Conrad Bora Bora Nui

From the moment guests arrive via boat shuttle to the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, the luxurious experience Bora Bora has come to be known for is apparent. The open-air reception area is like an oversized overwater bungalow (of which the hotel has dozens) with upscale tropical decor -- think beige rattan furniture and leaf-motif throw pillows -- and after receiving a welcome juice, travelers are checked in and taken to their room via golf cart. Five-star service continues throughout guests' stay, and we were greeted by name by multiple staff members during our visit. Having opened in 2017 after renovations from its previous incarnation as the Hilton Bora Bora Nui, everything feels fresh and modern, largely done in a neutral-tone design that's sophisticated. Expect lots of stone and wood elements, chic white seating, and vase-filled shelves. Although a bit lacking in local character, decorative accents such as wooden turtles and stone sculptures of a Polynesian drummer and dancer by the lobby, glass floor cutouts in the hip overwater bar, and stone totems by the pool add personality. Grounds are exquisite, and the hillside setting is a nice change of pace from the typically flat layout of Bora Bora properties. Walkways meander around lily and koi ponds, lush greenery of palm trees and seemingly perfectly placed flowers, and signs that help travelers get around the property. The standout though is the breathtaking blue lagoon views, whether from the hilltop lookout point, overwater bungalows, or French restaurant. As the hotel is expansive and some rooms are up the hill, the free use of bikes comes in handy. Overall, the Conrad offers well-heeled travelers a five-pearl experience for less than competitors like the St. Regis and Four Seasons. However, it's Hilton brand means the vibe can feel a bit too Americanized. Both Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa and the Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island offer a similarly high-end getaway with more Polynesian flair. 

The Conrad Bora Bora Nui is located within a private cove of the Motu To'opua island, set a 10-minute boat shuttle from Bora Bora's mainland. Unlike most luxury hotels off the mainland, the Conrad does not largely face the striking Mount Otemanu -- though it can be seen from some areas, such as the chapel -- instead providing vistas of the reef and ocean. While the secluded location affords tranquility, guests are stuck relying on the resort for any food. The hotel does provide shuttle service multiple times each day to Vaitape, Bora Bora's main town, which has restaurants, shops, and supermarkets, but it requires a fee. To reach the hotel, international travelers must first arrive to the main Fa'a'ā International Airport on Tahiti, then take a 45-minute flight from Tahiti to the Bora Bora Airport, where guests can arrange to be picked up by a resort representative. Bora Bora Airport is about a 20-minute boat ride away, and transfers require a fee. 

The 114 spacious rooms are divided between overwater, beach, and garden villas, and all are decorated in a similar modern, sophisticated style. While a few elements vary, guests can expect a handsome, neutral-tone design of hardwood floors, sleek wooden furniture, comfy white bed linens, and minimal decorations in the form of black-and-white tropical-themed artwork. Four-poster canopied beds or hide-away flat-screen TVs at the foot of beds are in some units. All have big patios furnished with loungers, chairs, and tables, and overwater villas add ladders into the water, plus some have plunge pools. Another standout are the swish bathrooms, featuring rainfall showers, separate deep tubs, two sinks and often dual vanities, and an array of upmarket Aromatherapy Associates toiletries. Tech amenities are also top-notch, particularly the Bluetooth speakers found both inside and on the terraces, as well as flat-screen TVs, multiple plug sockets (including American outlets), and free Wi-Fi.Also standard are minibars (first one free), Nespresso machines, kettles alongside tea, great air-conditioning, iPod docks, sitting areas, closets with electronic safes, bathrobes, and ironing facilities. Hairdryers, umbrellas, slippers, and turndown service are also provided.

All of the expected facilities of a five-pearl property are found at the Conrad. Most activity centers around water, starting with a long stretch of beach on either side of the main arrival walkway. Sands are lined with cushioned loungers under umbrellas, and a handful of shaded cabanas. Also here are a selection of free-to-use non-motorized water sports, including kayaks, snorkeling gear, and pedal boats. Overlooking the sand is a two-tiered infinity pool surrounded by loungers. A swim-up bar is on one side and built-in loungers line the second tier. A stand has towels, free sunscreen, and water for guests.The hilltop spa is lovely, providing an array of treatments that can take place outdoors. Also up here are a lookout point and chapel for weddings. On the other side of the property is a kids' club with playground, next to a modern gym with all the necessary equipment. A mini-golf course and pearl jewelry store are also on-site. 

As there are no restaurants or grocery stores within walking distance, guests largely stay put and eat at the few restaurants on-site. The main restaurant is Iriatai French Restaurant, which serves an expansive buffet breakfast with lots of hot and cold items, plus made-to-order fare. Its dinner menu has options such as steak and fish, and the adjacent wine bar is open in the evening. The restaurant is open-air and has terrace seating overlooking the ocean. It's open every night except Tuesdays, when the Tamure Beach Grill hosts an evening Polynesian show with dancers and fire performers. Typically, the grill is only open for lunch, serving simple fare such as pizza and sandwiches in a casual space with a sand floor. Only open for dinner (except for Mondays and Thursdays), the Banyan Tree serves a la carte fare next to its namesake tree. The pool bar serves a variety of beverages throughout the day, while the overwater Upa Upa Lounge Bar opens in the early evening to serve drinks and tapas.  Italian singers perform at the bar multiple nights per week. Overall, food is good quality, but expect prices that seem high even for the notoriously pricey Bora Bora. Half-board rates are available.