What it is

A honeymoon-worthy lagoon-front retreat with 110 bungalows (38 of them overwater), two unforgettable restaurants and bars, and a locally inspired garden spa.

What it isn't

Lacking a pool. Sure, you can swim in the adjacent surf; but the beachfront pool is immaculate and has the same frothy view.

What we think

When you envision Tahiti, what do you see? Thatched roofs? Bungalows on stilts, set over a glass-clear lagoon? The freshest imaginable seafood? All that and more is just an average—and completely spectacular—day at Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort. Even the beginning room category here, Luxury Bungalow with Garden View, is huge at 645 square feet: a dream of colorful Polynesian design touches, languidly spinning ceiling fans, and a private outdoor patio that feels like it was tailor-made for sipping a vanilla punch cocktail. Want to experience the ultimate in Tahitian life? Splurge on a Superior Overwater Bungalow and you’ll find a window in your wood floors (all the better to ogle sea life below), soaring open beam ceilings, a private terrace, rainshower that mimics the squalls outside, and, of course, insider lagoon access—just slide open your glass door and take the plunge.

You're here because

Each and every room has air conditioning. Phew!

The Moment

Edging the placid lagoon waters, Pure Restaurant is everything its moniker proclaims: authentic and inimitable. Tonight as the sun sets in the gauzy pink light, you can’t help but order an edible Tahitian thrill for a fitting dessert…Queen Tahiti pineapple carpaccio with coconut sorbet and pina colada sauce.

Restaurants & Bars

Pure - Set in a contemporary decor and on the edge of the protected lagoon, Pure lets you enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner in a relaxed ambiance. The restaurant offers local and international cuisine and during high season, the Chef proposes themed menus and interactive cuisine.

Beach Bar - Set on the edge of the lagoon, with your feet in the sand, order your favourite drink or a snack without leaving the beach. From the thirst quenching Tahitian Hinano beer to the must have tropical Island Spritz cocktail, complemented with a mouth watering Paris Ham and emmental cheese Panini it is definitely the place to be.

Vue Bar - Sip a delicious cocktail or glass of champagne, indulge with a local Tahitian beer or finish of a spectacular day with mouthwatering Tapas. All while enjoying the expansive view of the island of Tahiti.

K - Under a cathedral ceiling made with Kahaia wood from the Tuamotu atolls, feet in the sand, enjoy the cuisine of our Chef in an intimate and romantic setting. Chef Frédéric Gigou revisits the menu regularly with expert wine pairing.

Location

It’s a 30 to 60 minute ferry ride from the port in Papeete to Vaiare marina on Moorea, or a blink-and-you’ll miss it 15 minute flight.