Tahiti Airport Motel

Set a three-minute drive from the airport, Tahiti Airport Motel is an excellent pick for late arrivals or overnight travelers with short layovers. Its setting up a small hill means some pretty views of the water and hillsides (though some are obstructed and take in the less-scenic airport), but travelers keen on walking from the airport should expect a steep journey that's dark at night. Otherwise, there's little of note within walking distance, but for those who simply want a clean, comfortable spot to rest their head for one night, the motel fits the bill. Common areas are limited to an open-plan lobby with three walls of windows letting in lots of light, a few black leather couches, and signs instructing that it's not a hang-out spot between flights.

Unfortunately, poor soundproofing can mean noise issues from crowing roosters nearby as well as late-night guest arrivals (we heard several around midnight during our stay). Also note that there's a fairly strict check-in, check-out policy, so those wanting an early check-in or late check-out will likely have to pay for it. Those willing to pay more for an upscale property with all the expected amenities -- beach, pool, spa, and multiple dining options -- should check out Le Meridien Tahiti. 

For layover travelers, it's hard to beat the Tahiti Airport Motel's location, set just a three-minute drive from the airport. However, for those looking to spend more than a night here, the location is less-than-ideal. There's little of interest within walking distance, and dining options are limited. A supermarket, a couple of restaurants, and gas stations are within a 10-minute walk, and the walk back requires going up a small, but steep, hill. The downtown area -- which has restaurants, shops, the main marketplace, and Cathedral Notre-Dame of Papeete -- is a 12-minute drive, as is the ferry terminal for onward travel to other islands. It's a 16-minute drive to the cruise port. Taxis are expensive, though, and as of 2017 were liable to cost between $20 and $30 for any 10- to 15-minute journey. 

The 46 rooms here are on the low-frills side, but they're clean, cheerful, and contemporary. All have laminate floors, large wooden desks, pale-yellow and peach accent walls, green and blue linens with tropical flower motifs, and matching artwork. A wall of floor-to-ceiling windows keeps them bright, and prettier area views are available on higher floors, though none directly face the sea. There are several downsides, however. Top-floor units are reached by taking the elevator (or stairs) up to the third floor, and then walking a set of stairs to the fourth floor. Rooms are poorly soundproofed, so noise is an issue, from travelers talking in adjacent rooms to late-night arrivals and crowing roosters. Some minor wear and tear is also apparent. Other cons include no safes or bottled water, and no English-language channels on the small flat-screen TVs. Some guests may also find that their double bed is actually two twin beds pushed together. 

On the upside, in-room Wi-Fi is free and fast, air-conditioning is strong and individually controlled, and wardrobes are large. Kettles and tea are provided. Older-looking bathrooms have showers with handheld showerheads and bulk shower gel dispensers. Family Rooms with a double bed and two twin beds are available. 

Given that this is a budget property geared toward overnight travelers, amenities are limited -- there are no restaurant, bar, pool, or gym. However, a free simple breakfast is provided. Visitors must first go to the front desk to receive a plastic tray with a baguette, croissant, bowl, butter, jam, and coffee cup, which some past guests have likened to a school cafeteria or jail setup. Then, the breakfast area is stocked with Honey Nut Cheerios and Corn Flakes, a container of canned fruit, and dispensers of coffee, hot chocolate, cold milk, and hot water. It's not the most elaborate breakfast, but it's decent. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property and the signal is fast and reliable, but note that it will log you off every time you set down your phone or close your computer. Reception is staffed 24/7 and free parking is available on-site.