4 UNBEATABLE Areas Where to Stay in Tahiti
A tropical paradise that you’ll never want to leave! Hop on this guide on where to stay in Tahiti and get ready to fall in love!
After thorough research, I’ve made a list with the best areas and the most amazing hotels in Tahiti, which I ordered from most to least expensive so you can find your dream place!
In short, Papeete, Tahiti Nui is the best place to stay in Tahiti as that’s the main hub of the island where you’ll find many attractions and hotels! But, if you scroll down you’ll find 3 more spots that cater to different interests.
I’d recommend booking your hotels here in advance! Tahiti is a popular destination and everything books out super early!
Let’s dive in.
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you want to book your hotels right now, check out this shortlist of the best ones:
budget hotel
Best affordable accommodation in the center
This map will help you better visualize all the areas that I will be talking about in this post:
1. Papeete & North Tahiti Nui – where to stay for the first time
If this is your first time visiting Tahiti, then there’s no better place to start your adventures than Papeete (the capital city) and North Tahiti Nui.
The island is split into 2 sides, Tahiti Nui (Big Tahiti) in the Northwest and Tahiti Iti in the Southeast, which locals mostly populate.
Papeete and North Tahiti Nui are great places for first-time visitors as that’s where you’ll find all the facilities you need: shops, many restaurants, the marina, markets, and lots of tour companies that can take you around the island.
While you’re in Papeete head to the marina (map) to admire all the yachts and then go to the Market (map) to eat some yummy local food. Near that area, you’ll also find the Pā’ōfa’i Gardens (map) and the Musée de la Perle Robert Wan (map) where you can admire some gorgeous pearls and learn about their history.
Although you won’t find as many beaches in the city, the other parts of the island area are easily accessible from Papeete!
Many tourists choose to stay here and then continue their holiday by exploring the island, usually by renting a car. Because of that, most hotels in Papeete sell out super fast, so I highly recommend booking in advance to get a good deal!
Now let’s check out the best hotels where to stay in Papeete, Tahiti.
Luxury hotel
Relax by the infinity pool of this amazing hotel that boasts incredible ocean views! The accommodation offers a lush garden, a spa where you can relax after your long flight and a fab restaurant where you can dine with a view! Their rooms are spacious and most of them have a balcony overlooking the garden!
Other accommodation options in Papeete & North Tahiti Nui
Mid-Range
This hotel offers a free airport shuttle and it has a library and a sun terrace where you can chill
Budget
An affordable place that offers a spacious apartment with a kitchen and a shared outdoor pool
Airbnb
Sunbathe by the pool at this lovely studio, where guests have access to a kitchen and a balcony
Things to do in Papeete & North Tahiti Nui
- Visit the Robert Wan Pearl Museum
- Buy delicious fruits at Papeete Market
- Go for a walk in Bougainville Park
- Head to the James Norman Hall Museum (map)
- Jump on a boat tour to the other islands
- Check out the Papeete Catholic Cathedral
- Admire the art at Galerie Winkler
2. Moorea Island – best place to stay for nature lovers
Cataloged as one of the famous islands of Tahiti, Moorea Island is located just a short ferry ride away from Papeete (30 minutes to be more exact), and it’s the perfect vacation spot for those of you who want to spend time exploring tropical forests, sugary beaches and swim in bluest waters.
You can also take a plane to get to Papeete, and it will probably be the shortest flight of your life, just 15 minutes!
While here you can scuba dive all day long or go surfing. You absolute can’t miss a hike in the gorgeous forest of Moorea Island, whose name means “yellow lizard” in the local language.
Some cool sites that you should check out while here are the Jardin de Corail du Motu Ahi Aquarium (map), the Te Fare Natura Museum and the Green Pearl Golf Course (map) where you can head to play some golf!
Besides the numerous beautiful beaches, like the Kvai Sunset Beach (map) or the Pineapple Beach (map) you’ll also find lagoons and gorgeous reefs!
As I mentioned, there are also lots of hiking spots that usually get you to a stunning lookout point like the Three Coconuts (map) and Three Pines Lookout (map).
You’ll probably find that the hotel prices are much higher here, than in other parts of Tahiti, since this is a more secluded sort of location.
Luxury hotel
These overwater bungalows look so magical! Everything from the design to the materials is breathtaking! Besides the incredible ocean and lagoon views, the resort offers a spa center, a private beach area and lots of activities like tours, water sports and many others.
Other accommodation options in Moorea Island
Mid-Range
I love the design of this hotel that offers a fitness center, a private beach area, and an outdoor hot tub
Budget
Relax in the hammocks at this accommodation that provides a nice terrace and private beach area
Airbnb
This amazing bungalow is great for 2 people and it has a patio, a backyard and a kitchen
Things to do in Moorea Island
- Chill on the beach and swim all day long
- Admire the views from the Three Coconuts’ viewpoint
- Catch a local show at Tiki Village (map)
- Visit the Moorea Dolphin Center (map)
- Check out the Jardin de Corail du Motu Ahi Aquarium
3. Tahiti Iti – where to stay for a local experience
Known as Small Tahiti, the Southeast part of the island is mostly inhabited by the locals, making it one of the best areas to stay in Tahiti for an authentic Polynesian experience.
If this sounds like your type of place, then let’s see what’s there to do here!
Surfing is a big thing in Tahiti Iti, and there’s even a surfing competition that takes place here, in the Teahupoo village, located right at the southern edge of the island.
The area also has many local restaurants and bars like La Plage de Maui (map), where you can eat some yummy traditional food.
Note that you’ll probably need to rent a car to get around this area as public transportation is not always reliable in Tahiti Iti.
You’ll also find some hiking spots here, like the Randonnée Plateau de Taravao (map) and the Refuge Tautira Fenua Eihere area (map).
Luxury hotel
I love the color and decor of this house! You will have access to a private beach and a stunning tropical garden that offers mountain and sea views! Guests can also ask for different spa services, like an in-room massage.
Other accommodation options in Tahiti Iti
Mid-Range
This unique lodge has 2 pools and a terrace that boasts incredible views of the lagoon
Budget
A comfortable and spacious accommodation that has family rooms, 2 pools, and a garden
Airbnb
Watch the sunset from the deck of this bungalow that offers beach access and a backyard
Things to do in Tahiti Iti
- Try surfing in Teahupoo village
- Enjoy the views at Belvédère de Taravao (map)
- Grab a bite at La Plage de Maui
- Go on a hike around the Cascade One Poto (map) area
4. West Tahiti Nui – where to stay in Tahiti for families
I’ve found the perfect area for those looking for the best place in Tahiti to stay with family!
The West Coast of the main island, made of the Faa’a, Puna’auia and Paea towns, is fabulous for you and the kids as it’s only 5 miles (7 km) away from downtown Papeete.
The West Coast won’t be as busy as Papeete, which is great, because let’s face it, traveling with the children in an area full of crowds can be super tricky. Plus you’ll be close enough to the airport (just a 6 min car drive) so you won’t have to go through a super long trip to get to your accommodation.
Apart from the beaches and stunning lagoons, you’ll also find plenty of other attractions like the Tahiti Sea Park (map) and the Museum of Tahiti and The Islands.
I think the best way to get a feel of this part of the main island is to rent a car so you can get around easily. Or you can just chill on some of the gorgeous beaches like Plage Vaiava (map) and spend the day swimming, playing with the kids, enjoying the good life!
Now let’s check out the top hotels where to stay in Tahiti with kids:
Luxury hotel
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
Surrounded by a beautiful garden and the ocean, this stunning resort has family rooms with private balconies overlooking the lagoon and a swimming pool. There’s a spa center on-site, and the accommodation offers different activities such as live music shows and tours!
Other accommodation in West Tahiti Nui
Mid-Range
Enjoy your stay in Tahiti in this place that offers a buffet breakfast, family rooms, and a pool
Budget
An affordable hotel set right near the beach, that offers an outdoor pool, family rooms and a bar
Airbnb
Offering some of the best views on the island, this place has a shared pool, a patio, and a crib for babies
Things to do on the West Tahiti Nui
- Explore the area around Vallée de Tipaerui
- Take the kids to the Tahiti Sea Park
- Admire the beautiful Fautaua Waterfall (map)
- Go hiking with the family around Mount Aorai
- Visit the Marae Ta’ata archeological site (map)
- Spend a family day at Parc Vai Poopoo (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$250 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$100 |
| 🏝️ Best island: | Moorea |
| 👪 Best area for families: | West Coast (Faa’s, Punaau, Paea) |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hilton Tahiti |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Fare Suisse |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Lagon Bleu |
BONUS: Best bungalow hotels in Tahiti
When you say Tahiti, the first thing that comes to my mind is the incredible scenery and the overwater bungalows! The bungalow was invented in French Polynesia, and it’s very common on the other islands in French Polynesia, like the Gambier Islands and Tuamotu Islands.
These accommodations are so dreamy, and I’m sure many of you will want to stay in one, so I’ve thought of making a list of the best bungalows, to help you out! All the Tahiti hotels below are luxury and listed from most to least expensive:
Let’s check them out:
- Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort – join a yoga class to enjoy late nights on the beach while drinking a cocktail at this luxurious hotel on Moorea Island! Each bungalow has a private balcony or a terrace, and some even offer plunge pools. The resort will make you feel as if you’re on your private island, and it also offers a spa center and different activities like horse riding.
- Te Moana – located on the West Coast in the village of Punaauia, this fabulous resort is just perfect for your holiday on the island. The rooms are super spacious and feature a kitchenette and garden or bay views. Get a cocktail and head to the infinity pool for a pretty epic sunset!
- Manava Beach Resort & Spa – planning a romantic holiday? Then I recommend this resort. It’s perfect for couples and honeymooners! You’ll have all the privacy you need in your bungalow plus a private plunge pool and sun deck. There’s a spa center on-site, and the accommodation also hosts festive-themed events for their guests.
FAQs about where to stay in Tahiti
🌅 What is the best area to stay in Tahiti?
Papeete, the capital city of French Polynesia, is one of the best places to stay in Tahiti, as it has many attractions and offers easy access to other parts of the island.
🏝️ Which island is best in Tahiti?
Moorea Island is one of the best islands in Tahiti. It’s a stunning place filled with lagoons and scenic hiking trails. It also has many unique hotels such as Sofitel Kia Ora.
🤔 Which is better: Bora Bora or Tahiti?
Tahiti is a more urbanized island, and it offers excellent shopping areas, nightlife, cultural events, and unique outdoor activities. Bora Bora is a more intimate and high-end island that is built up a lot for tourism.
💰 Is it expensive to stay in Tahiti?
Yes, however, there are ways to travel on a budget if you choose cheap accommodation and limit your expenses.
🌊 What are the best hotels with overwater bungalows in Tahiti?
🏨 What are the best hotels in Papeete?
Hilton Hotel Tahiti andFare Suisse are the best hotels to stay in Papeete, the capital city of French Polynesia. The hotels offer all the facilities you need and have great reviews.
⚖️ Is it better to stay on Tahiti or Moorea?
It depends! Tahiti is more developed and busier, since the airport is there while Moorea is more secluded and tranquil.
📅 How many days is enough in Tahiti?
I’d recommend spending at least 7 days in Tahiti, that way you can explore the island, relax and visit the nearby islands too
🗺️ Is Tahiti or Fiji better?
Both are amazing but I’d say Tahiti is probably more secluded and expensive than Fiji which is more budget-friendly. So if you’re seeking that vibe, you might consider choosing Tahiti.
💘 Where to stay in Tahiti for couples?
Moorea Island is a great place for couples! You’ll find lots of amazing resorts with overwater bungalows, like Sofitel Kia Ora, romantic and secluded spots and lots of fun activities.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Tahiti
Such a magical place! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Tahiti, French Polynesia.
I know the post has so many hotel and resort options, and it’s hard to decide in a place like Tahiti so here are my top 2 favorite hotels in Tahiti, both located in Papeete:
- Hilton Hotel Tahiti – a stunning oceanfront hotel that has an infinity pool
- Fare Suisse – this guesthouse comes with a free shuttle bus and a terrace
Just remember that Tahiti is a very iconic destination and hotels are booked out months in advance so make sure to book yours early!
Have an incredible holiday and don’t forget that I’m always around for more questions. All you gotta do is just drop me a comment below!
Enjoy your adventure,
Victoria
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