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, whe

This is our second visit at the Pearl, this time staying in an overwater bungalow (last time was an overwater suite. The resort is beautiful and isolated and the staff is always friendly and usually helpful. This time the internet worked (not sure if that is a plus). The overwater bungalows are in very shallow water in a pass. This is both a positive and a negative, the plus is that if you are a marginal swimmer you can always stand up and walk. The minus is that the rocks and coral are so close to the surface that it’s hard to avoid them, especially when the current is heavy. I preferred the deeper, calmer water by the overwater suites. If this is your first time in French Polynesia, you will be amazed by the quantity and variety of fish, sharks and rays (note, we had to go on an excursion to see the rays). If this isn’t the first time you may be disappointed by the decrease in the number and variety of fish. It’s not the same atoll that Jacques Cousteau once visited. I’d love to say the service was wonderful and mostly it was. The staff in reception and activities was always pleasant and helpful and has definitely improved their English over the years. The staff in the spa may not speak much English, but they make it up with their massage skills. The restaurant was really the only thing that was lacking. The variety of food was minimal and in general the quality of the food and service was mixed. We had some very good dishes (Jackfish, Pan Bagnat, Gaspache Tomate) and some not so good (the Poisson Cru was far too sour and had too much onion), but mainly we’re just adequate. The service was mixed. We were always greeted nicely. The lady who handed out bread rolls was very attentive and I could have collected enough to build my own bungalow). One night, we wait about an hour between our starter and our main and the waitress apologised profusely. The next night I had to ask twice over a period of 20 minutes for a dessert menu and when I finally got it, they never came by to take my order. Note, we really enjoyed the restaurant, but compared to the rest of the resort it was lacking. Also note the best parts of the resort are provided by nature and she is fickle. Dennis took us out see the Manta Rays, Coral Garden and outside the reef and the conditions were great. We spent 10 minutes snapping close ups of a Manta including my wife who was afraid of the deep water. Dennis pulled her around by a PFD and it was the highlight of the trip for her. The next day, same locations and tour operators and the water was rough and murky for the Manta Rays, and too rough for the coral gardens. Back at the bungalows they warned us not to snorkel in the pass because of potential for large waves. One other note, all the equipment was in great condition. We took the kayaks out multiple times and everything was perfect. This is in contrast to the St Regis in Bora Bora where 9 years ago our paddle boat literally fell apart and I had to push it to shore by hand.