Frommer's Review
This modern resort opened in 2004 beside a beach of deep black sand on Matavai Bay, where the 18th-century explorers dropped anchor. A huge, turtle-shaped thatch roof covers most of the central complex, which holds a restaurant, bar, arts-and-crafts center, full-service spa, and cozy library devoted to author James Norman Hall. Outside is a horizon-edge pool beside the beach. Currents create an undertow here, so heed the "Dangerous Sea" signs when swimming in the lagoon. Seven hotel buildings hold the accommodations, which include standard rooms, two-story townhouse-style "duplexes" (their upstairs bedrooms have their own balconies), suites, and -- my favorites -- rooms with hot tubs romantically placed behind louvers on the balconies. Furnishings and decor are tropical with a European flair. Try to get a unit in buildings numbered 1 through 3, which have views of Moorea on the horizon (those in buildings 4 through 7 look out to an empty horizon). The Radisson sends a shuttle to downtown Papeete each morning and afternoon, but public buses do not run out here after 5pm, meaning you will need to rent a car or take a taxi to get to and from downtown after dark. All units have high-speed Internet ports, making this a very good bet for business travelers with expense accounts for rental cars. As at Le Meridien Tahiti, rush-hour traffic can make for a long trek to the airport from here.
Facilities:
Restaurant; 2 bars; outdoor pool; health club; spa; Jacuzzi; watersports equipment/rentals; activities desk; car-rental desk; business center; salon; 24-hr. room service; massage; babysitting; laundry service; concierge-level rooms
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
