Discover Raiatea: ‘The Sacred Island’

Welcome to Raiatea, one of French Polynesia’s most beautiful islands in the South Pacific.

Raiatea is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, BORA BORA, but the island has its share of paradise.

DID YOU KNOW: Raiatea is French Polynesia’s third most-visited island? And there are good reasons why!

Let’s take a look at what to expect from the Raiatea, the top things to do, accommodations, and INSIDER TIPS.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• 📍 Location: Raiatea is 120 miles (193 km) northwest of Tahiti and just 1 hour by boat from Bora Bora, making it an ideal stop for island-hopping in French Polynesia.

• 🏛️ Culture: Raiatea is home to the Taputapuātea marae, a UNESCO World Heritage site central to ancient Polynesian navigation and spiritual traditions.

• 🌊 Outdoor activities: Raiatea offers many different activities, from hiking Mount Temehani and exploring the Faaroa River to snorkeling in lagoons.

Location of Raiatea Island

Raiatea Island is 120 miles (193 kilometers) northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia (around 45 minutes flying). The island is part of the 14 Society Islands archipelago.

Raiatea is also conveniently located just one hour by boat from Bora Bora, making it easy to combine both islands in your itinerary.

Hence, it’s no surprise that many tourists first visit Tahiti, then Bora Bora, and then Raiatea Island before flying back to Tahiti.

SOME STATISTICS about Raiatea:

• Surface area: 168 square kilometers (65 square miles): SECOND LARGEST island in French Polynesia (after Tahiti)
• Circumference: 60 km (37 miles)
• Highest peak: Mount Temehani (772 m = 2,533 ft)
• Districts: Uturoa (capital village), Taputapuatea, and Tumaraa.
• Two parts: Raiatea (the larger part) lies to the west, and Taha’a (occupying the same lagoon) lies to the east. Lonely Planet wrote an interesting piece on the difference between the two Polynesian islands.
• Population: 12,024 (2022)

👉 INSIDER TIP: Taha’a and Raiatea are considered “SISTER ISLANDS” because they are part of the same volcanic complex and share their lagoon with the famous coral gardens, which offer some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world.

Raiatea: What’s in a name?

Raiatea means “Clear sky,” reflecting the island’s sacred status among Polynesians.

In ancient Polynesian culture, the sky was a powerful symbol of guidance, enlightenment, and divine presence.

A “clear sky” symbolized an unobstructed path to the gods, fostering spiritual insight and safe passage for those departing on long canoe journeys.

Historically, Raiatea was home to the Taputapuātea marae, a ceremonial site where Polynesian navigators, priests, and chiefs gathered to perform rituals, seek wisdom, and set sail on oceanic voyages.

DID YOU KNOW: Raiatea is the sacred heart of Polynesia as it is the original homeland of the Polynesians, where the migration across the Pacific Ocean began to Hawaii and New Zealand. According to traditional histories, two Māori migration canoes left Raiatea for New Zealand in the late 13th Century or early 14th Century.

Why visit Raiatea?

Raiatea is our favorite island in French Polynesia. But WHY?

• 🌍 UNESCO World Heritage Site Taputapuātea marae: Explore this sacred Polynesian ceremonial platform, once important for spiritual ceremonies and voyaging traditions.

• 🏞️ Mount Temehani hike: Hike to the summit of this mountain, home to the rare Tiare Apetahi flower, which only blooms on Raiatea. The hike rewards you with panoramic views across the island and lagoon (see image). Mount Temehani shows you the Tiare Apetahi (and about 30 other endemic plants), a flower found nowhere else in the world.

• 💦 Faaroa River adventure: Kayak along French Polynesia’s only navigable river, surrounded by lush tropical nature and birdlife. The eastward-flowing Apoomau River rises in the 1017 m high Tefatoatiti,11, and flows into Faaroa Bay.

• 🌊 Lagoon excursions and snorkeling at the Coral Garden: Discover beautiful coral reefs and their marine life, ideal for snorkeling and spotting tropical fish in crystal-clear waters.

• 🚤 Day trips to nearby islands: Raiatea shares a lagoon with Taha’a, the Vanilla Island. A boat tour allows you to go to Tahaa Island on one trip.

• ⛵ Yacht charters and sailing: Raiatea is known as the sailing hub of French Polynesia, with several charter companies offering day or multi-day cruises through the islands.

• 🥾 Waterfall hikes: Explore hidden trails leading to THREE HIDDEN WATERFALLS such as Cascade de Faaroa, a peaceful spot perfect for cooling off after a hike.

Even the NZ Herald and the Financial Times recommend visiting Raiatea!

How to get to Raiatea Island

Reaching Raiatea Island from Tahiti or Bora Bora is straightforward, with flights and ferry services available. Here’s what you need to know:

Go to Raiatea Island by AIR

Air travel is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Raiatea.

• From Bora Bora:
  • Domestic flights with Air Tahiti operate daily.
  • Flight duration: 20 minutes.

• From Tahiti (Faa’a International Airport – PPT):
  • Air Tahiti offers direct flights to Raiatea.
  • Flight duration: 45 minutes.
  • Multiple flights are available throughout the week, making it flexible for travelers.

You can use our widget below to discover how expensive the prices are for your flight dates!

Go to Raiatea Island by FERRY

The Apetahi Express ferry connects Tahiti and Raiatea for a slower but scenic alternative.

• From Papeete (Tahiti’s capital):
  • Ferry duration: 5 hours.
  • Departures are available thrice weekly: Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

• Return from Raiatea to Tahiti:
  • Available Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.

👉 INSIDER TIP: The ferry is a great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly journey or want to enjoy Polynesian seascapes.

Where to Eat on Raiatea

Raiatea has some of the best food in all of French Polynesia. Below, you can find our five absolute must-visit restaurants:

• L’Auberge Polynesienne: Known for its traditional Tahitian cuisine, this charming restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu incorporating fresh, local ingredients.

• Opoa Beach Restaurant: Located by the sea, this restaurant provides an unforgettable dining experience with stunning views and serves exquisite seafood and international dishes.

• Te Vai Moana: Offering panoramic lagoon views, Te Vai Moana serves a fusion of local and international cuisine, emphasizing French and Polynesian flavors.

• Le Fare Vai Nui: This restaurant is celebrated for its romantic setting and offers a diverse menu that features Polynesian specialties alongside French culinary delights.

The best time to go to Raiatea Island

The ideal time to visit Raiatea Island is during the dry season, from May through October. This period offers the most pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty and enjoying outdoor activities.

Dry season (May – October)

During the dry season, you can expect:

• Sunny days with minimal rainfall.
• Comfortable temperatures: 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C), ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Lower humidity, making hikes, cultural sites, and exploring more enjoyable.
• Calmer seas provide optimal conditions for water-based activities like snorkeling, diving, and sailing.

The sea temperature remains inviting at around 79°F (26°C), perfect for swimming and lagoon excursions.

🕒 Daylight hours are generous during this period, with approximately 11 hours of sunlight each day. Sunrise typically occurs around 6 AM, while sunsets fall close to 6 PM, giving ample time for adventure and relaxation.

Wet season (December – March)

While Raiatea’s wet season doesn’t bring non-stop rain, it does involve:

• Frequent downpours, often in the afternoon or evening.
• Higher humidity can make hiking or exploring inland less comfortable.
• Increased risk of cyclones, particularly between January and March.

👉 INSIDER TIP: Despite the wetter conditions, the rainy season can offer some advantages:

• Fewer tourists mean lower accommodation prices and quieter attractions.
• The island’s vegetation flourishes, creating an incredibly lush and vibrant landscape for nature lovers.

Where to stay in Raiatea?

We stayed in the Raiatea Lodge Hotel during our 4-day stay in Raiatea.

However, we also provide you with mid-budget and budget accommodation options for your convenience.

Luxury: The Raiatea Lodge Hotel

• Price: $400-$550 (€370-€510) per night.
• Why stay here: Raiatea Lodge Hotel is located on the shores of Raiatea; this hotel blends colonial charm with modern comfort. You can unwind in the infinity pool overlooking the lagoon, enjoy gourmet dining on-site, and access exclusive tours for a memorable island experience. For extra privacy, book one of the seven stand-alone bungalows with private patios and stunning views of Bora Bora.

Boutique: Opoa Beach Hotel

• Price: $250-$350 (€230-€320) per night.
• Why stay here: Tucked away on Raiatea’s southern coast, the Opoa Beach Hotel offers a peaceful retreat with charming white wooden cottages along a secluded beachfront. Each cottage has a private terrace—perfect for enjoying ocean views and serene sunsets. The on-site restaurant serves fresh Tahitian cuisine, and the intimate setting makes it ideal for couples or those seeking a quiet getaway. Its convenient location provides easy access to the Taputapuātea marae and boat tours to nearby islands, blending relaxation with exploration.

Mid-Budget: Fare Oviri Lodge

• Price: $200-$250 (€185-€230) per night.
• Why stay here: Situated in a secluded area of Raiatea, Fare Oviri Lodge offers a unique blend of comfort and independence. Each private bungalow has stunning ocean views, a fully equipped kitchenette, and direct access to a private beach — perfect if you enjoy self-catering and exploring at your own pace.

Budget: Pension Les Trois Cascades

• Price: $70-$100 (€65-€90) per night.
• Why stay here: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, Pension Les Trois Cascades offers a genuine Polynesian experience with warm, family-run hospitality. It offers clean, comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Raiatea’s famous waterfalls. This cozy guesthouse is an excellent base for adventurers eager to explore the island’s lush landscapes and connect with the local culture.

Conclusion

Raiatea is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

This ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE will help make your trip to the island an unforgettable experience.

Plan your trip accordingly, enjoy the scenic views and luxury accommodations, practice safety precautions, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Let us know in the comments how your trip went!