Le Taha’a

Le Taha'a is a boutique property set on its own island with over-the-water bungalows above a shallow, inviting lagoon.

• The shallow lagoon is inviting for people who are normally a bit reserved about swimming in the ocean
• The coral garden, which can be explored in 45 minutes, is a great place to get your snorkeling fix

Couples who want to add a few nights at a resort with a different setting from the Four Seasons, should consider starting at Le Taha’a. Set on a private island east of Bora Bora, the property is reached via a 35-minute flight to Raiatea from Papeete, followed by a short boat transfer.

The resort has just 48 over-water bungalows (with wraparound decks and private dining areas), as well as ten beach bungalows made of bamboo siding. Interiors are traditional Polynesian. Most in demand are eight romantic over-water units with the best views of Bora Bora sunsets. The magnificent gardens include more than 12,000 species of local plants and flowers. Though the reef is outrageously gorgeous throughout this entire region, the one surrounding Le Taha’a is even more so because its coral gardens are largely untouched by anchors, as ships aren’t allowed to visit the private island. Encircling the whole resort is the longest uninterrupted stretch of white sand in all of French Polynesia.

Like all Relais & Chateaux properties, this one has a fine dining room (a bit formal for this beachside setting), while the main restaurant, Vanille, is an open-air splendor, with a moderately gourmet menu that includes everything from the catch of the day to pasta.

Be aware that this truly feels like a more rustic boutique option and doesn’t have all the amenities and services of a larger resort; for example, 24-hour room service is not available.

Honeymooners who prefer a rustic tropical escape to an all-out luxury one.