Many of us dream of a luxury honeymoon in an exotic location such as The Islands of Tahiti – and that doesn’t have to be out of reach. Although known for its luxe overwater bungalows, a Tahiti honeymoon doesn’t have to break the bank.
Here are a few tips for budget savvy lovers to make a Tahitian honeymoon a reality:
- Look beyond the iconic overwater bungalows for your accommodation. There’s plenty of options across the islands from hotels, pensions and even campsites.
- Immerse yourself in true Tahitian culture by staying in a pension (guesthouse) or with a local family. This is a great – and cost-effective – way to experience the local cultures; you can find hidden gems around the islands, and learn about traditions and handicrafts. Have a look at the likes of Maupiti Residence or Pension Paparara on the north side of Fakarava, or Pension Ariitere on the north-west side of Huahine. There’s also Cocoperle Lodge on the almost-untouched atoll, Ahe, which offers pensions and thatched-roof bungalows crafted entirely out of local materials.
- Wrap your arms around your man and take off sight-seeing on a scooter, or hire bikes to get around.
- If you’re an adventure-seeking couple, why not try camping on the islands? This is a really great way to experience the beauty and nature of the islands on a smaller budget. Bring your camping equipment or buy locally when you arrive and you can settle straight in. On the north side of Rangiroa, there’s a family run campsite called Nanua Camping, or you could try Camping Hiva Plage on Huahine. Larger islands like Moorea and Bora Bora both have beautiful camping spots too.
- Ask about all-inclusive and half board packages at hotels, so that some or all of your meals are included in the price – and are paid for long before you step foot on a plane.
- Choose activities that require little or no expense. Pack a locally sourced picnic and set off on a day trip to explore the largest atoll of The Islands of Tahiti, Rangiroa. Renowned for its breathtaking diving spots, you will be blown away by the abundance of colour in this huge lagoon. With beautifully pink sandy beaches formed from the natural crushing of seashells, take your picnic to one of the deserted islets, relax and enjoy the truly enchanting setting. Or hike your way around the main island of Tahiti, with peaks offering incredible views.
- Eat at one of the many food trucks dotted around Papeete’s Place Vai’ete before you leave The Islands of Tahiti for your final fill of poisson cru and French crêpes. With a truly amazing choice, find your favourites, take a seat at the picnic tables and listen to the live music playing in the background.
- If you’re honeymooning between July and November, head to the lesser known island of Rurutu. Offering exquisite views from both land and water, you will be lucky enough to see families of Humpback whales arriving to give birth or mate. The island landscape is also great for its hiking trails, majestic peaks and archeological sites including limestone caves that were originally tombs for islander’s ancestors.
Whether it’s peace and tranquillity or an adventure-filled honeymoon you’re looking for, The Islands of Tahiti offer a huge range of possibilities with all budgets in mind. Each of the 118 Islands of Tahiti has something magical that will take your breath away. With beautiful scenery, clear blue water and myriads of sea life surrounding the islands, there is something for every couple and every budget. In fact, the toughest decision for any soon-to-be newlyweds is which of the stunning islands to call home for your honeymoon and which activities to dive into when you arrive.
