Where to stay in Tikehau? Our complete guide
Last update: 06/30/2026
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I’m back with a new article about Polynesia! Lately, I’ve been writing several accommodation guides for islands and atolls such as Rangiroa. You keep asking us for more help, and choosing the right place to stay is not something you want to get wrong on a trip to Polynesia. This time, I’m sharing everything you need to know about where to stay in Tikehau. Set in the heart of the Tuamotu archipelago, this atoll is truly worth adding to your itinerary!
I’ll admit, it’s a little less famous than Rangiroa and Fakarava. But it’s just as beautiful to discover, with its crystal-clear turquoise lagoon, motus, and dive sites full of marine life. If you go, there’s a good chance you’ll see manta rays (depending on the season), plenty of coral, turtles, and, of course, sharks! I can tell you, you come back to the surface with your head full of images. What struck me most was the calm, peaceful atmosphere of Tikehau. You really take the time to soak up the easygoing Polynesian lifestyle. That said, there are still plenty of things to do in Tikehau. The atoll is 308 km from Tahiti, with a flight time of about 55 minutes. If you’re planning a stop in the Tuamotu Islands, I recommend spending a few days in Tikehau.
If I’ve already convinced you to discover this beautiful atoll, the rest of this article should be useful! The goal is to give you a selection of the best places to stay in Tikehau. Even though it’s a small atoll, you’ll find both luxury hotels and family-run guesthouses. In short, there’s something for different tastes and budgets, so everyone should be able to find a stay that works for them. And, as usual, we select places we’ve tested ourselves and/or through friends and family. We’re really sharing our honest feedback!
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Where to stay in Tikehau? The best areas to stay
Before getting to the heart of the matter, here’s a quick overview of Tikehau to help you understand where to stay. Let’s be honest: Tikehau isn’t huge, so the tour will be quick, haha. Basically, you have two main options:
First: stay in the village on the main motu, Tuherahera. If you want a bit of “action,” or at least to be close to shops and dive centers, this is the best area. Tikehau Airport is close to the village, but Air Tahiti indicates that there is no public shuttle service, so it’s best to arrange your arrival and departure transfers directly with your accommodation. This is where most family-run guesthouses are located—perfect if you want to spend a few days in Tikehau in an authentic setting without blowing the budget.
Second: stay on one of the isolated motus. Here, it’s all about peace and quiet, with almost deserted pink-sand beaches and coral reefs you can enjoy nearly to yourself. I’d say the setting is more exclusive, often just 10–15 minutes away by boat! As you might expect, staying on a motu usually costs more. But if you want to treat yourself, enjoy good comfort, and stay somewhere more private with fewer people around, go for it!
As you can see, there aren’t thousands of options. But the good news is that each one suits a different type of stay.
Here’s an interactive map to help you choose your accommodation by location. Quick note: not every place to stay appears on Booking or on the map.
Book your stay in Tikehau!
Use the interactive map below to find your future place to stay!
The best accommodation in Tikehau
As I mentioned above, accommodation in Tikehau ranges from overwater bungalows to family-run guesthouses. You can find a bit of everything depending on what you want from your trip—and, of course, on your budget. It’s not the part we like thinking about most, but it still matters, haha. I’m sure you’ll find something that suits you!
The best high-end hotels in Tikehau
If you want a more high-end stay in Tikehau, there are four beautiful options on the atoll. I think you’ll like them. Let me walk you through them so you can compare more easily. I know the hardest part is often agreeing on the accommodation and actually making a choice! As mentioned above, these places are mostly located on isolated motus.
Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts
Located on the private motu of Tiano, just a few minutes from Tikehau Airport, Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts is one of the atoll’s key high-end addresses. This 4-star hotel has 37 suites and bungalows. Some are over the water, right above the translucent blue lagoon, while others sit on the beach surrounded by palms. Whatever you choose, the bungalows are wooden, with thatched roofs and a few Polynesian decor touches. There’s also a private 120 m² villa, ideal if you’re traveling with a group.
From the moment you arrive, the setting makes an impression. The shuttle boat drops you right at the hotel’s doorstep, in a beautiful location. On site, it feels like a small paradise, with an infinity pool, an outdoor lounge, hammocks, and a spa. You can even snorkel or dive straight from your terrace. Kayaking and fishing are also available, so there’s no shortage of things to do!
For meals, the hotel’s Poreho restaurant serves dishes made with local produce. Reviews are very positive, so you should be in for a treat! And for sunset, the Tianoa bar is the place to go for cocktails. Another bonus: the team is very welcoming and pays attention to the little details that make a stay feel special.
In short, it’s a safe bet in Tikehau if you’re looking for privacy, comfort, and a postcard-like setting. If you have the budget, you can go for it with confidence!
Ninamu Resort
Welcome to Ninamu Resort, on a small motu just five minutes from the airport! This is a smaller hotel, with 10 handcrafted Polynesian-style fares. They have thatched roofs, colorful shutters, and face the sea in a beautiful setting. Inside, you get excellent comfort, including a private bathroom. There’s no pool, but with the turquoise lagoon at your feet, you’ll probably forget that detail pretty quickly!
There’s also a cozy, well-designed shared lounge where you can play pool, ping-pong, and more. Outside, kayaks and snorkeling gear are available. Take the opportunity to explore the area’s rich underwater life—you’ll see tropical fish and plenty of other species. The hotel restaurant is great too, with homemade dishes featuring freshly caught fish (so good!) and exotic fruit, all served under a fare overlooking the tropical garden.
I’m almost certain you’ll love the peaceful atmosphere and the postcard setting of coconut palms and turquoise water. One more thing: on request, the team can arrange a picnic on a neighboring motu, a snorkeling trip to the best spots, or simply treat you to a Polynesian massage.
Hakamanu Lodge
Thirty minutes from the main motu, Hakamanu Lodge gives you that almost end-of-the-world feeling on a coral motu. Here, you’ll find three traditional wooden fares facing a white-sand beach (the view is really beautiful!). The double rooms are well equipped: air-conditioning or fan, depending on your preference, mosquito nets, and a private bathroom. Basically, you have everything you need for a very successful escape.
Every morning, breakfast is served under the communal fare. The lodge also offers half-board or full-board. Meals at the restaurant focus on fresh produce: freshly caught fish, garden vegetables, and homemade desserts (very tempting!). To explore the lagoon, grab a mask and snorkel for a snorkeling session, or simply head out by kayak. And if you just want to unwind, you can relax under the coconut trees on the white-sand beach. That’s vacation mode right there!
The main strength of this lodge is the warm welcome and attention from the hosts, who make you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. In short, between total calm, postcard scenery, and simple comfort, it’s a lovely recipe for a dream stay.
Tikehau Fafarua Lodge Private Island
Just a few minutes by boat from the main motu, you’ll arrive at Fafarua, a private motu—and the experience is exclusive. This time, you are literally alone on the motu, welcomed by the hosts, Eva and Patrick. You’ll have a 200 m² villa all to yourself! To give you a better idea, it has three bedrooms: one with a double bed, and two with a double bed and a single bed. There is also a spacious, bright living room and a modern kitchen, not to mention two bathrooms opening onto the garden. It’s a clever mix of nature and comfort, perfect to share with family or friends. Naturally, the villa overlooks the lagoon and a beautiful fine-sand beach. It’s the perfect place to enjoy this paradise at your own pace.
Food lovers will appreciate the barbecue on the terrace or the on-island restaurant serving fresh fish and Franco-Polynesian dishes. You definitely won’t go hungry! Note: if you’re interested, the villa is available for a minimum of three nights (which we recommend anyway). That gives you a good amount of time to enjoy this special experience.
If you’re still hesitating between these four places, take a look at the table below. It brings together the key information for each one, and it’s much easier to compare them at a glance!
| Name | Location | Features | Review | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts | Motu Tiano, Tikehau | 33 beach & overwater bungalows, infinity pool, spa, restaurant, bar, dive center, kayaks, bicycles, airport transfer. | You will be charmed by the overwater bungalows and the pink sand of the private motu. | 883 € – 1 350 € | Book |
| Ninamu Resort | Motu Ninamu, Tikehau | 10 bungalows, full board, private beach, snorkeling, kayak, paddleboard, kitesurf, excursions, free airport shuttle. | You will love the chic Robinson vibe and the wide range of included water activities. | 749 € – 3 500 € (from 2 nights) | Book |
| Hakamanu Lodge | Motu Hakamanu, Tikehau | Lagoon-view bungalows, half board, private beach, kayaks, snorkeling, fishing, shuttle, Wi-Fi, pets allowed. | You will be delighted by the tranquility and the lagoon right in front of the bungalows. | 442 € – 670 € | Book |
| Tikehau Fafarua Lodge Private Island | Motu Fafarua (private island), Tikehau | 3-bedroom villa, exclusive island, full board, beach & lagoon access, water activities, free airport transfers. | Experience the unique feeling of having an island all to yourself, with tailor-made service. | 2 778 € – 6 087 € | Book |
Affordable accommodation in Tikehau: family guesthouses and camping
Now, let’s leave the luxury bungalows behind and move on to more affordable options! Family-run guesthouses and camping in Tikehau are great ways to get closer to local life without breaking the bank. A stay in this type of accommodation means simplicity, warmth, and a more local feel. Here, you can take the time to discover Tikehau and its famous lagoon while spending time with Polynesians. Sounds good, right?
Hiti Tikehau
Located on the seafront, Hiti Tikehau offers a very cozy 50 m² bungalow. Picture this: you’re just a few meters from a beautiful private beach. The all-wood bungalow opens onto a terrace directly facing the lagoon. Inside, you’ll find a nicely decorated living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious bedroom that can be set up with either a double bed or two single beds. The bonus: even the bedroom looks out to sea through large bay windows! The bungalow also includes a bathroom with a walk-in shower.
To get around, the host lends you all-terrain bikes. You can easily reach the motu’s small supermarkets (very handy) or ride out to Hina’s Bell. Kayaks are also available if you want to explore the marine life on your own. The water is so clear that you can spot rays and fish right from your kayak! In short, Hiti Tikehau is ideal if you’re looking for a simple stay right by the water.
Tikehau Cosy Lodge
Still on the edge of the lagoon, just a few steps from the village of Tuherahera, Tikehau Cosy Lodge welcomes you to a fare arranged like a 32 m² studio. Slide open the bay window and you’re right in a beautiful setting. Everything is simple but warm. You’ll have a well-equipped kitchenette, a private shower, and a terrace with a hammock and barbecue—perfect for relaxing at the end of the day and watching the sunset.
What’s more, the hosts, Aimée and Patrick, will gladly share their local tips and lend you bikes and kayaks. Travelers especially appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the family feel, and the excellent location. In short, it’s a lovely address to keep in mind!
Aito Motel Colette
This is the guesthouse where we put down our bags for a week in Tikehau! I can tell you we had a great family stay. The guesthouse is set on a truly beautiful white-sand beach. It has six recently renovated bungalows for two to four people. Each has its own private bathroom and all the essential comfort you need. Bikes and snorkeling gear are provided so you can explore the motu. A small detail that may interest you: the guesthouse also offers a lagoon excursion with local guides.
Special mention for the meals shared with the hosts and other travelers: they were delicious and made with freshly caught fish! Honestly, I highly recommend this guesthouse. We spent a simple but fantastic week there, and for a very reasonable price too!
Pension Hotu
We’re staying in the village of Tuherahera with Pension Hotu! The setting is perfect: you arrive in a coconut grove on a gorgeous beach. The guesthouse has six traditional-style bungalows. They’re all well ventilated, with mosquito nets and a private bathroom, and can sleep two to six people. On the agenda: snorkeling in the lagoon (with Coco Dive Club right next door), exploring the underwater world, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more!
If you want to go farther and let someone guide you, the guesthouse offers a full lagoon excursion: manta rays, Bird Island, pink sand, a barbecue on a secluded motu… Back at the guesthouse, you’ll also find games like table tennis and billiards. For meals, there’s a restaurant next door; on the menu: the famous fresh fish of the Tuamotu Islands! In short, everything is set up so you can feel good in Tikehau.
Tikehau Paradise (formerly Relais Royal Tikehau)
Let’s mix things up and head to a private motu just a few minutes by boat from Tikehau Airport! Formerly known as Relais Royal Tikehau, Tikehau Paradise now welcomes travelers on a beautiful white-sand beach where you’ll be almost barefoot in the water. There are several bungalows on site, accommodating two to six people—some are larger family units. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by idyllic scenery.
You can choose a half-board option to try local specialties. Activity-wise, kayaks are available, and you can head out on lagoon and Bird Island excursions. The standout feature of this place is undoubtedly its postcard setting and warm atmosphere. A great combination for enjoying Tikehau!
Teumuhonu Tikehau
In the center of Tuherahera village, Teumuhonu Tikehau opens the doors of its fare converted into a family-run guesthouse. The handy part: you’ll be just steps from the quay and the local food trucks, where you can try tasty snacks. Ariitu welcomes you with a flower lei, which immediately sets a warm tone—and honestly, it’s always appreciated!
The accommodation is nicely decorated, with a four-poster double bed and an equipped kitchenette. The bathroom is a little unusual because it’s outside in the tropical garden, which makes for a fun and pretty cool change.
Every morning, you can enjoy a continental breakfast before heading out to explore the atoll. By bike, you can easily reach the dive club, grocery store, or bakery—the location is really convenient. Here too, the host offers the classic excursion to Bird Island. Honestly, it’s a very good option with excellent value for money. You can go without hesitation!
Chez Christiane
Chez Christiane is a real favorite with travelers—and it’s easy to understand why! You settle into a private 30 m² cocoon in Tikehau, right on a dream beach. The fare is tastefully decorated, with a comfortable bedroom, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a lovely bathroom. And don’t forget the terrace opening onto the sea (it’s beautiful!).
Christiane, your host, prepares a homemade breakfast for you every morning. She’s always available to answer your questions and share her best tips. She’ll also drop you off and pick you up directly at Tikehau Airport. In other words, all you have to do is enjoy yourself without worrying about a thing—and that’s what vacations are for.
To explore the reef, you have kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear. We can agree this guesthouse ticks a lot of boxes: a great location, tasteful decor, a dream setting, simplicity, authenticity, good food, and a warm welcome. What more could you ask for?
Tikehau Glamping & Camping
If you want to sleep close to nature in Tikehau, it’s possible! Tikehau Glamping & Camping offers several simple options, including wooden and niau teepees, tent pitches, and mosquito-net hammocks under plant shelters. In one place, you can enjoy different, unusual experiences with varying levels of comfort. For reference, you’ll be close to the main village, in a coconut grove between the lagoon and reef sides. You can do some shopping at the grocery store or try the food trucks. Everything is within reach, including the lagoon. The campground also lends kayaks, paddleboards, masks, and snorkels, so you’re well equipped to explore the coral reefs.
Another great point is the friendly atmosphere, with a barbecue area in the heart of the coconut grove. As for the facilities, the shared restrooms are clean, as is the communal kitchen. Another advantage of camping: the price! You definitely won’t find cheaper accommodation in Tikehau. For an authentic, nature-focused experience, the campground should be right up your alley.
Here’s a table that sums up the essential information about the family-run guesthouses. It’s always helpful when it comes time to choose.
| Name | Location | Features | Review | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hiti Tikehau – Ocean Side Bungalow | Ocean side, Tuherahera | Private ocean-front bungalow, wild beach, free bicycles, fully equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, airport shuttle. | You will appreciate the tranquil, friendly atmosphere. | 302 € – 441 € (from 2 nights) | Book |
| Tikehau Cosy Lodge | Tuherahera village, Tikehau | Lagoon bungalow, free bicycles & kayaks, fully equipped kitchen, hammock, Wi-Fi, transfers included. | You will love the location and comfort of this lodge! | 333 € (from 2 nights) | Book |
| Aito Motel Colette | Main beach, Tikehau | Beach bungalows, half board, ukulele evenings, kayaks, airport transfers, Wi-Fi. | You will be delighted by the family atmosphere, feet in the sand. | 170 € | Book |
| Pension Hotu | East of Tuherahera, Tikehau | Beach bungalows, half board, nearby dive center, bicycles, kayaks, lagoon excursions, Wi-Fi. | You will love this stunning spot on one of the atoll’s most beautiful beaches. | 90 € | Book |
| Relais Royal Tikehau | Private motu near the airport | Bungalows, full board, pink beach, kayaks, fishing, Polynesian music, transfers. | You will be enchanted by this authentic stay on an exclusive motu. | 230 € – 495 € | Book |
| Teumuhonu Tikehau | Tuherahera (opposite the port) | Design loft-bungalow, outdoor bathroom, bicycles, high-speed Wi-Fi, airport shuttle, kitchenette. | You will be delighted by this lodge where everything is designed for a perfect stay. | 90 € – 173 € | Book |
| Chez Christiane | Village beach, Tuherahera | Cozy bungalow, fully equipped kitchen, bicycles & kayak, transfers, homemade breakfast, Wi-Fi. | You will appreciate the location and comfort of this lagoon-side accommodation. | 730 € (from 3 nights) | Book |
| Tikehau Glamping & Camping | Tuherahera (near the airport) | Glamping tents & pitches, shared kitchen, showers, bicycle rental, kayaks, friendly atmosphere. | You will love this affordable nature experience: starry nights facing the lagoon. | 17 € – 55 € | Book |
I’ll wrap up this article on where to stay in Tikehau here. Even though the atoll is small, you’ve seen that there are several accommodation options for different tastes and budgets. You can stay on the main motu or on an isolated motu—it all depends on the kind of stay you’re looking for. In any case, I hope you’ll find the best option for you on this beautiful atoll.
By the way, since we’re talking about atolls, I also recommend checking out our guide to the best places to stay in Rangiroa. There are plenty of choices there too!
If you’re planning to continue your journey through the Tuamotu Islands, here’s our guide to accommodation in Fakarava.
See you soon for more practical articles on Polynesia,
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.
Despite our care, a mistake may have slipped into this article. If you find any, please don't hesitate to let us know so we can correct it as soon as possible and keep our information up-to-date!
