Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts

We (four adults and two kids) recently took a trip to Tikehau from Los Angeles, which we booked through Costco. It was our third visit to Tikehau and our ninth trip to Tahiti. We have made great memories in Tahiti over the years. Our original travel plan was from December 27, 2024, to January 4, 2025. However, when we were departing from Tikehau airport, our local transfer flight to Papeete was canceled due to a mechanical issue, leaving us stranded at the Tikehau airport without assistance. We tried to contact Costco Travel, but the agent was unhelpful and refused to assist us. We had to reach out to Air Tahiti and Air Tahiti Nui for three days until a wonderful lady from Air Tahiti Nui helped us book new flights. Unfortunately, we had to cancel some patients in our clinics due to this chaos. Typically, this situation might lead any tourist to vow never to return to a destination. However, during this ordeal, the new manager at the Tikehau Pearl Resort, Stefon, along with the assistant manager, Raipuni Hiriga, went above and beyond to help us. They assisted us in communicating with Air Tahiti and provided support throughout the situation. Their dedication and service exceeded anything we have experienced at other luxury hotels. We genuinely appreciate their help and hope the management at the Pearl Resort acknowledges their efforts. The resort itself is stunning and otherworldly—just like the staff. Another person we must thank is a lovely and down-to-earth French lady we met during our stay. She went out of her way to help us communicate with the airline and hotel in French when our flight was canceled, even while she was stranded at the airport and needed to change her own flight. Later, we discovered that she is Antonia Desplat, a talented and famous actress. Living in Beverly Hills and with my wife being the Vice Chair of Plastic Surgery at UCLA, we have encountered many self-proclaimed actors and actresses. Antonia, however, is genuinely a real person, and we will be following her work in the future. Eric, Chia, Richard and Sandy

The Le Tikehai By Pearl Resorts is an incredible experience! It is fascinating to stay on an atoll, and this one has tall coconut palms with pink sand. We loved being able to observe the birds flying by, snorkel right there in coral gardens with dozens of species of colorful fish, and even to watch the fishes, including sharks (harmless), from the beach and wooden walkways. The staff are warm, kind, generous, and helpful, starting with Stefan, who clearly loves his job supervising everything; all the waitstaff including delightful and welcoming Melanie; desk staff including Raupuni, who educated us about Tikehau and even repaired my husband’s delaminated Tevas; all the gardeners; and the boat captain who drove us and guided us at Motu Puarua (Bird Island). As a serious birder, I absolutely loved the nesting Noddies, Red-footed Boobies, and White Terns on Bird Island! Since the snorkeling tour was full, staff arranged for us to go on a private tour with Denis, which was fantastic. Our bungalow was on the beach, so we could sit in lounge chairs on our deck and enjoy the stunning view of the lagoon, or swim right there. Food was delicious: Breakfast included special touches like “detox” juice and coconuts with a straw to drink coconut water; Dinner often included a daily special, and desserts were excellent. I actually got tears in my eyes when the boat drove us away to go to the airport. That had never happened before.

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