Raiatea Island Travel Guide and Deals
Raiatea is the second largest island in French Polynesia and is located a quick 40 minute flight to the northeast of Tahiti island. Regarded as French Polynesia’s most sacred island, Raiatea is full of legends and was the cultural, religious and royal heart of ancient Polynesia. The legends create a mysterious and magical atmosphere in many places on the island. The ancient Marae, Taputapuatea is the largest in Polynesia.
The island is also full of natural wonders with many waterfalls, lush valleys and surrounding mountains, and Raiatea is home to one of the world’s rarest plants, the Tiare Apetahi, found high in the mountains. You will also find Tahiti’s only navigable river, the Faaroa on Raiatea. The island shares her turquoise lagoon with Taha’a allowing you to easily experience the two islands. Raiatea is the sailing hub of The Islands of Tahiti and you will find many yacht charter bases in Uturoa, the island’s main town.
We love the powerful cultural history of this island as well as her preserved natural beauty. Whilst tourism is present on the island, it is mainly small hotels and family pensions so you still have that sense of solitude.
Raiatea will suit those travellers looking for a cultural discovery as well as an accessible lagoon playground. She offers a range of both land and nautical activities. We recommend you combine a stay on Raiatea island with a stay on Taha’a, her sister island, to create the perfect beach and culture holiday!
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Raiatea Island FAQs
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Raiatea is located at the heart of the Society Islands. Raiatea is located 230 km northwest of Tahiti and southwest of Bora Bora.
A direct flight from Tahiti to Raiatea lasts for about 45 minutes. But if you are coming from Bora Bora, Raiatea is accessible through a 20-minute flight.
Around 12,230 inhabitants live in Raiatea, less populated than Tahiti.
Raiatea is a cultural bed of the Polynesian islands thanks to its central location. The island is iconic for its lush landscapes of waterfalls, mountains, marinas, and diverse flora and fauna.
Sailing aficionados would be pleased to know that Raiatea is a top yachting location, thanks to its excellent sailing conditions and peaceful bays and lagoons.
It boasts the only navigable river in French Polynesia, making it the perfect vacation spot for canoe riding in the heart of a tropical forest. There are also different package tours to get a taste of all the island offers.
The most common Raiatea accommodations include top hotels and private resorts that offer the best service possible to guests. But those looking for a more comfortable and intimate stay can enjoy the guest houses.
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