One of my favorite things about travel is that feeling of curiosity and excitement when stepping off the plane after arriving at a new destination. This is one of the reasons I like visiting the Islands of Tahiti so much. In the islands, you do not have to travel far to get that feeling of visiting a new and diverse destination. Just do a little island hopping among the 118 islands in French Polynesia.
Each island has its own unique personality and offers so many different experiences. I can still taste the sweetest and freshest pineapple I’ve ever had while on a 4x4 excursion in Moorea. Often when I am on the water, wherever I may be, I can almost feel the gentle sensation of drifting through the coral gardens in Taha’a. Oh, and the smell of vanilla always takes me back to Domaine Pari Pari, a local rum distillery on Taha’a (I highly recommend stopping by for a taste of their vanilla infused Tahitian rum – simply delicious).
Our Favorite Overwater Bungalows in Tahiti
As distinct as each atoll, motu, or island can be, they do share a few things in common with each other. Namely, the sun, the sea, and those captivating overwater bungalows. As a follow up to our post highlighting the Top 5 Overwater Bungalows in Bora Bora for 2023, we will continue our journey through the other islands in Tahiti by highlighting the overwater bungalows we have fallen in love with on our travels.
Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts
Enjoying the sunrise from an Overwater Suite at Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts
Although, only an hour’s flight from the main island and international airport, you will feel like you have found the most peaceful spot in the world. Le Tikehau is known for its pink sand beaches, diving and, of course, amazing snorkeling.
"In our opinion, The Overwater Suites at Le Tikehau are positioned perfectly for the best snorkeling on the island, right from your deck. In addition to the sumptuous views, these suites are all air conditioned (not every room type is)."
Location: The resort is located on the serene atoll of Tikehau about 200 miles northeast of the main island of Tahiti.
How to Get There: First, fly to the main island of Tahiti, which is an easy overnight flight from Los Angeles or San Francisco. Upon arrival in Tahiti, a short inter-island flight, and a quick boat ride will deliver you to Le Tikehau.
Nightly Rates: From $644 USD per night ($1,041 for the Overwater Suite)
How to Book:
VIP Custom Travel Planning - For comprehensive travel planning and expert advice on a personalized itinerary, feel free to contact one of our Tahiti Specialists.
Self-Booking Options – If you prefer booking your own travel, we understand. This link will take you straight to the resort’s booking page on Booking.com.
For quick and affordable advice on your self-booking options, or to answer any questions you may have on transfers or recommended excursions, feel free to arrange a 15-30 minute Advisory Session with one of our Tahiti Specialists.
Vahine Private Island Resort & Spa
The Three Overwater Bungalows perched over the lagoon at Vahine Island
When I first stepped onto the narrow wooden pier at Vahine, I could tell the resort and island were one-of-a-kind. Each of the nine bungalows at Vahine is unique and contains handmade furniture from native wood found on the island.
"The Overwater Bungalows at Vahine are a treat. They feature a private ladder to the lagoon and a glass bottom viewing table. But, most of all, the quiet beauty of the surroundings immediately lulls you into complete relaxation. Book early as there are only three of them."
Self-Booking Options – As of the date of this article, Vahine Island is not accepting new reservations through the online booking sites that we checked. However, they are accepting reservations through the resort’s website.
Arrange a 15-30 minute Advisory Session with one of our Tahiti Specialists for any self-booking or travel planning questions.
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Basking in the Polynesian Sun at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
The Hilton Moorea is quite a contrast to Vahine mentioned above as it is a much bigger resort. However, given its expansive beach and the size of the grounds, we still get the feeling of isolation and privacy when visiting.
"At the Hilton the Panoramic Overwater Bungalows have long been a favorite of our team and our clients. My personal favorite is the Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalow as they offer better views and a tad more privacy than the standard rooms."
Location: The resort is located on the lush, green island of Moorea, just across the “Sea of Moons” from the Island of Tahiti.
How to Get There: Moorea is one of the most accessible islands in Tahiti. After an overnight flight from California, you can hop on over to Moorea via inter-island flight, helicopter, or high-speed catamaran.
Nightly Rates: From $499 USD per night (from $859 for the Panoramic Overwater Bungalow)
Self-Booking Options – Click here for the resort’s booking page on Agoda.
For seasoned advice on excursions, restaurants, or transfers, schedule an Advisory Session with one of our Tahiti Specialists.
Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Beach Resort
Honeymooners enjoying the crystal clear lagoon at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
There is something about the Sofitel Kia Ora at night. After sunset, I am always overcome by the romance and Polynesian charm of this resort. It is such a beautiful place with the torch lights and candles flickering (not to mention the incredible restaurant, “K”, which comes alive after dark).
"While we love the romance and cozy feel of all the overwater bungalows here, the “Luxury” bungalows are our overall favorite. These rooms are larger than the “Superior” bungalows and the decks are twice the size! Plus, the Horizon view puts you right at the end of the pontoon giving you excellent views, and enhanced privacy."
Location: This resort is also located on the mountainous island of Moorea.
How to Get There: After arriving in Tahiti, Moorea can be reached via inter-island flight, helicopter, or high-speed catamaran.
Nightly Rates: From $455 USD per night (from $749 for the Luxury Overwater Bungalow)
How to Book:
VIP Custom Travel Planning - For a personalized itinerary, contact one of our Tahiti Specialists through this link and let us do the heavy lifting for you.
Self-Booking Options – Visit the resort’s booking page on Booking.com.
For quick advice, arrange an easy and affordable Advisory Session with one of our Venture Tahiti experts.
Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa
Welcoming the evening on the deck of an overwater bungalow at Hotel Kia Ora
While only an hour from the main island, Hotel Kia Ora offers something unique and all its own. The authenticity of the Rangiroa atoll and its huge lagoon (the size of the Island of Tahiti) will make you feel like you are in another world.
"At Kia Ora, the overwater bungalows feature a large terrace, sundeck, and a private swim platform for easy access to the lagoon. Inside, there is a glass floor panel (“Tahitian TV”) to observe the mesmerizing sea life below."
Location: Hotel Kia Ora is located on the second largest atoll in the world, Rangiroa. It is known for its sea life and excellent diving in the lagoon.
How to Get There: After arriving in Tahiti, fly to Rangiroa and then take a quick transfer to the resort. https://www.venturetahiti.com/islands/rangiroa/.
Nightly Rates: From $429 USD per night (from $799 for the Overwater Bungalow)
Self-Booking Options – Use the following link to book with Booking.com.
Talk to a Venture Tahiti Travel Advisor by arranging a private Advisory Session.
Le Taha'a by Pearl Resorts
A lucky guest of Le Taha'a relaxing in the lagoon next to her Overwater Suite
If you could magically combine five-star luxury with authentic Polynesian architecture… oh and an amazing turquoise lagoon, you would end up with one of my favorite places in the world, Le Taha’a. I am always amazed at how the resort can blend so effortlessly into its surroundings. This Relais & Châteaux resort is truly an amazing place to enjoy an overwater bungalow.
"When we visit, we prefer the Sunset Overwater Suites. You will easily see how these bungalows earned the top spot outside of Bora Bora (although, the Bora Bora Overwater Suites do allow you to gaze at Mt. Otemanu in the distance). The Sunset Suites are the furthest from the main resort facilities and very private. They also have “Instagram perfect” views in the evening as the sun sinks back into the ocean for the night"
Location: Taha’a is off the coast of Raiatea, within sight of Bora Bora.
How to Get There: After arriving in Tahiti, fly to the Island of Raiatea and then enjoy a scenic boat ride to Le Taha’a.
Nightly Rates: From $1,075 USD per night ($1,578 for the Sunset Overwater Suites)
Self-Booking Options – If you prefer to book online, this Booking.com link will take you straight to the resort's page.
Ask us anything! If you’d like some quick help in your travel planning, arrange a quick Advisory Session with our experts.
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I hope you enjoyed reading about our favorite overwater bungalows in Tahiti. If you can’t tell, we are ready to get back to the islands. Any of the overwater bungalows listed above is easily worth the overnight flight from California. Even more so in times like these.
We all need something to look forward to. Why not get started planning your next trip now? Soon you could be on the deck of your own overwater bungalow, enveloped by the warm embrace that only a Polynesian sunset can provide.
*When you Book Online using one of the links above, Venture Tahiti may earn a small commission. This won’t cost you any extra, but it will help us continue to provide valuable content and advice.
We are often asked about the cost of food in Bora Bora and Tahiti. Food tends to be a bit expensive in French Polynesia. It is on par with dining out in New York, Los Angeles or Honolulu. If you are trying to stick to a preferred travel budget, regardless of how much you plan to spend, the cost of dining in French Polynesia should be considered in your travel and vacation planning.
Which islands to visit and how many islands you should visit depends a lot on how long you plan to stay in French Polynesia.We typically advise clients to spend at least 3 nights on each island in their itinerary (except possibly the Island of Tahiti). Spending less than 3 nights tends to make travelers feel too rushed. After all, you are going there to at least try to relax.
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is absolutely incredible. There are no words to describe the beauty of Tahiti and the staff there was wonderful. I cannot thank Venture Tahiti enough for helping us book the most incredible experience of our lives!! We plan on bringing our children there very soon!
The spa is beautiful, we had a great couples massage! ...the excursions are amazing & the best snorkeling channel around! It's worth every penny you spend and an experience of a lifetime! The sunsets are the best you will ever see! We used VENTURE TAHITI in Boca Raton, Florida to book our trip and it went off without a hitch. They did an excellent job and I highly recommend them!
I wanted to say thanks for helping us set up an amazing trip. We are home safe & sound! Everything was wonderful-- I am so happy you recommended the Shark & Ray tour on Bora Bora-- it was by far our favorite thing that we did! We ended up relaxing on Taha'a as it was the most perfect place to unwind and get massages. All of the hotels were awesome-- Le Taha'a Resort and The Conrad were our favorites! We absolutely loved our beach bungalow (it was huge!!)