Most visitors agree that the small island of Moorea is actually more beautiful than its larger neighbour, Tahiti, and there are more overwater-bungalow resorts here as well. Those seeking a bungalow over a still, clearwater lagoon will find them more by considering the overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, which range from gorgeous to magnificent, but Moorea also has four such resorts, plus a low budget overwater resort option that might also be worth a look.
Many honeymooners and romantic retreat couples book at multiple resorts to get the most out of the experience and enjoy a range of Moorea accommodation. Fortunately, the transport hub in Tahiti is only a 10-minute flight or a 1-hour ferry ride away, so Moorea is popular and easily worth the trip.
Check out an interactive map of all Moorea and Tahiti overwater bungalow resorts
Here are a few Moorea overwater villa resources with information that will help you to better decide which type of overwater villa resort to choose for your next vacation:
Overwater bungalows were first invented on Moorea, and this island along with Bora Bora and Tahiti are still home to many of the world’s finest overwater resorts. But you should also be aware of the Maldives. Water villas in the Maldives, as they are known there, can be found at over 80 different resorts. The island country just southwest of India has an excellent selection and great value, so if you can get there those might be your best bet.
The Sofitel Moorea La Ora Beach Resort is a 4-star hotel featuring 39 overwater bungalows in two classes. The smaller units are among the smallest in the South Pacific, but the larger class units are very spacious.
Especially popular with French guests, Sofitel Moorea Spa and resort provides a long list of activities and excursions, so it’s ideal for those who might like to stay active. The location is quite convenient on Moorea, giving guests a range of other restaurants and shops from which to choose, though the restaurants within the property are well regarded. Sofitel Moorea Overwater Bungalows are an especially good deal in the low season. Many Sofitel Moorea reviews rate it as the best place to stay on the island.
One of Moorea’s largest resorts, the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa features 50 overwater bungalows in a professional 4-star setting. There are two classes of bungalows here dotted around the Intercontinental Moorea resort map, with the more affordable bungalows are perched just off small islands out in the lagoon, and the Premium Overwater Bungalows are similar but with the best views.
Though this is a popular hotel with honeymoon couples, the long list of activities that are praised in Intercontinental Moorea reviews makes it well suited to active guests and families as well. The service and food are of 5-star standard, and while there isn’t much nightlife available on the property, the resort is conveniently located to try other experiences on Moorea, so options are great.
The Intercontinental Resort And Spa Moorea is now closed until further notice.
Unlike many of the international chain resorts in Moorea, the Manava Beach Resort and Spa Moorea (formally known as the Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa) plays up its Polynesian side, leaving no doubt that you are in a tropical island paradise. Each of the 28 overwater bungalows is a good size, and each features a glass floor section so guests can view the sea life below the bungalow at all hours.
With many return guests, this is a popular resort that gets very good reviews, and its location makes it convenient to explore other restaurants and shops on Moorea or take the various island-tour excursions offered. Intercontinental Moorea accommodation bungalows are great value compared to Bora Bora, and much easier to reach from Tahiti as well.
Probably the finest overwater-bungalow resort on Moorea, the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa is a 5-star luxury hotel with a great location on the northern shore of the island. Each Hilton Moorea overwater bungalow is large and luxurious, with plenty of extras and free amenities.
Romantic couples will find the solitude they seek, especially in the higher class of Hilton Moorea panoramic overwater bungalows out into the lagoon, but still, there are a great number of included activities and nearby excursions, so even those on a longer stay will never run out of things to do.
Hilton Moorea reviews state that the overwater bungalows are among the cheapest Tahiti or Moorea accommodation options, and they are larger than most as well.
Formally known as Club Bali Hai, the Aimeo Lodge is a solid choice for travelers who find themselves on a tighter budget. This resort differs from others in that you won’t find lots of hotel amenities but rather villas that act as little apartments with full kitchens, living rooms, private bathrooms, bedrooms, and private terraces. The overwater villas here offer a private entrance into the lagoon as well, making it easy to slip into the ocean for a quick, yet relaxing, swim.
There is, however, a pool right on-site for the times you rather not swim in the ocean. You’ll also find lots of great things to do nearby, including tours of all sorts, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, shopping, and dining. If you rather not drive to a restaurant, there is also one on-site.