There is nowhere in the world quite like French Polynesia. The island of Bora Bora, and all The Islands of Tahiti, offer enchanting and diverse landscapes from dream-like lagoons to rugged, wild coastlines. The islands are an untouched sanctuary with black, pink and white sand beaches, and azure waters. When you visit, you might even have the beaches to yourself, as there are relatively few visitors compared to other tropical destinations. This combination makes The Islands of Tahiti the perfect spot for romance, adventure, and a relaxing trip to recharge your batteries.
The Islands of Tahiti also have another impressive feature – overwater bungalows. In fact, staying in Tahiti overwater bungalows or Bora Bora overwater bungalows is an unforgettable island experience. The luxurious resorts offering overwater bungalows also provide unmatched amenities in the heart of the South Pacific. From plunge pools and outdoor showers to glass floors or even a personal butler, every resort offers different amenities. The hard part, of course, is deciding which one fulfills your vacation dreams.
The History of Overwater Bungalows in The Islands of Tahiti
In 1967, the first three overwater bungalows were built at the Bali Hai Hotel on Raiatea, followed by overwater bungalows on Moorea and then Hotel Bora Bora huts.
Originally built as traditional stilted homes, over the past five decades, The Islands of Tahiti’s overwater bungalows have evolved into palatial suites offering the amenities of a first-class hotel room. Today, The Islands of Tahiti overwater bungalows boast private terraces, infinity pools, hammocks, soak tubs and the signature glass floors, and where breakfast can be delivered by outrigger canoe. There are now 884 overwater bungalows spread across 22 hotels in seven of The Islands of Tahiti’s 118 islands, sought after and desired by travelers from around the world.
The Top Islands of Tahiti Overwater Bungalow Resorts
You’ve probably seen overwater bungalows on Instagram, in travel magazines or on Pinterest. These unmistakable thatched cottages appear to float on turquoise waters. Overwater bungalows make for amazing holiday accommodations. They provide a measure of privacy over traditional hotel rooms while offering easy access to the tropical water. Plus, The Islands of Tahiti have some of the best overwater bungalows in the world.
Here are some of the most impressive overwater bungalows you’ll find in The Islands of Tahiti.
The St. Régis Bora Bora Resort
The St. Régis Bora Bora Resort is located in the heart of Bora Bora on a private island. It is close to the Bora Bora Lagoonarium and Motu Taufāri’i. The resort features overwater villas with private swimming pools as well as villas with access to a secluded beach. The St. Régis Bora Bora Resort is also home to the world-class Miri Miri Spa by Clarins.
Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort
The Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is halfway between Plage Matira and Matira Point on the southernmost point of the island. A four-star resort, its bungalows spread out over a private lagoon that offers uncluttered views of Otemanu and Pahia.
Royal Huahine
The Royal Huahine is on the coast, just past Eden Parc on the west side of the island of Huahine. There are 39 private bungalows, 11 of which are overwater bungalows. There is also an onsite restaurant, lounge and bar with panoramic views of the most unforgettable sunsets.
Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort
You will find the Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort on the island of Tikehau. The overwater bungalows offer majestic views of the setting sun from their perch in the Tikehau atoll – a ring of tiny islands that envelop a coral reef. The inner lagoon is calm, clear, and perfect for snorkeling.
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
If sunrises are more your thing, consider the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa. It is on the southeastern side of Motu Tevairoa, in Bora Bora and just across the lagoon from Vaitape with views of Mount Otemanu. The proximity lets you easily enjoy trips to the mainland, while the overwater bungalows let you experience the beauty of Bora Bora.
More Tahiti and Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows and Vacation Packages
The Islands of Tahiti are warm and welcoming. No matter what sort of experience you are after, this exotic location delivers. There are small villages full of local life to explore pineapple and Tahitian vanilla plantations to visit, romantic moments to savor, and endless outdoor adventures such as diving, snorkeling and hiking. Enhance those experiences by choosing a resort that offers overwater bungalows. You’ll be able to enjoy the turquoise waters in a way that is simply unforgettable.
Overwater Bungalow in Tahiti Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to stay in an overwater bungalow?
The cost to stay in an overwater bungalow will vary depending on the resort. Bungalows tend to be more expensive than hotel rooms because they are standalone units.
Where can I stay in an overwater bungalow?
There are less than 200 resorts in the world that offer places to stay in overwater bungalows. Most of the resorts are located on The Islands of Tahiti including Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea.
Are there overwater bungalows in Tahiti?
Yes. There are two resorts that offer overwater bungalows in The Islands of Tahiti. The Intercontinental Tahiti Resort and Spa and the Tahiti La Ora Beach Resort.
Are overwater bungalows safe?
Yes, overwater bungalows are safe. They are anchored deep in the sand by stilts typically in shallow lagoons. Some overwater bungalows offer a unique experience with their glass bottom floors inside the rooms to watch fish swim below. Pro tip: Bring your snorkel gear, so you can explore the coral gardens from your bungalow.
