Stepping into a world where the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific meet the epitome of luxury, our overwater bungalow stay at Hilton Moorea became a chapter in our travel tale that resonates with unparalleled beauty and indulgence. Nestled above the vibrant coral gardens of Moorea’s lagoon, our abode was not just a haven; it was an immersion into an enchanting experience. From the surreal sunset views over the endless expanse of turquoise to the gentle lullaby of waves beneath our feet, every moment in the overwater embrace of Hilton Moorea felt like a dream woven into reality. Join me on a journey through this paradisiacal escape, where luxury met nature in perfect harmony.
Booking
In the pursuit of turning dreams, and long waited Honeymoon, into reality, our journey to Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa unfolded with a stroke of strategic brilliance. Leveraging the power of our Hilton Honors points, each night’s stay was a mere 90,000 points for a Standard King Garden Room, and the icing on the cake was the fifth night being absolutely free.
I watched daily with hopes that our Hilton Diamond status would translate into a free upgrade. However, with this stay being a celebration, as our dates got closer the chances of a free upgrade quickly disappeared. Faced with the allure of the last available King Panoramic Overwater Bungalow, we opted for a savvy approach, leveraging the Hilton Diamond Guest Service whom contacted the property about a possible paid upgrade which was offered for $2000. I, gladly paid using my Hilton Surpass credit card for bonus Hilton Honors points. In a fascinating turn of events, this not only secured us a front-row seat to paradise but also represented a remarkable contrast to the cash rate of $1696.90 per night.
Also, holding Hilton Diamond status proved to be a financial blessing as it granted us complimentary daily breakfast, a perk that not only enhanced our mornings with indulgent dining but also saved a significant sum during our stay at Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa.
Hilton Moorea Location
Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa graces the shores of the mesmerizing Moorea Island in French Polynesia. This tropical haven is strategically positioned on the northern coast, offering guests a front-row seat to the island’s lush landscapes and the vibrant hues of the surrounding lagoon.
Embarking on the journey from Tahiti to Moorea by opting for the ferry ride from Tahiti to Moorea offers a cost-effective alternative to the more exclusive Bora Bora. The short yet picturesque journey takes approximately 30 minutes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The affordability of this transportation mode not only makes Moorea an accessible paradise but also allows savvy travelers to allocate their budget strategically, making it an appealing choice when seeking an exquisite Polynesian escape without the premium price tag associated with Bora Bora.
the Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa is a secluded haven that rests upon its own private coral reef lagoon, creating a mesmerizing blend of luxury and marine beauty. With a mere 106 rooms dispersed across the expansive 10-acre property, the resort offers an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Each accommodation, whether nestled along the shoreline or hovering above the lagoon in an overwater bungalow, provides a front-row seat to the stunning surroundings. This deliberate design ensures that guests not only enjoy the utmost privacy but also have the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the unspoiled charm of Moorea’s crystalline waters and vibrant marine life, creating an unparalleled and serene escape.
Check-in
Upon our arrival at Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa, anticipation mingled with a touch of eagerness, only to find that our eagerly awaited haven wasn’t quite prepared for our occupancy. However, the hospitality extended to us as Diamond members proved to be a silver lining. With a gracious touch, the staff handed us two rum drink vouchers, inviting us to indulge in a leisurely lunch at their esteemed Rotui Grill & Bar while our accommodation was readied to perfection. Sipping on the flavorful rum concoctions, surrounded by the tropical ambiance of the restaurant, our temporary detour became an unexpected pleasure, turning the waiting period into a delightful prelude to the extraordinary experiences that awaited us at Hilton Moorea.
Following a leisurely and delicious lunch at Rotui Grill & Bar, our anticipation reached its peak as we were informed that our Panoramic Bungalow was now ready for us to settle in. Swiftly, a courteous Hilton staff member whisked us away in a golf cart, navigating through the lush pathways of the resort.
To our sheer delight, our bungalow, number 84, wasn’t just any overwater haven; it was strategically positioned at the end of the pier on the west side, offering us the privilege of unobstructed sunset views every evening. The breathtaking panorama from our private retreat elevated our stay to a level of unparalleled luxury, where each day’s conclusion was painted in the warm and vibrant hues of a Moorea sunset, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Hilton Moorea Panoramic Overwater Bungalow
Hilton Moorea’s overwater bungalows, totaling 54 in number, are meticulously categorized into three distinct tiers to cater to varying preferences and experiences. The first category, the King Overwater Bungalow, positions itself closest to the shore, providing a more intimate connection with the lagoon. For those seeking an extended view, the King Panoramic Overwater Bungalow, where we were fortunate to stay, extends further out into the crystalline waters, offering an enhanced sense of seclusion and panoramic vistas. At the pinnacle of exclusivity, the King Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalow claims its place at the very end of the pier, standing alone in splendid isolation, ensuring an unparalleled level of privacy and unobstructed views. This thoughtful categorization ensures that each guest can tailor their experience to match their desired level of intimacy and scenic indulgence.
The King Panoramic Overwater Bungalow at Hilton Moorea is a haven of spacious elegance, boasting a generous 670 square feet of luxurious living space. As we stepped into this retreat, hardwood floors and exposed beams greeted us, creating an ambiance of natural sophistication. The bathroom, a sanctuary in itself, featured a clawfoot tub and a refreshing rainfall shower, accompanied by the convenience of dual sinks. The room’s amenities extended beyond mere comfort, encompassing in-room coffee and tea facilities, a plush three-person couch, a functional desk, and a sumptuous king-sized bed. Abundant lighting and strategically placed power outlets ensured convenience, while the pièce de résistance—a captivating glass section of the floor—invited us to peer into the aquatic world below, a mesmerizing and truly immersive touch that defined the essence of overwater luxury.
Adding an extra layer of indulgence to the already exquisite setup, our King Panoramic Overwater Bungalow at Hilton Moorea revealed a stunning feature – a giant sliding-glass door that seamlessly opened to unveil not just a back porch but a multi-level haven of tranquility. The top level, an intimate space to soak in the sun and relish the panoramic views, led down a flight of stairs to another porch that extended even further into the azure lagoon. This aquatic retreat became our personal oasis, with crystal-clear waters beneath, inviting us to take a refreshing plunge into the roughly four-foot-deep lagoon—an enticing and exclusive ocean playground right at our doorstep, transforming each moment into a cherished memory of tropical bliss.
In a thoughtful and consumer-friendly gesture, Hilton Moorea redefined the guest experience by replacing the conventional minibar with a more accessible refrigerator. The refrigerator was stocked with a generous assortment of complimentary refreshments, including a large bottle of still water, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Pineapple Juice, and two cans of the iconic Hinano Tahiti beer.
Hilton Moorea’s commitment to perfection extended to the minutest details. The air conditioning, with its external attachment, was discreetly concealed behind a tasteful wooden divider, seamlessly blending with the aesthetic of our King Panoramic Overwater Bungalow. The thoughtful choice of wooden rungs for the sea ladder added an authentic touch, replacing standard plastic and enhancing the overall ambiance. In a nod to convenience for international travelers, a US-friendly power port in the bathroom demonstrated the resort’s dedication to providing a seamless and accommodating experience.
Food and Beverage
The culinary offerings at Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa were not just about delectable dishes but also about dining with a view that stirred envy. Arii Vahine, served as the epicenter for indulgence, hosting the resort’s impressively vast breakfast spread, all against a backdrop that left no room for culinary mediocrity. Down by the beach, Rotui Bar and Grill offered a laid-back setting for lunch and dinner, with each bite accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean. Nestled at the heart of the overwater bungalow pontoons was Toatea Creperie & Bar, an exclusive dinner spot where I experienced the delight of a phenomenal crepe, priced at a reasonable $20 all while marveling at the mesmerizing sight of sharks gracefully gliding below—an exquisite culinary experience complemented by the wonders of the marine world.
The perks of my Diamond status at Hilton Moorea transcended the ordinary, granting my wife and I a complimentary ticket to a breakfast experience that rivaled a culinary theme park rather than a traditional buffet. The spread at Arii Vahine was a testament to extravagance, featuring not just a standard omelet station but a symphony of culinary delights. From a juice station brimming with freshness to a diverse array of bread, waffle, French toast, pancake, salad, fruit, and even a sushi station, the breakfast experience was a culinary odyssey. Valued at approximately $40 per person, the opulence of this breakfast buffet was a testament to the resort’s commitment to excellence, and as a Diamond member, the lavish spread was not just a feast for the senses but a priceless inclusion, underscoring the unparalleled value of loyalty.
Amenities
While Moorea beckoned with a plethora of attractions, Hilton Moorea emerged as a rare gem where staying put felt like a fulfilling experience in itself. The lagoon, a playground of wonders, offered a snorkeling paradise, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant underwater world. Every glance beneath the surface revealed a mesmerizing array of fish, creating an enchanting spectacle.
For those seeking both recreation and exercise, kayaks provided an ideal outlet, especially when the winds added a playful chop to the water. On calmer days, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) allowed for serene exploration. The resort’s massive tennis court was an added bonus, equipped with racquets and balls available at no charge from the front desk. Hilton Moorea, with its blend of natural beauty and recreational offerings, truly embodied the essence of a complete and satisfying retreat.
Hilton Moorea’s commitment to guest comfort extended to its pristine beach, thoughtfully adorned with an ample supply of chairs and umbrellas. Despite the property hosting 106 rooms, the beach experience remained delightfully uncrowded, ensuring that finding a chair was never a challenge.
For those seeking a change of scenery from the saltwater, a refreshing pool provided a perfect alternative—an inviting haven for a leisurely dip, adding an extra layer of variety to the array of experiences available at this tropical paradise.
Delving into the intricacies of the internet experience at Hilton Moorea, it’s fair to say that connectivity posed a bit of a challenge during this visit. While there was a marginal improvement in speeds when stationed in the lobby.
Notably, the premium Wi-Fi, available at approximately $10 per day for non-Diamond guests, didn’t present a compelling case for investment. In the heart of paradise, where the allure lies in the breathtaking surroundings and immersive experiences, surrendering to the digital detox and savoring the moments in Moorea seemed a more enticing proposition than opting for the upgraded internet package.
The on-site activity desk at Hilton Moorea showcased exceptional service by seamlessly organizing a taxi for our trip to a local grocery store.
Overall Impression Of Hilton Moorea Resort & Spa
My wife’s sentiment beautifully captures the essence of the Hilton Moorea experience—worth the 20-year wait and a fulfillment of the paradise trip dream. The resort, with its breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and attentive service, seems to have woven the perfect tapestry of tropical indulgence. It’s moments like these, where dreams are realized in the embrace of a pristine paradise, that transform a journey into an unforgettable and cherished chapter in one’s travel narrative. Hilton Moorea, with its idyllic charm, has not just met but exceeded expectations, creating memories that will undoubtedly linger as a testament to the magic of this dreamlike destination.
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