Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Top Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile In 2025

Is Raiatea worth visiting? 100% YES! Raiatea, aka the sacred island and French Polynesia’s second-largest island with the second biggest city, has plenty to see while getting in those non-touristy island vibes – and there are things you can only see in Raiatea that can’t be replicated on the other islands.

I spent about 5 days on Raiatea, and it was one of my favorite parts of my trip. I stayed in a Pension, rented a car and explored solo plus did an an amazing boat tour to Taha’a – one of the must-do things here! This article will go into detail on all the reasons Raiatea is worth visiting and things to do to make it worthwhile – from my own (well-researched) experience!

Raiatea is in the Society Islands in French Polynesia, near Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine and Tahiti. It’s a lesser-known hidden gem with an extremely rare flower and the only UNESCO site – two of the top reasons to make a trip to this beautiful area.

Read on to be inspired to visit this island’s rare blend of history, culture, adventure and natural splendor!

Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? My experience + honest thoughts

While none of French Polynesia is like a trip to Europe, and Raiatea is not the island to visit if you’re looking for picture-perfect beaches (although Taha’a has them – more on that later), I didn’t have time to miss the beach!

Plus, the boat tour I went on took us snorkeling and to lunch on a Motu with a beach plus nurse sharks swimming around us in shallow water. That, plus the additional things we saw on that boat tour and the UNESCO site, top my list of things I did in French Polynesia on my entire trip!

In all honesty, French Polynesia in general is amazing, but I recommend being mentally prepared for island travel. These are small islands without major infrastructure, and the people are really friendly – while I missed places with bigger cities and less humidity, I felt at home and safe, especially as a solo traveler, and snorkeling and water activities were pure bliss.

The Marae (archaeological site) in Raiatea is definitely worth seeing – there’s a reason it’s a UNESCO site! While the temple areas all look similar, it’s fascinating to see them right on the water line. You’ll get amazing views and the history is really interesting and unique.

I also loved the museum in Tahiti that goes into the culture and ancient history of these islands – it’s SO intriguing and I highly recommend going and learning about it if you’re a history or archaeology buff like me!

One more thing is that you don’t need too many days on Raiatea – I would plan a handful of things to see thinking it would take most of the day, and be surprised to be back at my Pension plenty early (although going to bed early is best because the chickens will wake you up early)!

However, you can easily spend more time on the island and find water activities and hiking!

I got groceries and cooked, walked around the small city (even though it’s the second-biggest in FP) and took full advantage of the chill island pace.

Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Pros + Cons

As you can see from my experience, Raiatea has pros and cons – as every place does! Here are the main ones I recommend considering when planning your trip:

Pros

✔️ Raiatea has completely unique things to do in FP, including the only wreck dive, the only UNESCO site (part of the heart of French Polynesia) and the rare flower trek

✔️ Not crowded and way less touristy/less expensive than Bora Bora, and close to overwater bungalows on a Motu off of neighboring Taha’a

✔️ The second-biggest island and city in FP, with plenty of opportunities for adventure

✔️ Green/eco-friendly (one of my favorite things about French Polynesia!)

✔️ Gorgeous with easy to reach sites

✔️ Picturesque with amazing outdoor and water-based activities, including the incredibly rare flower trek and Taha’a boat tours/ferry trips

✔️ The food in all of FP is amazing, a mix of French and Polynesian cuisine, and you can save money at the food trucks and with buying groceries

✔️ The people are amazing and hospitality is top-tier

✔️ The “tourist traps” are must-dos, in my opinion

Cons

✔️ No good beaches on Raiatea (but there are on Taha’a)

✔️ Not much nightlife (but you’ll be more likely to go to bed early anyway because of the chickens)

✔️ The town, restaurants and food trucks keep varying hours (I cooked more than eating out so I didn’t have to worry about places being open – but I did end up in town looking for food when I had to learn this lesson). If you stay at a resort (which I’ve listed further down in this post), you’ll have on-site restaurants and this won’t be as much of an issue.

✔️ French Polynesia is a more expensive destination than some. I switched my original hostel bookings to Pensions and other places, and then there are luxury hotels as well. You’ll also need to rent a car (or ride a bike, but it’s very humid), and the tours add to the cost but are definitely worth it. It’s a matter of choosing what you really want to do and budgeting.

✔️ Public transportation is limited and if you rent a car, it’s important to rent in advance because they don’t have many automatic cars (common to FP islands)

👉 It’s worth noting that the cons mentioned above are relatively minor and should not overshadow the overall positive experience of visiting Raiatea, in my opinion. Keep reading for more details on all the things that make this city worth visiting!

Raiatea Map of Things To Do

1. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you go on one or more tours

I recommend these tours because I did them and thoroughly enjoyed them! I can vouch for them 100%. Of course, there are many more tour options on Viator you can browse through, or that can serve as alternatives if these are filled up!

Here are the tours I loved and my experience:

👉 ARE TOURS an authentic Polynesian experience

I did this tour, based on a lot of research to choose the best one, and it did not disappoint!

We went to Taha’a island, and here are the things we did:

• A Vanilla Plantation tour
• A Rhum Factory tour
• A Pearl Farm tour
• Snorkeling in the Coral Gardens
• Lunch on a Motu, surrounded by nurse sharks swimming at our feet, amazing food and presentations, and extra time to snorkel and hang out on the motu

The guides were so friendly and fun, and even though I was by myself in a group of mostly French-speaking tourists, I had the best day! Here are some pictures – this was hands-down one of my favorite days of my whole French Polynesia trip:

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Lynne_B:
“OMG! We have travelled the south pacific extensivly and this was truly the best adventure we have taken. From our skilled and hilarious boat captain/ guide to the very educational vanilla and Black Pearl farms, to the pristine snorkeling, and the traditional (and delicious) lunch and show on the private island ( where we dined in the water with sharks, ARE did not miss a single detail to ensure we had an action packed day to remember! If you only do one trip in French Polynésia this is the one to do! Everything was perfect!”

📸 Learn More About this ARE Tours Authentic Polynesian Experience Here!

👉 Private and guided visit to Mystery House Raiatea

I visited Mystery House Raiatea by just seeing it on the map and going there. There were some other people there already and I joined their tour, so it was mostly in French – but the friendly owner, Gerard, was sure to take time out to make sure I understood and gave me the info to read in English!

The house is full of interactive optical illusions, and it’s especially great for kids but also enjoyable for adults. It’s right on the main road, so there’s no reason not to stop and get a really cool experience!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Discover17515140127:
“It’s a change from what you can find in the offers in Polynesia. We were with family and the children loved it too! Gérard, who gives us the tour, is very funny and puts his whole heart into it 🙂 I won’t say more to leave you with all the surprises, go ahead!!!”

📸 Learn More About Touring Mystery House Raiatea Here

2. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love amazing water experiences

Here are some of the amazing water experiences to put on your list to make Raiatea worth visiting:

• Snorkeling in the Coral Garden
• Diving at the only shipwreck site in French Polynesia
• Boat tours to Taha’a that include eating lunch on a Motu with nurse sharks and your feet in the water
• SUP
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Sailing
• Fishing

3. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, for the UNESCO site, Marae Taputapuātea

Marae Taputapuātea is a recent addition to UNESCO sites, and the only one in French Polynesia – and I highly recommend a visit to this amazing site!

Raiatea is known as the “cradle of the Maori culture” and where much of the Polynesian spiritual practices took place. The Maraes are the archaeological sites in French Polynesia, and they’re mostly temples. Not all of them, but most are right on the water’s edge, which had to do with the spiritual practices – the people were dependent on the sea for life.

The complex was built in 1,000 AD/CE, and is 5,000 square acres in size. It includes multiple temple areas and a tribute to the god of war, Oro. The site is still in use today as a point for sea events like canoeing – it’s both a starting point and where the canoes get blessed. There’s also a hiking trail in the area.

4. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to have a movie-worthy adventure finding one of the world’s most rare flowers, the Tiare Apetahi

The Tiare Apetahi is one of the world’s most rare flowers – and it’s a long trek that I did not choose to do, because it’s 7 hours. But for the adventure-seekers who love hiking, this is definitely worth making a trip to Raiatea – be aware that you must hire a guide for this trek!

⚠️ Important: Please do not take any part of the plant off of the plant itself. This plant is endangered due to tourists snapping off the branches and petals, so just look and take photos!

The Tiare Apetahi looks like a hand, with five petals on half a corolla.

One of the coolest things about French Polynesia for me was learning about how these islands form, and how each has its own ecosystem, including its own endogenous flora and fauna.

Some of the islands share some of these, but this flower not only exists only on Raiatea, but also only in this location – hence the 7-hour trek!

5. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love hiking and nature

Raiatea has a lot of hiking, water gardens and other things that will make any nature-lover feel like you’re in heaven, and is likely to convert non-nature lovers over!

Here are some of my top hiking and nature experiences from my trip to Raiatea:

👉 Hikes between The Promenade Des Gabbros, the Faaroa panoramic viewpoint and La Crete Des Macaranga

My method for exploring was finding places on Google maps and making stops. I realized you can stop at these as two separate sites like I did, or do a hike to one end and back. I recommend doing two stops.

One stop is the Promenade, where you can do a short hike and get amazing views:

The next stop is the Belvedere, where you can get views without a hike:

Then, walk to the hiking spot and there’s a challenging but short hike to another amazing view!

My experience: I almost quit this hike when I saw how steep it gets on a narrow strip with ropes to hold onto. Then, I saw another person coming down and I decided if she can do it, I can. It was worth it! Just know that this isn’t for everyone. Also, I had my big water bottle in my hand and nowhere to put it so that made it more challenging for me. I recommend bringing a daypack that you can put your water in (but definitely bring your water)!!

👉 Faaroa Botanical Garden

The Faaroa Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Faaroa) was worth it, but you’ll need to explore the whole thing! There are multiple areas, from this forest with really cool trees, to areas with amazing views, flowers, streams and more! I loved exploring here.

Just like all these places, the stop is right off the road and clearly marked with a red flag sign and parking area.

👉 Street-side views and archaeology

I stopped off at a local pearl shop near this really cool view, where I noticed what looked like archaeological remains. I asked the shop owner, who told me it is archaeology but it’s on private property. So, I just walked over and took some photos!

The shop also had really cool stuff – it was just too expensive for my budget!

👉 Snorkeling (& Diving)

I don’t dive because I have asthma, but I can tell you about the snorkeling experience I had. This was my first snorkeling excursion in years, but it was amazing! It was on a boat tour to Taha’a, and we went to the Coral Gardens, where the current helps you drift along to see the amazing coral and fish.

There are multiple places and ways to snorkel in Raiatea, from tour companies to locations. For divers, Raiatea boasts the only wreck dive in French Polynesia, The Nordby!

6. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love amazing food

Raiatea has unique and amazing food that was one of my favorite parts of visiting French Polynesia! Here are some of the dishes and places to check out in Raiatea:

• Poisson Cru, the national dish of FP, is raw tuna (they “cook” it with salt but still be careful – I was fine on the tours but had issues after eating this at a place I stayed that was made by the locals). Even with some issues, this dish was addicting – it’s so good (hence my lack of photos of it). It’s marinated in coconut milk and lime juice.

• Breadfruit: I thought I knew Breadfruit from my visit to Dominica years ago (in the Caribbean). This was different. The fruit is much bigger. Locals eat it with their hands and they scoop up coconut cream or other stews with it, because it’s mostly flavorless, but it’s still really good!

• French pastries: I’m off gluten, but I did stop at one of these in the city to get coffee, and they had salads and more options

• Food trucks, open at varying hours, with chicken, fries, fish and more food – you get a lot of food and it’s super budget-friendly – I always had leftovers!

• Villa Ixora: This was one of the only restaurants I ate at (I mostly cooked) – and I highly recommend it! It’s at a hotel near the city.

• The Market: In the city, there’s a grocery store but be sure to stop at the market for produce, ice cream, pizza and souvenirs that are locally-made crafts like jewelry, textiles etc! It’s closed on the weekends.

• The Airport: I loved the little cafe at the airport, where I ate an omelette and a latte before my early morning flight to Huahine!

7. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want chill island living

As a city-lover, it can be tough for me to not be in an area where things are open more and where there’s more nature than structures.

In Raiatea, I hung out and cooked some in my apartment rental more often than going out (which I loved, as a local family lived there and really cared about the space and their guests, plus it wasn’t far from the city area – keep reading for more info on it later in this post!).

I actually appreciated the chance to eat healthy and cook, but you can definitely find food trucks open and restaurants, they just have varying hours and many are closed on weekends.

Either way, there’s nobody hurrying – in fact, I didn’t see any crowds anywhere. There’s not many tourists and you’re surrounded by the most gorgeous nature, views and the ocean. What more could you ask for?

I recommend using the opportunity to relax and unwind, and to soak up nature.

One thing to know before visiting is that with the natural space, also comes the sounds of animals – mostly, the chickens waking you up early every morning! So, the restaurants close early, which lets you go to bed early and wake up early (also helping you beat the heat outside).

8. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want stress-free sightseeing

As I mentioned already, there were no crowds in Raiatea! I visited in early October, and this island is not one of the well-known touristy islands like Bora Bora, Tahiti and, increasingly, Moorea.

You’ll really get a feel for the islands, nature, the history and culture of the area, and you’ll feel more and more relaxed as you do so!

My favorite thing was being able to take photos of myself with my tripod, which I’m too afraid to do as a solo traveler in more crowded and popular tourist destinations!

9. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you visit the amazing resorts

I didn’t stay at a resort, and I recommend a Pension if you’re on a budget or looking for a more local experience.

However, many people splurge when visiting French Polynesia, and both Raiatea and the neighboring Taha’a are known for their luxury lodging options.

You can find bungalows and resorts, as well as overwater bungalows and even a private island with villas designed by a local architect!

These places are worth staying in if you want to take advantage of the spa services and restaurants (which definitely would’ve added to my visit if I’d had the funds), and direct water access for snorkeling, SUP and more water sports without having to do so many tours.

Here are a few noteworthy hotels that make Raiatea worth visiting:

🏝️ Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts is the ultimate fantasy when it comes to an island resort, complete with overwater bungalows (and amazing reviews)!

This resort is located on Motu Tautau, which is off the coast of Taha’a. The resort is just a 7-min boat ride from Tapumu village, and a 30-min boat ride from Raiatea Uturoa Airport.

You’ll get amazing beach access here, better than Raiatea beaches (you still have to fly into Raiatea to get here, so it’s worth a visit to Raiatea even if you’re mostly hanging out at the resort)!

Amenities include:

• 3 on-site restaurants
• Day spa
• 2 bars
• Swimming pool
• Fitness center
• Private patio or balcony with ocean, beach or mountain views
• Free use of snorkeling equipment, kayaks and paddle boards
• Free breakfast
• Lounge chairs
• Live entertainment
• Buffet dinners
• Tour desk can book tours for plantations, island tours and snorkeling excursions
• Outdoor showers and shaded seating area at each suite and villa
• TV with satellite channels in room
• Airport Shuttle
• Free WiFi
• Room service
• Eco-friendly

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Roi:
“Amazing resort, great service, amazing water, calm, significantly better price-value ratio than Bora-bora both on the resort and resturants.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts Here

🏝️ Opoa Beach Hotel

Opoa Beach Hotel has on-land bungalows with tropical themed decor, and is just 10 mins away by car from Marae Taputapuatea and also not far from Faaroa Bay, with lagoon and coral reef views in South Raiatea.

Amenities include:

• On-site restaurant with fresh local options
• On-site bar
• Hammocks
• TVs and DVD players
• living room and bedroom
• Views of the lagoon and coral reef
• Staff can arrange tours to Taha’a
• Activities on Opoa Beach including snorkeling, kayaking and fishing
• In-room massage service
• Free WiFi
• Breakfast
• Free Parking
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport Shuttle
• Eco-friendly

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Leilani:
“The Opoa Beach Resort may be my favorite place on earth. It is beautiful, peaceful and remote. Every view held beauty. The bungalows are charming and romantic. I hope to return there one day, and have already recommend it to others.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Opoa Beach Hotel Here

🏝️ Hôtel Raiatea Lodge

Hôtel Raiatea Lodge is another higher-end hotel on Raiatea, on the west coast opposite Bora Bora and just a 5-min drive from the Airport. It’s also close to Miri Motu, which has a white sand beach that’s reachable by canoe and boat trips, which can be arranged.

Amenities include:

• AC and fan in rooms
• Private large terrace with lagoon view
• Bar and restaurant with pool views and Tahitian plus international options
• In-room TV
• Free WiFi
• Free snorkeling equipment, canoes, bikes, board games and books
• On-site restaurant open for lunch (reviews also mention dinner being available on-site)
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport Shuttle
• Breakfast
• Bar
• Family rooms
• Free Parking
• Eco-friendly

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Benjamin:
“Beautifully maintained and exceptional service at the desk. Felt like what I’d hoped a Polynesian vacation would feel like. Wish I’d spent more time here and less on Bora Bora. Not only was the value better but we enjoyed ourselves more here. It was less rushed and felt less like a tourist bubble. Bought a pearl at a local farm just down the road direct from the farmer. With more time we’d have spent a day on Tahaa. Much to do…”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Hôtel Raiatea Lodge Here

🏝️ Motu Nao Nao Ile Privée

Motu Nao Nao Ile Privée is a private island and all-inclusive resort near Raiatea, and they’ll arrange transfers to and from Raiatea.

The resort has 3 villas made by a local architect, and each accommodates two people.

Amenities include:

• Full board
• Bar
• Activities on site including SUP, snorkeling, kayaking, bike riding and karaoke
• Fitness equipment
• Outdoor movie nights
• Can choose one activity a day from: scuba diving, jet skiing, bike/e-bike riding, safari tour, massage, yoga or pilates classes
• Airport Shuttle
• Non-smoking rooms
• Free WiFi
• Beachfront
• Restaurant
• Breakfast
• Eco-friendly

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Motu Nao Nao Ile Privée Here

10. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to connect with the locals and learn about the culture of the area

To find locals, handicrafts and more, Uturoa has the market and shops you’ll want to visit. In addition, I went on a boat tour that included lessons and presentations that taught me about the culture.

The archaeology is by far one of my favorite ways to learn about Raiatea and Polynesian culture and history, through seeing the sites and reading the information (you can also get a tour guide).

If you’re in Raiatea in July, the Heiva Festival is a must-do with dancing, singing and more from Polynesian culture.

In addition, I stayed in an apartment that was attached to a local family’s house (found on booking.com) and talking to locals – whether you stay with them, or in other places – is definitely the best way to get a feel for the authentic daily life and culture of Raiatea!

11. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love adventures with the reward of the best views

Even if you don’t go on the 7-hour rare flower trek, Raiatea has other hiking, plus panoramic viewpoints that require zero hiking, to take in. You can also see the views from the air or boat!

I loved practicing my landscape photography, taking photos of myself and using my GoPro underwater!

12. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to explore neighboring Taha’a Island

The best way to get to Taha’a is via Raiatea. Some people stay on Taha’a, but you can also take the ferry over for the day or do a boat tour, like I did.

While Raiatea is the second-largest island in FP with the second-largest city, including government offices, a hospital, schools (nearby Huahine doesn’t have schools, and the kids go to the other islands for school), and the airport, Taha’a is really small and relaxed.

Taha’a has small villages, a vanilla farm, a pearl farm and more things to see, and isn’t a tourist destination. The lagoon is the main attraction of Taha’a, because it has better beaches than Raiatea, plus diving and snorkeling sites. There are also motus with places to stay overnight!

13. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to see rum factories, vanilla plantations, pearl farms & more sites

Between Raiatea and Taha’a, there are some really cool spots to visit that make it well worth the visit! They include:

• Vanilla farms
• Pearl farms
• Rum Factories
• Mystery House
• Archaeology

You can find multiple vanilla farms, pearl farms and rum factories so you can go wherever, whenever you feel like it (just make sure they’re open)!

14. Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to be close to other French Polynesia Society & Leeward Island hotspots

Raiatea is in the Society Islands, close to many other amazing places to visit by ferry or a short flight! They include:

• Taha’a
• Huahine
• Moorea
• Tahiti
• Bora Bora

On my trip, I visited Tahiti, Raiatea, Taha’a, Huahine, Tahiti again, and Moorea, and it’s really easy to island hop with short flights!

You can get flights separately or do the Air Tahiti Pass.

My Expert Tips For Visiting Raiatea & Taha’a

👉 Sunscreen and a shirt for snorkeling: I traveled to French Polynesia as a solo traveler, and on the boat tours most people were with their family and they mostly spoke French, as most tourists are from France (naturally). I was hesitant to awkwardly ask someone to put sunscreen on the top part of my back where I couldn’t reach, and I ended up with sunburn, so I wore a t-shirt the next time.

👉 Download Google Maps before your trip: I accidentally drove the long way around the island back from the UNESCO site because there was no data signal, which happens – someone actually told me they shut it off at some time!

👉 I recommend buying food from the market and grocery store and planning on cooking some meals. Unless you want to check and make sure you know where you’re going that’s open at the time you plan to go, you may end up with frustration at places being closed!

Getting to & Around Raiatea

👉 For flights, WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

👉 To rent a car in Raiatea (the best way to get around), there are local places you can rent from. They don’t have a lot of automatic cars, so be sure to specify that you need one!

👉 I rented my car with HINANUI RENT RAIATEA (hinanuirentraiatea@gmail.com) and highly recommend them! They met me at the airport for easy pick-up and drop-off.

Aside from renting a car, you can rent a bike or motorbike to get around.

Where to Stay in Raiatea On Any Budget

Raiatea itself has some upscale hotels and lodges, plus pensions and even camping. The resorts are on neighboring Motus.

Being close to Uturoa means easier access to the markets, ATMs and restaurants plus the port, and that’s what I recommend.

Here are my top choices for every budget (I stayed in the first one):

✅ Budget Option: Fare Tapu

I stayed at Fare Tapu, and I loved it so much! I would definitely stay again and I highly recommend it.

While I can’t guarantee your experience, the hosts here put 1,000% into making the space clean, nice and well-decorated, and it’s definitely newly built! It’s small so it’s good for 1-2 people (there is a couch and one bed), but there are high ceilings, air conditioning and good lighting.

The hosts were super friendly and eager to offer advice and help. There’s a private gate so I felt safe, and it’s really close to the town and airport, which I also liked. It’s right across from the water and main road, too.

This property is cash only, which is common French Polynesia – so be sure to bring cash and/or have a Charles Schwab account (with refundable ATM fees abroad) and make sure to get to the ATM (by the market in town) when it’s open!

Amenities include:

• Outdoor swimming pool (you can use it, the hosts told me some people were confused because it’s on another side of the house)
• Free private parking
• Bike rental available
• AC
• Flat-screen TV
• Kitchen with stove, kettle, microwave, fridge, sink
• Free WiFi
• Private bathroom
• Some rooms have a terrace view (mine did) and some have pool views
• Bed linen and towels included
• Non-smoking rooms
• Eco-friendly

Other notes: Children, parties and smoking not allowed. There are many more Pensions in Raiatea you can check out on booking.com for more options in this budget range!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from (another) Sarah:
“We have had the warmest Polynesian welcome from Tapu and his lovely family. They were very attentive and made sure that we were comfortable and had everything we needed at any time. We also got very good recommendations for activities and restaurants. The accommodation is super clean, modern and with many details and there is a parking on the property. Very safe and beautiful place to stay. We are looking forward to come back one day! Mauruuru roa!”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Fare Tapu Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: Opoa Beach Hotel

Opoa Beach Hotel has on-land bungalows with tropical themed decor, and is just 10 mins away by car from Marae Taputapuatea and also not far from Faaroa Bay, with lagoon and coral reef views in South Raiatea.

Amenities include:

• On-site restaurant with fresh local options
• On-site bar
• Hammocks
• TVs and DVD players
• living room and bedroom
• Views of the lagoon and coral reef
• Staff can arrange tours to Taha’a
• Activities on Opoa Beach including snorkeling, kayaking and fishing
• In-room massage service
• Free WiFi
• Breakfast
• Free Parking
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport Shuttle
• Eco-friendly

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Leilani:
“The Opoa Beach Resort may be my favorite place on earth. It is beautiful, peaceful and remote. Every view held beauty. The bungalows are charming and romantic. I hope to return there one day, and have already recommend it to others.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Opoa Beach Hotel Here

✅ Luxury Option: Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts is the ultimate fantasy when it comes to an island resort, complete with overwater bungalows (and amazing reviews)!

This resort is located on Motu Tautau, which is off the coast of Taha’a. The resort is just a 7-min boat ride from Tapumu village, and a 30-min boat ride from Raiatea Uturoa Airport.

You’ll get amazing beach access here, better than Raiatea beaches (you still have to fly into Raiatea to get here, so it’s worth a visit to Raiatea even if you’re mostly hanging out at the resort)!

Amenities include:

• 3 on-site restaurants
• Day spa
• 2 bars
• Swimming pool
• Fitness center
• Private patio or balcony with ocean, beach or mountain views
• Free use of snorkeling equipment, kayaks and paddle boards
• Free breakfast
• Lounge chairs
• Live entertainment
• Buffet dinners
• Tour desk can book tours for plantations, island tours and snorkeling excursions
• Outdoor showers and shaded seating area at each suite and villa
• TV with satellite channels in room
• Airport Shuttle
• Free WiFi
• Room service
• Eco-friendly

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Roi:
“Amazing resort, great service, amazing water, calm, significantly better price-value ratio than Bora-bora both on the resort and resturants.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts Here

What You’ll Need For A Trip To Raiatea

Here are my recommended things to pack for Raiatea and French Polynesia, with things I use:

Travel Insurance

For travel insurance, I always use Allianz and highly recommend them!

E-SIM for Data

Airalo eSIM is the world’s first eSIM store, already used by over 1 million travelers. With Airalo, you can download and install a digital data pack for over 200 countries/regions and get connected anywhere in the world as soon as they land. I used this on my French Polynesia Trip, and as of the time I used it, you use the app to top up every week or when you use up the allotted data – whichever comes first.

Reef-Safe, Allergen-Free Sunscreen

Badger sunscreen is my newest discovery and I’m obsessed – I have eczema and a lot of allergies, and this sunscreen has only FOUR ingredients! I used it throughout my entire French Polynesia trip and highly recommend it, as I plan on continuing to use it. Just make sure to reapply as needed!

Snorkeling Mask

This is optional – I used the provided gear on my boat tours. However, you may want your own for any extra snorkeling. Plus, I noticed everyone wearing these all-in-one masks (this one includes a camera mount) that looked so much easier to take on and off, and I wished I had one!

Swim shirt

After I got sunburn on my back during my first boat tour, I wore my own shirt because I hadn’t bought one of these yet. Later, I bought one in a local store, but I wished I’d brought one along! They’re SPF and good for guarding from reef rash, and they’re water-friendly!

Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes like these or Chacos (sandals) are my go-tos for trips that involve hiking. In Raiatea, I had my Chacos, which I wore most of the time (they can go in water, so I even wore them while snorkeling) and my Brooks running shoes.

Electrolyte Packets

Electrolyte packets like these are necessary because water isn’t enough to replace those minerals that you lose from sweating when you’re out in the sun a lot. This is perfect for hiking days as well as beach and water days. On the boat tour, they offer water and other drinks including rum, and it’s important to replenish those electrolytes!

Hat

The sun in Raiatea (especially in the summer) is really harsh, and the heat can give some people issues. When you’re outside most of the time, I highly recommend bringing a hat that goes all the way around, like this one!

(I didn’t bring mine to Raiatea, but one guy on my boat tour had it and I found myself wishing I had one in addition to my ball-style cap I brought.)

Daypack

I use this packable daypack because it folds easily into a pouch that you can pack into a suitcase, it’s lightweight and waterproof, and it has pockets for water bottles and more things! It was perfect for taking on boat tours and hiking.

More items:

• This Universal Power Adapter
• Anker Portable Charger to make sure your phone, camera battery etc. doesn’t die so you can take all the photos!
• Shorts and t-shirts
• Sandals
• Swimsuit
• Credit card, ATM card & cash
• Camera and relevant equipment
• GoPro and/or other waterproof camera
• Sleep Mask – I recommend this since the chickens will wake you up early, to maximize sleep time!
• Microfiber Towel – so you have a towel that’s easy to pack
• Earthbreeze Fragrance-Free Laundry Detergent Sheets – there’s usually detergent at the places with laundry machines, but these are easy to use if you have to hand-wash anything. I buy the hypoallergenic ones so I always bring and use these!

I also brought protein powder, collagen powder and protein bars, which all came in handy since places are closed at random times on Raiatea. Check out my go-to, allergen-free travel snacks and more packing recommendations on my Travel Resources page here.

FAQs about visiting Raiatea, French Polynesia

👉 When is the best time to visit Raiatea?

The best time to visit Raiatea is during the dry season (June – October) when the weather is comfortable, and the southeasterly trade wind keeps mosquitoes and clouds at bay. Visiting during the shoulder season (April/May and November) is also ideal.

👉 How many days are enough for Raiatea?

A stay of 3-5 days allows you to explore Raiatea’s beauty and experience its unique offerings. Even if you only have 1-2 full days, you can see a lot and it’s enough!

👉 What is special about Raiatea, French Polynesia?

Raiatea is known for its ancient Polynesian temples, lush landscapes, and being the cultural heart of French Polynesia.

👉 Is Raiatea expensive?

Raiatea can be moderately expensive, with prices similar to other islands in French Polynesia. Budget-conscious options are available.

👉 Is Raiatea safe?

While generally safe, it’s advised not to hike alone, except on specific trails like Taputapuatea or Mount Tapioi (Tapioi is closed). Certified hiking guides are recommended and, with Taputapuatea, required. As a solo female traveler, I always felt safe in Raiatea!

👉 Which is better to visit, Raiatea or Huahine?

Both Raiatea and Huahine offer unique experiences. Raiatea is known for cultural sites, while Huahine boasts pristine beaches and cultural sites. Raiatea is bigger, while Huahine is smaller and even more authentic and relaxed. You can’t get an automatic car on Huahine, but you can rent an EMOKE or bike. Choose based on your preferences.

👉 How do I get from Raiatea to Huahine?

Traveling from Raiatea to Huahine can be done by a short flight or a ferry ride, providing different perspectives of the islands. I flew from Raiatea to Huahine on my trip.

👉 Is Raiatea worth it?

Yes, Raiatea is worth visiting for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty!

👉 What is Raiatea known for?

Raiatea is known for its ancient temples, lush landscapes, vanilla plantations, and being a significant cultural and historical center.

👉 Is there a ferry from Raiatea to Bora Bora?

No, there is no direct ferry from Raiatea to Bora Bora. Inter-island flights are a common mode of transport between the two.

👉 How do you get around Raiatea?

Getting around Raiatea is easy with rental cars, bicycles, and guided tours available. Taxis and boats are also options for exploring the island.

👉 What is the main town in Raiatea?

Uturoa is the main town in Raiatea, serving as the administrative and economic center.

👉 What language is spoken in Raiatea?

French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken in Raiatea. Many people speak some English, especially tour guides. I used Google Translate when there was any issue, and it worked great! Everyone is very friendly and hospitable.

👉 How long is the ferry from Raiatea to Bora Bora?

There is no direct ferry. Flights are a more common and efficient means of travel between Raiatea and Bora Bora.

👉 Is there a ferry from Tahiti to Raiatea?

Yes, there are regular ferry services connecting Tahiti to Raiatea.

👉 How do I get from Tahiti to Raiatea?

Flights and ferries are available for travel from Tahiti to Raiatea.

👉 Where to eat in Raiatea?

Explore local cuisine at restaurants in Uturoa, offering a variety of French Polynesian dishes. You can eat at the food trucks at night, french cafes in town in the morning, and you can also cook with food from the local market and grocery store.

👉 Where can I swim in Raiatea?

Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon or visit popular spots like Faaroa Bay.

👉 How big is Raiatea Island?

Raiatea is approximately 92 square miles (238 square kilometers) in size.

👉 What are some interesting facts about Raiatea?

Raiatea is considered the birthplace of Polynesian culture and has UNESCO-listed Taputapuatea Marae, a significant archaeological site. It also boasts the Tiare Apetahi, one of the world’s most rare flowers, and the only wreck dive in French Polynesia.

👉 What does Raiatea mean in English?

Raiatea translates to “faraway heaven” in English.

👉 Did Maori come from Raiatea?

There are historical and cultural ties between Raiatea and the Maori people, suggesting some ancestral connections.

So, Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Yes 🙂

So, with all the things to do in Raiatea and Taha’a, you won’t regret a visit to this amazing, lesser-known island! I definitely loved my time there.

From the only UNESCO site in French Polynesia, to the rare flower trek, snorkeling and the only wreck dive in FP, plus the resorts and so many more things to see, there’s something for everyone!

Continue Reading:

👉 Is Huahine Worth Visiting? 14 Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile
👉 Is Tahiti Worth Visiting? 11 Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile
👉 Where To Stay In Tahiti For Every Budget (Areas, Hotels + More)
👉 Gorgeous Ārahurahu Marae: A Photographic Expedition
👉 Captivating Marae Ta’ata: Tahiti’s Hidden History
👉 For more International travel guides, check out this page.
👉 For what to pack and travel resources, check out my resources page.