5 Best Hotels in Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia

This three-bungalow pension is on a private island 9.6 km (6 mi) north of the airport. The all-white bungalows are an A-frame western design; two are on the beach, while the other is over the water. Each has an equipped kitchen, refrigerator, and private bathroom with cold water. Owners Guy and Jeanne Herta will provide meals but need to be informed before arrival. They also provide a free visit to a pearl farm.

This three-bungalow lodging is situated on Motu Kamoka, not far from the Kamoka marae. There is one one-bedroom bungalow and two two-bedroom bungalows; the latter accommodating four and five people. They are constructed in western rather than a Polynesian style, hence the name "motel." Each has a kitchen and air-conditioning, along with a hot-water bathroom, mosquito netting, and linen. A full-board option is available for 16,700 per person per day.

This budget pension has an ideal position near Ohutu wharf and its restaurant and terrace have great views over the lagoon. Hostess Glorine To'i has a reputation for wonderful home-cooked meals; her specialties include tuna carpaccio and baked lagoon fish au gratin, which could make up for the lack of hot water in the bathrooms and the basic nature of the six rooms. Half-board rates are 8,000 CFP per person per day; while bungalow with breakfast rates are 5,000 CFP per person per day. There are bicycles for hire and excursions can be booked.

Situated on the water near the Ohutu ferry wharf, this is a good choice for budget travelers who don't mind cold showers. There are four two-bedroom bungalows with share bathrooms and three beach bungalows and a family bungalow, all with private bathrooms. Prices, at 15,000 CFP for a couple, include taxes, half board, and airport transfers. Meals, including lobster twice a week, are served in a large communal dining room with adjoining living room with TV. There's also a terrace for alfresco dining.

This rustic pension, previously called Vainui Pearls is set on a pink-and-white-sand beach. Just a 30-minute boat ride from the airport, it's a very quiet place. Each bungalow has two bedrooms and a private bathroom with cold water; there's a TV in a communal living room, and public dial-up Internet. The rate includes all meals, which is good as there's not a restaurant for miles.