Bora Bora is the fantasy destination, with jaw-dropping resorts and crystal clear lagoons. In fact, the single most sought-after accommodation for newlyweds, the overwater bungalow, was first created here in the 70s. We’re not going to sugarcoat this: they’re expensive. But you get what you pay for: luxury, romance and extreme privacy.
While there are plenty of five-star resorts to choose from in Bora Bora, these 5 are the ones to look at. We should also note that many honeymooners mix things up by dividing their stay in two or more properties, so feel free to go nuts here.
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Intercontinental Bora Bora
Leeward Islands, French Polynesia InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, Leeward Islands, French Polynesia
Look, you’re reasonably attractive, you’ve saved a little money, and you’re…ok in the sack. But if you book your honeymoon at this resort, you’ll have your wife telling you over and over again: “I’m so glad I married you.” Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is one of BB’s most contemporary resorts, famous for the “crab claw” shape with which its thatched roof, 1,000-square-foot overwater bungalows stretch out into the lagoon. Each bungalow has a private veranda with direct access to the water, or you can stay inside and enjoy the lagoon through glass floor panels. The Deep Ocean Spa is the only thalassic spa in the destination, and you can expect seawater therapy for a full-on detox. There’s also a “lagoonarium” for snorkeling, white sand beaches, and an infinity pool. There’s only 80 rooms here, and plenty of hideaway spots to canoodle, so you’ll really never see another soul. Overwater bungalows start at $1,200. Note: don’t confuse this with Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana, which is a step down (though still amazing).
crab-claw shaped | private veranda | lagoonarium
Le Taha’a
Pātio, French Polynesia Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa, Pātio, French Polynesia
Le Taha’a Island Resort and Spa is majorly exclusive and a total sanctuary. It has a reputation for its celebrity clientele, and is one of the most refined resorts in Bora Bora. The mostly sunset-facing overwater suites here are simple, but they’re tastefully furnished and decked out with Tahitian stone and dyed wood. You can also expect excellent gourmet meals from three restaurants. Le Taha’a has everything you need, including a fitness center, a spa, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a coral garden for snorkeling, and a helipad if you want the grand arrival. Locals and visitors agree that it’s magical here and guests return home with incredible stories. Overwater suites from $950.
celebrity clientele | simple suites | gourmet meals
Four Seasons Bora Bora
Leeward Islands, French Polynesia Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, Leeward Islands, French Polynesia
You’ll be hard-pressed to find guests at Four Seasons Bora Bora who are not newlyweds. The resort basically caters to that demographic, so you can be sure that things will be seamless. Want dinner on the beach? No problem. Couples massage on your veranda? Done. Rose petals, candles, romantic music, bubble bath? It’s an everyday thing. The resort has more than 100 overwater bungalows, so massive that you don’t have to worry about finding a place to be alone (there’s even a couple tiny islands you can swim to). There are several beaches here, some self-contained ponds, a chapel if you want to get married and have your honeymoon, outdoor pools, and a killer spa. The one-bedroom overwater bungalow is huge at 1,120 square feet, and even the stand-alone tubs have windows looking into the lagoon. Considering this is one of the most sought-after and decked-out resorts in Bora Bora, a night in one of these suites will set you back about $3,000 a night.
all honeymooners | 1220 sq ft | stand-alone tubs
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Royal Pool Overwater Villa Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Though Conrad Bora Bora Nui has gone through many incarnations in the last few years, it’s always remained one of the best on the island. Sprawling over 16 acres of tropical land, this resort is one of the most photogenic in the area, settled on mountainous lava rock with a backdrop of verdant peaks. Some villas are even perched along the hillside for truly astounding views. The best rooms are the overwater villas equipped with their own private pools and mesmerizing sunset views. They’re only $2,000 a night so upgrade yourself big here (otherwise, the standard overwater villa is $1,400). If you want a splurge-worthy honeymoon to remember, book the Royal Pool Overwater Villa (and it’s only $200 more than the pool villa), which comes with glass floor panels and so much space you feel like you’re on a mega-yacht.
photogenic | private pools | glass floor panels
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
Vaitape, French Polynesia Bora-Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Vaitape, French Polynesia
When it comes to Polynesian aesthetics, Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort is as authentic as it gets. The majority of the staff is Tahitian, the architecture and landscaping incorporates strong traditional themes as well as local furnishings like bamboo and indigenous plants, and cultural performances and demonstrations are a regular feature. Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa is intimate, very convenient (only a 10 minute boat ride from the airport) and the amenities are exceptional. Chill at the free-form pool, the white sand beach (one of the best in Bora Bora) or take sanctuary in the spa surrounded by a pond chock full of water lilies. The resort didn’t hold back with the overwater bungalows either. With vaulted ceilings, coffee tables with glass bottoms, and a spacious private deck with all the bells and whistles you could expect, Pearl Beach is one of the best options on the island. Insider tip: If you’re burned out on overwater bungalows, book the garden bungalow. It’s one of the best in Bora Bora, with private gardens and pools, and will only set you back about $500 a night. Overwater bungalows start at $1,200.
authentic Polynesian | private deck | vaulted ceilings
