The Best Resort Hotels in the South Pacific in 2016

By John Scarpinato
July 06, 2016
©Roberto Frankenberg
The South Pacific often lands high on travelers’ bucket lists. The views of the ocean, the fresh cuisine, and the simple ease of accommodations are hard to beat. But finding the perfect place to stay isn’t so easy. Do you choose something small near the water or a larger fantasy resort where the staff will cater to your every need?

This year, we asked our readers to rank their favorite resorts and inns based on facilities, location, service, food, and value, for our World's Best Awards survey. It’s clear from the results that the French Polynesian islands have captured their hearts; every property in the top five can be found in this island group.

Three of the top five resorts are in Bora-Bora, where properties are known for their thatched-roof, overwater villas.  The island’s InterContinental, St. Regis, and Four Seasons (home to some amazing plunge pools) all offer incredible spas and private lagoons, as well.

In Moorea, the guests at the InterContinental loved the fact that they can snorkel without even having to take a boat out. Additionally, the resort hosts the Moorea Dolphin Center and Turtle Care Clinic.

It’s The Brando, in Tetiaroa, however, that takes this year's grand prize. The resort, surrounded by white-sand beaches, also prides itself on being eco-friendly. 

Read on for the full list.
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No. 5: InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa, French Polynesia

Courtesy of InterContinental

Score: 88.14

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No. 4: InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, French Polynesia

Courtesy of InterContinental

Score: 90.42

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No. 3: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, French Polynesia

Courtesy of St. Regis Resorts

Score: 91.19

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No. 2: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Courtesy of Four Seasons

Score: 93.68

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No. 1: The Brando, Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

©Roberto Frankenberg

Score: 96.80

The Brando features 35 thatched-roof villas, each with its own private pool and access to white-sand beaches. If that doesn’t impress you, the resort is eco-friendly, too. Air-conditioning comes from a seawater-powered system and a blend of solar- and coconut oil-based energy grids allow for near carbon neutrality. Additionally, each villa is equipped with bicycles, allowing guests to explore the island without using a car. Visitors can access the property via a 20-minute private flight from Tahiti, which lies just 30 miles south.

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By John Scarpinato