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Home » Honeymoons » Tahiti Overwater Bungalow Guide
Tahiti Overwater Bungalow Guide
by Laurel Samuela, Owner of True Tahiti Vacation
 Tahiti is one of the few places in the world that has Overwater Bungalows and for many, Tahiti is all about the Overwater Bungalows.
Indeed, staying in an Overwater Bungalow is truly a wonderful experience. You can enter the water from your terrace and swim in turquoise lagoons. You’ll enjoy amazing views and fall asleep to the sounds of waves gently lapping beneath your bungalow. Most of the Overwater Bungalows have floors/tables that open up allowing you to feed the fish below.
Over the years, the Overwater Bungalows have become quite luxurious. The Overwater Villas at the St. Regis start at 1,500 sq ft. At both the St. Regis Bora Bora and Four Seasons Bora Bora, some of the Overwater Bungalows have plunge pools. The latest in over-the-top luxury is the Hilton Bora Bora Nui. Their Presidential Overwater Villa is two stories, has both a Jacuzzi, swimming pool and even a massage room.
Obviously, all this luxury comes with a price tag. Overwater Bungalows are the most expensive form of accommodation in Tahiti. But don’t fret, if you have a limited budget there are ways to make it work. You don’t need to do an Overwater Bungalow the entire time. If you’re doing two islands, save it for your last island. I think, it’s always best to end on the high note! If you’re only doing one island, you can save money by splitting your time with a Garden Bungalow and doing the Overwater the last night or two.
Now having said all that, please don’t make yourself nuts if you can’t afford an Overwater Bungalow. The fact is these islands are breathtaking all by themselves. You don't need to stay overwater in order to enjoy the beauty surrounding you. Don’t break the bank trying to make an overwater happen. Go for a Garden Bungalow now and save the Overwater for your anniversary.
The Myth of a Few Great Overwater Bungalows....
Whenever someone posts on one of the forums about their wonderful Overwater Bungalow, inevitably I get a slew of emails requesting a specific bungalow number. It’s as if that particular bungalow becomes the sainted bungalow and suddenly everyone is requesting it. This truly isn't necessary. These hotels have paid architects a lot of money to make sure all the bungalows have wonderful views. Now granted, some bungalows do have better views than others and as you will read below, I will always be honest with you about that. But really, there are many, many bungalows with wonderful views. You will find that requesting one particular bungalow is very limiting when it has already been requested by every other person reading the same forum. The best is to let me know what is most important to you. For example, the best view of Mt. Otemanu, the most private, the best snorkeling below, etc.
The Best Islands for Overwater Bungalows
Moorea
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa
I like the OWB’s at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa best. I think they have the best views and absolutely have the best snorkeling/swimming below. There are two categories of Overwater Bungalows here - Overwater Bungalow and Panoramic Overwater Bungalow. Both categories are very good.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 667 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Overwater or Panoramic Overwater - both recommended.
Glass Panel: Yes, glass panel coffee tables.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, Clock Radio w/ MP3, Widescreen Television, Coffee Maker, Hairdryer, Bathrobe/Slippers, In-room Safe, Mini Refrigerator, Mini Bar, High Speed Internet, Telephone and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort
The Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort has two categories of Overwater Bungalows — Superior and Luxury. The only difference between the Superior and Luxury Overwater are size. The Superior are 330 sq ft and the Luxury are 554 sq ft and have larger overwater decks. Try to get the bungalows in deeper water as some of the more shallow bungalows have huge coral formations directly underneath, making it difficult to enter the water.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 554 sq ft or 330 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Luxury Overwater or Superior Overwater. Both recommended but try to get one in deeper water.
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities: Private terrace with sunloungers and direct access to sea, air conditioning, plasma TV, pay TV, rain shower bathroom, Minibar, Radio, in-room Wi-Fi, Telephone, In-room Safe, Hairdryer and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa
The Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa has Overwater and Premium Overwater Bungalows. Definitely go for the upgrade to Premium. The reason being the regular OWBs face back toward the pool and restaurant give you absolutely no privacy.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 517sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Overwater and Premium Overwater. Premium recommended for privacy and view.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning + ceiling fan, IDD phone, Internet outlet / Fax line, Mini bar, Coffee/Tea making facilities, In-room safe, Hairdryer, Sundeck with direct access to the lagoon, Satellite 26'' flat screen TV + DVD/CD player and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
InterContinental Resort and Spa Moorea
The InterContinental Resort and Spa Moorea has two categories of Overwater Bungalows. However, the back end of the bungalows are built on a jetty. Not that big of a deal as you can still enter the water from your terrace but they are not 100% overwater in the true sense of the term. There are four Premium Overwater Bungalows that are totally overwater.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 452 sq. ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Overwater Bungalow and Premium Overwater Bungalow.
Glass Panel: No.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning and ceiling fans, Cable TV, Telephone, Refrigerator, Mini-bar, Coffee/Tea making facilities,.Hairdryer, In-room Safe, Private Sun Deck and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Bora Bora
St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
The Overwater Villas at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort are huge -- starting at 1,500 sq ft. Love them. There are four categories of Overwater Villa, the higher you go, the better the view of Mt. Otemanu. But really, don't make yourself crazy if you can’t afford the most expensive. There is no such thing as a bad view at this resort.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 1,550 sq ft (Overwater & Deluxe), 1,905 sq ft (Premier), 3,455 sq ft (Royal).
Types: Overwater One Bedroom Villa, Deluxe Overwater One Bedroom Villa, Premier Overwater One Bedroom Villa, Royal Overwater Two Bedroom Pool Villa
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning, 42-inch Plasma screen TV, Bose DVD/CD player, Espresso/coffee maker, high speed internet access, Minibar, Personal safe, Hairdryer, St. Regis Butler Service and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
The Overwater Bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora are beautiful. For me the best part is the bathtub with an open view of the lagoon. There are four categories of Overwater Bungalows. The entry level is the Resort View. These actually look toward the St. Regis in the distance. I think the entry level offers a great value. Of course, the higher you go, the better the view of Mt. Otemanu.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 1,576 sq ft (Otemanu), 1,120 sq ft (Overwater w/Pool), 1,080 sq ft (Mtn, Lagoon, Beach & Resort View)
Types: Otemanu Overwater Bungalow with Plunge Pool, Overwater Bungalow with Plunge Pool, Mountain-View Overwater Bungalow, Lagoon-View Overwater Bungalow, Beach-View Overwater Bungalow, Resort-View Overwater Bungalow. All recommended, Resort View provides best value.
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning, CD player, DVD player, Hair dryer, In-room safe, iPod docking station, Multi-line telephone(s) with voicemail, Refrigerated private bar, Satellite television, Tea/coffee maker, Thick terry bathrobes, Twice-daily housekeeping service, Wired or wireless Internet access and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
The Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa has beautiful Overwater Suites. Although the resort does not face Mt. Otemanu on the main island of Bora Bora, the views are still stunning. You will see the lagoon change from turquoise to sapphire and on top of it, enjoy some really great snorkeling. There are four categories of Overwater and I think all are very good. Of course, the crowning glory is the two-story Presidential Villa. If you can afford this, go for it. AMAZING!
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 947 sq ft - 3,000 sq ft. King bed or Twin beds, and Sofa bed
Types: King Overwater Villa, King Royal Overwater Villa, Twin Overwater Villa, Presidential Overwater Villa.
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning, LCD TV, Telephone, In-room safe, Coffee Maker, Hairdryer, Internet access and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
The Overwater Villas at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa are luxurious and modern. There are four levels — Emerald, Sapphire, Diamond and End of Pontoon Overwater Villas. I think it is worth it to at least upgrade to Sapphire. I’m really not fond of the Emerald Overwaters that face towards the resort entrance.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 1200 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Emerald Overwater Villa, Sapphire Overwater Villa, Diamond Overwater Villa and End of Pontoon Overwater Villa.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, Cable / Satellite TV, CD Player, Color TV, DVD Player, Coffee & Tea Maker, Full Kitchen, Mini Bar, High-speed Internet, Telephone, WorldLink - Power and Phone/Internet Connector, Bathrobe, Hairdryer, In Room Safe and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa has regular and Premium Overwater Bungalows. If you get a regular Overwater Bungalow, request those that don’t face the boat arrival.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 658 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Overwater Bungalow and Premium Overwater Bungalow.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning, Ceiling Fan, Coffee/tea making facilities, Telephone, 20" LCD satellite television + CD & DVD player, ln-room safe, Private terrace with direct access to the lagoon and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Le Méridien Bora Bora
The Overwater Bungalows at Le Méridien Bora Bora have the largest glass panel floors in Bora Bora. You’ll have amazing views of the fish below. Just know, it may take a little time to get used to walking on the glass panel. I always find myself always walking around it! The Premium Overwater have the best views of Mt. Otemanu.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 646 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed
Types: Overwater Bungalow and Premium Overwater Bungalow.
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning, Telephone, Satellite-TV, CD, DVD and MP3 player, Minibar, Coffee and tea amenities, In-room safe, Bathrobes & Slippers, Hairdryer, High Speed Internet Access and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora Resort
The InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora Resort is the sister property to the Thalasso Resort. Le Moana has Lagoon and Horizon Overwater Bungalows. It is definitely worth it to upgrade to the Horizon.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 613 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Lagoon Overwater Bungalow and Horizon Overwater Bungalow - Horizon recommended.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, Cable / Satellite TV, CD Player, Color TV, DVD Player, Coffee & Tea Maker, Mini Bar, High-speed Internet, Telephone, Bathrobe, Hairdryer, In Room Safe and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach and Private Island
Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach and Private Island is now being sold as one resort but there are two parts. The resort on the main island and the one on the motu. People love the motu but personally I find the décor really dated. The Overwater Bungalows on the main island were renovated a few years back and are definitely more modern in feeling, but you also have a more crowded feeling as well. If you are looking to economize, you might want to consider the Island Lagoon View Bungalows. They are right on the water (the back end is on land) and while you can’t enter the water from your deck, you are literally right over the water’s edge. Also, they often have really attractive offers for these specific bungalows.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 533 sq ft, 560 sq ft or 420 sq ft (Island Luxury Lagoon View Bungalow ), King bed and Sofa bed
Types: Island Luxury Bungalow Overwater, Luxury Bungalow Overwater, and Island Luxury Bungalow Lagoon View (partially overwater). This lagoon bungalow recommended for value.
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, Ceiling Fan, Minibar, Plasma TV, internet access, In-room safe and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Le Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora
Le Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora has the least expensive Overwater Bungalows on Bora Bora. For many, these are the only affordable option. Just keep in mind, these overwater bungalows are very close together and you will be able to see your neighbors when you’re on your outside deck. Also, the decks are small and they are relatively close to the main road that runs around the island.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 290 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Overwater Bungalow.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air conditioning, Ceiling fan, Coffee & Tea Maker, TV, Telephone, In-room safe, Mini-bar, Hairdryer.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Taha'a
Vahine Island Private Island Resort
There are only three Overwater Bungalows at Vahine Island Private Island Resort, and people love the solitude they provide. But really, my personal favorites are the Deluxe Beach Suites. They’re spacious and airy and several even have views of Bora Bora.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 753 sq ft, King Bed.
Types: Overwater Bungalow
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, Ceiling fans, Mini Bar, Coffee and Tea Making Facilities, Telephone, Wi-Fi Internet in room, In-Room Safe and more.
Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa
Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa has four categories of Overwater Suites, the most private being the End of Pontoon. The second most expensive are the Bora Bora Suites, so named because they have indirect views of Bora Bora. Honestly, these are not my favorite, primarily because I find their location is often windy. I think here you can save a bit of money and go with the less expensive Raiatea, Taha'a or Sunset Overwater Suites.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 969 sq ft, 1 King bed and Sofa bed.
Types: Raiatea, Taha'a, Sunset, Bora Bora and End of Pontoon Overwater Suites. Raiatea, Taha'a or Sunset Overwater Suites recommended.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, Bathrobes, Cable TV - Movie Channel, CD Player, Ceiling Fan, Direct Access to Lagoon, DVD Player, Hair Dryer, Internet access, Mini Bar, Private sun deck, Safety box, Telephone and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Huahine
Te Tiare Beach Resort
The Te Tiare Beach Resort is the only hotel in Huahine with Overwater Bungalows. You’ll want the Deep Overwater.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 538 sq ft, King Bed and Sofa bed
Types: Shallow Overwater Bungalow and Deep Overwater Bungalow. Deep Overwater recommended.
Glass Panel: No.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, ceiling fan, Coffee/Tea making facilities, Telephone, Hairdryer, Television, In-room Safe, Private terrace / Sundeck and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Tikehau
Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort
Go for the Overwater Suites at the Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort. Much more spacious and spread out than the regular Overwater Bungalows. Also you find the lagoon is better for swimming. Otherwise, my second choice here are the Beach Bungalows.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 1000 sq ft or 592 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed
Types: Overwater Bungalow, Premium Overwater Bungalow, Overwater Suite. Suite recommended.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, ceiling fan, Mini Bar, Coffee/Tea making facilities, Telephone, Hairdryer, Television, In-room Safe, Private terrace / Sundeck and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Rangiroa
Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa
Rangiroa is all about the lagoon, so being in an overwater bungalow at the Kia Ora Resort & Spa really is the dream. There is only one category of Overwater Bungalow and all are 797 square feet and include a bathtub with separate shower. All the bungalows have glass panels, large sundecks and direct access to the amazing lagoon below.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 797 sq ft or 592 sq ft
Types: Overwater Bungalow,
Glass Panel: Yes, in floor.
Key Amenities:• Air Conditioning, Bathrobe, Black-Out Curtains, Handicap Accessible by request, In-Room Movie Channel, Sofa Bed, Thermostat (adjustable), TV - flat Panel HD with cable, Work Desk with Adjustable Lamp, Coffee Maker, DVD/CD Player, iPod Station, Evening Room Service Available, Hairdryer, High Speed Internet Access, Iron/Ironing Board, Mini Bar, Tea/Coffee Making Facilities, Multiple Telephones with speaker & voicemail, Safe.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
Manihi
Manihi Pearl Beach Resort
There are two categories of Overwater Bungalows at the Manihi Pearl Beach Resort and both are great.
 
Overwater Bungalow Details:
Size: 549 sq ft, King bed and Sofa bed
Types: Overwater Bungalow and Premium Overwater Bungalow. Both recommended.
Glass Panel: Yes, in coffee table.
Key Amenities: Air Conditioning, ceiling fan, Mini Bar, Coffee/Tea making facilities, Telephone, Hairdryer, Television, In-room Safe, Private terrace / Sundeck and more.
Resort Layout Map: View PDF
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