Tahiti, French PolynesiaAuae
Hilton Hotel Tahiti
Waterfront transit resort
Auae Tahiti, French Polynesia
Renovated
2021
Price
$$$
Rated for
Design Resort LocalOutside the door
The house
HiltonWaterfront transit resort
A dedicated day lounge and lagoon views toward Moorea cater directly to travelers bridging long-haul flights and outer-island ferries.
What it’s good at
Listed
Open-air pavilions and breezeways framed by island timber face across the lagoon to Moorea.
Listed
Historic royal grounds host Polynesian botanical monoi rituals and island-caught mahi mahi.
What they say
Also in AFAR.
The 200-room hotel’s design is inspired by Polynesian culture, with decor that includes plant-shaped lamps, a wooden va’a (outrigger canoe) suspended at the entrance of the hotel, and tikis.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Faa'a International Airport is five minutes away by car, and Papeete's ferry terminal sits just up the coast.
1 of 6
The rooms
Ocean-view rooms look out across the channel toward Moorea, finished with warm wood accents and island artwork.
The spa and pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Moearii Wellness Center uses local Monoï oil for deep-tissue massages, steps from the open-air pool deck.
At the table
Overwater tables at Moevai look across the lagoon. In the evening, San Sushi Bar serves nigiri and Japanese whiskies.
How it began
Built on former royal land, the property opened in 1960 as Hôtel Tahiti, French Polynesia's first hotel for international travelers.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.