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Best Luxury Resorts and Hotels in Bora Bora

Posted on by L. Dreeye
Best Luxury Resorts and Hotels in Bora Bora

The pearl of French Polynesia and the islands of Tahiti, the original name Bora Bora (Mai te Pora) means “created by the gods.” When you first see its impressive volcanic silhouette rising above the electric water that surrounds it, it’s easy to see why. The island, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, is a paradise for underwater lovers; its tranquil lagoon and strictly regulated fishing and conservation practices mean it is surrounded by thriving coral reefs and rich marine life. Particularly attractive are the small blacktip reef sharks, which swim harmlessly alongside anyone who steps off the sand. Bora Bora is also a true lover’s paradise – it’s one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world, which means luxury Bora Bora resorts are in abundance.

Most of the activities on the island are both on the shore and on the water, because who wants to go anywhere that is too far from Bora Bora’s famous overwater bungalows? But tourists will also find plenty to enjoy on this tropical foliage island, with hikes to Mount Popoti and the Valley of the Kings an invigorating (and colorful) way to spend the day.

Whether you’re looking for Bora Bora lodging that sets the standard for barefoot luxury or prefer the dazzle of Bora Bora’s famous five-star resorts, these are the best places to stay in Bora Bora.

The Best Bora Bora Luxury Resorts to Book in 2024

There is an overwater bungalow. There are also overwater bungalows with partial glass floors, so you can always watch the marine life swim by. The newly renovated Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa (formerly Le Méridien Bora Bora), opening in August 2024, has the latter and is quickly positioning itself as the most modern and luxurious of all Bora Bora resorts. Each newly renovated bungalow has its own free-standing bath, and many have private plunge pools – although who needs a pool when a tranquil lagoon is just steps from your bed. The Sky Spa lives up to its name, with open-air treatment rooms that allow the ocean breeze to dance on your skin. And six restaurants and bars mean there’s something to suit every taste.

Reasons to stay:

  • An on-site eco-center where guests can meet rescued sea turtles.
  • More overwater bungalows than any other Bora Bora resort.
  • Located at the foot of Mount Otemanu, there are magnificent views in every direction.

In the battle of overwater bungalows, the St Regis Bora Bora may take the trophy for the most spacious. Even the entry-level rooms have wide wooden balconies and a covered outdoor seating area, so you can be as close to the turquoise lagoon as possible in the few moments you’re not actually in it. The decor here is more traditionally Polynesian than some of its contemporaries, but that helps anchor the resort—and you—to the place. Additionally, the multi-room beachfront villas are ideal for families and groups. Your personal butler can book unique experiences and excursions around the island, such as exploring the lagoon in a traditional Vaa canoe or cycling along lush roads and mountain peaks.

Reasons to stay:

  • New chef Eric Weidmann – former Iron Chef Thailand winner – improved the quality of restaurants at the resort
  • Attentive butler service will take care of all guests’ needs.
  • The St Regis Bora Bora Spa occupies its own private island, where treatments suggest complete opulence and luxury (particularly impressive are The Caroline Collection treatments, named after early 20th-century New York socialite Caroline Astor).

Four Seasons hotels are known for their personalized experiences, and the Four Seasons Bora Bora outpost is no exception. Bookable tours include private snorkeling tours with marine biologists, private Tahitian storytelling and the option of having a tropical breakfast delivered directly to your bungalow on a Polynesian canoe. The resort’s overwater bungalows are decorated in soothing sandy tones, while the estate’s unique, roomy villas can accommodate up to 11 guests.

Reasons to stay:

  • Offering a complete buy-out package for the perfect island wedding.
  • Faré Hoa Beach Bar and Grill offers an unforgettable dining experience right next to the sand.
  • Scenic details such as water hammocks and floating lounge chairs.

Conrad is the only resort in Bora Bora with two-story overwater bungalows, each with hanging mesh beds that extend over the lagoon so you can see the wildlife swimming below and the sparkling Tahitian stars twinkling overhead. Early morning beach meditation sessions are the dreamiest way to connect with the scenery and start the day, followed by breakfast to the gentle sounds of Polynesian musicians at the open-air Iriatai Restaurant.

Reasons to stay:

  • A private floating helipad allows guests to arrive at the resort in the most scenic way possible.
  • The only resort on the island where you can try Ahi Maa (traditional Tahitian underground cuisine).
  • This is the Bora Bora resort where Kim Kardashian lost her diamond earring at sea.

Located within Motu Tevairoa, this Bora Bora Relais & Chateaux resort has no neighbors, boasts 108 overwater villas and bungalows, offers maximum privacy and is just a 10-minute boat ride from the airport. Tāvai Spa is surrounded by lily ponds and gardens and is decorated in traditional Polynesian style. Le Bora Bora is more classic than some of its competitors, blending tropical cuisine with a French flair.

Reasons to stay:

  • Guaranteed exceptional service, atmosphere and cuisine
  • On site is the Tikis Way, a local art trail that helps explain the history and beauty of the islands and their people.
  • Fast and energy-efficient transportation to and from the airport using electric boats.

Where is Bora Bora and how to get there from Australia?

Bora Bora is a small island located in the South Pacific Ocean, part of French Polynesia and located northwest of Tahiti. Known for its picturesque turquoise lagoon, coral reefs and lush volcanic peaks, Bora Bora is a popular destination for tourists seeking paradise beaches and luxury resorts.

Several airlines fly from Australia to Bora Bora, including Emirates, Air New Zealand, Qantas, Air Tahiti and Jetstar. Getting to your chosen accommodation in Bora Bora is often also possible by boat, but helicopter flights and pre-arranged taxis are also possible.

When is the best time to go to Bora Bora?

The best time to visit Bora Bora is usually from May to October, during the dry season when the weather is pleasant, less humid and less likely to rain. But the intermediate months (April and November) are less crowded and often have better deals, so it’s worth taking a look.

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Alexandra Carlton


Journalist

Alexandra Carlton has been a journalist for about 20 years, about nine of them specializing in food and travel (don’t quote her on this; numbers aren’t her strong suit). In addition to Gourmet Traveller, she writes for Qantas Magazine, Escape, The Australian, Virtuoso.com, The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide and WA Good Food Guide. She is also the Chairman of the Oceania Academy’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. She travels for about six months and has two favorite places in the world: the first is pretty much anywhere in Seoul, South Korea, and the second is on the sofa in Marrickville in Sydney’s inner west with a plate of Malay takeaway and some trashy TV.