Where to Stay in French Polynesia → 6 Best Islands for 2024

Wondering where to stay in French Polynesia? This detailed virtual tour will help you decide by taking you across the most beautiful islands and places of this French overseas territory!

I researched all the best islands, sorted them nicely by interest, and then handpicked the best French Polynesia hotels on each island (for every budget) to make your hotel hunt easier! 

Bora Bora, known as the Pearl of the Pacific, is the best place to lay your head as a first-time visitor. It’s known for its beautiful overwater bungalows, superb coral reefs, and long stretches of white sandy beaches. 

I still have 5 more places to show you, so stay tuned! After reading this guide, you’ll know exactly where to stay and will be able book your favorite place in minutes!

By the way, book your accommodation in French Polynesia in advance to secure the best deals! Most hotels offer free cancellation, so don’t worry if you change your mind!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

These are the best hotels to stay in Bora Bora:

This map highlights all the islands in French Polynesia that I’ll talk about in this post: 

1. Bora Bora – best island to stay in French Polynesia for first-timers

Bora Bora is the ultimate holiday destination in French Polynesia. The luxury overwater bungalows and the island’s color palette are simply amazing, it’s no wonder this is the main tourist spot in the region!

The fastest way to get to Bora Bora is by flying from Tahiti Airport (PPT). Since Tahiti is the only island with an international airport, you’ll be flying into the country here, and then after an overnight stay, you can catch an Air Tahiti flight to Bora Bora. It’s a 45-minute flight with multiple daily departures.

Given the geography of Bora Bora (one main island surrounded by a lagoon and many islets, known as motus), you’ll be using a lot of boats to get around. Most accommodations offer their own boat services for this. Air Tahiti also has a free ferry that’ll get you from the airport to the main island.

Regarding attractions, Bora Bora is home to the most beautiful beach in French Polynesia (many would say in the world), Matira Beach (map). It boasts a long stretch of powdery white sand, palm trees, and amazingly blue waters. Come any time of the day to enjoy this free corner of paradise!

There are also plenty of hiking trails around the beautiful Mount Otemanu (map), where you can see all sorts of exotic birds and smell hibiscus flowers! My favorite attraction though is the Lagoonarium (map), run by a local family and offering tours of one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons!

Did you know French Polynesia is known for its vanilla production? Most vanilla farms you can visit on a day trip are located on Taha’a Island close to Bora Bora!

The best way to get around Bora Bora is by bicycle (or e-bike). Most accommodation across French Polynesia offers them for free, but it’s also really easy to rent them. Taxis and car rentals (map) are available with local private companies but are far more expensive and not as convenient.

GENERAL INFO: Apart from French (official) and Tahitian (local) languages, English is also widely spoken in French Polynesia, especially in touristy areas. Regarding currencies, USD is widely accepted, but make sure to exchange some CPFs (local currency) for small purchases. ATMs are widely available in touristy places.

About accommodation, most tourists pick all-inclusive resorts or stay in overwater bungalows, which are everywhere on the island. There are a couple on the list below, but if you want more options, check out my post dedicated to the best hotels and bungalows in Bora Bora! 

Other accommodation options in Bora Bora

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InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa – Bora Bora has so many luxury resorts that I couldn’t keep it all to myself! Here’s another resort that I think you’ll love! Located on Motu Piti Aau, on the eastern side of Bora Bora, this beach resort offers private overwater villas, a spa center, a swimming pool, and a restaurant with lagoon views! It’s a top-rated accommodation for couples!

Things to do in Bora Bora

2. Moorea – best place to stay in French Polynesia for outdoor activities

Moorea is a small island set off the coast of Tahiti and the 2nd most popular destination in French Polynesia for all types of travelers! Stay here if you’re a fan of hiking, beautiful viewpoints, nice beaches, and many family-friendly activities!

The easiest way to reach Moorea is via a ferry boat from Tahiti. The ride is around 30 minutes, and it’s much cheaper than flying in from Tahiti Airport. I have a whole article where I describe the ferry ride process step by step, you can check it out here!

By the way, I also explain how to get around Moorea (hint: the most recommended option is to rent a car in Tahiti and have it transported with you on a ferry), so make sure to have a look for all the details! Without a car, you’ll basically have to spend most of your time in Moorea in your resort, and that would be a shame!

French Polynesia has over 118 islands that are spread across 5 archipelagos. Society Islands is the most popular archipelago for tourists, and it’s where Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti, and Huahine islands are located.

Across the Moorea island, you can explore the lush gardens, sugary beaches, and beautiful jagged volcanic mountains. A must-visit for breathtaking views, the Belvedere lookout (map) awaits in the center of the island, rising 250 m (820 ft) above sea level. 

The lookout is surrounded by the jagged mountain tops and tropical forests Moorea is known for, and best of all, it’s easily accessible by car or day tours. Also, the popular Three Coconuts Pass trail passes near Belvedere if you’re into hiking.

Another beautiful overlook includes Magic Mountain (map), with a hiking trail of 3.3 km (2 mi) leading to it. If you can’t drive, you can always book a 4WD tour to these lookouts.

PRO TIP: Always check for weather forecasts before hiking or driving to mountain overlooks. Reschedule the visit if the sky is cloudy. Ideally, schedule for the beginning of the trip. You want clear skies for the best experience!

After hiking, you can relax in Moorea’s most popular public beach, Ta’ahiamanu (map). And the list of activities you can do as a couple or with the family is basically endless here. Think jet skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, dolphin, turtle, and reef shark spotting, and much more!

Other accommodation options in Moorea

Things to do in Moorea 

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3. Huahine – best place to stay in French Polynesia to relax

Huahine is a lesser-known Society Island and French Polynesia’s hidden gem (it’s called “Secret Island” for a reason)! If you want to escape the crowds and relax during your holiday, you’ve hit the jackpot with Huahine! This island has beautiful scenery, historical villages, and the cutest markets for unique souvenirs!

Huahine means “pregnant woman” in the local language. One of the theories why the island is called that is because its shape resembles that of a pregnant woman!

Huahine is also known as the Garden Island, filled with abundant lush jungles and greenery. Don’t worry, though. You’ll still find a crystal-clear lagoon you can admire for hours! 

This island is split into 2 smaller islands, Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) and Huahine Iti (Small Huahine), connected by a bridge. Both islands offer unique activities, from hiking to archeological sites and pearl farms.

There are also plenty of water activities that you can try here like snorkeling and kayaking, and of course, sunbathing on its beautiful beaches! 

PRO TIP: Fare (map), the capital of the island, is a great place to have a laid-back walk and get money from the ATM in case you run out of cash!

I recommend a stop at the village Maeva (map) in the North, where you can delve into the island’s history. In fact, this is where noble families lived long before the Europeans settled in! Visit Fare Pote’e (map), a replica of a traditional home surrounded by ceremonial sites known as marae, where you can see over 30 of them (Marae Manunu, map, is the most impressive one).

And if you’re a fan of unique souvenirs, La Maison Du Pareo (map) is the ideal place to buy the iconic pareos, wraparound skirts popular all over French Polynesia!

The Secret Island gets fewer visitors than other Society Islands, which is why you won’t find any fancy luxury hotels or all-inclusive resorts. But there are just enough tropical options to make up for it!

Other accommodation options in Huahine

Things to do in Huahine 

• Chill on the Hana Iti Beach (map) and Avea Beach (map)
• Visit the marae Maeva archaeological site of Fare Pote’e
• Check out the beautiful Huahine Pearl Farm (map) for handmade jewelry
• Head to Faie (map) to see floppy-eared eels (sacred on the island)
• Go on a lagoon trip with Huahine Nautique
• Try rum and liqueur made from island fruit in Distillerie Huahine Passion (map)
• Catch the sunset from Huahine Yacht Club (map)

4. Tahiti – best place to stay in French Polynesia for an urban experience

Welcome to Tahiti, French Polynesia’s largest and most populated island! Tahiti makes a great base for travelers interested in cultural experiences, markets, European restaurants, and more of a city vibe.

Tahiti is split into 2 parts, Tahiti Nui (Big Tahiti) in the Northwest is where you’ll find the capital city, and Tahiti Iti in the Southeast, where most of the locals live. 

Since Tahiti is home to the main international airport, you’ll almost certainly arrive in French Polynesia here. You’ll have plenty of options for day trips around the island but also to Moorea which is just a 30-minute ferry ride away!

Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to explore nature here as well. Fa’aruma’i Waterfalls (map) is an excellent destination for hiking where you’ll find 3 giant waterfalls! There’s a large parking lot just 5 minutes from the waterfalls in case you just want to see the best part.

Also, Arahoho Blowhole (map) is an interesting natural phenomenon. You can see huge sprays of water from the blowhole when the swell is big enough, right after you pass the PK22 tunnel from Pape’etel. Just after the blowhole, you’ll find a nice beach with black sand where you can walk or have a picnic!

By the way, being the capital of the island, Pape’ete is a great spot to immerse in the Polynesian culture. You’ll find local markets (Pape’ete Market, map, is a must) and super friendly Tahitians eager to engage in a conversation with you!

The best way to explore Tahiti is by car rental. If you don’t drive, you can take tours or use taxis. Bike rentals are also a good option for nearby sights.

NOTE: Tap water is usually safe to drink in Pape’ete and Bora Bora. For other places, ask your accommodation or buy bottled water just to be safe.

If you decide to stay in Tahiti, I recommend our post on the best areas and hotels in Tahiti for more details! For now, here’s a quick overview: 

Other accommodation options in Tahiti

Things to do in Tahiti 

• Shop for local produce at Pape’ete Market
• Learn new things at the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands
• Take the kids (or your better half) to the Tahiti Lagoon Paradise (map)
• Join a catamaran tour of the nearby Tetiaroa Island
• Go on a hike with the family around Fa’aruma’i Waterfalls
• Spend a fun day at Water Gardens Vaipahi (map)
• Try poisson cru, a delicious dish with coconut milk and raw tuna 
• Take a private helicopter tour

5. Rangiroa (Tuamotu islands) – where to stay in French Polynesia for diving

Welcome to one of the world’s largest atolls (ring-shaped reefs)! Rangiroa is a traveler-favorite island of Tahiti when it comes to diving. So if you’re into snorkeling, diving, and eager to explore the region’s marine life, I recommend at least 3 days in Rangiroa! You’ll feel like you’re in a natural aquarium!

Rangiroa is located in Tuamotu Islands (as opposed to the first 4 destinations above that are part of Society Islands archipelago), and it’s a 1-hour flight away from Tahiti. 

Rangiroa is called “Ra’iroa” in the local language, meaning vast sky. Its atoll is the biggest one in French Polynesia and is known for its captivating blue lagoon and turquoise waters. The island is made of 400 sandbars and islets, but only 2 are inhabited (Motu Tiputa and Motu Avatoru).

The best spots for diving in Rangiroa are between the passes of its main islets. Tiputa Pass (map) is the prime destination, but due to waves and currents it’s only available to professionals. Avatoru Pass (map) in the Northwest is more tranquil where you can even take some diving lessons! By the way, you can load your bike on water taxis between the passes and continue exploring uninterruptedly!

Most resorts here have their own snorkeling ports as they’re usually located in front of lagoons or reefs. Plus, due to the shape of the islets (they’re no more than 500 m or 1600 ft wide) you never have to walk too far to reach the beach – it’s always close! With this in mind, cars are basically useless in Rangiroa. Explore the island on a bike, kayak, SUP, or by boat. 

Your accommodation will easily arrange you with your preferred method of transport (or the one they have available).

As a nice bonus of staying here, you have the opportunity to try wine in the only coral atoll winery in the world! It’s called Vin de Tahiti, and it’s located at Domaine Dominique Auroy (map). But this is not even the highlight of Rangiroa. 

From here, you can take a day trip to the Blue Lagoon located on the West coast. This place has unbelievably blue waters and is a nursery for baby reef sharks! Yes, you can snorkel or take pics together with them, they swim so close to the shore! The only way to reach this unique spot is on a tour, so book your spot in advance!

Other accommodation options in Rangiroa

Things to do in Rangiroa

• Rent a bike and explore the islets of Tiputa and Avatoru
• Visit the Blue Lagoon’s pink sand beach and wildlife reserve on a tour
• Learn the interesting story of Tahitian pearls at Gauguin’s Pearl Farm (map) 
• Go snorkeling with the dolphins with the iconic The Six Passengers (map)
• Take a boat ride to the pink sand beach (map)

6. Nuku Hiva (Marquesas Islands) – the most remote place in French Polynesia

Nuku Hiva (known as the Land of the Men) is one of the most remote islands in French Polynesia. It’s a 4-hour flight North from Tahiti! But the trip here is so worth it if you want to enjoy raw, green nature!

Locals often compare the green landscapes of Nuku Hiva to those of New Zealand. Across the island, you’ll find green meadows on hills with villages scattered all over. 

The main village, Taioha’e (map), with its own bay, is where all the action is. The village itself is very scattered, it spreads for several kilometers along the bay, but it’s 100% walkable and bikeable. For traveling out of the village, it’s better to rent a car by local car rental 

companies.

In Taioha’e, you can stroll by the fish market on the wharf for a fresh catch in the morning, although be prepared to wait in line with all the locals! 

Nuku Hiva is the largest of 6 inhabited islands in the Marquesas archipelago, and the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Taioha’e (map) is built of stones from all 6!

A tourist-favorite in Nuku Hiva is the 12-m (40-ft) Tiki Tuhiva (map) statue. By the way, did you know that tikis are very popular in Polynesian culture, and that they are made of wood in the shape of a human being that usually represents a God or an ancestor?

Talking about wooden structures, I just love all the authentic craftwork souvenir shops on the island. You can buy stone, bone, and wood souvenirs in the local craft market in Taiohae located just next to Tiki Tuhiva.

And for hikers, you can hike from Taioha’e the Sentinelle Village adjacent to it (there’s a GPS map), or to the Hakaui Valley (reachable by boat or on a hiking trail) to see the beautiful Vaipo Waterfall (map).

NOTE: There are only a few ATMs on the island, but most grocery stores in Taiohae take credit cards. Also, only drink bottled water while staying in Nuku Hiva.

Hotel staff and hosts on Nuku Hiva are very friendly, every accommodation I came across has reviews highlighting the welcoming hosts. They’ll pick you up to or from the port or the airport (1-hour ride from the main village) and make sure your stay with them is memorable!

Other accommodation options in Nuku Hiva

Things to do in Nuku Hiva

• Walk along the village of Taioha’e and taste local foods
• Check out the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral in Taioha’e
• Find the Tiki Tuhiva statue and capture a cute picture there
• Buy fresh fish from the fishermen at Taioha’e Bay wharf (map)
• Take a boat trip to the Hakaui Valley 
• Rent a car and admire all the scenic greenery of the island

FAQs about the best places to stay in French Polynesia

🏝️ Which Polynesian island is the most beautiful?

Bora Bora is the most beautiful out of all the islands! Its turquoise lagoon and lush greenery will make you fall in love with it. And let’s not forget about the amazing luxury hotels with overwater bungalows like the Four Seasons Resort.

📅 What are the best months to visit French Polynesia?

June to August is the best time to visit the islands in French Polynesia. That’s when the weather is at its best, but beware as it can get pretty crowded. 

🤔 Is it better to stay in Bora Bora or Tahiti?

Both islands are unique but it depends on your preferences. Bora Bora is great for honeymooners and those who just want to be on the beach. Tahiti is great for families and people who want to learn about the Polynesian culture.

💰 Is it expensive to stay in French Polynesia?

Yes, French Polynesian islands are some of the most expensive in the world, especially if you pick a private island resort. However, there are also affordable hotels and homes for less than US$100 per night for those traveling on a budget.

🌊 Which island has hotels over the water in French Polynesia? 

You will find overwater bungalows in both Bora Bora and Tahiti, but Bora Bora has a larger number of them.

🇵🇫 Is it better to stay in Tahiti or Moorea?

Tahiti is more urban and expensive, while Moorea is more intimate and has more affordable accommodation. Most people prefer Moorea because Tahiti can get too crowded.

📅 How many days should I spend in French Polynesia?

Up to 10 days should be enough for most travelers visiting French Polynesia. This will give you plenty of time for island hopping (I recommend 3 days per island) and exploring the diversity of this archipelago country.

❓ What is the least touristy island in French Polynesia?

Rimatara is the least visited island of French Polynesia. It’s part of the remote Austral Archipelago and is home to some endangered bird species. It’s a nice off-the-beaten-path destination, especially for bird-watching lovers.

🇫🇯 Is Fiji or Bora Bora better?

It depends. Bora Bora is known for its stunning beaches and paradise-like nature. Fiji is known for its rich cultural diversity. Both islands have something unique to offer and cater to couples, families, and adventurers. Find more information in our dedicated article about the topic.

🗺️ Where is French Polynesia?

French Polynesia is located in the Pacific Ocean. New Zealand is the closest large country to it.

Final thoughts on French Polynesia accommodation

Can these islands get any more beautiful? I hope you’ll love every minute of your holiday and that you have decided where to stay in French Polynesia!

From stunning tropical beaches to beautiful coral reefs to unique culture and world-class diving spots, there’s so much to explore.

Now if you’re still indecisive on where to stay, here are the best hotels in French Polynesia if you ask me, both located in Bora Bora:

Now, please remember to book your stay in French Polynesia in advance. The accommodation offer is limited and you really want to grab the best spots while they’re available!

Please leave a comment below if you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming trip to French Polynesia! I’m always here to help!

Happy travels,

Darija

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