of love and romance, Moorea is one of the top honeymoon destinations in Tahiti, second only to Bora Bora. Take in volcanic peaks, reflected in the peaceful waters of Cook’s Bay and Oponohu Bay, lush mountain slopes covered with rain forest or pineapple plantations, and white sandy beaches bordering blue lagoons. The Belvedere Lookout is probably one of the most spectacular lookouts in the world, located between Cook’s and Oponohu Bay. Popular lagoon excursions include snorkeling, paddle boarding, cruising and fishing. During mating season (August to October) we highly recommend a whale watching tour. Another incredible experience is an encounter at the Moorea Dolphin Center, the only natural refuge where you can swim and play with dolphins. Embark on one of the local 4x4 excursions or play golf at the Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Visit the Moorea’s Tiki Village for a traditional feast and authentic Polynesian dance show.

Updated February 8, 2021.