However, you will discover a palate-pleasing variety of native dishes and Chinese, French, and American cuisine. You'll delight in the abundance of seafood, tropical fruits, and fresh vegetables. You can eat at fine restaurants or outdoor cafes, partake of Polynesian feasts and beach barbecues, and even arrange gourmet picnics on secluded motu. Millions of years ago, underwater volcanic action in the Pacific created flows of lava that eventually reached the surface of the ocean to become lush tropical islands, such as Tahiti and Moorea. Other islands actually sank over eons, leaving huge lagoons surrounded by coral barrier reefs, called atolls, such as Rangiroa and Manihi.
Archipelagoes are groups of islands and atolls.
The overwater bungalows are uniquely Tahitian. Perched on sturdy pilings, some travelers go to Tahiti just to experience these exotic quarters, where glass coffee tables often provide an incredible view of the clear lagoon waters and colorful fish below. You may even be able to feed the fish by sliding back the coffee table and flipping a light switch to attract your underwater neighbors. Room service to your private retreat on the water may be by canoe. All of the 26 properties our tour operators offers reflect the distinctive character of their locations and heritage, with many designed and built using bamboo, palm fronds, and thatched roofs.