Rangiroa is a natural gem in the Tuamotu Islands, Tahiti, a circular atoll ringing the second largest lagoon in the world. The Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa is a five-star property on the lagoon, and our jaws really do hang open when we see it. There are over-water bungalows but we choose a Pool Villa, which offers more privacy and plenty of space. The garden area is large, with the pool the highlight, along with a private undercover sitting area, sun beds, and an outside bath tub tucked away in a corner of the garden.
The lagoon has some pockets of coral and plenty of fish, but for the real deal, it is a short boat ride from the Hotel dock to the Aquarium – a natural area with brightly coloured coral and fish that are all colours of the rainbow. We snorkel as long as our friendly boatman will allow. Just around the corner from the Aquarium, the Tiputa Pass is one of the best dive spots in the world, famous for its drift diving and snorkelling, but we are too busy exploring the island on a hired scooter, swimming in the lagoon, and lazing in our pool. At the end of the day, we relax in the Te Miki Miki Bar which is over the water, drinking a Tahitian beer and watching the fish through glass windows in the floor or out over the deck. Magnifique!
