Manava Suite Resort Tahiti

The Manava Suite Resort is one of a few upscale properties in Tahiti, generally attracting one- or two-night travelers who are either just arriving to Tahiti or about to leave. We saw honeymooning couples, vacationing families, and groups of older friends during our visit, and the atmosphere was lively and laid-back. Most guests hang around the beautiful infinity with views of Moorea island in the distance, as well as the pool bar with a swim-up area and upbeat music playing. Decor here is contemporary and handsome, though the red, black, and white color scheme feels for Asian than Polynesian. Still, Polynesian headboard designs and photographs, and large wooden totems by reception add local flair. The lobby and Standard Rooms are in a building by the main road -- which can lead to noise issues -- and a pitched wooden walkway leads to the various suites and pool area. Grounds are well-manicured and full of lush greenery.

Note that the hotel is currently undergoing renovations on its beachfront area, slated to be completed July 4, 2018. In addition to being unsightly, construction can be noisy. Travelers are reportedly given a bar credit for the inconvenience, though it's only enough to cover about one cocktail. 

The Manava Suite Resort has a great waterfront location in Tahiti, set a 10-minute drive from Fa'a'ā International Airport for international or domestic flights. It's just a few minutes farther to reach the Papeete Ferry Point and popular market -- where produce and handicrafts are sold -- in the downtown area of Papeete. There are a few restaurants and an ATM within walking distance. Free parking is available on-site and staff can help arrange taxi transfers to the airport. 

Rooms here are all done in a similarly handsome, modern style consisting of dark-wood furniture, light-wood floors, and gray stone headboards. The red, black, and white color scheme feels more Asian than Polynesian, but Polynesian designs are found on headboard cutouts, bed runners, and some furniture, plus photographs of Polynesian dancers decorate the walls. Standard Rooms are in the same building as reception and overlook the street, meaning they suffer from noise and lack balconies. Amenities are sufficient though, consisting of flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, desks, air-conditioning, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and wardrobes with electronic safes (though ours lacked batteries and didn't work), ironing facilities, bathrobes, and sandal slippers. Bathrooms are excellent, housing rainfall showers and separate bathtubs, plus basic toiletries and hairdryers. Toilets are located in separate, small rooms. No water bottles are provided initially, but turndown service brings Evian bottles and delicious macarons. 

The Studios, Suites, and Apartment units are located closer to the waterfront, some with ocean views. Studios have up-to-date kitchenettes, sitting areas, and furnished balconies, while Suites and Apartments have full kitchens and separate living spaces, as well as terraces. 

A downside of the resort until July 2018 is that the beachfront area is currently undergoing renovations. Until that's completed, guests have stick to lounging by the lovely infinity pool, which has great views of Moorea and often travelers parasailing in the ocean. On one side of the pool is a sandy area lined with limited loungers and umbrellas, and a towel stand where guests have to exchange a card for their towel. The pool is big enough for swimming and has deep and shallow areas. It's a bustling spot thanks to kids splashing around and a bar with free-flowing cocktails.  Both a swim-up area and dining sets are available, and the pool bar offers happy hour beverages and light bites. 

The main Vaitohi Restaurant is open for set meal times, serving buffet breakfast and upscale a la carte fare for lunch and dinner. Expect lots of fish and meat options, plus some pastas. An indoor dining room and more pleasant garden area are available. Off the restaurant is a lounge that has bar and couch seating, and is open all day for beverages. 

Up one level from reception is a small spa that provides massage treatments, and a compact gym has a good range of cardio and strength-training equipment. A business center has a computer and shelves with books to borrow. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property.