Where to stay in French Polynesia?

Today, I’m going to talk about accommodations in French Polynesia. Why am I writing this article? Quite simply because I am often asked: where to sleep in French Polynesia? But also because, following the survey I proposed, you were more than 95% to be interested in a full article bringing all my recommendations for each island together. So, now it’s done! By the way, if you are planning your trip, we just published a full article summarizing everything you need to know about the islands and archipelagos of French Polynesia.

Of course, I didn’t list all the existing accommodations (that’s not the goal!). But I made a selection of all the accommodations which seem to be the most interesting ones for me. Obviously, I didn’t test them all, but I’ll give you first and foremost the ones I tried, then the ones that were recommended to me by friends/family, and finally the ones I know by reputation, since we’ve been living here for over 5 years now.

If you are looking for another complete guide, we recently published a comprehensive article covering all possible activities in French Polynesia. We explain you which activities you can consider for your trip, island by island (the main ones). We even provide you with summary tables listing all the places where you can do a specific activity.

To make it easier for you, I have classified the accommodations by archipelago, and then by island. For each island, I propose you several possibilities in the different ranges (camping, Airbnb, guesthouse, small hotel, big luxury resort) along with my opinion in some lines. Sometimes even atypical accommodations that I know or found during my research. If you want to travel on a small budget, you should read our article on how to camp in French Polynesia. On the other hand, if you plan to spend a few wonderful nights, here is our complete article on all the hotels offering overwater bungalows in French Polynesia!

The idea is also to have your feedback on other good places, so I could add them in this page. Needless to say, I had to make some choices, and there are many other existing possibilities. For Airbnb, I only put some ideas of course, as there are hundreds of them!

I know it’s not the purpose of this article, but if you are looking to book your activities for your trip in French Polynesia, you can check out Manawa website. I recommend it with my eyes closed, I used it in the past and I still use it today to book my activities.

The Society Archipelago is a group of 14 islands. It is divided into two parts:

• the Windward Islands, including the islands of Tahiti and Moorea and the atoll of Tetiaroa ;
• the Leeward Islands, including Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine and Maupiti.

These are islands I do know well, since I have visited them all several times and have been living in Tahiti since 2015.

Everyone will find happiness for their vacation in Tahiti: from budget/mid‑range hotels to ultimate luxury, including Airbnb rentals. To my knowledge, there are no official campsites on the island. By the way, I have just finished a complete guide listing the must‑sees on the island of Tahiti.

Airbnb

• In town
  • Coconut Studio : ideally located in the heart of Papeete, this air‑conditioned studio can accommodate up to 4 people.
  • Cozy calm and modern studio : modern interior for this studio, where you can even eat your poisson cru with coconut milk on the balcony.

• On the peninsula
  • An overwater bungalow on Airbnb during your stay in Tahiti, it’s possible at Marika’s ! With direct access to the turquoise lagoon, like in luxury hotels, but for much less…
  • The Makai Bungalow Nui blends into nature, in a magnificent garden with lush tropical vegetation. And for the price, you even get a small private lagoon to swim in turquoise water in complete tranquility! Please feel free to consult our comprehensive guide to accommodation on the Tahiti peninsula.

Lodge/Pensions

• • Punatea Village : you will be on the edge of a private white‑sand beach, in the middle of 9 000 m² of tropical gardens. You will have the choice between a garden‑side or beach‑side bungalow.
  • Omati Lodge : if you feel like lazing around, you can book a room in this guesthouse. They are spacious, very well equipped and the welcome is warm.

Unusual accommodation

• The Vanira Lodge : I’m a fan of these tree‑nestled bungalows, with private bathrooms open to the outside! All the materials are natural; it’s just sensational!

Mid‑range

• Le Relais Fenua : a lovely accommodation in a tropical garden and a large outdoor pool, 250 m from the beach!
• Le Fare Suisse : a guest room in the heart of downtown, ideal for visiting the city center or for transiting to Moorea!
• La pension de la plage : guesthouse located right opposite a beautiful white‑sand beach, this lodging offers very good value for money. This good address is locally known.
• Tahiti Airport Motel : if you have to catch an early‑morning flight or don’t want to be far from the airport, this is the perfect hotel!

High‑end

• The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa :  close to the airport, the setting is magical and you can enjoy strolling in a lush 12‑hectare park.
• The Te Moana Tahiti Resort (formerly: Manava Suite Resort and Spa) : a magnificent hotel, facing the island of Moorea, with the largest infinity pool in Tahiti. A place we really love for its happy hours on its little motu facing the sunset! The establishment offers various services, notably nautical/aquatic activities. Here is our full review of the weekend we spent at the hotel.
• The Hilton Hotel Tahiti : I’ve only heard good things about it (I’ve never slept there) and sipping a cocktail with your feet in the sand is superb—take my word for it!

I have made sure to prepare a list of accommodations to suit all desires and all budgets. If you would like more information, please read our article on where to stay in Tahiti.

I also know the island of Moorea very well. You will find all ranges of hotels, a campsite, Airbnb rentals. Here is moreover our detailed guide on hotels in Moorea (high and mid‑range).

Camping

• There is only one “official” campsite on Moorea: the Nelson campsite. Facing one of the most beautiful lagoons on the island, you can pitch your tent in a huge coconut grove. The sunset here with a little Hinano is really not bad. The campsite also offers rooms and has access to a white‑sand beach.

Airbnb

• Fare Moko Iti : accommodation located in the northwest of the island, close to the island’s main points of interest and 20 m from the lagoon.
• Eden Moorea : king‑size bed in one of the house’s two lovely rooms. Direct access to the bay, but no beach. The welcome is great.
• Sunrise Beach Villa : this beautiful 240 m² villa, located in the northwest of the island, offers top‑of‑the‑line amenities both indoors and outdoors.

Guesthouses

• Poerani Moorea : in the north of the island, this guesthouse is peaceful. For accommodation, you can choose between a garden‑view or sea‑view suite.
• Pension fare Maheata : the accommodations in this guesthouse are spacious and well maintained. Breakfast offered facing the lagoon is included in the price.

For small budgets

• Fare om : located 2 km from the beach, you can opt for a double room or a single bed in a dormitory. Good value for money, with a continental breakfast available for a small extra cost.
• PainaPaopao Backpacker : this accommodation is a little closer to the beach (1.5 km). All beds are separated in the dormitory for a bit of privacy, pretty nice for the price!

Mid‑range

• Le Green Lodge : an outdoor pool on one of Moorea’s most beautiful beaches, superb bungalows—you’ll be happy here!
• Haere Mai I Te Fare : located on the heights, with a magnificent view of the crystal‑clear lagoon, a few cable lengths from the beach, this accommodation is also highly reputed!

High‑end

• InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa: very well known locally, a splendid setting for a magnificent hotel. As someone pointed out to me by email, unfortunately, this establishment closed its doors in 2020 due to the Covid‑19 crisis.
• Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea : close to Cook’s Bay and the airport, let yourself be tempted by this superb hotel! If you like, here is our complete review of this hotel that we recently had the opportunity to test.
• Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort : the spot is superb, on the very beautiful Temae beach. Personally, perfect for having a drink! Enchanting setting…
• Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa : this is, in my opinion, the most beautiful hotel in Moorea—luxurious surroundings, a magical fine‑sand beach with its coconut trees and palms, and stunning overwater bungalows!

We also detail these 3 overwater hotels in Moorea in a more in‑depth article to help you make your choice!

On this atoll, you will only find the 5-star luxury hotel The Brando. This accommodation is gorgeous, from the room to the restaurants, through the common areas, you will be within reach of prestige and of the top of the range! But as always, it comes at a certain price. I let you have a look at this place!

Another possibility to sleep “in Tetiaroa” or almost, you can consider spending the night on a catamaran. Indeed, several providers offer this possibility thanks to a 2-days trip. The idea is simple: you leave for 2 days and 1 night on a catamaran to discover “Tetia”. I particularly advise you Poe Charter, as I already tested it several times. Here is the story of my day with them in Tetiaroa. By the way, I talk about it in the article, but you can use the promo code “les2pieds” to get (as a tourist) 10% discount on your day or your weekend in Tetiaroa.

I went several times on each of them. There are: Bora Bora, Huahine, Maupiti, Raiatea and Tahaa. By the way, if you want to go further, I summarized here what I thought about all the Leeward Islands.

I recently wrote an article on the most beautiful hotels in Bora Bora; feel free to read it for my detailed opinion. I’m going to talk here about a selection I’ve made. I haven’t talked about the Airbnbs on the island, but know that there are quite a few of them as well.

Camping

• Apparently, there’s only one campsite on the island, the Bora Bora Camping Motu Écologique. The vibe and welcome look great! I don’t know it personally, but from what I’ve seen, it’s a very good address whose watchword is authenticity. One to remember!

Guesthouses

• Chez Nono Bora Bora Lodge : excellent location (on Matira Beach, with all amenities nearby) for a super attractive price for Bora Bora!
• Pension Alice et Raphaël : the setting is just wow for this guesthouse set on Motu Ome, so really peaceful. Internet fans, you will totally disconnect, since there’s no Wi‑Fi here! Real holidays ahead!

Mid‑range

• Hôtel Royal Bora Bora : average prices for this 3‑star hotel, which offers recently renovated standard garden‑view rooms. In the morning, you’ll have the chance to enjoy breakfast facing the lagoon!
• Blue Heaven Island Lodge : I find the concept of this eco‑oriented establishment great! This hotel runs almost autonomously, it’s full of charm and you’ll feel alone in the world.
• Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora : an accommodation we really like on the island of Bora Bora, the Pearl of the Pacific. It offers the cheapest overwater bungalows in Bora. Here is our full review on the subject!

High‑end

• Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa : with its 108 overwater bungalows and villas, you can call it a resort complex rather than a hotel, but don’t worry: the top‑of‑the‑range services are there! It was completely renovated in 2020, apparently magical,
• InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa : you will spend a magical, timeless stay on Motu Piti Aau. This hotel offers only overwater bungalows, so you can dive straight into the lagoon and discover marine life (corals, turtles, rays). It’s just magical!
• Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora : you will also be on a motu (Tehotu). Typical architecture in luxurious accommodations, attentive staff and dream setting—it’s the ideal place for a honeymoon.

By the way, if you are looking for a beautiful high‑end hotel for your stay, we have summarized all the possible choices of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora.

There are no high‑end hotels on Huahine, but you’ll have a choice of other types of accommodation.

Camping

• I’ve tested the Hiva Plage campsite and I really recommend it. It’s simple and very “nature/roots” and the spot is incredible! Canoe‑kayaks are provided to explore different spots and discover coral reefs and the seabed…

Airbnb

• Manuia Lagoon : I love the concept, which I find super original: a bungalow on a barge! The reviews are unanimous: an exceptional stay for a perfectly reasonable price.
• The Mati House : villa situated a little higher up, allowing you to enjoy a sumptuous view of the lagoon, neighboring Polynesian islands, and magnificent sunsets.

Guesthouses

• Pension Tapuna : charming rooms, a hearty breakfast included in the price; here you’ll be peaceful and out of sight!
• Moana lodge : in this guesthouse, you can choose half‑board and share your meals with the hosts, who will introduce you to Polynesian culture. Ideal for full immersion!
• Tifaifai et Café : located on Motu Mavea, the guesthouse is right on a white‑sand beach. And if you stay between July and November, you might be lucky enough to spot whales! Just magnificent!

Mid‑range

• Le Mahana : this 3‑star hotel is nestled in Avea Bay, on a white‑sand beach. You can dine with your feet in the sand before taking a dip in the crystal‑clear water. I’ve stopped by several times for breakfast or a drink, it’s always very pleasant ;
• Maitai Lapita Village : the atmosphere is zen in this establishment. If you opt for a premium lake bungalow, you’ll be in the heart of a lush garden, beside a stretch of water filled with water lilies. It’s quite original!
• Royal Huahine : accessible only by boat, the hotel has a private beach. You can choose between garden, beach, or overwater bungalows. -> Closed for now!

To go further, read our article on hotels and guesthouses on the island of Huahine.

On Maupiti, you won’t find any luxury hotel, but there is still a choice for accommodation.

Camping

• Maupiti Camping: it’s the only official campsite on the island, where the atmosphere seems to be very nice!

Airbnb

• Mihiarii’s Bed and Breakfast: very good value for money to stay with a local, on the main island, only 10 min from Tereia beach.
• Maupiti Island Farehau: if you are traveling with your family, you can rent this 144 m² house, close to the Maupiti Village and Papahani guesthouses (where you can eat if you book in advance).

Guesthouses

• Tereia: having spent a few nights in this guesthouse, I do recommend it. It is simple, but authentic.
• Kuriri: this pension composed of 4 bungalows is located on a motu (Tiapaa). There is no restaurant, but a fully equipped kitchen is available for travelers.
• Papahani : also located on the motu Tiapaa, but a little further north. All the bungalows overlook a private beach, in an enchanting setting!
• Maupiti village: another pension on Tiapaa. Here, the watchword is simplicity, the welcome is warm and the food delicious.

To discover more great deals, check out our guide to the best places to stay in Maupiti.

There is no high‑end hotel on Raiatea either, so you’ll have to opt for another type of accommodation!

Camping

• You can pitch your tent in the camping area of the Sunset Beach Motel where 30 sites are available. You will need to bring your own gear, as it is not possible to rent any on site.

Airbnb

• Fare Nyimanu : it is a fully equipped studio that can accommodate up to 4 people. On the heights of Raiatea, you can contemplate the splendid view of Huahine and Tahaa from the pool!
• The “Popoti Lodge” : you are right on the lagoon. This accommodation consists of a fare with its deck, from where you can admire rays and fish and sometimes, in the distance, dolphins! What’s more, Mount Temehani is 100 m away.
• Miri Miri Guest House : very nice location on the island to watch the sunsets, with Motu Miri as the backdrop. The house is on the water’s edge, with a private pontoon.

Guesthouses

• Faré Mahi Mahi : the hosts will bend over backwards to make your stay unforgettable: excursions, trips around the island, delivery of evening meals, airport transfers, etc.
• Bouddha Villa : guesthouse located between the airport and downtown. The rooms are spacious and equipped with the basic comforts.
• Fare Vavae : a very beautiful place with a pool and lovely bungalows

Mid‑range

• Raiatea Lodge : very beautiful rooms with refined decor in this 3‑star hotel. Also take advantage of its restaurant and its lovely pool! Since its renovation in 2020, we have tried the magnificent family bungalows—what a treat. They offer plenty of excursions to discover the island. Here is our opinion on the place !
• Atiapiti : comfortable bungalows equipped with a kitchenette. Seafood lovers will enjoy themselves—the restaurant has made it its specialty.
• Opoa Beach hôtel : small hotel establishment located in the south of Raiatea; the view of the lagoon is superb and the coral reef is ideal for snorkeling.
• Le-Néliza Beach Lodge : 2 fully equipped bungalows on the beach, with a small snorkeling spot; if you’re lucky, you might see rays and turtles. We spent 3 days there as a family on our own and it was really pleasant.

If you want to know more, feel free to take a detailed look at our articles on hotels and guesthouses in Raiatea.

A little end‑of‑the‑world island that I also know very well, having been there several times.

Airbnb

There are quite a few Airbnbs for an island like Tahaa, so I had to make a choice…

For a family trip on the waterfront, you could opt for the Villa Lou Faret (with a view of Bora Bora), or the large Private Beach Villa, which can accommodate up to 6 people.

If you’re traveling as a couple, why not book an XXL private‑bathroom room at the Sirius Escape Private Villa & Retreat or the Moana Beach bungalow Plage, where you can enjoy an entire bungalow in pure Polynesian style?

Pensions

• Hibiscus : Located on the mountain side and directly opposite (or almost) Motu Céran. Personally, we really liked it (we spent 3 nights there): the welcome was friendly, the food good, and the bungalow perfectly fine.
• Fare Pea Iti : I think it’s a notch above. Indeed, the reviews are unanimous in saying that this Polynesian lodge is wonderful, both in the services offered and in the charm of its bungalows.
• Pension Au Phil du temps : another very beautiful family guesthouse, with only three accommodations (2 Polynesian fare and 1 suite room with private lounge). Guaranteed tranquility!
• Pension Titaina : this is an addition after feedback. I had heard about it very briefly, but I had forgotten to include it. Given the glowing (and recent) comments, it is surely a very good alternative too!

Luxury hotel

• Taha’a by Pearl Resort : it is a splendid 5‑star Relais & Châteaux hotel in which I had the pleasure of staying—our opinion in this article. The wooden bungalows are just magnificent, whether overwater or on the beach with a private pool. Top‑notch establishment and the place is truly paradisiacal! For your information, one of their bungalows was used as a reward on the TV show Koh Lanta.
• Vahine Island Resort and Spa : it is a small 4‑star hotel with only 9 bungalows, located on Motu Tuvahine. It’s the ideal place to relax—an intimate spot that I dream of trying one of these days.

Another mention, Pirogue Api/Eden Private Island : in fact, it’s an island‑hotel (Motu Moute) 10 min by boat from Tahaa. The bungalows occupy the entire surface of the islet. You dive directly into the lagoon to discover the fauna and flora with just your mask and snorkel. Great address!

Want to know more? We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the best hotels and guesthouses in Taha’a.

In this archipelago, there are many atolls. The ones which are the most visited by tourists are the trio “Fakarava/Rangiroa/Tikehau”. More rarely and mostly by locals: Manihi/Ahe/Mataiva/Anaa. Personally, I know quite a few others, like: Niau, Kauehi, Aratika, Apataki, Arutua, Raraka.

Camping

• The only place where you can go camping on the atoll is at Pension Rangiroa Plage. There’s only one campsite here, but it’s great. When you unzip your tent, you’re right on the lagoon! Unbeatable price for accommodation in Polynesia: less than €20/night/person.

Airbnb

• Chez Lu et Lo : this 300 m² wooden house is right on the lagoon’s edge. You only have a few steps to bathe in the crystal‑clear water. A private bathroom is included with the room rental.
• Guest house Va’a i te Moana : the location is ideal, near Tiputa Pass where you can watch dolphins. A 50 m² bungalow is offered for up to 3 people.

Guesthouses

• Le Coconut Lodge : this family‑run guesthouse highlights its respect for the environment. It comprises 6 cosy bungalows with white walls and four‑poster beds. Wi‑Fi is available in every room.
• Rangiroa Bliss : rent one of the 3 bungalows right on the beach and above all take the half board: the typical meals prepared by Ilona are delicious!
• Les Relais de Joséphine : this is a family guesthouse with tasteful decor and refined cuisine, and it enjoys a magnificent view (it is also located opposite Tiputa Pass).
• Pension Turiroa “Chez Olga” : I can speak about it easily since I stayed there. It is a simple guesthouse, but the kitchen and fridge available allow you to be self‑sufficient. Good value for money for this address.

Mid‑range

• the Maitai Rangiroa : a little cheaper than the previous one, this 3‑star hotel enjoys a beautiful location in the northwest of the atoll. The bungalows are comfortable, the pool is pleasant and the cuisine seems to be one of the strong points of this establishment.

Luxury hotel

• Hotel Kia Ora : it is the most renowned on the island—and for good reason! This 4‑star establishment offers fine amenities. Located on a white‑sand beach and a turquoise lagoon, you can choose between a villa with a private pool or an overwater bungalow.

On this atoll, there are no luxury hotels—mostly family guesthouses, plenty of Airbnbs, and two campsites. A paradise for divers.

Camping

• The Tekopa Village campsite: located on the beach facing the Fakarava lagoon. You can come with your own tent, but you can also rent bungalows if you want a bit more comfort.
• The Relais Marama: it also offers bungalows and campsites. In addition, you can use bicycles free of charge.
• Alaroots Fakarava: a superb spot you should see if you love sharing, cool places in a dream setting!

Airbnb

• If you want an unusual accommodation, Pierre offers to share his sailboat in the Fakarava lagoon. He can take you on excursions to the most beautiful passes of the Tuamotu. Plus, the price is really affordable.
• Another original accommodation: the Beach Blessing Bungalow. Here, you can play Robinson Crusoe, with only a hurricane lamp and candles to light your evenings!

Guesthouses

• I recommend the Paparara guesthouse, which I know. It was created on the site of an old pearl farm, right on the lagoon. The bungalows are decorated in Polynesian style. The address is renowned for its food. I confirm: the cuisine is excellent!
• The Havaiki Lodge: everyone agrees that this is the most beautiful accommodation on the atoll. I haven’t been yet, but the images and feedback are very good.

Feel free to read our article to find out where to stay in Fakarava.

This is an atoll where I had the chance to stay for a week.

Camping

• If you want to camp on Tikehau, you’ll have to go to Pension Justine. A kitchen and sanitary facilities (toilets and shower) are available to campers. However, remember to bring your own tent!
• While doing the research, I also discovered Tikehau Glamping, which looks really nice; if you go, feel free to give us your feedback.

Airbnb

• Private villa at Evaline’s: an entire private island just for you, with staff on hand and all‑inclusive dining—what more could you ask for? The only drawback is that you’re quite far from everything (it takes 30 min by boat to reach the island)…
• Entire house : here too, you can enjoy an entire house (for 6 people). The accommodation is on the atoll of Tikehau, right on the beach. Note: payment in cash only.
• Pretty bungalow Chez Christiane : built very recently on the water’s edge, this blue‑and‑white seaside bungalow will charm you. Comfortable, well equipped, and with a direct view of the lagoon, it’s the perfect base!

Guesthouses

• For our part, we stayed at Aito Motel Colette. The location of this guesthouse is ideal: close to Tuherahera village and in magnificent surroundings. Beware of surprise taxes and surcharges for credit‑card payments. Otherwise, we had a very good stay!
• Tikehau Village is also well reputed: the bungalows are a bit dated, but the welcome is friendly and the view of the lagoon is sublime.

Luxury hotel

• The Pearl Resort : ideal location for snorkeling and the chance to see manta rays about fifteen minutes away by boat. The overwater bungalows are great, with plenty of space and local decor—excellent value for money.
• Hakamanu Lodge : you’ll be on a private island, somewhat remote (17 km from Tuherahera village). As for accommodations, there’s something for everyone: luxury tent for 6, fare with two bedrooms, or guest room with private bathroom and balcony.
• Ninamu Resort : a hotel that blends into nature. Each bungalow is unique: outdoor bathroom, mostly wooden construction, or private jacuzzi. Escape and uniqueness guaranteed!
• Fafarua Private Island : an entire villa for rent on this private island, 30 min by boat from Tikehau. Many services are offered free of charge: transfers, kayaks and paddleboards, and even a boat with captain to explore the surroundings!

If you want more accommodation options in Tikehau, I recommend consulting our guide on the subject!

I told you about my experience at the Ariihee Vai guesthouse, where I spent several nights. Ideally located on the beach, simplicity is the keyword here. Little extra: the hosts propose excursions to discover the atoll.

There is another pension (Mataiva Village), but the setting is not as good as the one of Ariihee Vai pension.

On this atoll, I recommend staying at Chez Raita, rather than at the Coco Lodge, following the quite disappointing experience we had. (see our review here).

At Raita, the welcome seems much nicer, the bungalows more comfortable and the quality/price ratio much better. In short, don’t hesitate between these 2!

I didn’t have the opportunity to discover this atoll yet, but I hope one day I will!

Guesthouses

• Pension Poerani Nui: I had only good feedbacks about the accommodation and the hosts. The bungalows are functional and spacious, food is excellent. The lagoon is perfect for snorkeling, you will feel like you are in a huge aquarium.
• Pension Manihi Pearl Village: very good address also, with a good quality/price ratio. The location is perfect to watch the sunset.
• Pension Nanihi Paradise Manihi: travelers who have stayed in this place all agree that it is a paradise. Luxury is not the priority here, but the setting is enchanting and the welcome warm.

I know 5 of the 6 populated islands in the Marquesas. The only one I haven’t been to yet at the time of writing is: Ua Huka.

I spent a week there. On the island, you will find several types of accommodation.

Camping

• I don’t have much info about this campsite. It has no website, but you can get information via the Facebook account if you’re interested in this inexpensive accommodation option.

Airbnb

• Bed&Breakfast in Taiohae‑Nuku Hiva: 3 rooms, only one of which has a private bathroom and toilet. Half board is available, and if you are vegetarian, vegan, or allergic to certain foods, the owners will prepare a special menu for you.
• Maison Aakua : here, the entire ground floor is reserved for you. Up to 6 people can sleep here, and you have all the equipment you need to cook and do your laundry. Very nice view and apparently the internet connection is good!

Guesthouses

• I first recommend the Pension Mave Mai . The location is ideal: 200 m from the beach, the mountain for hikes 2 km away, and the nearest restaurant 300 m away. Special mention for the fresh‑fruit platter at breakfast and the view, which look just magnificent!
• Pension Punahaa : this very colorful house is located near the village and can accommodate up to 8 travelers. Dinner and airport transfer can be ordered for an extra fee. The rooms are simple, but hospitality is guaranteed!

The hotel

• There is only one on the island: the Nuku Hiva Keikahanui Pearl Lodge: perched on a hillside, it has a beautiful infinity pool and an exceptional viewpoint. Far from a large complex, it is a lodge of 20 bungalows decorated by local artists—Marquesan atmosphere guaranteed!

I know this one very well as I have been there several times.

Airbnb

• Room at Simone’s: you stay with a local in a room that can accommodate up to three people (be careful, the accommodation is not suitable for children under 12 years old). The bathroom and toilets are shared.
• Hiva Oa Taaoa: rent a Polynesian-style house, ideal for a family of four. Your host even offers electric bikes or a car for rent, which is useful for visiting the island!

Guesthouses

• The pension Kanahau: for having experienced it, I highly recommend it! Tania, your host, will make you love the island. Bungalows are spacious and all have a beautiful view of Taha Uku Bay and the valley.

Lodge

• Hanakee Lodge: beautiful family hotel nestled in the vegetation, here you can enjoy concierge services, luggage storage, a store and a beautiful pool overlooking the ocean.

I also spent a week there (here is our article).

• Pension Chez Dora: you can find my detailed review here. I don’t regret having spent these few days at Dora’s. You feel incredibly well, like at home. It is the only pension I know on the island, but I really recommend it.
• Pension Hakamoui Plage: the pension is a bit isolated (15 min from the city), but you are at the edge of the beach. The bungalows are in the local style and you can choose either half or full board.

Small island I don’t know yet, but which I would like to discover! Here is what I was often recommended:

• Ua Huka “Horse House” Lodge: if you like colors, you’re in for a treat! Red, green, blue and yellow decorate the walls and the bedding of this pension, located in the center of the island. Your hosts will welcome you with a smile and many activities are offered.
• Pension Le rêve Marquisien: if you come with your family, you can stay in one of the 4 bungalows which can accommodate up to 5 people. Completely immersed in the vegetation, you will have the leisure to discuss the beauties of the local nature with the owners.

On this island, a little cut off from the world (as it can only be reached by boat), you will mainly find the following accommodation:

• At Leonie in Omoa: 3 words to summarize this guesthouse that I know: simple, basic but friendly. Leonie is passionate about her island, which she knows by heart. It is a pleasure to stay with her.

I only spent one day there but didn’t stay for the night. I know by name:

• Taniava Guest House: it is located a few minutes’ walk from Vaitahu (and its exceptional handicrafts), and on top of that it is on the beach. You can taste Jeanne’s excellent cooking

Made up of 5 main islands and 2 groups of islets and atolls, there are in fact 4 islands that are visited by tourists: Tubuai, Rurutu, Raivavae and Rimatara. I exclude Rapa, which nobody visits as it is only accessible by boat and is way too remote. As far as I know, there is no campsite or hotel on the 5 islands.

Personally, I only know the first 3 large islands that I mentioned.

I stayed with friends, so I can’t give you personal feedback, but rather second‑hand experiences from acquaintances.

• Pension Taitaa Tubuai : the 5 renovated rooms have a private bathroom, the welcome is great, and the home‑cooked food is delicious.
• Tavaetu Guesthouse  : the location is ideal since the guesthouse is right on the lagoon. The house kitchen is available to guests, so here you do the cooking! There are still food trucks a few minutes’ walk away.
• Maison de vacances Mara’ai le Spot : this beachfront bungalow is ideal for a couple, as it has only one bedroom. The rate includes half board: breakfast and à‑la‑carte dinner.

…that I know very well! I slept at the Teautamatea pension. What I liked in this simple but pleasant place: the meal shared with the hosts, dishes made with local products and the beach just a step away.

A little more upmarket: the pension Vaitumu Village Rurutu. It is a small family hotel, composed of 7 bungalows of 3 persons maximum each, with private bathroom. You can enjoy the swimming pool and the beach which borders the establishment.

I went there once and stayed at the guesthouse Chez Linda. You will definitely spend a great time at this guesthouse. Linda and her husband John will introduce you to Polynesian life with their advice, cooking and tours. From your bungalow, enjoy a magnificent view on the garden or on the lagoon. A very good address I highly recommend!

On the island, you can also stay at the pension Vaimano-Raivavae, which I know by reputation. Located a bit further inland (about 20 min walk from the nearest beach), it overlooks the lagoon and the motu. The cuisine is local, and you can choose between half board and full board. Several excursions are offered, and bicycles are available for a ride on Raivavae.

I don’t know this island yet, but I had good feedback for:

• La perruche rouge: in this guesthouse, bungalows are spacious and nicely decorated, the welcome is warm, and the hosts are keen to share the Polynesian culture. If you have the choice, ask for one of the two upper bungalows so you can enjoy the magnificent view on the ocean, and red parakeets will come to visit you early in the morning and in the evening.
• Homestay: Angélique and Simon rent out rooms with a view of the motu pool and a private bathroom in their house. Breakfast is offered, and for activities, it is possible to rent bikes and kayaks.

In this archipelago (composed of islets and atolls), you will find only one inhabited island: Mangareva. I had the pleasure to stay there twice, for a week each time, so I can easily tell you about it!

On this island, there is no campsite, no mid-range or high-end hotel, nor Airbnb (at least, not to my knowledge!). There are a few guesthouses, which I know by name, but the one I recommend is the Maro’i guesthouse. It is really a great place! Marie and Michel spare no effort for their guests, and you can also taste the excellent Polynesian cuisine.

Well, yes, this is (already) the end of this very long article about the best places to stay in French Polynesia! It is not exhaustive, but I tried to share my opinion and my experience (when I can) on these different accommodations in French Polynesia. You are now ready to prepare your next trip to Polynesia and choose where to stay in French Polynesia! You just have to make some choices, according to your budget and your desires. I am waiting for your impressions in comments and, as usual, if you liked the article, don’t hesitate to share it! Finally, as I said in the introduction, if you have other addresses that you have personally tested and that you find worthy of being mentioned here, I’m interested too. Tell me all about it in comments.

See you soon,

Sylvain

Written by Sylvain PONS

From 2015 to 2021, French Polynesia was our home, with Mélanie and our children. I'm happy to share my experience and advice to help you organize an unforgettable stay in French Polynesia, based on my in-depth knowledge of the territory.

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