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Bora Bora

Where to Stay

1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

2 Michelin Keys· Forbes Five-Star

From its private motu, 108 overwater bungalow suites with teak decks and plunge pools frame Mount Otemanu's volcanic profile across the lagoon. The Ruahatu Lagoon Sanctuary offers coral grafting alongside marine biologists, while Te Mahana Spa draws on black pearl powder and marine algae for its treatments. A robust children's programme featuring scuba lessons and ocean treasure hunts makes this a rare luxury option equally suited to families.

2. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

2 Michelin Keys· Forbes Five-Star

Sprawling across a private atoll with Mount Otemanu as its backdrop, this resort gained cinematic fame as the filming location for Couples Retreat. The overwater villas rank among the region's largest, built from local timber with private pools and direct lagoon access. Guests snorkel the on-site Lagoonarium, a protected marine sanctuary, before dining at Restaurant Lagoon, where French-Asian fusion arrives as tropical fish glide beneath glass floors.

3. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

2 Michelin Keys· Relais & Châteaux

On a private motu facing Mount Otemanu, this 108-room retreat occupies one of Bora Bora's most pristine stretches of white sand. Traditional fare bungalows—thatched with plaited pandan leaves, detailed in sculpted wood and woven textures—extend over the lagoon, line the beach, or shelter beneath coconut palms with private pools. The overwater Tāvai Spa and a solar-powered catamaran complete an immersion suited to couples seeking seclusion without sacrifice.

4. InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa

Forbes Five-Star

All 88 villas hover above the lagoon on stilts, each with glass floor panels and two-tier decks facing Mount Otemanu. The Deep Ocean Spa—French Polynesia's first seawater spa—draws minerals from Pacific depths for treatments in overwater bungalows. Mornings begin with breakfast canoed directly to private decks. The expansive Brando Suites add infinity pools and butler service for those seeking absolute seclusion.

5. Conrad Bora Bora Nui (French Polynesia)

Forbes Five-Star

Occupying the private islet of Motu To'opua, this resort scatters thatched-roof overwater bungalows—some with plunge pools—across crystalline lagoon waters, while two Presidential Suites rise as the region's only two-story overwater villas with dedicated butler service. The hilltop Hina Spa commands prime views of Mount Otemanu, particularly striking at sunset. A tiered infinity pool with swim-up bar and active participation in Biorock coral restoration reflect both indulgence and environmental stewardship.

6. The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa (French Polynesia)

A sleek addition to Bora Bora's hospitality landscape, The Westin Resort brings contemporary polish to the classic overwater villa experience. Its crown jewel remains the island's largest infinity pool, while extensive wellness facilities cater to spa devotees seeking serious programming. The boat transfer direct from the airport eliminates logistical friction, making it particularly suited to honeymooners and wellness travelers prioritizing seamless arrival alongside modern comforts.

What to Do

1. Tavai Spa

Relais & Châteaux

Polynesian healing traditions anchor the treatments at Tavai Spa, where monoi oil massages draw on ancestral practices linking physical and spiritual wellness. The signature Avae Taurumi ritual offers deep restoration, while Vichy shower scrubs and heated stone therapies complete the menu. Set within tropical gardens on a private motu, the spa extends into hammam, sauna, and outdoor jacuzzi—yoga sessions round out a comprehensive wellness retreat.