SD › Tahiti › Fenua Mata’i’oa Review
Updated: January 18, 2021
By Santorini Dave
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Hôtel Fenua Mata’i’oa – Dazzling décor, exquisite bayside setting, and out-of-the-way suburban feel.
These bungalows face an inlet and are located along a quiet residential street about two kilometers from Hauru village. From the narrow entrance, wooden walkways weave through jungle-like foliage to a home seemingly from a 1920’s film noir set. With dangling lights, plush sofas and ornate tables, it exudes a unique charm – not remotely Polynesian, but inviting nonetheless. From other seats along the communal sundeck, guests can spot (harmless) sharks and stingrays, all particularly prolific at sunset. One bungalow faces the sea, while the others are secluded behind lush ferns. Up to three meals a day can be included in the rates, and are worthwhile because the food is delicious and alternatives distant.
Hôtel Fenua Mata’i’oa – The Basics
- Location: Poorly signed in the suburban streets of an area called Tiahura, about 2 km from the center of Hauru village on the northwest coast of Moorea Island. About 25 km from the airport and 30 km from the ferry terminal for services to Tahiti.
- Guests: The setting, isolation, and décor would appeal more to older guests.
- Beach: There is no beach in front, but it faces a lovely inlet. Steps lead to the water which is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Views: 1 bungalow faces the water for unobstructed sea views, but the others are hidden among the gardens.
- Wi-Fi: Free use through the hotel.
- Parking: A few spots down the access lane. Otherwise, it should be safe to park along the street outside.
- How to Book: Booking.com will have the best rates.
- Phone: (689) 40 55 00 25
- Email: contact@fenua-mataioa.com
- Website: fenua-mataioa.com
Fenua Mata’i’oa Hôtel – Amenities
- Pool, Spa, & Fitness Center: Not expected or provided in this sort of small lodge.
- Private Pools/Jacuzzis: Not expected or provided in the rooms, but there’s a tiny jacuzzi surrounded by a wooden deck in the garden.
Fenua Mata’i’oa Hôtel – Food and Drink
- Restaurant & Bar: No restaurant is open to the public, but guests can pre-order breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner. The food is typically French and exquisite, much to the chagrin of locals who wish the chef would open a bistro. Drinks can be bought at the wooden counter and enjoyed in the extraordinarily garish lounge or on the sundeck facing the water.
- Breakfast: Not included in the rates, but half/full board offering breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner can be arranged when booking.
- Room Service: Not available because there is no restaurant.
Fenua Mata’i’oa Hôtel – Rooms
- Room Types: All individually named: Junior Reva Suite • Junior Hereiti Suite • Junior Supérieure Princesse Aimeho Suite • Presidentielle Princess Maimiti Suite • Prestige Princesse Lokelani Suite
- Smoking Rooms: No smoking is allowed anywhere in the hotel or around the gardens.
- Best Room: The Prestige Princesse Lokelani Suite oozes charm, with a traditional design of bamboo and pandanus. Also featuring an atrium garden, huge bathroom, private terrace packed with furniture overlooking the inlet, and mod-cons like air-conditioning and cable TV.
Fenua Mata’i’oa Hôtel – What’s Nearby?
Best Nearby Restaurants & Bars
The hotel is isolated, so there’s very limited choice within walking distance. Some places in Hauru Village (2-3 km away) offer free transfers.
- Taoahere Beach House – ext to the lodge, with a similar waterside setting. For seafood, grills, salads and burgers. Lots of desserts. Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch; also Friday and Saturday for dinner.
- Holy Steak House – 1 km away and opposite the entrance to the InterContinental. Up a slight hill for views, and open all day. Also for seafood and pizzas. Hearty serves, happy hours and takeaways. Free transfers.
- Beach Bar & Restaurant – At Hôtel Les Tipaniers about 1 km down the road towards Hauru. Seaside and garden settings for seafood, pizza, homemade pasta, and ice cream. Live music on weekends and free transfers.
- QG Brasserie – In Le Petit Village at Hauru, 2 km down the road. Open-air, friendly, and affordable for pizza, grills, and paninis. Expat hangout and congenial bar.
- Le Motu – Laidback and eclectic menu: pizzas, tacos, crêpes, sandwiches, burgers, and Chinese food. More affordable than rivals, with daily specials. Just before Le Petit Village.
Nearby Market or Grocery
- The counter at the lobby sells basic supplies. Otherwise, there are a couple of convenience stores in Hauru village, about 1.5 km away.
Local Transport
No public transport around Moorea Island, but 4 or 5 buses run daily between Hauru village and the ferry terminal (but not the airport) to tie in with arrivals/departures. Ask the reception for details. To the village, walk, hitch a ride, or organize an unmetered taxi. For elsewhere, rent a car or motorbike.
Fenua Mata’i’oa Hôtel – The Hotel
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About Santorini Dave
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 by a guy who loved Greece, travel, and great hotels. We're now a small team of writers and researchers on a mission to deliver the most helpful travel content on the internet. We specialize in Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and Greece and recommend the best hotels, best neighborhoods, and best family hotels in top destinations around the world. We also make hotel maps and travel videos. I can be contacted at dave@santorinidave.com.