Raiatea - all about the island of French Polynesia

Raiatea is one of the large leeward islands of French Polynesia. This vast green oasis with a volcanic past, high peaks, lush jungles and fertile valleys is called the cradle of Polynesian culture, evidenced by the ancient marae, sacred places of worship and sacrifice. The pride of local residents - a marae shrouded in legends Taputapuatea , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

General information about Raiatea

It is the second largest island in the Society Islands group. Raiatea means "distant heaven". It is considered the homeland of the ancient Maori people. The former name was Hawaii Nui . In all likelihood, this island appeared on the surface more than 2.5 million years ago. The first European to set foot on the coast was British explorer James Cook. Raiatea played an important role in the migrations of Polynesians throughout the Pacific Ocean and remains to this day an important historical center, witness to ancient traditions and culture. The main center of pilgrimage to Raiatea is the ancient temple complex of Taputapuatea .

Island area : 168 km², fourth largest island in Polynesia
Highest point : Mount Tefatoaiti - 1017 m
Population : more than 12 thousand
Cities : capital Uturoa
Distance from Tahiti : 230 km

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How to get to Raiatea

Raiatea can be reached from other major Polynesian islands - Tahiti , Moorea , Bora Bora or Huahine . From Tahiti and Moorea on a domestic flight, the flight will last about 45 minutes. Yachts sail here from the pier in Papeete . Well-known charter companies that offer trips to Raiatea - Dream Yachts Charter , Tahiti Yacht Charter , Sunsail . From Bora Bora and Huahine - no more than 20 minutes by plane on local airlines.

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Nature and geography of Raiatea

The large island of volcanic origin has the shape of a triangle. Raiatea from nearby Tahaa is separated by a 3-kilometer strait. Both islands feature lush tropical vegetation and mountainous landscapes, steep valleys, high waterfalls and shady gorges. There are practically no sandy coasts here. The shores are rocky and almost submerged by bright blue lagoons. Rare flora and fauna make these places a tasty morsel for scientists and naturalists. More than 30 species of endemic plants are found on the peaks. The symbol of Raiatea is the dawn flowers of the tiare apetahi , which can only be seen here.

The island's landscape is characterized by rugged peaks and steep coastlines with numerous motu (miniature islets in lagoons). On Motu you can find beautiful sandy beaches.

The island has the only navigable river in all of French Polynesia, the Faaroa River . According to legend, this was the main route for the migration of Polynesians to the shores of Hawaii and New Zealand.

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Raiatea Climate

One of the large islands of Polynesia has a tropical, humid climate. The average annual air temperature is 26-27°C. The driest and most comfortable weather for visiting occurs in August and September. Midwinter is the wettest season on Raiatea . Prices for excursions, cruises and transfers , depending on the weather, increase in the sunny summer months.

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What to see in Raiatea

Taputapuatea . The main historical assets of the island are the marae , in particular the temple complex of Taputapuatea . It was once the center of religious and political power in the Polynesian region. Today, communities in Hawaii, New Zealand and the Cook Islands make pilgrimages to the marae on Raiatea as they consider it the home of their sacred culture. In 2017, Taputapuatea was included in the list of UNESCO sites.

Avera Valley . North of the municipality of Opoa , in the south-eastern part of Raiatea there are further one , no less famous ceremonial site of the ancestors. Not far from these places, during archaeological excavations, the remains of ancient dwellings and workshops for the production of stone tools were discovered.

Marae in Tainuu . Northwestern coast of the island. The sacrificial sites, as well as petroglyphs, are well preserved here. In the 19th century, missionaries built a church alongside the marae .

Botanical Garden . In the valley of Faaroa Bay you can stroll through a small but very beautiful and well-kept garden. Botanical Garden named after Dima Lobanov on Raiatea . There are several equipped walking paths, picnic areas and a sea of blooming greenery. Free admission.

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Things to do in Raiatea

You can drive around the entire island along the coastline in a circle. Believe me, the journey will be picturesque and not crowded. This is a real Polynesian paradise, which the main stream of tourists bypasses due to the lack of a classic beach holiday on the sand.

Diving and snorkeling . Raiatea and Tahaa are loved by divers for the incredibly beautiful coral reef that the islands share. The underwater world of the surrounding lagoon and reef is rich in marine life. In addition to hundreds of different coral fish, numerous shellfish can be observed here. Very attractive reef grottoes and caves. The most favorite place among divers is the Octopus Grotto.
Canoe trip on the Faaroa River . An extended river of the deepest Gulf of Faaroa on the Polynesian islands . Boating among the green hills is one of the leading adventures that are offered to tourists here.
Yachting . Raiatea is deservedly considered the best place for yachting and sailing on the islands of Tahiti . The island has plenty of harbors with modern marinas.
Uturoa . The capital of the island is quite small and very cozy. Be sure to visit the city market to buy an authentic souvenir and try local delicacies.
Hiking or 4x4 travel in Temehani . If you're staying on the island, don't miss the opportunity to take the scenic route to the top of Temehani . The highest point is 700 meters. The surrounding views from above are simply mesmerizing. It is here that the white tiare apetahi flower grows , which I keep looking for at dawn.
Tahaa Island . Rent a catamaran for a trip to Vanilla Island. More than 80% of Tahitian export vanilla is grown here . You can visit aromatic plantations, a sugar cane processing and rum factory, a pearl farm and much more.

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Where to eat on Raiatea

Most food establishments are concentrated in the north of the island, near the airport.

Fish & Blue . One of the most sophisticated restaurants where you can appreciate local cuisine with an extensive menu of Polynesian, French dishes and seafood.
La Raie'Gate . A sophisticated spot for hearty lunches and romantic dinners in the capital of Raiatea .
Villa Ixora . A modern restaurant serving European and Polynesian cuisine, located on the waterfront in the center of Uturoa .
Opoa Beach Restaurant One of the most elegant establishments on the island. The restaurant is located on the premises of the Opoa Hotel Beach Hotel
Le Voile d'Or . Authentic Polynesian restaurant located near the airport.

Opoa Beach Hotel