When it opened in the late '90s, Le Meridien Bora Bora was the first luxury hotel of its kind in the area. Since then, it has consistently remained one of Bora Bora’s most exclusive resorts. Its two pools, large beach, and protected lagoon are on par with amenities at similar hotels, but there is no full-service spa, and rooms are noticeably smaller than competitors’. What sets the Meridien apart is its on-site turtle sanctuary, where guests can visit rescued turtles and learn about the hotel’s efforts to rehabilitate them. Travelers looking for an on-site spa or larger rooms might prefer the nearby St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, but nightly rates are typically higher and the resort’s sprawling grounds make it difficult to get around.
When it opened in the late '90s, Le Meridien Bora Bora was the first luxury hotel of its kind in the area. Since then, it has consistently remained one of Bora Bora’s most exclusive resorts. Its two pools, large beach, and protected lagoon are on par with amenities at similar hotels, but there is no full-service spa, and rooms are noticeably smaller than competitors’. What sets the Meridien apart is its on-site turtle sanctuary, where guests can visit rescued turtles and learn about the hotel’s efforts to rehabilitate them. Travelers looking for an on-site spa or larger rooms might prefer the nearby St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, but nightly rates are typically higher and the resort’s sprawling grounds make it difficult to get around.
For independent travelers on a budget, Bora Bora Ecolodge is a surefire bet. Though it doesn’t offer typical hotel amenities like a pool, spa, or restaurant, Bora Bora Ecolodge attracts guests with its quiet atmosphere and authentic Polynesian feel. Each of the property’s six thatched-roof bungalows has a kitchenette, but no air-conditioning. Rooms are aligned around a straight pathway that leads directly to the ocean. There’s no sandy beachfront here, but guests can lounge on and swim off of the wooden dock. The Ecolodge’s hospitable owners will drive guests anywhere they need to go, but those really looking to explore the island in-depth should probably rent a car. Bora Bora Ecolodge is located on Bora Bora’s main island. Guests looking to stay on a motu might prefer Pension Alice et Rapahel, though accommodations are more rustic.
For independent travelers on a budget, Bora Bora Ecolodge is a surefire bet. Though it doesn’t offer typical hotel amenities like a pool, spa, or restaurant, Bora Bora Ecolodge attracts guests with its quiet atmosphere and authentic Polynesian feel. Each of the property’s six thatched-roof bungalows has a kitchenette, but no air-conditioning. Rooms are aligned around a straight pathway that leads directly to the ocean. There’s no sandy beachfront here, but guests can lounge on and swim off of the wooden dock. The Ecolodge’s hospitable owners will drive guests anywhere they need to go, but those really looking to explore the island in-depth should probably rent a car. Bora Bora Ecolodge is located on Bora Bora’s main island. Guests looking to stay on a motu might prefer Pension Alice et Rapahel, though accommodations are more rustic.
The eight-room Sunset Hill Lodge is a cheerful budget option for travelers that want to experience the beauty of Bora Bora without breaking the bank. Run by the on-site owner Gerard, the hotel has an excellent location a three-minute drive from the ferry port, close to a few restaurants, two grocery stores, and shops. Colorfully decorated rooms are divided between those up a steep hill and three along the water, the latter of which are separated from the main building by a road. All units have kitchens, air-conditioning, and outdoor spaces, but furnishings are basic and showing a bit of wear, and there are no TVs. There are no restaurant, pool, or wellness facilities on-site, and amenities are limited to free Wi-Fi, a garden terrace, and laundry services. It's worth considering the similarly priced, beachfront Village Temanuata.
The eight-room Sunset Hill Lodge is a cheerful budget option for travelers that want to experience the beauty of Bora Bora without breaking the bank. Run by the on-site owner Gerard, the hotel has an excellent location a three-minute drive from the ferry port, close to a few restaurants, two grocery stores, and shops. Colorfully decorated rooms are divided between those up a steep hill and three along the water, the latter of which are separated from the main building by a road. All units have kitchens, air-conditioning, and outdoor spaces, but furnishings are basic and showing a bit of wear, and there are no TVs. There are no restaurant, pool, or wellness facilities on-site, and amenities are limited to free Wi-Fi, a garden terrace, and laundry services. It's worth considering the similarly priced, beachfront Village Temanuata.
It’s hard to find fault with The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, a luxurious 44-acre property with stunning views of Mt. Otemanu. Its 89 overwater and beachfront bungalows are the largest in French Polynesia, and are richly appointed with modern island decor and thoughtful amenities. Four on-site restaurants, including a Jean-Georges outpost, two beautiful pools, a large beachfront and a protected lagoonarium, and a Clarins sponsored spa are a mere sampling of the incredible amenities here. Further setting the St. Regis apart are a romance concierge and bridal boutique, which creates custom itineraries for couples on romantic vacations and plans exclusive weddings and parties. Like all luxury resorts of this caliber, The St. Regis is expensive. This, combined with its sprawling size, may be a turnoff for some travelers. Those looking for a luxury hotel that’s smaller and less expensive might prefer the nearby Le Meridien Bora Bora, though its rooms are much smaller than those at the St. Regis.
It’s hard to find fault with The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, a luxurious 44-acre property with stunning views of Mt. Otemanu. Its 89 overwater and beachfront bungalows are the largest in French Polynesia, and are richly appointed with modern island decor and thoughtful amenities. Four on-site restaurants, including a Jean-Georges outpost, two beautiful pools, a large beachfront and a protected lagoonarium, and a Clarins sponsored spa are a mere sampling of the incredible amenities here. Further setting the St. Regis apart are a romance concierge and bridal boutique, which creates custom itineraries for couples on romantic vacations and plans exclusive weddings and parties. Like all luxury resorts of this caliber, The St. Regis is expensive. This, combined with its sprawling size, may be a turnoff for some travelers. Those looking for a luxury hotel that’s smaller and less expensive might prefer the nearby Le Meridien Bora Bora, though its rooms are much smaller than those at the St. Regis.
The two-pearl Village Temanuata has 11 low-frills rooms and no on-site features, aside from a private section of the stunning Matira Beach near the tip of Bora Bora. All of the bungalows have kitchenettes with microwaves, fans, dining tables, and furnished patios, plus sea views from a couple. Unfortunately, they all are showing wear and lack air-conditioning, TVs, and Wi-Fi, the latter of which can be purchased for a hefty fee, but only accessed right by reception. The front desk can provide water sports or arrange excursions, both for a fee. There's no restaurant here, but a basic continental breakfast is available for a fee, plus grocery stores and restaurants are nearby. For budget-minded travelers, this is one of the best options, but it's worth comparing rates with nearby Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora, which has more features.
The two-pearl Village Temanuata has 11 low-frills rooms and no on-site features, aside from a private section of the stunning Matira Beach near the tip of Bora Bora. All of the bungalows have kitchenettes with microwaves, fans, dining tables, and furnished patios, plus sea views from a couple. Unfortunately, they all are showing wear and lack air-conditioning, TVs, and Wi-Fi, the latter of which can be purchased for a hefty fee, but only accessed right by reception. The front desk can provide water sports or arrange excursions, both for a fee. There's no restaurant here, but a basic continental breakfast is available for a fee, plus grocery stores and restaurants are nearby. For budget-minded travelers, this is one of the best options, but it's worth comparing rates with nearby Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora, which has more features.
The Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort is an upscale property on Bora Bora’s main island, and the most affordable option available in its category. Built in the 1980s, the resort is showing signs of age, and some of the decor feels more like it belongs in an Ibis rather than a Sofitel. Though it’s not as luxurious as many other (pricier) Bora Bora resorts, the Sofitel has a gorgeous infinity pool and a beautiful beach with calm water. Its garden, beachfront, and overwater bungalows have an island-inspired feel, but many of the overwater bungalows are located close to the main road, and lack privacy. The hotel is within walking distance of Matira Beach, as well as some local shops and restaurants — which is fortunate, considering the on-site dining is overpriced and mediocre at best. Travelers looking for a better luxury experience on the main island should check out the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, which has nicer rooms and amenities, but tends to be more expensive.
The Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort is an upscale property on Bora Bora’s main island, and the most affordable option available in its category. Built in the 1980s, the resort is showing signs of age, and some of the decor feels more like it belongs in an Ibis rather than a Sofitel. Though it’s not as luxurious as many other (pricier) Bora Bora resorts, the Sofitel has a gorgeous infinity pool and a beautiful beach with calm water. Its garden, beachfront, and overwater bungalows have an island-inspired feel, but many of the overwater bungalows are located close to the main road, and lack privacy. The hotel is within walking distance of Matira Beach, as well as some local shops and restaurants — which is fortunate, considering the on-site dining is overpriced and mediocre at best. Travelers looking for a better luxury experience on the main island should check out the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, which has nicer rooms and amenities, but tends to be more expensive.
The five-pearl Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has broad appeal for all types of luxury travelers. It’s the only resort in Bora Bora where families, honeymooners, and friend groups all manage to peacefully coexist, and it’s not hard to see why. The resort’s 115 overwater and beachfront bungalows are beautifully appointed with luxe Polynesian decor, and standard rooms can accommodate up to four people thanks to a pullout couch. Features are impressive here as well. The resort is home to a stunning infinity pool, a beautiful beach and protected lagoon, a top-notch spa and workout facility, and four on-site restaurants. Plus, it has both kids' and teens' clubs with a host of daily activities. Freebies like Wi-Fi, non-motorized water sports, and snorkel gear are nice perks, but hardly outweigh the mighty costs of everything else at the Four Seasons. Travelers looking for a less expensive option might prefer Le Meridien Bora Bora, which has smaller rooms and fewer amenities.
The five-pearl Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has broad appeal for all types of luxury travelers. It’s the only resort in Bora Bora where families, honeymooners, and friend groups all manage to peacefully coexist, and it’s not hard to see why. The resort’s 115 overwater and beachfront bungalows are beautifully appointed with luxe Polynesian decor, and standard rooms can accommodate up to four people thanks to a pullout couch. Features are impressive here as well. The resort is home to a stunning infinity pool, a beautiful beach and protected lagoon, a top-notch spa and workout facility, and four on-site restaurants. Plus, it has both kids' and teens' clubs with a host of daily activities. Freebies like Wi-Fi, non-motorized water sports, and snorkel gear are nice perks, but hardly outweigh the mighty costs of everything else at the Four Seasons. Travelers looking for a less expensive option might prefer Le Meridien Bora Bora, which has smaller rooms and fewer amenities.
For anyone who’s ever fantasized about being a character on "Lost," staying at Blue Heaven Island will likely be a dream come true. For just about anyone else, a stay here will feel far too rustic (and that's putting it nicely). Though the property is only 10 minutes from the airport and Bora Bora’s main island, it looks and feels worlds away from civilization. Five wooden huts and a few other ragtag structures are scattered across the overgrown grounds, which look as though they haven’t been properly cared for in years. There’s no Wi-Fi, TV, air-conditioning, or even consistent electricity, and it’s pretty much guaranteed that bugs will eat you alive. Blue Heaven Island’s beautiful beach is likely its only saving grace; however, nearby Pension Alice et Rapahel is similarly rustic and has a great beach, but feels cleaner and better maintained. Those looking to ditch the rustic charm altogether might prefer Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora — a mid-range hotel on the main island with comparable nightly rates.
For anyone who’s ever fantasized about being a character on "Lost," staying at Blue Heaven Island will likely be a dream come true. For just about anyone else, a stay here will feel far too rustic (and that's putting it nicely). Though the property is only 10 minutes from the airport and Bora Bora’s main island, it looks and feels worlds away from civilization. Five wooden huts and a few other ragtag structures are scattered across the overgrown grounds, which look as though they haven’t been properly cared for in years. There’s no Wi-Fi, TV, air-conditioning, or even consistent electricity, and it’s pretty much guaranteed that bugs will eat you alive. Blue Heaven Island’s beautiful beach is likely its only saving grace; however, nearby Pension Alice et Rapahel is similarly rustic and has a great beach, but feels cleaner and better maintained. Those looking to ditch the rustic charm altogether might prefer Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora — a mid-range hotel on the main island with comparable nightly rates.
This luxurious Sofitel is situated on a stunning private island off Bora Bora, offering gorgeous views of the reef and mainland from multiple vantage points. The 31 rooms consist of overwater bungalows and villas, all with Polynesian decor, furnished outdoor spaces, rainfall showers, free minibars, and Nespresso machines. Although there's no swimming pool, most guests make use of the lovely stretch of beach, and the free kayaks and snorkeling gear that are available to take around the island and see the coral garden. All rates include a free buffet breakfast, but other meals at the restaurant receive mixed reviews. Fortunately, a free boat shuttle is available from early until late to sister hotel Sofitel Marara, and guests have free access to its facilities. Travelers looking for a true five-pearl experience should consider the St. Regis, though expect to pay significantly more.
This luxurious Sofitel is situated on a stunning private island off Bora Bora, offering gorgeous views of the reef and mainland from multiple vantage points. The 31 rooms consist of overwater bungalows and villas, all with Polynesian decor, furnished outdoor spaces, rainfall showers, free minibars, and Nespresso machines. Although there's no swimming pool, most guests make use of the lovely stretch of beach, and the free kayaks and snorkeling gear that are available to take around the island and see the coral garden. All rates include a free buffet breakfast, but other meals at the restaurant receive mixed reviews. Fortunately, a free boat shuttle is available from early until late to sister hotel Sofitel Marara, and guests have free access to its facilities. Travelers looking for a true five-pearl experience should consider the St. Regis, though expect to pay significantly more.
For many travelers, the 62-room, four-pearl InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort strikes a nice balance between amenity-packed luxury and small-resort privacy. Like other top Bora Bora resorts, Le Moana has gorgeous overwater bungalows, a beautiful beach, a nice pool, and a few quality restaurants. It doesn’t have a spa, a turtle sanctuary, a romance concierge, or its own protected lagoon — but here, fewer amenities translates to fewer crowds, a quiet atmosphere, and plenty of privacy. Plus, as one of the only upscale resorts on Bora Bora’s main island, Le Moana is within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and famed Matira Beach. Le Moana is significantly cheaper than sister property InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, but Le Moana guests can use its (much nicer) amenities for free.
For many travelers, the 62-room, four-pearl InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort strikes a nice balance between amenity-packed luxury and small-resort privacy. Like other top Bora Bora resorts, Le Moana has gorgeous overwater bungalows, a beautiful beach, a nice pool, and a few quality restaurants. It doesn’t have a spa, a turtle sanctuary, a romance concierge, or its own protected lagoon — but here, fewer amenities translates to fewer crowds, a quiet atmosphere, and plenty of privacy. Plus, as one of the only upscale resorts on Bora Bora’s main island, Le Moana is within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and famed Matira Beach. Le Moana is significantly cheaper than sister property InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, but Le Moana guests can use its (much nicer) amenities for free.