Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts

As a retiree who has spent the last 30 years rarely traveling without working, finally having the time to explore the world at leisure has been a joy. After traveling extensively in most warm water locations around the world, I rarely write reviews. However, this will be my first review as I embark on retirement and start sharing my travel experiences. Five years ago, I experienced an unforgettable stay at Le Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort, and a recent Google photo reminder of that trip inspired me to book another stay. Unfortunately, I discovered that the resort is currently closed for renovations. Reflecting on my wonderful stay, I feel compelled to write the review I regretfully never wrote, to share the magic of this place and promote the exceptional service I received. From the moment I arrived, the journey to the resort felt like stepping back in time, reminiscent of embarking on a grand voyage in the 1800s. The airport transfer was a delightful throwback to a bygone era, which I thoroughly enjoyed, soaking in every moment of the unique experience. The overwater bungalows at Le Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort are a highlight. While the internet connection was slow, it didn't detract from the overall charm. The bungalows themselves are stunning and offer a unique stay over the tranquil waters. What truly sets Le Tikehau apart from other luxury resorts, like The Brando and the Four Seasons, is the exceptional service provided by the manager, Raupuni, and the entire staff. Sure the perks are at the top at the 5 star resorts but the remoteness, personalized attention and genuine hospitality made my stay unforgettable. Raupuni's dedication to ensuring every guest's comfort and satisfaction is unparalleled, elevating the resort experience beyond what I have encountered at other high-end establishments. While some guests may complain about the cost of fees,amenities and food, it is important to consider the logistics of providing U.S. luxuries in such a remote location. The resort successfully preserves an authentic Robinson Crusoe-like atmosphere, offering a desert island dream come true. During my stay at Le Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort, I opted for an overwater bungalow, having previously stayed in an overwater suite. The resort's beauty and isolation provide a perfect retreat, with the friendly and helpful staff enhancing the experience. This time, the internet connection was functional, though I hardly used it, preferring to immerse myself in the natural surroundings. The overwater bungalows are situated in shallow water, which has its pros with the ability to stand up and walk and sit in a lounge chair ouside your suite Some rocks and coral to the surface can be challenging, especially in strong currents so bring water shoes. Not far away is deeper, calmer waters where you can swim in a clear aquarium, surrounded by the wonders of the sea. The service at the resort was mostly wonderful, particularly at the reception and activities desk, where staff members have improved their English over the years. The spa staff, though not fluent in English, excel in their massage skills, making for a relaxing experience. The restaurant may fall short of your expectations. The food variety was limited. While some dishes, like the Jackfish and Pan Bagnat, were excellent, others, such as the Poisson Cru, were less impressive on some nights. Despite these very minor setbacks, the overall dining experience was enjoyable. Nature plays a significant role in the resort's appeal, offering stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters. One memorable excursion involved snorkeling with Manta Rays as they were being cleaned by the fish which was a highlight for my wife, who initially feared deep water. The resort's equipment, including kayaks, was in excellent condition, enhancing our activities. This attention to detail carefully assisting my wife contrasts with other luxury resorts like the Four Seasons in Bora Bora and the Sheraton in Moorea, which also lack the solitude and peaceful environment found at Le Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort. The atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago are unique and unlike anything found in the Society Islands. Their remote and pristine nature offers a different experience, characterized by peace and tranquility, away from the more commercialized areas of French Polynesia. The price for this tranquility, with fewer people around, means sacrificing some resort perks, food choices, and amenities. You trade the luxuries of typical resorts for a deeper connection with nature, where every moment feels raw and unfiltered. Here, you step into a different world, where time slows down, and the natural beauty reigns supreme, untainted by modern excess. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Le Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort as a supplement to high-end options like The Brando, Four Seasons Bora Bora.. The resort's tranquility, attentive staff, and overall quality of experience make it a top choice for a relaxing and memorable getaway.

Absolutely amazing place! So peaceful, everything you would expect in a tropical paradise. Staff amazing, great food, beautiful weather! Once in a lifetime experience unfortunately because that is all we could afford - to go once.

This is easily the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The clarity of the water, the healthy reefs and abundance of fish is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. The beach was so beautiful with pink sand and turquoise water, truly unbelievable! This was an amazing place to unwind and just enjoy nature. In the 4 days I was here I never felt bored, just at awe with everything surrounding me. Tikehau is the most beautiful place in the world in my opinion! The only reason I deducted one star is because I really couldn’t sleep. The beach bungalow is very spacious and comfortable in the day, however at night the AC would turn off on its own so I would wake up sweating. I did ask the hotel for a fan but unfortunately they didn’t have any left. Also, there are tons of huge lizards that crawl around the room, which is to be expected when everything is open air. However, as someone with an irrational fear of lizards I just couldn’t get past it and sleep peacefully! Other than that, I can’t fault the food, the staff, the service, or anything else for that matter!

we went on a family trip to French Polynesia this summer 2022 and had placed this superb hotel on stilts on our route. We hesitated with Bora Bora but really no regrets! I Bora Bora, the accommodations on stilts are very beautiful but they are all on top of each other, which takes away a little from the nature side alone in the world . Pearl Tikehau is the best hotel experience we have had to date, and yet we have done intercontinental in Bali, other Shangri-la, Hilton etc... but you will not find a better experience than this hotel. you are alone in the world on your piloti, swimming with fish all more beautiful than the other, sometimes sharks...🫣, the restaurant is delicious, you are living a real break in time! It is currently being renovated unless I am mistaken, but I recommend you with your eyes closed!

This place is stunningly beautiful. We are two families, four parents and four teenagers. We had two premium overwater bungalows and two regular bungalows for 5 nights. They were all very large and comfortable with big decks and outdoor showers. We travel fairly frequently (Australia, Europe, Caribbean and Hawaii) and this is one of the most beautiful places any of us has ever seen. Tons of fish and sharks! In fact one afternoon we were feeding the sharks hamburger off the deck and there were 5 of them! The only slight drawbacks are the lack of Wi-Fi in the rooms and the limited food selection. They do a great job with the food, but there is only so much variety they can offer. None of that was a real problem for us. The benefits far outweighed the slight drawbacks. If you are looking for a quite but breathtaking resort, this is the one for you!