the mysterious islands

Tahiti & Her Islands cover over two million square miles of the South Pacific Ocean and is comprised of 118 islands spread over five great archipelagos. Many islands are crowned with jagged peaks while others appear to barely float above the breaking waves. The three archipelagos most sought by visitors are the Society Islands, comprised of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a; The Tuamotu Atolls or “Tahiti’s Strand of Pearls”, include the atolls of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava; and the Marquesas, or “The Mysterious Islands.”

The Tahitians of the modern era maintain their heritage and traditions of their Maohi ancestors. Oral history recounts the adventures of gods and warriors in colorful legends where javelin throwing was the sport of the gods, surf riding was favored by the kings, and Aito strongmen competed in outrigger canoe races and stone lifting as a show of pure strength. The beauty, drama, and power of today’s Tahitian dance testify to its resilience in Polynesian culture.

World-class snorkeling and diving in Tahiti is one of the South Pacific’s best-kept secrets. Both experienced and beginner divers and snorkelers are amazed by how clear the waters are and how close they can swim to the marine life, such as the gigantic manta rays. Tahiti is now a world-class spa destination with many of the resorts offering new luxurious spas. Surrounded by a backdrop of natural beauty and floral fragrances, there is no better setting for relaxation.

The island of Tahiti, towering over the ocean like a proud and royal Queen, is crowned by a circle of majestic peaks. The mountainous interior shelters deep valleys, clear streams, and high waterfalls, all bathed in the green iridescence of Mother Nature’s light. The fl at coastal lands, edged with a rugged coastline, are home to fields of tropical flowers and most of the island’s population. Papeete, boasts world-class resorts, fine restaurants, and endless shopping at the vibrant markets, pearl shops, and boutiques.

Moorea, soaring magically out of the ocean in an explosion of green velvet, is what you would imagine a South Seas island to be. A wide, shallow lagoon surrounds the island’s vertical mountains where poetic threads of waterfalls tumble down fern-softened cliffs. Peaceful meadows fl anked by pinnacles of green will fill your senses and renew your belief in the majesty of nature.

Bora Bora, with a lagoon resembling an artist’s palette of blues and greens, is love at first sight. Lush tropical slopes and valleys blossom with hibiscus, while palm-covered motu circle the lagoon like a delicate necklace. Perfect white-sand beaches give way to emerald waters where impossibly colored fish animate the coral gardens.

Huahine, with its lush forests, untamed landscape, and quaint villages, is one of Polynesia’s best-kept secrets. Raiatea, meaning “faraway heaven” and “sky with soft light”, is the most sacred island in the South Pacific. Taha’a, with the rich aroma of vanilla lingering heavily in the air, offers a glimpse of the traditional, life of the Tahitians.

Each Unique. Each a Paradise. Each a Dream.