Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts

The beauty of the resort is undeniable. Pristine pink beaches, crystal clear waters, and if you're lucky a rainbow or two. While the location is second to none the staff are what makes this resort noteworthy. I wish I could name everyone who made this stay memorable however it would take all day. From the second I got up to watch the sunrises the gardeners would smile with a friendly IaOrana and that friendly sincerity is present all day in all staff members I was lucky enough to pass by. The smiles and warmness felt here are as beautiful as resort. I will note this is my second time here and the new breakfast is delicious! The breads were out of this world! Top it off everyday I got a fresh coconut drink, it's just another small detail that makes this place magnificent. I personally thank everyone here, it was exactly the "brain break" I desperately needed before heading back to the grind of the states.

Would absolutely go again. Such an amazing resort in everyway, my high expectations were exceeded. Especially the snorkeling at the resort reef was exceptional. The staff is very friendly and helpful. AC for a comfortable respite when needed and anything you could want is available

Le Tikehau was a beautiful surprise. The resort is small and quaint with all the amenities you need. The restaurant is excellent and serves local fish and fresh homemade dishes. Tikehau is our new favorite island and we will be returning to Le Tikehau. We booked our trip with Pacific For Less and have had great experience with this company. They know everything about the Tahitian islands.

Our stay at LeTikehau was great. It's a smaller resort that is secluded and feels very private. The highlight of our stay was doing the private Motu and lunch. It was great having a more local experience that was both relaxing and entertaining. Chef Mania and Captain Tuhea were great and provided a delicious and laid back lunch with local cuisine on the private Motu. On the Motu we saw manta rays and sharks as well as tropical fish. It was great to be able to take our time and slow down and enjoy every part of if without feeling rushed.

As I start to write this, I have the distinct feeling that I will run out of superlatives. Apologies in advance, I may get repetitive but Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts requires a thesaurus of positive adjectives. I’ve had the luck to travel quite extensively and stay at some of the world’s premier hotels and resorts. Nothing compares to Le Tikehau. This small resort, on one of French Polynesia’s small atolls (population 400), is simply amazing. First the location - a one-hour flight from Papeete brings you to the incredibly beautiful atoll of Tikehau. At one of the world’s smallest air terminals, you’re met with a lei by a most friendly and helpful team who will whisk you and your luggage to the resort’s own water taxi. On the short trip we were serenaded in Tahitian with a welcome song. Vaiarii played the ukulele and led the singing with an impressive voice. After checking in, Amelie gave us a tour and showed us tour rooms. Our interactions with her throughout our stay were always warm, cheerful and very helpful. This is also true of everyone at Le Tikehau. The level of hospitality was unsurpassable. They are some of the most welcoming people we’ve ever met. Le Tikehau’s motu location is beautiful. Our overwater bungalow was surrounded by easily accessible coral and the sea life that accompanies it. Amazing clear waters, and more species of fish than you can count from tiny damsel fish to black tipped reef shark the bungalows are surrounded by a snorkeling paradise. The food- the breakfast buffet is as fantastic as it is simple. The house made smoked fish was a highlight, but the house made croissant is to die for. Better than Paris, and that’s not an exaggeration. The onsite baking is simply masterful, as is the cuisine in general. French technique meets local Polynesian ingredients, and the results are Michelin worthy. The fresh fish - tuna, mahi mahi, parrot fish, surgeonfish broiled, grilled, fried, roasted, sashimi, smoked, ceviche, tartare etc. - Masterful! Activities- besides the outstanding snorkeling just below our room, there are easily accessible nearby motus by kayak or by wading. Learn how to tie a pareo or local craft techniques. The organized activities range from snorkeling expeditions led by Denis Grossmarie, fishing, motu picnics, and an expedition to Motu Puarua, the Bird Island. Even if you’re not a “birder” the isle L’ile aux oiseaux is not to be missed. We snorkeled with the manta rays and sharks. Denis, a world class free diver was a fantastic guide and gave us a memorable day. All of the facilities are first rate, but what brings it all home are the people. The team at Le Tikehau from Stephan, the GM to the boat captains, cleaning and gardening staff to the restaurant team (front and back of house), to Katherine in the gift shop and behind the front desk was Raipuni and a team of some of the most hospitable people I’ve ever met. They gave you the feeling that anything you needed - anything at all - they would find a way to make it happen. Thank you for the best vacation ever!