10 Resorts in French Polynesia: Best hotel deals for 2023

May 5, 2023 Almeta Stockton

Tahiti and Bora Bora are the most well known French Polynesian islands, thanks to their picture-perfect beaches and romantic ambiance. Indeed, these islands are ideal for handholding, with their lush landscapes and mood-setting features like lagoons and grottos. The heart-shaped island of Mo’orea makes a wonderful base for divers and snorkelers eager to explore its surrounding barrier reef system. Feeding the massive, sacred eels of Huahine is a one-in-a-lifetime way to experience an important local ritual.
Restaurants in French Polynesia

1. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Motu Ome'E Bp 506, 98730 French Polynesia
Excellent
85%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 2755 reviews

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Wonderful Anniversary Trip

Reviewed By bebeAnnArbor_MI

The hotel treated us to champagne and sweet treats and an offer of a couples massage for our anniversary. It was a wonderful surprise. The resort was gorgeous with wonderful snorkeling in the Lagoonarium, fabulous spa, and stunning views from our overwater bungalow. We purchased the breakfast and dinner package and the food was delicious. Highly recommend Lagoon restaurant, but Bamboo (great sushi) and Far Niente (amazing deserts) were very good too. Just go for the fish and you can’t go wrong. The hotel catered to our every need and we felt welcomed and pampered. The hotel and our butler, Ida, went above and beyond to make our anniversary memorable. Yes, there are kids around, but there’s an adult pool that is very quiet and plenty of beaches around the property to escape. We can’t say enough wonderful things about this resort and would definitely return. Love this resort!

2. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel

Motu Piti Aau, 98730 French Polynesia 1 (877) 859-5095
Excellent
82%
Good
12%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 3023 reviews

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is located between the two hearts of Motu Piti Aau, a coral island on the barrier reef. The Deep Ocean Spa is the centerpiece, but the resort offers lots of cultural and recreational activities to fill your days including canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, stargazing and handicraft demonstrations.

Perfect Bora Bora experience

Reviewed By Kevin T

The entire experience at the Intercontinental Thalasso was amazing. The resort was pristine and the management and staff were super professional. We could not have asked more from a five star resort. We highly recommend. The snorkeling and ATV activities were impressive.

3. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Motu Tehotu BP 547, 98730 French Polynesia 011 689 40 60 31 30
Excellent
87%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 3750 reviews

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

The newly-enhanced Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a South Pacific paradise, combining the highest standards of service with ultramodern comforts and the natural ease and gracious hospitality of the Polynesian culture. Set upon Bora Bora's surrounding coral atoll, the Resort is a vast tropical grove, replete with coconut palms and pandanus trees. Meandering channels of pure turquoise lead to the main beach or to smaller lagoons, waiting to be discovered. Every vista is breathtaking. The Resort offers 108 one and two-bedroom overwater bungalow suites and seven two and three-bedroom beachfront villa estates, all designed with thatched roofs and decorated with indigenous artwork. Four restaurants offer a vast selection of creative culinary experiences, while the full-service spa is balanced by the powerful rhythms of the Pacific Ocean and the tranquility of the island's lagoon - offering an unmatched combination of relaxation and exhilaration.

Best In Bora Bora!

Reviewed By Jordan L

WOW! The second you arrive at the Bora Bora airport the Four Seasons team will really take you on a once in a lifetime experience. The staff, the room, the property, and the F&B are all 5 star. We had an amazing trip and can’t say enough about this resort. A lot of the other guests that we met stayed at other resorts in the area and all seemed to say that the Four Seasons was the best out of all the other options. Based on our experience I wouldn’t stay anywhere else.

4. InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel

Matira Point, BP 156, Vaitape 98730 French Polynesia
Excellent
74%
Good
19%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2176 reviews

InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel

At InterContinental® Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, the day starts with breakfast in your overwater bungalow, delivered on a wooden canoe decorated with exotic flowers. Spend the morning exploring world-class dive sites, jumping straight off your private pontoon into azure waters for a swim, or beachcombing along stunning Matira Beach. Elsewhere on the island, Mount Otemanu provides some vigorous hiking and stunning views, or just potter about the main village for famed Tahitian black pearls.

You'll never want to leave

Reviewed By Frederick G

From the moment we arrived at the airport until we left the property, our stay was perfect. The staff greets guests at the airport and then shuttles you by boat to the resort where you're greeted and made to feel genuinely welcome. The check-in process is also very, very personal as each individual group/couple is taken for a relaxing drink to fill out paperwork--no standing in line! After we were given a complete tour of the property and its amenities before being taken to our breathtaking bungalow. The bungalows are exquisite in every detail! Ours was more secluded and very quiet--just hear the lapping of the waves. Our private deck was relaxing and we could swim in the lagoon right from our backdoor and explore coral formations and all kinds of reef fish. The dining here is also very, very good. Breakfast is buffet style with something for everyone including made to order omelettes and eggs but the fresh fruit and juices were my highlight. The Tuesday/Saturday night dinner buffet and Polynesian cultural display are great and highly recommended. The bar service is great with cocktails on the beach/pool and there is a happy hour! You can also take a short walk to a local market and purchase alcohol to keep in your room if you wish--we had a fridge. Perhaps the best thing about this resort is the staff. Every single member of the staff went out of their way to make sure guests were taken care of. Every one greeted us with a smile and were very genuine. Even the General Manager greeted all of her guests and checked in on us from time to time to make sure all was well--she is great and just because of her we will stay here again! As stated, we didn't want to leave and can't wait until we can come back.

5. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

Bp 28, Te'avaro 98728 French Polynesia
Excellent
62%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 4002 reviews

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is located on the North-East Coast of the island, just 5 minutes away from Temae airport, Vaiare ferries docks, the 18 holes international golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus®. This landmark hotel is built on the longest and most beautiful white sand beach of the island, within a protected marine area maintained by the CRIOBE®.From this hotel, guests have a unique panoramic view on the lagoon and the island of Tahiti. The hotel offers a wide range of accommodation with a total of 110 Luxury Bungalows located in the gardens, directly on the beach or over the water. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort has the only Luxury Beach Bungalows on Moorea that have unobstructed views of the island of Tahiti, located directly on the beach. Historically, this hotel is the first of the island that built bungalows over the water. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea has now the largest Luxury Overwater Bungalows in Moorea (83 sq. meters).Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea also features 1 Luxury Villa with 2 bedrooms (150 sq.meters). It has 2 bathrooms, 1 lounge, 1 deck and 1 outdoor jacuzzi®, with a direct access into the lagoon and panoramic views of the island of Tahiti. Dine in Polynesian authenticity at the Pure restaurant with outdoor terrace dining offering complimentary and traditional unique dance shows. For light snacks and exotic cocktails or premium alcohols while admiring the view, try the Vue bar overlooking the infinity pool, the lagoon and Tahiti with weekly live concerts. For light snacks and exotic cocktails during a farniente day on the beach, only steps away from the lagoon, try the Beach bar.

5 Nights at Sofitel for 25th Anniversary!

Reviewed By clavergne

We had a lovely stay at the Sofitel! The grounds are beautiful and well kept. The staff was absolutely wonderful. We had a garden view bungalow but we could see the water from our patio. It was quiet and peaceful. We were there when they did the Tahitian dinner and show. The lady who explained the process of cooking the food and how the ground oven worked did a fantastic job going between French and English. The ladies at the Pearl Romance store were great (I have a separate review of that). We also did a private dine on the beach one night. Well worth the money! We got to meet the chef and had our own private server. One of the best meals we ate in our entire French Polynesian trip. Pros IMO: -Staff -Buffet Breakfast -Best snorkeling on the island. There are coral gardens past the over the water bungalows. If you want to do a lot of snorkeling, then you need to stay here. -Pearl shopping (least expensive place I saw when we toured the island) -Private dining on beach -Chocolate lava cake (I had it 3 times!) -Fantastic views of Tahiti -Near the ferry -The spa was fantastic. I had the hot stone massage and foot reflexology and my husband has the relaxing massage. Cons IMO: -Need more than 2 towels in the bathroom. Hello! I'm a girl and I use two every time I bathe. Hair! -The dinner and lunch menus are not huge. And there is really only the one restaurant. -The rooms are clean, but they could use a little updating and slight maintenance in places. The Sofitel is way on the other side of the island from everything. If you want to leave the resort, be prepared to travel a little ways (This is a pro/con on how you look at it) -The clientele. Now, I say this as an American who has been to many countries. I LOVE meeting other travelers from everywhere. But I know how we Americans can be at times. This hotel has a high French clientele. If you are not a fan of the French, this is not the hotel for you. Bottom Line: I would stay here again. The pro's outweigh any con's tenfold. Ia Orana!

6. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Bp 1005, Papetoai 98729 French Polynesia 1 (855) 605-0316
Excellent
64%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 4572 reviews

Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Surrounded by the crystal-clear water of the Pacific Ocean, our eco-friendly hotel features over-water bungalows and the only over-water restaurant in Moorea. Our tour desk can help arrange tours and activities, from snorkeling with stingrays to 4x4 tours. We have a full-service spa, lagoon-style pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center with yoga classes.

Very Run Down

Reviewed By lagunatravler

We were in an over water bungalow and it was extremely in need of a desperate remodel. It was very worn and they painted some of the furniture grey to update it which made it look worse. The restaurants and bars were only open certain hours and you didn’t have much of a choice. They measure their drinks in these little shot glasses. I’m not a big drinker, usually I can feel one drink. I had three drinks and felt nothing and the drinks were around $22.-$25. each. The food was okay, nothing spectacular. If you have anything delivered to your room there is a $25. charge. We stayed at a Pearl Beach Resort which is a much better class than a Hilton and they charge $10. We booked a food tour in the afternoon and then my husband’s arthritis flared and he couldn’t make it. We explained that to the Concierge and they said NO REFUNDS on excursions but if we contacted them 48 hours prior, maybe they could have done something even though we just made the reservation that afternoon and tried to cancel that evening for the following day. My husband went to the gift shop for water shoes for a boat excursion and they sold him flip flops for $25. and cut the tags off. They were not the correct shoes and I tried to return them and they said NO REFUND and the tags were cut off!! It’s a Hilton with everyone running around in blue Hilton polo shirts. The staff is wonderful and will do what they can to make your stay enjoyable. It’s not their fault it’s a run down Hilton. If you want a beautiful true Tahiti experience in a beautiful hotel, go to the Sofitel. We had dinner in all the resorts so we could check them out and it was by far the most beautiful hotel on Moorea. Our travel agent booked the Hilton for us and said it was nice but she herself stayed at the Sofitel.

7. Conrad Bora Bora Nui

BP 502 Vaitape, 98730 French Polynesia 1 (855) 618-4701
Excellent
80%
Good
11%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1200 reviews

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Our fully renovated resort boasts a variety of accommodations, from the spacious Lagoon View Suites perfect for families, to the spectacular overwater villas and extravagant Presidential Villas. Dining options are in abundance and are sure to satisfy your culinary experience with five restaurants and bars. The Conrad Bora Bora Nui now offers Island Host Service for guests staying in all of our villas. Enjoy Conrad Bora Bora Nui's blissful location and services while having every aspect of your stay taken care of.

Absolutely stunning!

Reviewed By 72LEOnanhaus

Our stay here was amazing. The staff and the service were absolutely outstanding. We were constantly getting checked on and with my husband being in a wheelchair, all efforts were made to make his stay comfortable and stress-free. If I could give the Conrad 6 starts, I would!

8. InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

Bp 6014, Faa'a 98702 French Polynesia
Excellent
41%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
5%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 4188 reviews

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

The best place for your Tahiti vacations, InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is located on 32 acres of lush tropical garden alongside an idyllic lagoon. This well-known resort in Tahiti offers fine dining at two restaurants, world-class dinner shows as well as vibrant tropical bars, each offering their own unique ambiance. Relax in the Lobby Bar with a premium drink, enjoy an intimate dinner at Le Lotus overwater restaurant, or kick up your heels with our signature cocktails at Tiki Bar. Guests can indulge in a host of activities, from diving amongst coral reefs to unwinding at the Deep Nature Spa. This 4-star resort and spa also boasts two superb infinity pools set amid colourful indigenous plants and towering palms. The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is the quintessential island escape, with everything you need for a true French Polynesian getaway.

old and tired

Reviewed By Peter C

We stayed here overnight after the Bora Bora St. Regis and the Brando. Quite a letdown although of course they are not trying to be in the same level. But, carpets stained, room with no view, service spotty. OK as a airport layover but wouldn't come here for a vacation.

9. Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora

Bp 505, 98730 French Polynesia
Excellent
32%
Good
40%
Satisfactory
18%
Poor
7%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1543 reviews

Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora

Finding an ideal romantic hotel in Bora Bora does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora, a nice option for travelers like you. Paid wifi is offered to guests, and rooms at Le Maitai Polynesia offer a flat screen TV, air conditioning, and a minibar. During your stay, take advantage of some of the amenities offered, including a 24 hour front desk, a concierge, and a gift shop. Guests of Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora are also welcome to enjoy an on-site restaurant. For travelers arriving by car, free parking is available. While in Bora Bora be sure to experience local crab favorites at Iriatai. Bora Bora is also home to Leopard Rays Trench, a popular reef that is not too far from Le Maitai Polynesia. Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora puts the best of Bora Bora at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

Lovely 3 days in bungalow over the water

Reviewed By N7661UTdenised

We loved this location, had an east-facing bungalow, saw the sunset each morning. The glass floor piece was very small, a gimmick really, but we did snorkel off our patio. Wonderful view, breakfast was great, restaurant had lovely food, decent prices. Staff were very helpful. Very close to Matira Beach, walkable for sure, and could walk to other restaurants, stores, etc. Great price for the location!

10. Ninamu Resort

Motu Tavararo, 98778 French Polynesia
Excellent
90%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 336 reviews

Ninamu Resort

Ninamu is a French Polynesian island retreat, hidden away on a private motu in the southwest corner of Tikehau atoll. Our small slice of paradise serves as the perfect launch pad for luxury seeking outdoor enthusiasts; divers, fishermen, kite-boarders, surfers, paddlers, or anyone who simply loves relaxing in and around tropical waters that are bursting with life and energy. Ninamu is a unique resort with only 10 handcrafted bungalows which ensures all of our guests receive a personal, intimate experience. Living off the grid doesn’t mean going hungry or skimping on food. For many of our guests, the cuisine at Ninamu was one of their highlights during their stay in French Polynesia. We look forward to having you with us for a truly Polynesian experience.

Absolute Perfection

Reviewed By JM2007SJ

This is going to be a hard review to write, because for me, Ninamu was perfection. We fell head over heels in love with this place and plan to return. But, before you book, you need to know a few things as I know this place is not for everyone. This was our second resort on our 12 day trip to French Polynesia. After doing the traditional Overwater Bungalow at Le Taha’a, we wanted something different, so I was eager to stay at Ninamu. We arrived at the miniature Tikahau airport and were greeted by a woman who didn’t say anything, but smiled kindly, gave us flower lei’s and motioned us to a van. We put our luggage in the back and she drove us less than a mile to the dock. We were met by a young man who was also quiet, but loaded our bags, had us sit in the boat and proceeded to take us to the island. When we got off the boat, we were greeted by a very soft spoken young lady who said very little, but gave us a brief introduction and showed us to our bungalow. It was clear that they were glad we were there, but we had a slight language barrier because we don’t speak French. This place is the definition of relaxed and casual. It’s quiet, peaceful, private and romantic. Our days consisted of getting up, having a leisurely breakfast and then going on an excursion to snorkel, or swim with the manta rays, go fishing, and then return for lunch. The afternoons were spent snorkeling, kayaking, lounging, reading and relaxing around the resort. We headed to the main area at about 6pm, sat and had a cocktail and then dinner was at 7pm. We were always in bed by 10pm. By the second day, I wasn’t even wearing my flip flops to meals. It was during the first excursion that I paused and realized that this was a true Polynesian experience beyond my wildest dreams. I had disconnected from technology and modern day life, and was in heaven. We stayed in the air conditioned bungalow Teahupoo. It was so quirky and cool. The bathroom is outdoors, which my partner and I love! We love outdoor showers, and it also had a hottub, but it’s not heated. However, the water warmed up quite a bit with the sun, and it was super refreshing to sit in it at night and look up at the stars or relax in after an excursion. The bed was super comfortable, the room was extremely spacious and the deck facing the water was where we lounged and read books every day, watching sharks hunt right outside our room! The rooftop deck was fun to go up and look out at the scenery. Yes, there are mosquitos, a few bugs, cute lizards, coconut crabs and hermit crabs all over the island, we wore brought bug spray used it daily. This was not an issue for us. The meals we had here were simple, but really good. Breakfast consisted of pastries, toast, fruit, pancakes, juice and they offered eggs every morning. Lunch was usually rice, veggies and fish. Dinner was usually a potato item, fish and veggies. All were very tasty, and you literally ate the fresh fish you caught during the day. Portions were reasonable, but your typical American might not think it’s enough food. I would also note that I think it would be ridiculous to expect or want to eat red meat or chicken here, so I would expect to eat fish daily. In speaking with Greta, the owner, she explained that they see themselves more as a pension, not a resort. It really feels like you are a personal guest on someone’s private island. Personally, I think that Ninamu is not for high maintenance people. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you book: Do you need a hair dryer? Do you need to wear make up? Do you have to dress up for dinner? Will you be miserable if you get mosquito bites? Do you require several choices at every meal? Do you need complex meals? Do you need to control and schedule out every activity you do on vacation? If you said yes to any of these, I would pause before booking. Ninamu is for people who are not fussy, who are flexible and adventurous. If you get joy from going with the flow and being delighted and surprised, you’ll love it. If you want to get away from it all, and see some of the most beautiful parts of French Polynesia, this place is a dream come true. Until next time Ninamu…….

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