Spotlight on Ra’iatea
Long revered as the birthplace of Polynesian culture, Ra’iatea—once called Havai‘i—holds a deep spiritual and historical significance.
Home to the great Marae Taputapuātea, this island was the religious and navigational center of the Polynesian Triangle, connecting distant lands like Hawai‘i, Aotearoa, and Rapa Nui.
With its lush landscapes, sacred sites, and the only navigable river in The Islands of Tahiti, Ra’iatea offers a rich blend of nature, myth, and legacy.
Today, it is also home to an amazing culinary scene and as the foodies that we are at Tahiti Islands Travel, we wanted to share our favorite experiences with you:
- Coffee and a pastry at Patisserie Bon Apetahi: Located along Uturoa’s scenic waterfront near the Raiatea Tourism Office, this beloved pâtisserie is known for serving some of the island’s finest breads and pastries. It’s the perfect place to pause your stroll through town, order a rich coffee and one of their signature éclairs (the vanilla is especially divine), and soak in the warm, easy rhythm of local life as you mingle with friendly faces.
- Dinner and a view: Dinner at Fish and Blue is an elevated experience. Set along the serene edge of the lagoon, this exquisite venue seamlessly blends exceptional cuisine with panoramic views and a curated boutique of unique finds. As the sun sets over the water, enjoy a refined menu in a setting where you can sip, savor, and shop—all in one beautifully designed space.
- Lunch feet in the sand? Yes please! At Opoa Beach Restaurant, each dish draws on fresh, local ingredients infused with global influences yet deeply rooted in island tradition. Thoughtfully prepared by Chef Lorenza and her dedicated team, each plate is brough to life with elegance and heart.
- The new kid on the block: Atipika’a is nestled in the embrace of Apatoa Beach & Garden Village. This lovely dining outlet offers a mindful culinary experience that honors both the land and its heritage. The menu blends locally inspired and international flavors in a farm-to-table concept, thoughtfully paired with a selection of fine wines—all crafted with sustainability in mind.
Photo credit : Restaurant Bon Apetahi, Retaurant Fish and Blue, Restaurant Apatikaa, Restaurant Opoa Beach