Bora Bora’s Best Resorts Worth the Splurge
Image: Conrad Bora Bora Nui Hotel - courtesy of Expedia
Bora Bora might be known as honeymoon central, but it's not just for lovebirds. Sure, celebs like Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Aniston have graced its sandy shores, but with world renowned resorts, and lagoon views that'll make your jaw drop, Bora Bora is everyone's type. Dive into our insider’s guide to Bora Bora’s best resorts, so you can skip the guesswork and go straight to tropical nirvana.
All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The Best Resorts in Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Images: Bora Bora Four Seasons, courtesy of Expedia
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Arguably one of the best resorts in the South Pacific, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is worthy of its accolades, and while it’s a big call, it might even be one of our favorite hotels in the world—and we aren’t the only ones who love it. While the resort plays it cool about its A-list guests, let's just say you're in good company.
Designed by Didier Lefort Architect, the orientation of buildings and framing of windows emphasize the island's breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu and the surrounding lagoon. Simple structural design and muted interior colors allow the visual focus to remain on the landscape. Thatched roofs, teak wood, and volcanic stone come together to create an authentic atmosphere that celebrates the region's local craftsmanship.
The hotel’s laidback Asian fusion restaurant, Vaimiti, was our top pick during our recent stay, where we devoured fresh sushi and locally made rum while relishing our front-row seat to the island’s best view of Mount Otemanu. Onsite, you’ll also find a fine dining restaurant, Arii Moana, and a beachfront BBQ steak and seafood restaurant, Fare Hoa.
Spend the hot days cooling down at Four Seasons' Ruahatu Lagoon Sanctuary, the resort's private marine playground. Under the guidance of a marine biologist, you can snorkel with over 100 species of marine life and even try your hand at coral grafting. Or hop on a helicopter tour straight from the hotel and let the island's beauty take your breath away (as if it hasn't already).
What We Love About It: It’s giving White Lotus stay without the drama. Pristine tropical gardens, exceptional service—all in one of the region’s most serene settings.
Best Bora Bora Resort for Families
Images: St Regis Bora Bora, courtesy of Expedia
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort takes island style to a whole new level. Previously hosting honeymooners like Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, a vacation here is well worth the splurge.
Designed to impress, the resort is home to the largest overwater villas in the South Pacific, some sprawling over 1,500 square feet. Glass floor panels in the living rooms provide a glimpse into the crystal-clear lagoon below, making the local marine life a constant companion during your stay.
Dining at The St. Regis is equally remarkable, with Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges regularly considered to be the best in Bora Bora (not that we're biased - we did get engaged here). For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we recommend the degustation menu, where you'll receive recipe keepsakes to take home. For something more casual, head to the Aparima Bar for their signature Bloody Mary, an iconic nod to the brand’s New York origins.
When it comes to activities, you’re spoiled for choice. Explore the private Lagoonarium, a protected underwater sanctuary filled with tropical fish and coral. Adventure-seekers can jet-ski around the island or set sail on a deep-sea fishing trip. Romantics can indulge in a serene sunset cruise aboard a traditional Polynesian canoe, it's honeymoon-worthy, even if you're not newlywed.
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort holds the prestigious title as the island’s only Forbes 5-Star property, and its Royal Estate Villa, a jaw-dropping 13,000-square-foot compound, has hosted more VIPs than a Hollywood after-party.
What We Love About It: The personalized butler service that anticipates your every whim, from unpacking your suitcase to arranging your morning french press. It's like having your own fairy godmother, but way cooler.
Best Bora Bora Resort for Weddings
Images: Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort, courtesy of Expedia
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Perched between a dreamy lagoon and lush, rolling hillsides, this resort feels like your own private hideaway, minus the castaway vibes.
The design is more contemporary than it's local counterparts, with modern overwater villas boasting warm wood finishes, marble bathrooms, and sprawling decks made for lounging or leaping straight into the lagoon. But our favorite spot? The hilltop Hina Spa, where you can soak in panoramic views while melting away stress (and working on your envy-inducing vacation glow).
On the food front, Iriatai Restaurant is the showstopper, expertly blending French cuisine with local ingredients. Don't skip Banyan, a unique dining experience beneath the sprawling limbs of an ancient banyan tree, serving mouth-watering Chinese cuisine. For sunset views and the island’s best cocktails, swing by Upa Upa Lounge Bar—we recommend the Bora Bora Bliss, because who doesn’t love a drink that lives up to its name?
Activity-wise, this place has serious range. From cultural classes in Polynesian dance and ukulele strumming to adventures like shark and ray safaris, there’s never a dull moment. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, tackle the hike up Mount Pahia for views worth the sweat.
What We Love About It: Conrad Bora Bora is as impressive as Four Seasons and St Regis but at one third of the price, which is why it's usually our go to resort when we're planning a stay in Bora Bora.
Best Bora Bora Resort Spa
Images: Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, courtesy of Expedia
Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
This locally owned favorite delivers an authentic Polynesian setting without skipping a beat on style or comfort. Located on Motu Tevairoa, it’s a breezy oasis with a casual-cool island feel, earning consistent love from TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.
Designed in classic Polynesian style, thatched roofs and flourishing gardens set a scene for a stay that's both laidback and lush. Recently joining the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection, this property has upped its game after a top-to-toe renovation.
Dining-wise, Otemanu Restaurant is a hit, combining fresh seafood and Polynesian-inspired flavors with postcard-perfect lagoon views. Don't skip Miki Miki Bar & Grill for a toes-in-the-sand casual lunch—the grilled mahi mahi is a standout. Come evening, hit up the Poerava Gourmet Restaurant for a romantic dinner beneath the stars.
Activities here cater to every whim. Their renowned Tāvai Spa is known for its heavenly hot stone massages and invigorating Vichy shower body scrubs—perfect for resetting your island rhythm. Adventure enthusiasts can explore nearby coral gardens, while the eco-conscious can join a coral restoration tour. For the ultimate treat-yourself moment, book a dual stay package with their sister resort, Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts, for a double dose of island paradise.
What We Love About It: It’s a resort that feels welcoming, authentic, and refreshingly unpretentious. We also love that you can package up your stay at Le Bora Bora Pearl resort with the Le Taha’a resort, which we consider to be one of the best hotels in French Polynesia.
Best Locally Owned Resort in Bora Bora
Images: Intercontinental Bora Bora and Thalasso Spa , courtesy of Expedia
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Set on Motu Piti Aau, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is another stand-out stay in Bora Bora with exceptional views of Mount Otemanu. Sustainability isn't just an afterthought here, deep ocean water keeps your overwater villa refreshingly cool, and the entire resort has committed to ditching single-use plastics.
Inside the villas, expect spacious terraces, freshwater outdoor showers, and glass-bottom coffee tables that bring the marine life right beneath your feet. But the crown jewel? The Teremoana Pool Villas, some of the largest overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, featuring two luxe bedrooms and a generous private pool that practically begs you to lounge away your days soaking up those views
Dining doesn't disappoint either. Reef Restaurant blends French sophistication with Polynesian flair, while Sands is the perfect spot for a relaxed beachfront seafood lunch. The real culinary standout is Le Corail, boasting French Polynesia's largest wine cellar, making it a must-visit for vino lovers.
Activities range from snorkeling right off your deck to scuba diving and sunset cruises. Don’t miss the spa, which specializes in mineral-rich, deep-sea water therapies (you can also access the spa via transfer from their sister hotel - Intercontinental Le Moana). And for lovebirds, the overwater chapel with its glass-bottom aisle makes tying the knot unforgettable.
What We Love About It: It's eco-chic done right, a place that proves being green doesn’t mean sacrificing an ounce of indulgence.
Best Resort in Bora Bora for wine enthusiasts
Images: Villa Yrondi , courtesy of Expedia
Villa Yrondi
If a boutique, artistic stay is more your speed, Villa Yrondi is Bora Bora’s best-kept secret. Owned and designed by renowned French artist Garrick Yrondi, the property feels like you've stumbled into a living art gallery. Every space is thoughtfully presented with bright artworks, quirky sculptures, and delightful splashes of color.
Unlike the big-name resorts, Villa Yrondi offers an intimate, guesthouse-style experience perched atop a hill, boasting mesmerizing views over the lagoon and the iconic silhouette of Mount Otemanu. Rooms are individually designed, with a playful blend of French-inspired interiors that incorporate traditional Polynesian craftsmanship, perfect for travelers who love discovering creativity around every corner.
Dining here is personal and relaxed. Breakfasts are lovingly prepared each morning, featuring fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and homemade preserves. While there’s no formal restaurant onsite, the villa is located right next door to one of Bora Bora’s best restaurants - Villa Mahana.
For activities, it's all about soaking in the villa’s serene setting, lounge poolside amid bouganvillea, join a private yoga session, or immerse yourself in Garrick Yrondi’s creative universe through art workshops. Villa Yrondi also makes a fantastic home base for island explorations, snorkeling trips, and lagoon excursions.
What We Love About It: It’s intimate, artsy, and refreshingly different. Villa Yrondi is perfect for travelers craving something unique, personal, and authentically Bora Bora.
Best Boutique Hotel in Bora Bora
Images: Intercontinental Le Moana , courtesy of Expedia
InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort
Located right on the main island, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is your ideal base if you're all about exploring Bora Bora beyond your bungalow. Think of Le Moana as Thalasso's laidback sibling, offering easy island access, authentic Polynesian atmosphere, and stellar snorkeling right from your doorstep.
The overwater bungalows here radiate traditional island vibes, featuring rich wooden interiors, cozy Polynesian décor, and direct access to Bora Bora’s famously turquoise waters. For the best views, grab a Horizon bungalow looking out to Raiatea and Taha’a islands or opt for a Lagoon bungalow to admire the resort’s postcard-perfect beach.
When hunger hits, Le Moana offers casual dining at Noa Noa Terrace Restaurant, serving up local dishes and French classics. For cocktails with an ocean breeze, Vini Vini Bar is your go-to, though we strongly recommend a visit to Bloody Mary’s nearby for a legendary cocktail experience. For a truly special night, book a table at the intimate Villa Mahana, easily one of Bora Bora’s top culinary spots.
Activities at Le Moana encourage exploration, book an excursion to snorkel the coral gardens, or try kayaking or paddleboarding along Matira Beach. The easy access to the main island makes adventures like hiking Mount Pahia or visiting local boutiques and galleries a breeze.
What We Love About It: Le Moana is your ticket to experiencing Bora Bora’s local flavor and culture, perfectly balancing relaxed island vibes with plenty of adventure options right at your fingertips.
Best Resort in Bora Bora on the main island
All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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