These 5-star resorts provide barefoot luxury and world-class cuisine
July 14, 2023
Known for its magnificent beaches, vibrant marine life, and fusion cuisine, French Polynesia is a dream destination. Officially an overseas collectivity of France, the South Pacific country consists of 100 islands in the South Pacific. These luxury resorts in French Polynesia immerse you in the culture and natural environment of the archipelago.
Located on the paradise isle of Motu To’opua just off the main island, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui comprises a fleet of overwater bungalows floating above the turquoise lagoon.
The top-tier residences come with a private terrace and infinity pool as well as catamaran nets for sublime sunset moments. Spacious villas feature king-sized beds as the standard, private bathrooms with a soaking tub, and a minibar stocked with refreshments. Alternatively, you can reside on land at one of the tropical villas overlooking Mount Otemanu.
This blissful 5-star resort offers a full spa service, private helicopter tours, and sailing charters. Romantic dinners by candlelight or Champagne stargazing packages are guaranteed to provide a date night you’ll never forget. On-site restaurants let you sample upscale Polynesian, French, Mediterranean, and Chinese gastronomy. An Ahi Ma’a ceremony is held every Friday, where meat, seafood, and vegetables are cooked in a subterranean oven.
Tetiaroa is a remote atoll 30 miles off the north coast of Tahiti, formed by a marine volcano. The Brando is a highly exclusive resort on the island formerly owned by none other than Marlon Brando. His intention was to preserve the raw beauty of the island, and that legacy lives on in the barefoot luxury resort.
The resort consists of 35 detached beach villas and one residence, the Teremoana, each set within its own patch of land for utter privacy. Sustainably designed using natural materials, these eco-luxe villas accommodate couples and families. Each unit has either a private pool or an outdoor bathtub. The resort has its own sandy patch of beach while guided excursions and cultural experiences are at your fingertips.
These include wildlife walks, reef cruises, weaving workshops, and traditional Polynesian dance classes. All experiences are curated with respect to the nature and culture of French Polynesia.
Also known as Vanilla Island, Le Taha'a is another small island off the coast of Tahiti. This isle floats off the western shore and is far closer to the larger island, with the option to take a boat or helicopter to the 5-star resort.
The accommodation at Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa is inclusive of overwater villas and beach suites with private pools. Bungalows provide direct access to the aquamarine water where you can snorkel with manta rays before taking a soak in the tub. The premier accommodations include the Sunset and the End of Pontoon suites.
There are three restaurants at your disposal offering al fresco poisson cru (the national dish of Tahiti) and gourmet French-Polynesian cooking accompanied by a hefty wine menu. Private suppers on the sandbank or served on your terrace are an option, as is the possibility to partake in a Polynesian wedding ceremony. The hotel spa is nestled in a garden oasis and uses native ingredients that’ll stimulate your senses.
Contact me when you are ready to experience the hospitality, culture, and luxury of French Polynesia.