Moorea is one of the top destinations in French Polynesia for staying in an overwater bungalow. The turquoise water here is not only stunning to look at but also teeming with colorful marine life. Being able to watch it all from the comfort of your overwater villa is like living a dream.
While there are a variety of accommodations in Moorea from fancy resorts to affordable guesthouses to cozy lodges, staying in an overwater bungalow is an unparalleled, bucket-list experience that transports you to a world of serenity and beauty.
Moorea has 170+ overwater bungalows, most of which sit on wooden stilts over the lagoon. These structures are hut-shaped with thatched roofs, adding a distinct Polynesian touch. The water surrounding these bungalows is up to 3 meters deep and gets deeper the farther the bungalow is from the shore.
In this guide, I’ve highlighted the best overwater bungalows in Moorea and provided everything you need to know for an unforgettable stay in Moorea.
Best Overwater Bungalows in Moorea
One thing to know is that there are no true all-inclusive overwater resorts in Moorea, but adding a few extras to your package can enhance your stay.
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea is a 5-star luxury resort in Moorea located on the pristine Temae Beach, with stunning views of the lagoon and Tahiti in the distance. This resort offers some of the finest overwater bungalows on the island that come with a perfect blend of traditional Polynesian charm and modern luxury.
The water around the bungalows is crystal clear and full of reefs and fish. It’s about 1-3 meters deep depending on how much further your overwater property is.
Each overwater bungalow comes with a king-sized bed and is fitted with a glass floor panel, offering you a unique view of the vibrant marine life swimming beneath you. Picture yourself lounging on your private deck, watching fish dart through the water, or diving straight from your bungalow into the crystal-clear lagoon. Whether you choose to relax in a lounge chair or dive into the water for a refreshing swim, it’s an experience that will definitely stay with you forever.
The Sofitel Moorea has over 110 bungalows including 38 overwater bungalows in three categories: Superior, Luxury, and Horizon. The Horizon bungalows, located at the end of the dock, offer the most privacy and the best views, and giving you a feeling of complete escape. All bungalows are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a complimentary minibar, and a large bathroom with double vanities and a rain shower.
For dining, the resort has four restaurants with a lot of food options. Complimentary breakfast is included which is served from 6 am to 10 am. Besides that, you can add dinner to your package by spending a little more. The food here is amazing, you’re going to enjoy it.
Where is it located?
The Sofitel Moorea Resort is located in the Teavaro neighborhood on the east side of Moorea. It’s close to the local restaurants, and only a short drive from Moorea Airport (1.6 km) and Vaiare Ferry Terminal (3.4 km).
The resort sits on the pristine Temae Beach which is one of the best snorkeling spots in Moorea.
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort
Nestled between lush mountains and a serene lagoon, the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort is a luxurious retreat with stunning views. The overwater bungalows here provide modern comforts with traditional Polynesian charm. They have everything you need for a top-tier experience.
Unique touches like glass floor panels in each bungalow bring the lagoon to life inside your room. The outdoor patio offers direct lagoon access, perfect for snorkeling or a refreshing dip in the warm waters. Plus, you can watch stunning views of the sunset or sunrise, depending on which side you’re on.
For more unique experiences, you can get a massage on your deck or breakfast delivery in a canoe to your bungalow. These services come at an extra cost though.
If you’ve had enough of the water, you can relax on the gorgeous white sand beach that the resort has reserved exclusively for its guests. The beach shares shores with the famous Ta’ahiamanu Beach of Moorea. The lagoon at its front is also perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
The Hilton Moorea has the most overwater bungalows (about 56) on the island, including King Overwater Bungalows and the more exclusive King Panoramic Premium Overwater Bungalows. The Panoramic bungalows are located at the far end of the dock, providing unobstructed views of the horizon and maximum privacy. Each bungalow comes with all the expected comforts: a king-sized bed, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a spacious bathroom.
Moreover, the resort offers complimentary snorkeling gear, paddle boards, kayaks, and more. If you want some adventure, the concierge can get you set up with jet skis, scuba diving, 4×4 tours, or whatever activities you’re into.
While breakfast isn’t typically included, you can add it to your package for an extra $36 per person. It’ll be available from 6:30 am to 10:30 am. The highlight of the resort’s dining is the amazing overwater Toatea Creperie restaurant.
Where is it located?
Hilton Moorea Resort is on the north coast of Moorea, nestled between Cooks Bay and Opunohu Bay. It’s approximately 15 kilometers from the Moorea airport and 18 kilometers from the Moorea ferry terminal.
A taxi to the resort will cost around $50 from either the airport or the ferry terminal.
Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
For those seeking an overwater bungalow experience at a more accessible price point, Manava Beach Resort offers a perfect blend of affordability and luxury. It’s a 4-star resort Nestled in the heart of Maharepa and is just as amazing as those big-name 5-star resorts.
While the overwater bungalows at Manava are smaller than those at the Hilton or Sofitel, they don’t skimp on the essentials. You’ll still have your private deck overlooking the lagoon and direct access to the water for snorkeling or a refreshing dip. The lagoon surrounding the resort is teeming with fish and coral, making it a great spot for marine exploration.
Manava Moorea Resort features over 28 overwater bungalows built over a lagoon. You can choose between a Regular Overwater Bungalow or a Premium Overwater Bungalow.
Each bungalow comes with a king-size bed, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and other amenities to ensure your stay is comfortable. The resort’s vibe is laid-back with friendly staff, great dining options, and a beachfront pool that overlooks the stunning lagoon.
The food at the resort’s two restaurants is also great, with a variety of options on the menu. Breakfast isn’t included in the room rate, it will cost about $39 per person to include that in your package.
Where is it located?
One of the best things about this resort is its proximity to local shops and restaurants. It’s located north of Moorea in the neighborhood of Maharepa, which is about 9 kilometers from the airport and 9.6 kilometers from the ferry dock.
InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa
Intercontinental Moorea used to be the most popular choice on the island of Moorea, situated on the northern coast and approx. 25 kilometers from the Moorea Airport. Sadly, it permanently closed its doors in March 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As of now, it’s uncertain whether the resort will reopen in the future. You can find more information about this resort here.
Affordable Overwater Bungalows Alternatives
If the above over water bungalows are a bit too pricey for your liking, then here are some budget-friendly alternatives that aren’t technically over the water, but you can still get kinda similar experience.
Hôtel Fenua Mata’i’oa
Hôtel Fenua Mata’i’oa is a beautiful boutique hotel with accommodations right by the lagoon. Here you can get the overwater vibe without burning a hole in your wallet.
The hotel goes for a lush garden feel with plenty of plants and greenery. There are lovely common areas by the water with sunbeds & chairs to relax, eat, drink, and enjoy the lagoon views.
There are different room options available offering fantastic views and direct deck access to the lagoon. These rooms are well decorated, spacious and have comfortable beds. You’ll have amenities like air conditioning, TV, WiFi, refrigerator, and more available in the room.
Unfortunately, there’s no on-site restaurant, so you’ll have to look for other options. There are a few cafes and restaurants within a 5-minute walk, though.
Getting to Hôtel Fenua Mata’i’oa
Hôtel Fenua is located near Tipaniers Beach in the village of Tiahura on the northeast side of the island. It’s about 26km from the airport and 30km from the ferry terminal.
Hotel Kaveka
Hotel Kaveka is another nice hotel situated right by the lagoon in the Cook’s Bay area. They have a variety of bungalows to choose from, including lagoon bungalows.
What’s great about this hotel is that it has an overwater restaurant where you can dine and enjoy the feeling of being over the water. You can even access the lagoon directly from the restaurant’s dock and snorkel to see coral reefs and many fish swimming by.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, and depending on the bungalow you pick, you’d have a glimpse of the lagoon. AC, TV, and other essentials are also provided.
Additionally, if you want to go shopping or eat out, there are shops, cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
Getting to Hotel Kaveka
You can find the Hotel Kaveka near Cook’s Bay in Paopao, about 7.9km from the Moorea airport and 11km from the Moorea ferry terminal.
Aimeo Lodge (Club Bali Hai)
Aimeo Lodge also known as Club Bali Hai is a long-standing hotel built in the 1960s. It was the first hotel to introduce overwater bungalows in Moorea and across French Polynesia in 1967.
This hotel doesn’t have as many rooms and amenities as some of the more expensive resorts have. There are about 30 rooms in total, including 6 bungalows that extend over the water.
The rooms and services are good for the price, with free Wi-Fi, kayaks, refrigerator, AC, etc. available.
Keep in mind that this is not your typical fancy hotel and things might feel a bit outdated. So don’t expect anything fancy. Considering its affordable price, there isn’t much to complain about.
The good thing is that the hotel is in a good location near the city center, so you not only have stunning views of the bay from its bungalows.
If you can’t book it online, you’ll likely have to visit in person to secure a reservation here.
Getting to Aimeo Lodge
Aimeo Lodge is located on the north side of Moorea, in the cove of Cook in Paopao village. It’s about 9.1 kilometers from Moorea Airport.
Moorea Overwater Bungalows Prices
Overwater bungalows on the island of Moorea, and across French Polynesia are a splurge. In Moorea, overwater bungalow prices start around $800 per night and go up to $1600 per night, depending on the season and the specific bungalow you choose.
You’ll see a 30% to 40% increase in prices in the high season on Moorea.
The Hilton Moorea stands as the priciest choice for overwater accommodations in Moorea with rates exceeding $1500 per night. Sofitel Moorea is also pricey, followed by the Manava Moorea Resort which is a bit cheaper with rates starting around $800 per night.
These overwater resorts aren’t just expensive for being over the waters, they actually offer the kind of experiences and amenities that tourists would expect from an expensive place.
Are Overwater Bungalows in Moorea Worth it?
Absolutely! If you can afford a stay in an overwater bungalow in Moorea, go for it without a doubt. It’s one of the most amazing experiences you can have on the island.
If you’re on a tight budget but still want a stay in an overwater bungalow, I’d suggest spending only a night there to get the feel of it, and the rest of your stay at a more affordable hotel.
However, some tourists cannot afford an overwater bungalow despite their utter desire. My advice to them would be to try to stay close to the beaches or look into a beachfront resort.
Overwater Bungalow vs Beach Bungalow
Overwater Bungalow
If you were to choose between an overwater bungalow and a beach bungalow, which would you pick? Most people would go with the overwater bungalow option because it’s a dream thing for many.
So, what exactly is an overwater bungalow? It’s all in the name, an overwater bungalow is the type of accommodation that is built right over the water, where guests can stay and soak in the beautiful surroundings of the water.
Staying in overwater bungalows provides a unique experience of being above the water, and the feeling that you’re floating above sea life hits differently. These accommodations are often more private, so are perfect for honeymooners or anyone looking for a peaceful getaway. These bungalows offer direct access to the lagoon from the steps leading into the stunning clear waters. Plus, the pictures with that incredible backdrop can make your friends jealous.
Beach Bungalow
Beach bungalows are the ones that sit right on the beach, with the ocean just a few meters away from their doorstep. These bungalows are one of the favorite spots of travelers looking for accommodations.
Beach bungalows are much cheaper and have a lot more options than overwater ones. These bungalows are just meters from the water, so you can enjoy both beach and ocean views. They can be more spacious and have multiple rooms and a private pool, depending on your package.
Moorea or Bora Bora
You might be wondering whether to stay in an overwater bungalow at Moorea or Bora Bora? Both Moorea and Bora Bora are prime destinations in French Polynesia for overwater stays. Bora Bora is more popular and has better overwater bungalows with modern architecture and picturesque settings. Keep in mind that they also come with high prices.
In Moorea, you’ll find overwater bungalows to be more affordable than those in Bora Bora. They might feel a bit outdated to some but overall the experience is quite the same. Besides that, if you want good snorkeling, Moorea’overwater bungalows offer a richer underwater experience while Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows lack this.
So if Bora Bora isn’t in your travel itinerary, I’d say you don’t need to make special arrangements just for a bungalow there, you’ll be fine in Moorea.
Things to know
- Book in advance: Despite the high price tag, overwater bungalows in Moorea are often sold out, both in-season and off-season. So, it’s best to book them well ahead of your trip to avoid disappointment.
- Expect high costs: Moorea’s overwater bungalows don’t come cheap. This is because they are in high demand most of the year. Besides that, their exclusivity, luxury amenities, and unique experience of staying over the water add to their premium price tag.
- Not for families: These bungalows don’t accommodate families with kids because they are designed for 2 persons/couples with one bed in the room. Upon request, some hotels may offer a rollaway bed for kids.
- Accessibility issues: Depending on your water bungalow location, you might be far from the resort’s amenities and face potential service delays.
- Fantastic snorkeling: The water around the overwater bungalows of Moorea is calm and has plenty of corals and fish, you’ll love snorkeling there.
- It can be noisy: Although peace & tranquility are one of the features of overwater bungalows, sometimes when it’s windy, it can get noisy due to waves and disturb light sleepers at night.
Final thoughts: Why you should stay in an Overwater Bungalow in Moorea
While overwater bungalows on Moorea Island are expensive, they’re definitely worth the splurge. Staying in one offers a unique experience that you can’t find at other types of accommodations. You can escape the crowds and check off a bucket list item.
Answers to the questions you might have
Does Moorea have overwater bungalows?
Yes, there are tons of overwater bungalows to choose from in Moorea, available at different resorts.
Are overwater bungalows safe?
Overwater bungalows are completely safe, they’re typically built in calm waters, away from strong currents and waves.
Are kids allowed on an overwater bungalow?
Yes, kids are allowed on the overwater bungalow in Moorea, but you’ll need to be extra careful because water is right there.
Is tap water safe?
Yes, you can drink tap water on most parts of the Moorea but it’s better to double-check with your accommodator. If you are health conscious, you can buy bottled water which isn’t much pricey.
How many days do you need in Moorea?
I’d say 5 to 7 days are more than enough for this small island if you don’t want to get bored.
Which month is best for Moorea?
May to October is generally cooler and are the best months to visit Moorea.
