When you think of Bora Bora, Tahiti or Moorea, you might immediately think of resorts with overwater bungalows, luxury yachts and opulent experiences worthy of heads of state or rich celebrities. While luxury resorts are an option, there are so many ways you can enjoy The Islands of Tahiti without the luxe price tag. Offering one of the most beautiful environments in the world, there are a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy. From high volcanic islands to sublime turquoise lagoons, it’s the perfect backdrop to immerse yourself in nature and island culture, as well as rejuvenate the body and mind.
Below we share the many accomodation offerings ranging from local stays to luxe resorts across The Islands of Tahiti, along with tips on how to enjoy all the activities these island paradises offer on the land and in the seas.
Connecting with Locals
Stay in a guesthouse (referred to as pensions) offering an authentic experience and the opportunity to connect with the locals. Enjoy day trips with local guides, sample traditional home-cooked Tahitian dishes and learn about the island culture.
NUI Shack, Raiatea: Treat yourself to a wellness experience with yoga, massages, treatment rituals and vegan dishes run by the inspiring Eva and her mother Vicky who believe in reconnecting with nature.
Les Relais Josephine, Rangiroa: Located on the edge of the Tiputa Pass in Rangiroa, this charming family-run guesthouse is perfect for those wanting close access to some of the best diving spots on the islands.
The Ninamu Pearl, Tahiti: Located on a hilltop with views of the Tahitian lagoon and sister island Moorea in the distance, this guesthouse features private pools on the balcony and a terrace bar where you can rewind watching the sunset.
Island Hopping
If you want to check out multiple islands, transporting yourself between the islands via ferry works better than flying if you are travelling on a budget. Stay in vacation rentals where you can take advantage of a kitchen to cook your own meals using local produce, or grab a feed at one of the many local roulottes (food truck markets) scattered around the towns and villages.
Suite Vai Tea, Tahiti: A delightful one-bedroom apartment located in the lush tropical garden of a new beachfront residence on Tahiti’s west coast, which features a stunning white sand beach and a large pool exclusively for residents.
Villa Soanui, Tahiti: If you’re travelling with a group of friends or family, opt for a larger-scale vacation rental like this spacious villa with an infinity pool on the west coast of the main island.
Villa Moana, Moorea: This modern-style 4-bedroom property located on the edge of the lagoon is conveniently located on the west coast of Moorea, close to well-known surf spots such as Haaptiti and Avarapa Pass. Perfect for a group of friends keen to surf!
TIP: You don’t need to stay at a luxury Tahiti resort to explore the beautiful lagoons and beaches either! The public Matira beach on Bora Bora has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and will cost you nothing to access.
Laid-back Boutique
There’s a wide range of smaller boutique resorts and hotels in on The Islands of Tahiti offering access to all the ocean and land experiences your heart desires. On Moorea and Tahiti, you can explore the culinary culture and visit small stalls and hidden foodie gems while led by local guide Heimata Hall during his Tahiti & Moorea Food Tour. And don’t miss snorkelling tours and 4WD day trips with Marama Tours to the rainforests where you can discover the fauna and flora of these incredible islands and learn more about the Tahitian culture.
Vanira Lodge, near every surfer’s paradise Teahupo’o : Beautiful bungalows designed with bamboo, coral and rocks, sweeping views of the lagoon, and access to a myriad of activities from snorkelling day trips to surf lessons.
Kon Tiki Boutique Hotel, Papeete: Chic eco-friendly accommodation with one of the best rooftop views in the city overlooking the capital and the lagoon surrounding Tahiti.
Moorea Island Beach Hotel, Haapiti : Opened in 2023 and located on the west coast of the island of Moorea featuring 12 bungalows (ideal for 2 guests) with a bar and the Lounge House which faces the lagoon and the beach making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the blue lagoon.
Boujee Islands
There are a wide array of luxury resorts and private islands across the 118 islands, making it sometimes challenging to choose the perfect accommodation. Choose from overwater bungalows in Bora Bora or Taha’a, a private island resort near Raiatea, or discover the islands on a super yacht.
St Regis Bora Bora Resort: The most spacious overwater villas in the destination can be found at the renowned St. Regis. A 5-star resort with access to a personal Signature St. Regis Butler 24 hours a day, as well as a Lagoonarium, fitness centre and on-site spa.
Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts: Set on a private islet looking onto the lush shores of the island of Taha’a, also known as the vanilla island with its many plantations. The neighbouring island Raiatea is accessible by a short boat trip from Taha’a so you can explore both islands in one day.
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort: The dramatic peaks of Moorea and incredible underwater life draw in divers and hikers from all over the world to this resort. Boasting French style infused with Tahitian hospitality, the Sofitel Moorea ticks the boxes for both an adventure holiday and an overwater bungalow stay.
Luxe Private Resorts
Those after a more private holiday away from any masses will find that the below luxury private resorts have everything required for a relaxing and lavish holiday:
The Brando, Tetiaroa: Located on it’s own private island, this place was discovered by the late Marlon Brando who sought to preserve this little slice of paradise by not only protecting the land but also creating a research station and an eco-resort. The Brando is also nearing its goal of becoming fully carbon-neutral and self-sustainable.
Motu Nao Nao, Raiatea: A beautiful resort is located on its private motu and is only bookable in its entirety, meaning you’ll have complete privacy during your stay. Enjoy private Tahitian dance performances, traditional canoe lessons, and movie nights on the big screen with the lagoon in the background.
NOAM Bora Bora: This is the ultimate private villa option located on what’s considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world. The property can fit up to 14 people and comes with a reception team at the guests’ disposal, a private chef, and a magnificent swimming pool with a view of Mount Otemanu.
With 118 islands and atolls, spread over an area the size of Europe, The Islands of Tahiti offers the ultimate opportunity to explore multiple islands in a superyacht. You can go snorkelling or diving in the best spots at your leisure, enjoy the delicious cuisine with the experienced Tahitian private chefs on the vessel, enjoy a traditional Tahitian message in a hotel spa, and enjoy a remote motu in complete privacy.
Best way to move around the islands: Transport yourself between the islands either by the domestic airlines Air Tahiti or Air Moana, but you can also travel via Tahiti Nui Helicopters where you can visit remote atolls for the day. A less expensive option is to island hop on ferries like the Apetahi Express Ferry.
Wellness Experiences
Hotels and resorts in The Islands of Tahiti are not without spa experiences, health and fitness activities, and wellbeing experiences along with experiences in nature that contribute to a holistic sense of well-being and an opporuntity to reset the body and mind. Consider:
The Brando eco-retreat where you can enjoy yoga and meditation classes overlooking the turquoise lagoon.
Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts offers a variety of wellness activities that allow guests to tap into their own Mana, life force and spiritual energy.
The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort known for its unique thalassotherapy spa, which utilises nutrient-rich seawater and marine-based treatments to promote healing and relaxation.
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort offering a wide range of spa treatments inspired by traditional Polynesian healing practices and a variety of variety of wellness activities.
And for those who enjoy a more structured wellness retreat you could consider retreats run by Tahiti Wellness Retreat held at the Manava Moorea Resort & Spa.
