Manava Beach Resort and Spa Moorea

I rarely write reviews, but my experience at Manea Spa at the Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea was so extraordinary that I simply had to share it! Getting massages is one of my favorite things to do when traveling, and I've enjoyed many over the years, both at home and on vacations. So when I say this was the best massage I've ever had, that's saying something! I had been debating whether to book a treatment at the resort or wait until our upcoming cruise. I originally wanted to try the Rumiavai aquatic massage, but it wasn't available, so I decided on an 80-minute traditional Polynesian massage instead. What a happy accident! My therapist, Bella, was absolutely exceptional. I was initially a little concerned when the massage was described as light to moderate pressure, since I typically prefer a firmer massage. Well, if that was moderate pressure, I can't imagine what firm would feel like! The pressure was wonderful. What impressed me most was Bella's seemingly intuitive ability to find every area that needed attention. I had mentioned my shoulders and lower back, but without any prompting, she also spent considerable time on my hips and a knee that had previously required surgery, something I hadn't even told her about. It was almost uncanny how she found exactly the right spots. But perhaps the most remarkable part of the experience was something I didn't fully appreciate until the following morning. Since May, I've been struggling with what feels like trigger finger in three fingers on my right hand, with persistent catching when I move them. I've been putting off seeing an orthopedic specialist until after this trip. Bella spent an unusual amount of time working on my hands and fingers, and this morning, for the first time in months, I can move those fingers independently without any catching! I've had other excellent massages during this time, including a heavenly one in Telluride, but none made a noticeable difference in my hand. Obviously, only time will tell whether this improvement lasts, but right now my fingers feel amazing. I can't tell you how grateful I am! The traditional Polynesian techniques were also unlike anything I'd experienced before. There was much more attention to my hands and feet than I'm accustomed to, along with fascinating scalp and hair techniques. Before the massage, they specifically asked permission to work on my head, hair, chest, and abdomen, which I really appreciated. Some of the techniques were quite different from a typical massage, but every one of them was wonderful. Even the abdominal massage, which I wouldn't ordinarily have thought to request and which involved an area that was particularly tender from travel-related digestive issues, was surprisingly soothing and relaxing. Throughout the entire experience, Bella was warm, attentive, respectful, and incredibly skilled. Everything was thoroughly professional, and I thought the treatment was an excellent value for the money, particularly compared with spa treatments I've had on cruise ships and at other resorts. I went in expecting a relaxing vacation massage and left feeling I'd experienced something truly special. If you are visiting Moorea, I cannot recommend Manea Spa highly enough. And if you can request Bella, do it! Without question, one of the highlights of my time in French Polynesia. I would give it more than five stars if I could!

Beautiful stay, we felt welcomed although it was only for one night. You made us feel special. Hope to see you again, thank you

Beautiful location, nice shoreline, large swimming pool. Equipment for snorkelling, kayak, ,… provided. Duplex bungalow where we stayed with 3 adults, quite noisy, especially when neighbours were loud, also near the roadside. Would have preferred the beach bungalow. Breakfast was good but for dinner we missed choice and quality of food was not what you expect for the rather expensive price. After two nights we decided to eat outside. A great restaurant with excellent fresh fish offers and great tasting wine. Strongly recommended! Enjoyed the relaxing traditional massage by Bella and Yvette! Expensive but certainly worth it! Check in was rather cold as we had to follow a group while we were travelling as a family alone. We would have preferred a more personal check in as you have to hand over your credit card and they come back with it somewhat later. Welcome drink was very poor, a more elaborated mocktail would be more charming as your first impression. Overall we had a great stay.

I enjoyed every minute of my 3-night stay here. I had a garden view room on the second floor and it was LOVELY sitting on balcony listening to the exotic birds and enjoying the lush, tropical views. The room was spotless upon check-in and I loved all the fresh flowers strewn about. My bed was comfy and I slept great. The breakfast buffet was absolutely fantastic (every possible breakfast item you could wish for and eggs made to order) and the ladies working here were very cheerful. I read other reviews that the food was 'meh' but we only ate breakfast here so I can't speak about lunch or dinner. The location is primo: pearl shopping, super market, and fantastic restaurants within a 10-15 minute walk (use the flashlight on your phone for walking at night). We went on to Bora Bora from here and all felt that Moorea had more of a boho/hippie vibe, which we really enjoyed.

Can't say enough good things about Manava Resort. The grounds, rooms, and amenities were romantic, peaceful, and inviting. The staff was always friendly and ready with a ia orana! Honeymoon bungalow was well-kept, and daily service was attentive and efficient. Concierge helped so much as far as excursion booking was concerned. Wife and I had an amazing time here and will cherish the memory forever. Mauruuru roa!