The “Must” in Overwater Bungalows for Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora

Would you like to have our insider knowledge expertise on how to choose the BEST overwater bungalow in Tahiti, Moorea or Bora Bora, perfect for your client’s needs?

Read on to discover our secret insider information on which number, which category, which location, why that bungalow could be the best for your client and more!

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So, are you ready to go on the “Discovery Tour” and see our suggestions for the “must” in overwater bungalows! 

Well then, let’s start in Tahiti!

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Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
Our insider input : There are in fact TWO overwater bungalow possibilities at this resort depending on what you are looking for.
So… what are they, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

1/- Junior Suite Overwater Motu Bungalow
(photo on the left hand side above)

Why? 
Location: proximity and snorkeling are the key words here! Great location near the main part of the resort, in between the lagoonarium and the outer reef so perfect for snorkeling.
Size:  743sq.ft. and take advantage of a spacious outside deck (286sq.ft.) with 2 loungers, a 2-seater sofa and even a small dining table with 2 chairs including a lower sun-deck with direct access into the lagoon.
View:  Incredible! 180° views of the lagoon, sunset and Moorea in the distance.
Special feature: expansive, sliding glass doors opening onto the large terrace so the inside naturally blends and extends into the outside.
How many in this category:  Only 8 so they go fast!

2/- Junior Suite Overwater Superior Lagoon Bungalow
(photo on the right hand side above)

Why?
Location: secluded and private are the key words here. You are at the end of the earth, farthest from the main resort. The 2 bungalows are located at the very end of the pontoon.
Size:  576sq.ft. including room, bathroom and outer deck. Smaller, more intimate than the Motu bungalow.
View:  Unobstructed with expansive almost 360° views of the lagoon, the Marina, the sunset and Moorea in the distance. 
Special feature: double sliding glass doors from the junior suite side and from the bedroom side both opening onto a cozy terrace with lower snorkeling and sun platform, direct access ladder into the water.
How many in this category:  Only 2 so book fast!

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Enough of Tahiti…

Are you ready to explore the best of the best in Moorea?

Let’s go!

(Hotels are presented in alphabetical order with no particular preference.)

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Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Our insider input : This is the one hotel where you have to splurge on an overwater bungalow! Don’t think you can wait until you reach Bora Bora… The resort is superbly located between the 2 bays of Moorea, Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay surrounded by a pristine lagoon and immense coral garden spreading out to the coral reef.
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalow 
Why? 
Location: The location of all 54 overwater bungalows is phenomenal surrounded by dense coral, jewel fish, sting rays and black tip reef sharks! Do choose however the Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalow located at the end of the dock and request bungalow numbers 89, 107 or 109 for the amazing, clear views of the lagoon and the sunset! If you don’t want to splurge on the Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalow than choose the Panoramic Overwater Bungalows with numbers 82, 84, 97, 100, 101, 103 or 105 for the best sunset views.
Size:  667sq.ft. The size of the bungalow is generous and comfortable enough to sleep 3 adults. The glass-floor viewing panel allows to see the marine life float by. The outdoor deck and lower sun deck are highly appreciated being large and allowing for sunbathing and swimming direct into the gorgeous lagoon.
View:  Probably the best place in all of Moorea to view the stunning colors of the sunset every night sipping your chilled glass of champagne or local rum Maitai!
Special feature: Very large, well-appointed bathrooms with double sinks, rain shower and bathtub.
How many in this category:  9 Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalows

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Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
Our insider input : The perfect answer to an overwater experience at affordable prices. The overwaters are perched on a coral reef shelf so in front you have beautiful, deep water perfect for swimming or discovering the extensive marine life while snorkeling.
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Premium Overwater Bungalow 
Why? 
Location: Choose overwater bungalow numbers 423, 422, 421, 420 or 419 for the best location. They are the farthest away from the hotel’s small dock that is located in the center of all the overwater bungalows. And they are also the farthest from the public dock located on the other side near bungalows 401 to 404.
Size:  517sq.ft. The bungalow is perfectly organized maximizing all use of space with the spacious outdoor terrace and lower sundeck with direct access into the deep lagoon waters. 
View:  The bungalows face the beautiful, endless sunset views every night!
Special feature: Small glass table to view the below colorful, marine life. So enjoy your coffee and watch Tahitian TV below!
How many in this category:  18 but avoid the ones completely to the left of the resort when looking at the map. Numbers 401, 402… they are located close to the public dock which is noisy all the time. 

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Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Beach Resort
Our insider input : If you are looking for a huge overwater bungalow similar to Bora Bora and you can’t get to Bora Bora, then this Luxury Horizon Overwater Bungalow is a must for you! Plus the resort is located in a protected marine zone so no motorized boats, catamarans, jet skis can intrude on your tranquility.
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Luxury Horizon Overwater Bungalow 
Why? 
Location: end of dock, endless horizon views, that’s why! With no lookie-loos from the bungalow next door!
Size:  893sq.ft. This bungalow is the largest on the island of Moorea rivalling those in Bora Bora.
View:  Stunning almost 360° views of the blue lagoon, the glowing sunrise in the mornings and Tahiti in the distance.
Special feature: walk-in closet and lower deck private solarium with direct-access ladder into the lagoon. You also have your mini bar refreshed daily with soda, mineral water and beer. And a welcome bottle of champagne awaits you as you enter!
How many in this category:  Only 5 so hurry!

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Enough of Moorea…

What about Bora Bora? 
For choosing the best overwater bungalow in Bora Bora, we kept in mind only one criteria:  the view of Mount Otemanu from the bungalow. It has to be a clear, unblocked, panoramic view of Mount Otemanu! 

Let’s go!

(Hotels are presented in alphabetical order with no particular preference)

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Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
Our insider input : Ever since it’s opening in 2002, this luxury resort has gone from strength to strength! Following the last renovation to become part of the exclusive network of luxury resorts, Conrad, pure luxury has reached another height! With more than 86 delightful, modern overwater bungalows to choose from, the choice is vast! So which one? We could have gone for the easy choice of one of the 2 impressive, 2-storey Presidential Overwater Villas. But no. We know what you are looking for and we have found it! The “Otemanu View” Pool Overwater Villa! 
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Otemanu View Pool Overwater Villa
Why? 
Location:  Well, it’s all about the location. There are only 4 of them (Villa numbers are 103 to 106) so perfectly positioned at the end of the resort right near the channel separating the two “motus” framing the iconic outline of Mount Otemanu in the distance! Yes! At this resort, you can have the view of Mount Otemanu and the sunset. On top of that, these villas are near fantastic snorkeling found in the channel. 
Size:  1,302sq.ft. This a pure invitation to indulge in the turquoise, unending views of your pool, the lagoon and Mount Otemanu from the comfort of your bed, or lounges, from the overwater hammock or even snorkeling and paddling on the lagoon!
View:  Endless views of the sunset to your right, the lagoon in front, Mount Otemanu to your left, the beauty of the mountainous motus that serve as a frame to the island of Bora Bora. 
Special feature: Very large, retracting sliding glass doors leading onto the spacious deck, private infinity pool, floating overwater hammock, lower solarium and direct access into the lagoon. 
How many in this category:  Only 4 so they go fast! Villa numbers are 103 to 106.

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Four Seasons Bora Bora
Our insider input : This uber luxury 5-star resort has a different vibe from its sister resort, the St Régis. Here families mix with honeymoon couples along with a group of friends and there seems to be space, room and choices for everyone! Every Villa has a stunning view of either the lagoon, the beach or of course Mount Otemanu. But, hey if you are going to come this far to paradise (well not that far, only 8-hour flight from Los Angeles or San Francisco) and stay at such a sensational hotel, then you should break the piggy bank and splurge on our two choices:  the One-Bedroom Otemanu Overwater Villa with Plunge Pool or the One-Bedroom Mountain View Overwater Villa.
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

One-Bedroom Otemanu Overwater Villa with Plunge Pool
Why? 
Location:  There are only 4 of these Villas and they are located at the end of the 4 pontoons with impressive panoramic views of the island of Bora Bora and of Mount Otemanu. As an insider tip, we suggest choosing the farthest 2 away from the Arrival Pavilion and Water Sports Activities Center which can be noisy, with lots of activity. Four Seasons never communicates Villa numbers however, the farthest 2 are found on the “West Pontoon” in the 100 series of numbers and on the “East Pontoon” in the 400 series of numbers. 
Size:  1,576 sq.ft. Each room is decorated with traditional teak-wood furnishing and artwork that emphasizes Polynesia’s identity. Additionally, you’ll find sections of glass-bottom floors that’ll allow you to take a peek at stingrays, fish, and other aquatic life swimming right below your room. There is a separate living, dining room, bathroom, ensuite and an enormous outer deck with private plunge pool.
View:  Exactly what you came for and what you see on Instagram! 
Special feature: The plunge pool! The pool is so cleverly built that its infinity edge extends out over the water. Pool and lagoon simply blend into each other…
How many in this category:  4 but we recommend only 2.

One-Bedroom Mountain View Overwater Villa
Why? 
Location:  There are 29 overwater villas in this category. However, we recommend reserving only one of the 16 found in the “West Pontoon” section, number series 100 or 200. You will have only the lagoon and Mount Otemanu views without the inconvenience of noisy boats or activities near the East Pontoon.
Size:  1,080 sq.ft. Each room is decorated with traditional blond teak-wood furnishing and artwork that emphasizes Polynesia’s identity. Additionally, you’ll find sections of glass-bottom floors that’ll allow you to take a peek at stingrays, fish, and other aquatic life swimming right below your room. There is a separate living, dining room, bathroom, ensuite 
View:  Exactly what you came for and what you see on Instagram! 
Special feature: The oversized bathtub is positioned in such a manner as to be both inside the villa as well as outside with sliding doors opening direct onto the terrace with views of the lagoon. It is almost like a plunge pool!
How many in this category:  29 in total but we only recommend 16.

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Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort
Our insider input : This deluxe 4-star resort may be the lesser known sister of the Intercontinental Bora Bora Thalasso yet its appeal and qualities can satisfy the most discerning traveler! This intimate, convivial resort is located on the southernmost point of Bora Bora, close to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Matira Point. Stylish, authentic, Polynesian-decorated overwater bungalows impeccably maintained stretch out over the crystalline lagoon, with the peaks of Otemanu and Pahia rising up in the distance – the perfect romantic destination for honeymooners and couples seeking an exotic getaway. For the perfect overwater bungalow, we would go for the End of Pontoon Horizon Overwater Bungalows as well as the Horizon Overwater Bungalows. Once again though, be careful as to which numbers you request! Psssttt… want to know which ones to choose? Read on!
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

End of Pontoon Horizon Overwater Bungalow
Why? 
Location:  There are 5 bungalows in this category but only 2 fit the bill for that perfect view of Mount Otemanu and no encroaching neighbors spying on you! Numbers 11 and 12 are the ones you want to request! 
Size:  678 sq.ft. 387 sq.ft of indoor living and 290 sq.ft of outdoor terrace and lower deck into the water.  Providing the ultimate in private waterfront elegance, they are beautifully furnished – offering the best views on the property. A spacious living area features a glass coffee table through which you can view the natural aquarium of the lagoon and feed the fish below. 
View:  Horizon, panoramic views of Mount Otemanu and the gleaming blue lagoon surrounding you!
Special feature: The glass top coffee table that opens so you can feed the fish below as well as the lower deck or solarium perfect for suntanning after a dip in your “pool”. 
How many in this category:  5 but we only recommend 2.

Horizon Overwater Bungalow
Why? 
Location:  There are 22 bungalows in this category but only 8 allow for that majestic, picture-perfect view of Mount Otemanu as well as the two Motus in front and even a glimpse of Taha’a and Raiatea in the distance! Numbers 19 through 26 are the ones you want to request and the bigger the number, the farther out you are! 
Size:  678 sq.ft. 387 sq.ft of indoor living and 290 sq.ft of outdoor terrace and lower deck into the water.  This bungalow is identical to the end-of-pontoon bungalow providing the ultimate in private waterfront elegance, they are beautifully furnished – offering the best views on the property. A spacious living area features a glass coffee table through which you can view the natural aquarium of the lagoon and feed the fish below. 
View:  Amazing views of Mount Otemanu, the 2 motus in front and Taha’a, Raiatea!
Special feature: The glass top coffee table that opens so you can feed the fish below as well as the lower deck or solarium perfect for suntanning after a dip in your “pool”. 
How many in this category:  22 but we only recommend 8.

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Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso
Our insider input : Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or all three within an exclusive Bora Bora luxury resort, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa will inspire you with a front row seat to one of the most  spectacular places on earth. Blending Polynesian elements with sleek, modern design leads to creating a comfortably chic appeal throughout the resort and accommodation. Once again, we could go for the easy choice of the Villa Teremoana of which there are 4 at the end of each dock (and this Villa is a good option to combine with The Brando on Tetiaroa Island). However, we pride ourselves on unearthing the perfect jewel to fit your budget and dreams! The Diamond Otemanu Overwater Villa offers the perfect combination of comfort, privacy and most of all stunning views of Mount Otemanu! 
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Diamond Otemanu Overwater Villa 
Why? 
Location:  There are 21 Villas in this category but only 5 actually fit our exacting requirements. Numbers 212, 231 and 109, 110 and 111 are the furthest out over the dock situated next to the Villas Teremoana with the best views of Mount Otemanu out of this category. You will be assured of having the least “next-door neighbor” views when staying in one of these 5 villas. 
Size:  1,022 sq.ft. 700 sq.ft of indoor living and 323 sq.ft of outdoor terrace and lower deck into the water. Modern and luxurious, they feature sleek, contemporary décor with traditional Polynesian design elements and a glass top coffee table for marine life viewing. 
View:  Unimpeded views of Mount Otemanu and the beauty of the island of Bora Bora!
Special feature: The large picture windows framing that perfect view from both the bedroom and from the bathroom. Luxuriating in the tub, you’ll soak in the views through the picture window as you soak in the tub! 
How many in this category:  21 but we only recommend 5.

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Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Our insider input : Ever since the Pearl resorts have become part of the exclusive brand “Relais et Chateaux”, their reputation has only grown! Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts is the ultimate in luxury and design featured throughout all the Relais et Chateaux resorts in the world. Entirely and newly-renovated with additional overwater bungalows added with plunge pools, the resort is a pure oasis for relaxation, romance, discovery and charm. So which bungalow to choose? Once again we could go for the easiest choice… the brand-new “End of Pontoon Overwater Suite with Pool” but where would the fun be in that? Once again we’ll go for the exceptional and always more affordable “Pool Overwater Villa” which is right behind the “best of the best” yet still very exclusive as there are only 6. 
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Pool Overwater Villa
Why? 
Location:  There are 6 bungalows in this category divided into 3 pairs of 2 to be found almost at the end of each pontoon. However, if you are looking for the culmination of perfection with not only panoramic views of Mount Otemanu but also a plunge pool to lounge in sipping champagne, this category does it all! So which numbers out of the 6 are the best in our opinion? Numbers 329 and 330! 
Size:  1,003 sq.ft. Not necessarily the biggest villa out of all the resorts in Bora Bora but the Villa is so well-designed that it feels bigger than it really is.
View:  A birds-eye view of Mount Otemanu as well as a generous part of the island of Bora Bora. Perfect for viewing the dramatic sunset’s glow illuminating the peaks of the mountains! 
Special feature: The spacious terrace encompassing not only the infinity pool but also a catamaran netting suspended over the lagoon, 2 lounges, 2 chairs and table for dining and even a round, comfy “love chair” perfect for 2 to nestle in! 
How many in this category:  6 but we only recommend 2.

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St Régis Bora Bora 
Our insider input : This opulent resort used to be the newest kid on the block in Bora Bora having been built in 2007. However, it got beaten out by the Four Seasons Bora Bora which opened one year later in 2008. Having said that, the St Régis Bora Bora still has by far the largest overwater villas of all French Polynesia! So which overwater villa would we recommend here at Tahiti Travel Services? Again we could go for the easy choice of the Overwater Royal Otemanu 1 or 2 Bedroom Villa with Pool which do have the gorgeous panoramic views encompassing Mount Otemanu. Yet… let’s, shall we say, go for something more reasonable and available? We actually have 2 choices either the Overwater Deluxe Otemanu Villa of which there are 15 or the Overwater Premier Otemanu Villa with Whirlpool of which there are 8. This way, you are guaranteed to have a stunning direct view of the famous Mount Otemanu and fulfill your romantic dreams!
So… why is that, you ask? It’s now all in the details.

Overwater Deluxe Otemanu Villa
Why? 
Location:  Choose Villas numbers 218 to 229 for the best front-facing views of Mount Otemanu! They are also the farthest ones out over the lagoon and farthest from the main part of the resort ensuring maximum tranquility and privacy. Villa 229 is farthest out with 218 being the closest to the Oasis pool on the little motu in the middle of the overwater villas. 
Size:  1,550sq.ft.  Luxuriously designed in exotic noble woods and Italian marble, the Overwater Deluxe Suite Villa, Mt. Otemanu View is a Suite Villa featuring a separate lounge and bedroom with an adjoining lavish bathroom. Glass viewing panels throughout the Villa allow glimpses into the turquoise waters below. A spacious terrace with a dining gazebo overlooking Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon completes this picture of tropical elegance.
View:  Exactly what you came for! Panoramic, unforgettable views of the most photographed and romantic viewpoint of the island of Bora Bora, Mount Otemanu.
Special feature: The huge, outdoor terrace allowing for sunbathing on plush lounges, to dining protected under a naturally thatched gazebo or a lower platform with direct access into the stunning blue lagoon.
How many in this category:  There are in fact 15 in total yet we only recommend the above 12 villas. However, if you like people watching and surveying the action, Villa numbers 101 and 102 offer splendid Mount Otemanu views and are closest to the main part of the resort and boat arrival area. But you will have noise and you may not want to go sunbathing topless “à la française” in front of everyone so choose well!

Overwater Premier Otemanu Villa with Whirlpool
Why? 
Location:  Choose any of the 8 Villas numbers 103 to 110. Perfect location and with a whirlpool and close to the Oasis Pool.
Size:  1,905sq.ft.  Decadence is brought to a new height with this incredible overwater villa! The Villa is absolutely identical to the Overwater Deluxe Otemanu Villa but with a twist! You can enjoy a whirlpool suspended over the water and integrated into the generous terrace. 
View:  Expansive views both towards Mount Otemanu and towards the beach and coral reef.
Special feature: The exceptional sensuousness of luxuriating in a whirlpool over the turquoise lagoon with champagne and Mount Otemanu in the distance! 
How many in this category:  There are 8 all perfectly positioned. 

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Please be aware that bungalow numbers are never guaranteed by the resorts. We can put in the request for a certain bungalow number but the bungalow is confirmed upon arrival only if available. Of course, all the resorts do their utmost to satisfy your clients!

For further information such as maps of the resorts, other room categories, services, activities, location about these resorts, or even info about overwater bungalows in Taha’a and Tikehau, please do not hesitate to contact Raphaela Taufa at raphaelat@tahititravelservices.pf

September 2, 2021