August 3 & 4, 2012
The reef off the west coast of Raiatea has a lot of land above water, creating islands, motus, and lagoons that gave it an otherworldly feel. On the south side of the island, the reef is mostly underwater, creating a bright blue band in the darker off-shore water. Few people live there, and it feels windswept and remote.
It was surprising to come across a pretty inn at the end of a bumpy turnoff leading to the ocean. This island is off the beaten path as it is, and then this inn is such on a remote part of it.
We’d discovered this place the previous day (on our circle-island trip) and liked it so much we brought our friends here after our waterfall hike. We only came for coffee but were delighted when those drinks were accompanied by a selection of homemade cookies!
I have to say they are pretty nice here at the ends of the earth. -Cyndi
