Planning a Honeymoon in French Polynesia

Getting to French Polynesia

The primary entry point to French Polynesia is Tahiti’s Papeete airport, which is an 8-hour flight from LAX. Spending 1-3 days in Papeete is a great way to acclimate before exploring neighboring islands like Moorea and Bora Bora. Papeete is the hub to take ferries to islands like Moorea or a flight to Bora Bora via the small regional airports to experience the quintessential beauty of French Polynesia.

French Polynesian Culture

French Polynesia is a French territory overseas so French is the official language, and the legal and political systems are based on those of France. The French influence is woven throughout the French Polynesian cultur from the language spoken by most locals to the cuisine and architecture. Visiting French Polynesia feels like a tropical extension of Europe, blending the best of French culture with the natural beauty of the islands.

Dinner view at Le Lotus

Arrival in Tahiti

Tahiti welcomes visitors with a warm, tropical embrace. The airport greets you with traditional ukulele performers, setting the tone for a serene and exotic getaway.

Getting Around Tahiti

We rented a car to explore the island, particularly since many attractions and restaurants are centered in Papeete. Taxis can be costly (around $50 round trip to downtown), so renting a car for about $50 per day through Hertz was a no-brainer. Pre-booking ensures the best rates and a smooth pickup process.

Accommodation in Tahiti

We stayed at the Intercontinental Tahiti, a premium property offering great value and fantastic reviews. Despite being Hilton Gold members, we opted for the Intercontinental due to its superior amenities and location. Other recommended hotels include XYZ.

Why We Chose Intercontinental Tahiti

The Intercontinental Tahiti is centrally located, providing easy access to downtown while offering stunning views of Moorea. Guests enjoy perks like free breakfast, a variety of pools, a lagoonarium, and a well-equipped gym. The breakfast buffet includes local food, an omelet bar, charcuterie, cheese, and fresh fruit, all served with a poolside view.

Pool and Lagoonarium

The hotel features two pools: a family-oriented one and a smaller pool with a swim-up bar, offering great cocktails and views of Moorea. The lagoonarium, adjacent to the family pool, is perfect for beginner divers and kids, featuring a man-made reef with colorful fish and coral.

Infinity pool at Intercontinental Tahiti

Other Amenities

The gym offers everything you need for a good workout, including cardio machines, mats, free weights, and strength training machines, all with a beautiful water view. Although there’s no beach area, the property is set against an ocean backdrop. The happy hour offers ½ off specials, providing a perfect pre-dinner treat.

Cost

The Intercontinental Tahiti offers oceanfront views at approximately $400 per night. We splurged on a premium room with ocean and Moorea views, which was well worth it. Booking through Amex rewards can earn you 5X points, translating to about $200 in future travel value. Alternatively, book directly through Intercontinental to use or create your IHG loyalty number for future free stays.

Dining in Tahiti

Lotus Restaurant

Our favorite dining spot was Lotus Restaurant, an onsite venue akin to dining in a water bungalow. Open for lunch and dinner, it offers breathtaking water views—be sure to reserve early and request a table with a view. Dinner for two with drinks cost approximately XXX.

Hei Restaurant

Although highly rated, we found Hei Restaurant somewhat underwhelming. While the food was excellent, it didn’t offer the best value. Indoor dining with similar quality can be found elsewhere at better prices unless you specifically seek a tasting course menu.

Le Grillardin

Located downtown, Le Grillardin is a beautiful French restaurant that served one of our favorite meals in Tahiti. The Mahi Mahi fillet with puff pastry, mushrooms, and cream sauce was delightful, as was the rack of lamb. The ambiance is quaint and intimate, with great service. Reservations can be made via Facebook Messenger.

Dinner at Le Grillardin

Mama’s Beach House

For a relaxing evening, we opted for room service at Mama’s Beach House instead of dining out. There’s nothing better than enjoying a meal on your balcony after a long day in the sun.

Tuna skewers with french fries at Mama’s Beach House

What to Do in Tahiti

While Tahiti often serves as a landing spot for exploring neighboring islands, it offers plenty of activities to fill a few days.

Maraa Grotto

A 27-minute drive south of the hotel, the Maraa Grotto is a black water cave surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a smaller park but worth the visit, especially if you’re heading to the Water Gardens of Vaipahi.

Water Gardens of Vaipahi

About 50 minutes from the hotel, this spot features a waterfall, mini ponds, and 80 types of vegetation nourished by Lake Vaihiria. Ducks and geese float around, adding to the serene environment.

Faarumai Waterfalls

Located 43 minutes northeast of the hotel, Faarumai Waterfalls is one of the tallest in the world. It can be hiked in 5-6 hours, and we recommend going with a guide for the best routes and assistance with hike passes.

Papeete Market

A must-visit attraction in the city center, Papeete Market offers a lively hub for purchasing tourist goods, sweet treats, and local foods. It’s a great place to pick up shell jewelry, Tahitian salts, vanilla, sarongs, and flower crowns.

Beaches

Tahiti’s beaches might surprise you. Pointe Venus, named by Captain James Cook, offers a more secluded black sand beach frequented by locals. It’s a historic site with informative plaques detailing Tahitian history and Cook’s voyage, along with a secret tree swing and jungle gyms.

Conclusion

Planning a dream honeymoon trip to French Polynesia is all about choosing the right accommodations, dining spots, and activities that suit your preferences. Whether you’re relaxing at the Intercontinental Tahiti, exploring local markets, or taking in the natural beauty of the islands, French Polynesia promises an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your romantic getaway and make lasting memories in this tropical paradise!