12 Top-Rated Resorts in Tahiti

byCassandra Angelie
The word "Tahiti" conjures visions of overwater bungalows atop sparkling turquoise waters, luxurious accommodations, and endless fun under clear skies surrounded by pristine nature. The top resorts here blend in with the surroundings, with thatched roofs and winding boardwalks connecting villas over the water. Some resorts are located on private islands, giving guests an exclusive experience found nowhere else.

French Polynesia's popular islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora are in the middle of the South Pacific, but they aren't as far away as they seem. Commonly referred to as the Islands of Tahiti, they can be reached within eight hours from the western United States.

The main island of Tahiti, with its capital in Papeete, is a good place to start your journey, with a stay at one of the 5-star resorts, followed by a short ferry ride to the more rugged Moorea, whose top-notch resorts line the northern coast facing the iconic Magic Mountain. Home to the legendary Mt. Otemanu, Bora Bora is known for its glamorous, romantic accommodations that embrace the island's coves and surrounding atolls.

Celebrate a new romance or a special anniversary on the sun-drenched, sandy beaches; rekindle romance as you swim in tranquil lagoons; snorkel with manta rays and technicolor fish; and hike the forests. Back at the luxury resorts, indulge in Polynesian spa treatments, dine at specialty restaurants, and watch the sun set behind jagged peaks from the comfort of your beachside retreat or overwater villa. Here are some of the top resorts in the tropical paradise of Tahiti.

1. Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Photo Source: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Accommodation: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Nestled in a private cove of white sand and lava rock, the 5-star, newly renovated Conrad Bora Bora Nui rises from the middle of crystalline waters protected by a string of small islets. The overwater bungalows are a dream, with soaking tubs and indulgent comforts opening up to serene waters. The 3,330-square-foot infinity pool of the resort blends into views of the lagoon. The resort features four restaurants, a fitness center, a hilltop spa with al fresco treatment areas, WiFi, and a Kids' Club. The King Pool Overwater Villas come with a private pool and deck.

At the Polynesian Dinner and Show, French Polynesia's culture is brought to life in a spectacular fire and dance show presented alongside a buffet dinner. On some nights, you can partake in the Ahi Ma'a dinner, made in a Tahitian oven in the sand.

Address: BP 502 Vaitape, 98730, French Polynesia

2. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Photo Source: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora


Immerse yourself in modern comforts in overwater bungalow suites and beachfront villas at this family-friendly resort on the coral atoll of Motu Tehotu. This uber luxury resort features 100 overwater suites (15 with plunge pools) and seven beachfront villa estates set amid a vast tropical grove with coconut and pandanus trees.

Rooms and suites are designed with thatched roofs and decorated with local artwork. One-, two-, and three-bedroom villas can accommodate up to six adults. The oceanfront spa offers Asian-, Polynesian-, and Western-inspired treatments.

Address: Motu Tehotu BP 547, 98730, French Polynesia

3. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

Photo Source: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort


The Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is set on a secluded beach within a protected marine area on the eastern side of Moorea, close to the Temae airport and Vaiare ferries. It offers 113 sleek bungalows, built with natural materials, directly over the water, on the beach, or in the gardens.

The overwater bungalows are some of the largest on the island, coming in one- to two-bedroom villas with multiple bathrooms, a lounge, deck, outdoor Jacuzzi, and direct access to the lagoon.

The Pure restaurant puts on traditional dance shows nightly, and guests can dine barefoot in the sand at the K restaurant under a cathedral ceiling made of Kahaia wood.

Address: B.P. 28, Moorea, Maharepa 98728, French Polynesia

4. The Brando

Photo Source: The Brando

Accommodation: The Brando

Inspired by the philosophy and vision of the legendary actor Marlon Brando, this resort on the star's former private island, is breathtaking. It combines luxury with environmental sustainability and is considered one of the finest eco-friendly resorts in the world.

Located on the Tetiaroa atoll 30 miles northeast of Tahiti, the resort is 100 percent energy efficient and supports a number of conservation initiatives. Rest assured that money spent here is going to a good cause.

The all-inclusive resort features 35 beachside villas with private plunge pools and luxurious furnishings reflecting Polynesian lifestyle and culture. The calm waters facing the villas attract an array of wildlife, such as turtles, manta rays, and exotic birds.

Address: Tetiaroa, Arue 98702, French Polynesia

5. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Photo Source: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa


Set against a beautiful backdrop of mountains in between two bays, the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa provides a perfect spot to admire both the sunrise and sunset from the comfort of your overwater accommodations. The resort is 15 minutes from the airport or ferry dock, and has 104 air-conditioned beach and overwater bungalows, with terraces and glass floor viewing panels (some come with plunge pools).

On-site, treat yourself to spa treatments with indigenous ingredients, dine privately by candlelight on the beach, enjoy the three restaurants, stay fit at the fitness center, and swim in the infinity-edged pool.

Address: Bp 1005, Papetoai 98728, French Polynesia

6. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

Photo Source: InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa


The Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa features the world's first overwater glass floor wedding chapel and sits on its own islet of Motu Piti Aau.

This world-class resort offers spectacular mountain and lagoon views from its spacious overwater villas. The villas have child safety features, and guests can take advantage of a Nanny Service and Kids Program.

The centerpiece is the Deep Ocean Spa, and the resort comes with three restaurants and a saltwater pool. Fill your vacationing days canoeing, kayaking, and snorkeling in the warm tropical waters. Regular boat transfers to the main island are provided to the sister property of InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana.

Address: Motu Piti Aau, 98730, French Polynesia

7. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Photo Source: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort


The private island resort of St. Regis Bora Bora exudes luxury, with a 24-hour butler service and overwater villas over crystal-clear waters. Sitting amid 44 acres of lush landscapes and powdery-sand beaches on Motu Ome'e, this slice of paradise features the huge Miri Miri spa and a restaurant by Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

The large bedrooms come with king-size beds and spacious terraces with private dining gazebos overlooking the lagoon. Two-bedroom overwater villas are available for families and friends traveling together. The resort has a Kids Club, two pools, four restaurants, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning.

Address: Motu Ome'e BP 506, 98730, French Polynesia

8. Le Taha'a by Pearl Resorts

Photo Source: Le Taha'a by Pearl Resorts


Located on the secluded Motu Tautau, this intimate luxury resort is part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection. Facing the island of Taha'a, the location of the coral garden is ideal for snorkeling Tahiti's marine-rich waters.

Inspired by traditional Polynesian architecture and style, the resort's 60 suites and villas welcome guests to experience island life in harmony with the natural environment.

The resort provides butler service, cultural activities, a fitness center, meal plan, nanny service, outdoor showers, a spa, Wi-Fi, and three restaurants.

Address: Motu Tautau BP 67 Patio, 98733, French Polynesia

9. Manava Beach Resort & Spa- Moorea

Photo Source: Manava Beach Resort & Spa-Moorea


Located near Cook's Bay, the Manava Beach Resort & Spa in Moorea provides an array of accommodations in an idyllic setting, including family-friendly duplexes, overwater bungalows, and garden bungalows with private plunge pools. Each bungalow has an outside terrace with comfortable loungers, and the overwater bungalows have direct access to the lagoon.

The hotel's accommodations are decorated in Polynesian style, and on-site amenities include a pool, spa, meal plan, bed and breakfast packages, and two restaurants. On Saturdays, the resort invites guests to enjoy a night of Polynesian culture with traditional dances and a delicious buffet.

Address: BP 3410, Maharepa 98728, French Polynesia

10. InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

Photo Source: InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa


Just minutes from the Fa'a'a International Airport and downtown Papeete, the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa sits on 32 acres of tropical gardens alongside a picture-perfect lagoon with views of Moorea on the horizon. It offers two restaurants, including the overwater Le Lotus.

The resort also has two sizeable infinity pools set amid indigenous plants and towering palm trees, a lagoonarium teeming with colorful fish, a Deep Nature Spa, and fitness center. Jet Ski rentals and diving equipment are also available.

Address: Pointe Tata'a, Faa'a 98702, French Polynesia

11. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

Photo Source: Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts


On Tevairoa motu, just a 10-minute boat ride from Bora Bora's airport and 15 minutes by boat from the main village, Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts is another heavenly choice in a gorgeous lagoon setting. Expect traditional Polynesian decor and architecture, along with 5-star luxury throughout this beautiful property, which also boasts well-maintained, tropical grounds.

Choose from a number of lodging options including the island's hallmark overwater bungalows. If these are out of your price range, the garden and beach villas cost less and come with private pools. There are also traditional rooms available, and the resort is family-friendly.

Amenities include three restaurants serving international cuisine with Polynesian influences. There is also a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a spa with a full range of services here. Most guests, however, spend the day floating in or traveling around the stunning turquoise lagoon on a guided excursion that the hotel can set up.

Address: Motu Tevairoa Bp 169, 98730 French Polynesia

12. Vahine Island - Private Island Resort & Spa

Photo Source: Vahine Island - Private Island Resort & Spa


On a private island not far from Raiatea, Vahine Island Resort & Spa is an intimate and romantic getaway. The adults-only property has just a few dozen rooms in the form of beachfront suites and bungalows and overwater bungalows.

Popular with honeymooners, the overwater bungalows are built on stilts over the lagoon and have a section of glass-bottom floor for viewing fish. You can also access the lagoon directly from your private deck.

Set apart from the other bungalows, the Villa Royale is what to book if you are traveling in a group. The spacious 6-room villa on a separate motu can sleep 12 people. It features its own infinity swimming pool and Jacuzzi facing the sea.

Spend your days being lazy on the private beach, snorkeling in the lagoon, or trying your skills at rowing a Polynesian pirogue. The 23-acre island is also fun to explore on foot. The restaurant here gets consistently good reviews for food quality. And there is a spa if you are in need of some pampering.

To get to this resort, you catch a flight to Raitea from Papeete and then take a 35-minute shuttle boat ride to the island. Helicopter and sea plane transfers are also offered.

Address: Motu Tuvahine Hipu, 98733 French Polynesia


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