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Tahaa is known as the Vanilla Island and is so named because of the many plantations that grow this sweet, fragrant plant. The aroma of the island's "black gold" seems to permeate the air.
Tahaa was settled by Maohi prisoners several hundred years ago and was once named Uporu.
For many years Tahaa was the unknown quiet little sister island to Raiatea and sat overlooked by Bora Bora. But without much fanfare, Tahaa began to grow. It now has about three dozen black pearl farms found along the white sand beaches of the motus (islets). Tahaa is also home to one of the most luxurious resorts in the South Pacific, Le Tahaa Private Island and Spa (the only Relais and Chateaux property in the South Pacific).
Because Tahaa has only recently grown, it offers no airport, so arriving on the island is by boat or helicopter charter. Tahaa is able to offer visitors a glimpse of traditional Tahitian life. Coral reefs surround the flower shaped island and its multicolored lagoons. Amazing to see just how many shades of blue Tahaa has to offer!
The islands small population (approximately 4000 inhabitants) offer warm and friendly hospitality and you will find that wherever you go, people will wave and smile at you. This is an island that goes at its own unhurried pace.
With its deep bays and small deserted beaches, Tahaa is THE place to escape the 21st century. Here you can picnic on an isolated beach or hike in the mountains. Visit the vanilla plantations to learn the mystery of this aromatic plant. Or simply sit back and soak up the sun.
Whatever you decide, Tahaa is a place of un-spoilt beauty and still manages to maintain a genuine flavor of French Polynesia.
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