Olivier Breaud International Golf Course

At Atimanno in the Papara district, the Olivier Breaud International Golf Course is a 6332-metre par 72 ,and Tahiti's only course.

The area was formerly a cotton plantation established during the US Civil War to provide Europe with the fibre then in short supply.

The course was designed by Bob Baldock & Son, a Costa Mesa, California firm that has designed links throughout the USA and Mexico. It features expansive fairways, two artificial lakes and lush greens planted with hybrid Bermuda grass from Hawaii.

It is a 43-minute drive from Papeete and is open daily from 7 am to 6 pm year round.

The course has recently undergone a 100 million CFP renovation which includes a new clubhouse, restaurant, pro shop, pool, tennis courts and driving range. The resident pros are Raymond Tompsett and `Kani' Tihoni Flores.

Green fees are 2000 CFP for adults and 500 CFP per day for children under 18 years old. Clubs can be rented for 2000 CFP per day. (1 US$= about 86 CFP).

To get there call Hui Popo at 57-40-32, a tour company that caters to golf enthusiasts. They will pick you up at your hotel Monday to Saturday.