Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Opened in 2000, the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is a stunning property with a marine-life-filled lagoon at its front and lush mountains at its back. Offering a slightly more affordable stay than similar luxury hotels in Bora Bora, the resort largely draws honeymooners and older couples, many of which are American due to familiarity with the Hilton brand. Grounds are surprisingly compact here, albeit beautiful, consisting of a sandy beach, winding paths lined with tropical foliage, and thatched-roof structures. Elegant Polynesian decor is evident everywhere, from the large statues at the entrance, a wooden canoe over lobby seating hinting at the island's history, and wood carvings throughout. The atmosphere here is relaxed and peaceful, as most guests lounge on their private terrace or explore the coral and sea life via snorkeling and non-motorized water sports. It does liven up twice a week during the fun Polynesian shows.

This is a great luxury option in Moorea, but those who want a similarly upscale experience at a lower cost may prefer the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa. Conversely, travelers looking for a more over-the-top luxe stay should consider the expansive, feature-packed Conrad Bora Bora Nui, which is also in the Hilton family and not as pricey as the St. Regis or Four Seasons in Bora Bora.

The hotel is located in the center of Moorea's northern coast, along the water. Set a 20-minute drive from the Moorea Airport, there's next to nothing within walking distance, aside from one food truck about a 10-minute stroll away. To reach outside restaurants, shops, or supermarkets, guests will need to drive or take a taxi between five and 12 minutes. Some area restaurants will provide free transfer, but it may require spending a certain amount at dinner. The benefit of the resort's location is that it's quiet and traffic noise doesn't reach rooms. 

Moorea is a mountainous island located 10 nautical miles off the coast of Tahiti. The beautiful, quiet island is popular with honeymooners and families, and has a relaxed, laid-back feel. Travelers headed to Moorea will first need to fly to Fa'a'ā International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti, where they can then take a quick 10-minute local flight, or a 45-minute ferry to Moorea.

Placement is the primary factor when deciding which room to book, as all of the 106 bungalows have the same interior design. Set in stand-alone structures, the elegant bungalows are outfitted with plush white-linen beds, wood floors, vaulted rattan and wood-beam ceilings, contemporary dark-wood furniture, wicker seating, and white walls. The mostly neutral color scheme is accented by tropical-print throw pillows, Polynesian artwork, and red drapes. 

Many travelers -- particularly honeymooners -- opt for the famous overwater bungalows, each of which have a furnished terrace with stairs leading directly into the water, and a glass cutout on the floor for views of sea life below. Three King Lagoon Bungalows are set along the beach and provide direct sea access. Almost all of the remaining garden bungalows have private plunge pools, but many guests have complained that the pool water is too chilly. These, however, are generally the most quiet. 

Sleek, large bathrooms are a standout, outfitted with rainfall showers, separate clawfoot bathtubs, and dual basin sinks. These also come with hairdryers, Peter Thomas Roth toiletries, and magnifying mirrors. Additional amenities are unsurprisingly top-notch, consisting of flat-screen TVs with DVD players, iPod docks, desks, minibars, kettles alongside tea and instant coffee, reliable free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and wardrobes with safes, bathrobes, slippers, ironing facilities, and umbrellas. 

All the necessary features for a relaxing beach vacation are found at the Hilton Moorea. Most offerings center around the outdoors, starting with the sandy beach. It's not the longest stretch, but it's pretty and lined with ample loungers and umbrellas. Staff provide food and drink service. Those looking for more activity can take advantage of free kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling gear, and waters are filled with coral, tropical fish, and stingrays. Although most visitors opt to swim in the lagoon, a central swimming pool is available and pleasant, surrounded by sunbeds. One complaint from guests is that they're required to give poolside attendants a card in order to receive a towel. 

For further relaxation (or something to keep busy when it's raining), the sophisticated spa has a free-to-use sauna and steam room, and for-fee massage and salon treatments. Across the road are two tennis courts and a fitness center, both accessed by room keys. The gym, unfortunately, is small and has limited, older equipment. Twice a week, a Polynesian buffet is served in the restaurant, which includes a large food spread and lively Polynesian show that ends with fire dancing on the beach.

A pearl jewelry store and souvenir shop selling snacks and sundries is on-site. Wi-Fi and lot parking are both free.

Arii Vahine Restaurant serves buffet and a la carte dishes for breakfast and dinner in a circular structure with black wicker chairs topped by red cushions, a high thatched ceiling, and panoramic windows facing the ocean. Travelers who arrive during breakfast hours get free pastries and coffee. Several tables are set on an outdoor terrace. Across the terrace is a bar that's encased by windows and outfitted with wicker seating. 

The beachfront, open-air Rotui Grill and Bar is open from morning until late, except for nights with Polynesian shows. Food ranges from sandwiches and salads to fresh seafood dishes. Set in the middle of the overwater bungalow deck is the open-air Toatea Creperie and Bar, which is only open for dinner (though cocktails are served starting in the late afternoon) and has a menu of savory and sweet crepes. At night, numerous small sharks can be seen around here. All dining options receive positive reviews for food, though most guests agree that they're underwhelming given the extremely high prices that are par for the course in French Polynesia.