The Islands of Tahaa and Raiatea

Sharing a common lagoon with Raiatea and accessible only by boat, Tahaa produces about 80% of all vanilla in French Polynesia. Tahaa is the only island in the Society Islands that can be completely circled by boat inside the protected lagoon.

With its many deep bays and small deserted motus on the reef, Tahaa is an ideal island to escape the 20th century. Here you can explore the reef and discover the beauty of its multicolored lagoon, enjoy a picnic on a deserted motu or go hiking in the mountains and through the vanilla plantations and learn the mystery of these "orchids". With only a handful of guest houses and two hotels, Tahaa is slowly awakening to tourism and yet it still maintains an authentic flavor of Polynesia.

The newest hotel, the 5 stars Le Tahaa Privat Resort and Spa is located on a motu in the turquoise lagoon of Tahaa, 1/2 hour from the airport of Raiatea. This deluxe resort features some of the largest and best appointed bungalows in French Polynesia in an idyllic setting overlooking Tahaa, with some of the overwater bungalows offering also a view of Bora Bora in the distance.

The intimate (9 bungalows) Vahine Island Resort is also on a small islet in the lagoon and was voted best "tropical hideaway" by Conde nast Traveler in 1998.