Bora Bora is one of the most popular islands in all of French Polynesia, and rightfully so. Surrounded by an emerald lagoon and vibrant barrier reef, Bora Bora is a romantic paradise. This is where you see those picturesque over water bungalows with glass bottoms on stilts over crystal clear waters. You can also opt for a beach bungalow, or garden room with spectacular views. Two extinct volcano peaks are situated in the center of the island, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu. Depending on which side of the island you choose to stay, you can see one or both of these volcanic peaks.
Bora Bora Accommodations - Where to Stay in Bora Bora?
There are essentially two main areas in which you can stay in Bora Bora:
On the middle island where the volcanic peaks are (don't worry, they are inactive)
On the atoll that surrounds the middle island (this is where the luxury resorts are located)
Whether you stay on the middle island or on the atoll, you will need to take a boat taxi from the airport to your destination. The tiny Bora Bora airport is located at the northern end of the atoll. Typically, this boat taxi is not complimentary, so be sure to book in advance via your resort concierge so you have a spot on the boat.
Where to stay in Bora Bora
Here is a list of the top resorts and accommodations in Bora Bora:
Middle Island vs. Atoll
Personally, I recommend staying on the atoll. This way, you have immediate access to the gorgeous lagoon and the option for those Instagram-worthy overwater bungalows. All of the luxurious resorts can be found on the atoll. I will show you the top resorts and Bora Bora accommodations for the middle island and on the atoll.
MIDDLE ISLAND:
There are many average-priced hotels on the middle island, but some are lacking in quality for the price. Here are the top 5 middle island Bora Bora accommodations that are rated as 3 stars (out of 5) or better:
1. Bora Vaite Lodge
Bora Vaite Lodge is located on the north end of the island, about 10 km (6.2 miles) from the main village, in Hitiaa's bay. The guesthouse offers three bedrooms and two apartments. Each apartment can fit a maximum of 4 people. Prices are very affordable and the views of the lagoon are beautiful. The guesthouse rooms can be renting for as low as $115/night .
2. Hotel Royal Bora Bora
Located on the southern end of the middle island, Hotel Royal Bora Bora boasts a large tropical garden on the mountainside. The seaside offers a beautiful white sand beach, beach bar, and an amazing view of motu Piti Uu’Uta. The hotel faces west, so you are bound to see some beautiful sunsets. Prices as low as $175/night.
3. Hotel Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora
Located on the south end of the middle island in the heart of lush, tropical gardens. Hotel Maitai is also very close to Matira Beach, the only public beach on Bora Bora. You can also score an overwater bungalow here. Beach front property with two restaurants and two bars on site. Fair pricing, starting at $230/night.
4. Village Temanuata
Located on the south end of the middle island on Matira Beach, Village Temanuata is a family-owned hotel. It offers 11 bungalows with direct access to the public beach. Choose to stay on the beach, with a sea view, or in the garden. Prices starting around $195/night.
5. Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora
Located on the most southern tip of the middle island, Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora (IGH Resorts) is the most pristine resort option on the middle island. Situated on Matira Point, the resort boasts luxurious overwater bungalows stretching out over our lagoon, with the peaks of Otemanu and Pahia rising up in the distance. Prices at $500+ per night.
ATOLL:
This is where you'll find world class luxury resorts, packed with amenities and private access to the lagoon. These resorts are all private, and the only way to access them is through a boat taxi. You can go from one to another via boat taxi if you set up a lunch or dinner reservation via your resort concierge. Some resorts are part of larger hotel chains, like Marriot or Hilton, so do take advantage of the hotel rewards point system. Prices are expensive, starting at $800+ a night. Here are the top 6 resorts situated on the atoll:
1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Located on the east side of the atoll, the Four Seasons resort is jaw dropping. Boasting newly updated over water bungalows over pristine lagoon waters. Spend the day exploring the beautiful reefs in the lagoon and toast sunsets from your private plunge pool.
2. St. Regis Bora Bora (Marriott)
Located on the east side of the atoll, St. Regis Bora Bora is stunning and offers the most beautiful views of Mount Otemanu. Stay in the largest overwater bungalow villas in the South Pacific here at the St. Regis. It is sheer paradise. This resort is also where the iconic movie "Couples Retreat" with Vince Vaughn was filmed. Celebrities frequent St. Regis Bora Bora.
3. Le Meridien Bora Bora (Marriott)
Located on the east side of the atoll with a front seat view of Mount Otemanu rising above the emerald lagoon. Le Meridien also has a turtle sanctuary and ecological center, offering a glimpse into the rehabilitation process. The overwater bungalows feature glass bottom floors with private terraces. Jump into the pristine lagoon from your balcony at Le Meridien.
4. Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa (IHG)
Located on the east side of the atoll, the Intercontinental Resort Thalasso Spa in Bora Bora provides lagoon and beach front access to crystal clear waters and colorful reefs. The Deep Ocean Spa is the first thalassotherapy (seawater therapy) spa in the South Pacific, and provides a variety of treatments with nutrients extracted from seaweed.
5. Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Located on the west side of the atoll, Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers two story overwater bungalows and hillside suites. Access to the lagoon and sunset views that are out of this world. This is also a great resort if you plan to bring children, as they offer the Tamariki Kid's Club for a day of adventure, providing a day for the parents to unwind.
6. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Located on the northwest side of the atoll and poised on Motu Tevairoa, Le Bora Bora is a quick 10 minute boat ride from the airport and 15 minutes across the lagoon to the village of Vaitape on the middle island. You can find rooms nestled in the gardens, on the beach, or suspended above the dazzling lagoon.
Regardless of where you choose to stay on the island of Bora Bora, you will have access to the gorgeous lagoon, reefs, and unlimited activities. Bora Bora is a rare beauty and a place you will never forget. You will feel like you are the only ones there, even if the resort is completely booked. If you are wanting the ultimate Bora Bora experience of staying in an overwater bungalow with a glass bottom while sipping a cocktail in your private terrace pool, DO IT. Don't skimp out on the full experience due to cost. Instead, SAVE for it. I promise you, it is worth it.
My personal top 4 choices for Bora Bora accommodations are as follows:
St. Regis
Four Seasons
Le Meridien
Intercontinental Thalasso Spa
I hope this guide helps! Check out my French Polynesian Itinerary for a complete guide of where we stayed, what we did, and recommendations.
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CHEERS,
Jenna
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