Bora Bora, undoubtedly the most prominent island in the South Pacific within French Polynesia, emerges as a wild diva, a destination that captures the imagination of everyone fortunate enough to dream about it. This idyllic haven, one of Earth’s must-visit places, unveils its unmatched splendor once you set foot on its shores.
The aerial view from the plane’s window leaves an indelible impression, and as you descend with your camera at the ready, the sudden appearance of the majestic Mount Otemanu steals your breath away. It’s a moment that lingers, setting the stage for the romance that Bora Bora weaves from the very first step onto its shores.
Bora Bora’s lagoon, often described as having more than 50 shades of azure, captivates the senses. Whether calculated by a mathematician or imagined by an artist, the reality surpasses expectations. Navigating the lagoon reveals a spectrum of blues and teals that stretch the limits of imagination. The motus, small islets of white sand surrounded by coconut palms, invite daydreams of solitude, allowing you to envision a day as Robinson Crusoe.
Situated northwest of Tahiti, less than an hour’s flight from Papeete, Bora Bora is surprisingly accessible. The airport, located on the narrow, secluded Motu Mete, welcomes visitors with warmth, adorned with scented flower garlands, before transporting them by boat to their chosen resort.
Beyond the natural wonders, Bora Bora seamlessly marries wild magnificence with sophisticated, luxurious retreats. Nestled between serene, palm-fringed beaches, opulent resorts showcase their trademark overwater bungalows. Imagine bathing in a vast tub overlooking a lagoon teeming with tropical fish or indulging in a spa experience amidst tropical aromas. Exquisite French cuisine is savored while gazing over the lagoon – a sensory symphony of relaxation.
For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the finest resorts on the island beckon. Here are some notable ones:
15. Village Temanuata Nestled along Matira Beach, this lodge features indigenous Polynesian bungalows with immediate beach access, providing a tranquil escape. With only 11 beachfront bungalows, Village Temanuata offers a secluded haven, perfect for those seeking a respite from the modern world.
14. Oa Oa Lodge Situated about one kilometer from Vaitape, Bora Bora’s sole town, Oa Oa Lodge offers tastefully decorated bungalows with wide patios. While closely packed, the pool overlooking the water adds to its allure. The lodge’s proximity to a yacht club with a waterside restaurant and various activities, including live music shows, enhances the overall experience.
13. Chez Nono Bora Bora An excellent choice for a beachfront location at a reasonable price, Chez Nono is built on the sandy shores of Matira Beach. The two main bungalows, constructed in authentic Polynesian style, offer a picturesque view of the lagoon. Keep in mind that Matira Beach is public and can get crowded.
12. Matira Hotel Bora Bora Perched on Matira Point, this hotel provides an excellent view of the turquoise lagoon reflecting the volcanic peaks. A budget-friendly option near restaurants and food stores, Matira Hotel Bora Bora offers an authentic Polynesian setting, distinct from the mammoth resorts.
11. Blue Heaven Island A rustic five-bungalow family pension on an unspoiled island, Blue Heaven Island offers a peaceful escape. While life on a motu may feel gloriously peaceful, it can also be too isolated for some. Nevertheless, this unconventional experience provides a unique way to enjoy Bora Bora without breaking the bank.
10. Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort Stylishly combining raw hardwood and modern design, this resort rests on an isolated white sand beach. Offering various bungalow options, including overwater bungalows, Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort caters to diverse preferences. The Latitude 16o provides thematic nights, and the beautiful infinity pool enhances the overall experience.
9. Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort Embraced by white beaches and azure waters, this resort offers a tropical escape on the iconic Matira spot. Glass coffee tables in overwater bungalows provide glimpses into the lagoon’s natural aquarium. The main restaurant, Noa Noa, serves French cuisine with local flavors, complemented by live music twice a week.
8. Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island Resort A secret hideaway for a tranquil and intimate vacation, this resort values seclusion amid indigenous greenery. Beachside, waterside, or hillside villas offer a blend of nature and luxury. The Mako Bar and the resort’s trademark restaurant provide outstanding cuisine and cocktails against the backdrop of the pristine waters.
7. Hotel Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora Set on the main island, Hotel Maitai Polynesia offers tranquility, beautiful sunsets, and a blue lagoon teeming with marine life. While lacking high-end facilities like a pool or spa, this hotel is a great budget-friendly option for those seeking an oceanfront experience without extravagant costs.
6. Le Meridien Bora Bora Recently refurbished in a luxurious style, this high-end sanctuary rests on an islet surrounded by the world’s most beautiful lagoon. Beach bungalows and overwater villas feature sleek furnishings and a touch of Polynesian tradition. The Miki Miki Bar and the on-site turtle sanctuary add to the enchanting experience.
5. Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort and Spa Also known as Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, this 5-star retreat on Motu Tevairoa offers drop-dead gorgeous bungalows and three restaurants serving international and traditional food. The accommodations boast Polynesian-style design, making it a visual delight. A 5-minute boat cruise to the main island provides access to a broader range of dining and leisure options.
4. Conrad Bora Bora Nui A member of the Hilton group, this resort on a private island offers a delicate balance of Polynesian heritage and lavish accommodations. With overwater villas and a variety of dining options, Conrad Bora Bora Nui provides a range of exciting activities, from trekking to shark swimming. A day on the secluded islet of Motu Tapu offers a luxurious picnic and a serene atmosphere.
3. Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa Nestled in Motu Piti Aau, this resort offers a respite from modern life with dazzling overwater villas and suites. Each bungalow, raised on stilts and made of natural elements, allows direct access to the marine life beneath. The resort’s unique feature is its use of ice water from the Pacific Ocean to cool the property. The undivided lagoonarium serves as a coral nursery, promoting aquatic world protection.
2. The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Designed to provide the utmost care and respect, this 5-star resort on Motu Tehotu combines service excellence with luxury and Polynesian culture. Over-the-water bungalow suites and beach villas offer breathtaking panoramas. Four restaurants, a health club, and various activities ensure a delightful stay. The resort’s commitment to environmental sustainability adds to its appeal.
1. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort An otherworldly beachfront retreat, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort epitomizes South Pacific luxury. Thatch-roofed villas above sapphire water, verdant grounds, and a white sand beach create a dreamlike setting. Luxury villas with expansive terraces, gardens, hot tubs, and plunge pools cater to diverse preferences. Le Lagoon by Jean-Georges, the resort’s restaurant, offers outstanding cuisine and a glass floor terrace for observing sharks. The overall experience is a harmonious blend of calm and joy.
In conclusion, Bora Bora, with its unrivaled beauty and luxurious retreats, beckons those seeking a paradise on Earth. Each resort, with its unique charm, adds to the allure of this South Pacific gem. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of a family pension or the opulence of a 5-star resort, Bora Bora promises an experience that will stay etched in your memory forever.
