Islands of Tahiti: Feel the Mana

Daydreaming of a beach vacation and longing to change your computer background to a beautiful beach setting and imagine yourself there? You've likely chosen an image of French Polynesia and its beautiful islands. It’s a picturesque destination with white sand beaches, turquoise water, a slight ocean breeze and exhibits pure relaxation. If the beaches aren’t enough to encourage you to book, the people and its strongly rooted culture likely will. It’s a true dream of a destination with varying experiences across each of its islands and incredible accommodations that encapsulate its beauty and charm. As soon as you return home, you’ll likely be planning another trip back.
Image of Faarumai Waterfall on a Tahitian island.
Image of Faarumai Waterfall on a Tahitian island.

Faarumai waterfalls on Tahiti Island.

While the entirety of French Polynesia consists of more than 100 islands, travelers gravitate to three of its most popular: Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. Tahiti is the largest of them all featuring black-sand beaches, lagoons, waterfalls and two extinct volcanoes. This is typically the first stop on a trip to the islands to accommodate a late arrival or early morning departure. For a first taste of the destination you can retreat at the Hilton Hotel Tahiti located near local markets with stunning views from every room. Fresh off of a pool renovation, Intercontinental Tahiti offers lagoon views and a natural outdoor snorkeling aquarium, also known as a Lagoonarium. If you’re looking to stay away from the hustle and bustle of town, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts provides 10 acres of tropical gardens and a black sand beach.
Image of Mount Rotui covered in trees,
Image of Mount Rotui covered in trees,

Mount Rotui on Moorea Island.

After a brief dip in the ocean water of Tahiti you can travel by ferry or plane to the island of Moorea. Second to Tahiti, Moorea is one of the larger islands consisting of jagged volcanic mountains and sandy beaches. For a taste of Bora Bora on a budget, Moorea provides lavish accommodations including private beach, gardens and overwater bungalows. Situated on 21 landscaped acres, Manava Beach Resort & Spa provides a beautiful spa, coral nursery, evening Polynesian entertainment and a PADI dive center. Along a palm-fringed white sand beach, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort allows you to experience the natural charm of the islands with excursions a plenty. Located between picturesque Cook’s and Opunohu Bay, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa provides spacious and private bungalows with a white sand beach, blue lagoon and tropical gardens.
Image of a guest looking across the ocean to mountains and overwater bungalows.
Image of a guest looking across the ocean to mountains and overwater bungalows.

Mount Otemanu volcanic peak from Bora Bora.

As my Grandma says, just a hop, skip and a jump (plane ride) away is the gem of the oasis, Bora Bora. Surrounded by sand-fringed motus and a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, this destination provides just what you need to relax and unwind. The island is budding with 4 and 5 star accommodations that provide amazing service and a relaxing atmosphere. Brand new, The Westin Bora Bora Resort and Spa provides unique experiences including the Eco-Center Bora Bora, dedicated to the protection and conservation of sea turtle and other marine life.

If you’re looking for stunning views of Mount Otemanu from your Overwater Bungalow, stay at the Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora or the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa. For a more private island getaway, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui sits on the end of Motu Tapu located on a long stretch of white sand beach with unrestricted sunset views. For a more intimate and smaller resort, Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana provides a romantic setting with a beautiful beach and tranquil lagoon.
Image of a hammock hanging from a palm tree on a beach facing the ocean.
Image of a hammock hanging from a palm tree on a beach facing the ocean.

Relax on the beach of whichever island you end up on.

In addition to accommodations, there are activities and excursions available across all of the islands. If Tahiti is on your list, Costco Travel is a great place to book it. In addition to the high-quality accommodations, every package in Tahiti comes with Costco value. While a plethora of our packages are listed online to view, if you’re still not quite finding what you’re looking for you can call in and one of our experienced agents will help you plan the trip of a lifetime with custom itineraries.

Here’s another tip: To maximize the value of your trip, look for packages with meals included such as breakfast and/or dinner. Costco Travel packages include all transfers so you’re covered with transportation for your entire trip.

Whenever you’re ready to take the next step, you can start your journey here.
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Image of a couple at a vineyard.
Image of a couple at a vineyard.
About the Author: The above piece was written by Julie Schnepf, a Costco Travel Buyer.