FAFARUA LODGE

Our family of 4 had an unforgettable time at Fafarua. We are an active family with pre-teens, and we were all so sad to have to leave after our six day stay. Everyday we fell asleep to the sounds of the ocean just outside our window, and we rose with the sun to a beautiful breakfast spread by Eva, and then we would go about on our daily adventure. Patrick will take you anywhere you like on his boat and he always had excellent recommendations based on our needs and weather for the day. The water is such an unbelievable shade of bright turquoise blue, and the picture-perfect sandy beach is perfect for relaxing. We really enjoyed the (partial) new dock when we were there. It will be stunning upon completion, as some major construction was scheduled to occur the day we left including the addition of wood walkways and paths, sitting areas, and covered outdoor structures. We swam, snorkeled, explored the motus, explored the channels, kayaked, and fished (catch and release) and made memories to last a lifetime. You have your pick of kayaks and standup paddle boards (all in great condition), and beach loungers at your disposal. We spent a majority of our time fishing at various locations on shore or snorkeling in the channels. Having the company of Shadow, Rabat, and Socrates, the resident dogs, on our hiking or snorkeling adventures was an unexpected but welcome treat. The marine life is so abundant that every where you turn you are bound to see a new type of fish or a skittish black-tipped reef shark swim by. We saw stingrays, groupers, trevally, octopus (octopi?), numerous types of fish and a rainbow of healthy coral in water that was clearer than any aquarium. Our kids loved exploring the tide pools and snorkeling the channels, as well as discovering all kinds of wildlife (they were especially fascinated by the hermit crabs and geckos). One evening as the sun was setting we encountered a school of horse mackerel feeding and jumping onto shore, all within easy reach for my kids to catch by hand but of course we returned them to the sea. We did save a few for breakfast the next day, which Eva prepared to perfection for us. On another evening we caught a glimpse of a couple of octopuses in the shallows by the dock, which my son was really excited to witness in the wild for the first time in his life. Fafarua is a perfect place for families looking for active water pursuits, relaxation, or just privacy and a time to disconnect from modern life. Wifi was fast and available if you need it, but why would you when you are in paradise? The villa is roomy and can sleep about 8 people comfortably. The main villa has a sleeping porch, two bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, spacious and comfy fare potee (outdoor lounge) and a dining room with a large dining table, and a spacious outdoor bathroom. In the adjoining building is a master bedroom with a separate entrance, which includes an ensuite and outdoor shower. The beds were comfortable, and the mosquito nets were a necessity when we visited because there were numerous mosquitoes and flies. Thankfully we brought plenty of repellent and they also provided many options for bug repellent if we needed it. Fans are provided, but do not come here expecting air conditioning or sealed windows and doors to keep out any unwelcome critters, which we knew to expect in a tropical destination. The highlight of our stay were our gracious hosts, Patrick and Eva, as well as their loyal canine companions whom we all were happy to shower with love and cuddles as we tremendously missed our own dog at home. We were spoiled by the meals lovingly prepared by Eva, especially her fantastic homemade desserts! Patrick is a fantastic teacher and tour guide, he was a wealth of information and knowledge of everything that the motus and the ocean has to offer. We would not hesitate to come back and truly hope that someday we do, we would love to see the new additions to the already gorgeous property. Tips: bring reef shoes, sun protection, meds/first aid, and plan for seasonal weather!

I think this is the best place my husband and I have visited in the last 17 years of traveling. We saw Fafarua Private Island on a youtube video but the name of the place was not mentioned. I looked until I found it and was so excited to book some time here. The owner Patrick picked us up at the airport with a nice greeting and took us on a ride in their van to a beautiful boat to get us to the island. He took the longer route going close to the shore so that we could see more of Tikehau and it's Moto's. So much beauty. When we arrived Eva and their sweet dogs were there to greet us. The island was very beautiful and welcoming. The house was large with a few bedrooms, kitchen, dining and large living area that had open windows to enjoy the fresh air. The fridge was well stocked with juices, beer and wine. We choose to stay in the added bedroom with it's own private toilet and outdoor shower. We loved the open windows to sleep with the air blowing through and the view that we woke up to. Meals were wonderful. Eva made the best eggs, bread and pancakes, lunch as well as dinner was always fresh fish, veggies etc that was so delicious. Our last night had a farewell barbecue of lobster cooked the traditional way which was very educational. Patrick would talk to us each morning to discuss the weather and gave us choices to where we could take a morning excursion depending on the weather. We went to Bird Island Pink Sand Beach, did not see but went to where the ManaRays were and went snorkeling. Patrick educated us on many things on the islands and made us realize how special Fafarua Private Island is. It was nice to understand how everything works together to make the island livable. I now appreciate the coconut tree more than ever. We loved hearing stories of Patrick and Eva and how they ended up here and what they have done to stay here. You can fill up your day walking, swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding to each moto to explore and snorkel to see all the wonderful, beautiful fish or just relax and enjoy your surroundings and privacy. We hope to be able to go back and visit again. Love Fafarua Private Island. Thank you Patrick and Eva on making this our best stop ever.

Our stay at Fafarua Lodge was a wonderful escape to a place of relaxation and magic. Patrick and Evaline looked after all of our needs while giving us time and space to explore the island on our own. From the moment we were picked up at the Tikehau Airport until we were taken back there at the end of our stay we were amazed at the sights, scents and sounds. From watching an amazing sunset on the boat-ride to the island, to fantastic home cooked meals every day, to daily excursions and thousands of stars overhead, it was a magical place. Daily trips to explore the geology of the reef, go birdwatching in the middle of the atoll and go snorkelling amongst the fish were fantastic ways to spend the mornings. After a fresh lunch, the rest of the day was ours to enjoy. We swayed back and forth in hammocks, relaxed on the beach, walked around the island, went snorkelling right off the beach, went out on kayaks and paddleboards. There was always something to do. Bring your camera - stars, the sun, the moon, clouds, palm trees, hermit crabs, offer so many opportunities. We had a fantastic stay.

Une expérience hors du commun et des rencontres que je n'imaginais pas en venant a fararua lodge. Patrick est un véritable puit de science et connait son motu et ses environs comme sa poche. C'est un amoureux de la Polynésie et saura vous faire partager cet amour. Evaline reine de la cuisine , chaque plat présenté est un tableau pour les yeux et une explosion de saveurs pour les papilles. Si vous avez l'occasion de venir en Polynésie c'est l'adresse a ne surtout pas manquer. Pour ma part c'est sur je reviendrai.

Patrick and Eva are wonderful hosts and have thought of every detail. There are hammocks, outdoor dining area, books to read, snorkel equipment, paddle boards, an outdoor swing, palm trees and delicious meals. The have a new boat with cushions and is a comfortable ride. Patrick will take you on an excursion a day. He wants you to enjoy your excursions and is great planning where to go and when to meet for the optimal boat excursion. We went to a great snorkel location. Their motu location is beautiful surrounded by the lagoon and the sea. You have the luxury of being the only people there. No loud music, cars, drones….just the sound of the sea. The meals are delicious. From fresh fruit, salads and delicious fish, and dessert, Eva is an excellent chef. Eva made this banana pie with a light crust it was wonderful! My husband said Eva has spoiled him with her tuna poisson crue. He s right, it was fantastic! He enjoyed every single bite. Our house was spacious had a great breeze and fan too. The shower was beautiful. The snorkeling is excellent there and pretty coral. We had a fantastic time and highly recommend this wonderful paradise with wonderful hosts.