The pearl of French Polynesia and the Islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora’s original name (Mai te Pora) means ‘created by the gods’. When you first sight its dramatic, volcanic silhouette rising from the electric-aqua water that surrounds it, it’s easy to see why. The island — widely considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world — is paradise for underwater lovers; its calm lagoon, plus highly regulated fishing and conservation practices, means it’s surrounded by thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life. The small black-tipped reef sharks that swim harmlessly alongside anyone who steps off the sand are particularly beguiling. Bora Bora is also a paradise for lovers full stop — it’s one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world — meaning luxury Bora Bora resorts are in abundance.
Most of the island’s activities are shore and water-based, because who wants to go anywhere that’s too far from those famous Bora Bora overwater bungalows? But hikers will also find a lot to love on this tropical foliage-filled island, with treks to Mount Popoti and the Valley of Kings an invigorating (and steamy) way to spend a day.
Whether you’re seeking Bora Bora accommodation that sets the standard in barefoot luxury or prefer the dazzle of famed five-star Bora Bora resorts, these are the best places to stay in Bora Bora.
Best luxury Bora Bora resorts to book in 2024
- The Westin Bora Bora Resort and Spa (here’s why)
- St Regis Bora Bora Resort (here’s why)
- The Four Seasons Bora Bora (here’s why)
There are overwater bungalows. And then there are overwater bungalows with partial glass floors, so you can watch the marine life glide by at all times. The newly renovated Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa (formerly Le Méridien Bora Bora) opened in August 2024 has the latter, and has quickly positioned itself as the most modern and luxurious of all the Bora Bora resorts. Every freshly decorated bungalow has its own freestanding bath and many have private plunge pools – though who needs a pool when the tranquil lagoon is footsteps away from your bed. The Heavenly Spa lives up to its name, with open-air treatment rooms that let the ocean breeze dance over your skin. And six restaurants and bars mean there is a cuisine that suits every taste.
Reasons to stay:
- On-site Eco Centre where guests can encounter rescued marine turtles
- More overwater bungalows than any other Bora Bora resort
- Located at the base of Mount Otemanu, offering stellar views in any direction
In the battle of the overwater bungalows, St Regis Bora Bora may take the trophy for the most spacious. Even its entry-level rooms have broad wooden balconies and a sheltered outdoor seating area, so you can be as close as possible to the turquoise lagoon in the few moments you’re not actually in it. The décor here is more traditionally Polynesian than some of its contemporaries but this helps anchor the resort — and you — into the place. Plus, the multi-room beachfront villas are perfect for families and groups. Your personal butler can book unique island experiences and excursions, such as exploring the lagoon on a traditional Va’a canoe or cycle trips around the densely vegetated roadways and mountain peaks.
Reasons to stay:
- New executive chef Eric Weidmann — a former Iron Chef Thailand winner — has upped the resort’s dining game
- Attentive butler services take care of guests’ every need
- The St Regis Bora Bora spa occupies its own private island, with treatments leaning towards total opulence and luxury (The Caroline Collection experiences, named for early 20th century New York socialite Caroline Astor, are particularly indulgent)
The Four Seasons is known for its personalised experiences, and the Four Seasons Bora Bora outpost is no exception. Bookable tours include private snorkelling tours with marine biologists, Tahitian storytelling on a private motu and the opportunity to have a tropical breakfast delivered right to your bungalow via a Polynesian canoe. The resort’s overwater bungalows are decorated in soothing sand-coloured tones, while the uniquely roomy estate villas can sleep as many as 11 guests.
Reasons to stay:
- Offers complete buyout packages for the ultimate island destination wedding
- The Faré Hoa Beach Bar & Grill is the ultimate feet-in-the-sand dining experience
- Picturesque touches such as in-water hammocks and floating sunbeds
The Conrad is the only resort in Bora Bora with double-storey overwater bungalows, and each one features suspended net beds that stretch over the lagoon so you can glimpse the wildlife swimming below and the sparkling Tahitian stars twinkling overhead. Early morning beach meditation sessions are the dreamiest way to connect to the landscape 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 picturesque way possible
- Only resort on the island with an Ahi Ma’a (traditional Tahitian underground cooking) experience
- It’s the Bora Bora resort where Kim Kardashian lost her diamond earring in the sea
Positioned on its own motu, Motu Tevairoa, this ‘no neighbours’ Bora Bora resort by Relais & Chateaux boasts 108 villas and overwater bungalows, allows for maximum seclusion, and is only a 10-minute boat ride from the airport. The Tāvai Spa is surrounded by lily ponds and gardens, and is designed in a traditional Polynesian style. More classically Tahitian than some of its competitors, the dining at Le Bora Bora is a mix of tropical cuisine with French flair.
Reasons to stay:
- Guaranteed exceptional service, ambience and cuisine
- On-site Path of the Tikis, a local art trail that helps explain the history and beauty of the islands and its people
- Quick and energy-efficient transportation to and from the airport on electric-powered boats
Where is Bora Bora, and how to get there from Australia?
Bora Bora is a small island located in the South Pacific Ocean and is part of French Polynesia and lies just northwest of Tahiti. Famed for its picturesque turquoise lagoon, coral reefs, and lush volcanic peaks, Bora Bora is a popular destination for tourists seeking paradise-like beaches and luxury resorts.
There are several airlines that fly from Australia to Bora Bora, including Emirates, Air New Zealand, Qantas, Air Tahiti and Jetstar. Often, getting to your chosen Bora Bora accommodation also includes a boat ride, but helicopter flights and pre-organised taxis are also options.
When is the best time to go to Bora Bora?
The best time to visit Bora Bora is typically from May to October, during the dry season when the weather is pleasant, less humid and has a lower chance of rain. But the shoulder months (April and November) offer fewer crowds and often better deals, which can be worth considering.
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