What to Know About Bora Bora

One of the most common misconceptions is that Bora Bora is a country, but it’s actually an island in French Polynesia! In fact, there are 118 distinct islands and atolls that make up French Polynesia, and you’ve most likely heard of some of them: Tahiti, Moorea, and Nuku Hiva are other popular honeymoon destinations.

Getting to Bora Bora is quite the journey, but it’s well worth the effort! Visitors typically arrive at Faa’a International Airport, which is located in Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. From there, it’s a short 45-minute domestic flight to get to Bora Bora.

Bora Bora is often called the most photogenic place on earth, and it’s no secret why: the island’s unique topography consists of an island with an extinct volcano, surrounded by a lagoon and barrier reef around the edge. Combine that with dreamy, thatched overwater bungalows and indescribably beautiful sunsets, and you have the perfect recipe for paradise!

Where To Stay In Bora Bora

The St. Regis Bora Bora

One of the most popular honeymoon resorts in Bora Bora is none other than the St. Regis.

Besides the dreamy landscapes and too-blue-to-be-real waters of the surrounding Pacific Ocean, thousands of newlywed couples choose the St. Regis specifically to stay in one of the picture-perfect overwater bungalows. In fact, the resort offers the most spacious villas in the entire country, with each bungalow having a minimum size of 1,550 square feet!

That’s not all: each couple is assigned their own butler, which is available 24 hours a day to make your stay unforgettable.

Another unique feature of the St. Regis Bora Bora is the resort’s private Lagoonarium, where guests can snorkel in an open-space aquarium with tropical fish and coral.

Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort Le Moana

Moana means ocean in Tahitian, and the Intercontinental Le Moana certainly seems to have taken inspiration from the nearby landscapes.

Whether it’s in the water or on land, there’s plenty to see and do — and the resort’s concierge team will be happy to go out of their way to create an unforgettable holiday! Popular activities include a traditional Tahitian costume demonstration, cooking classes, and snorkeling among the friendly rays.

Honeymooners who want to relax in ultimate privacy will find just that in Le Moana’s exclusive End Of Pontoon Overwater Bungalows, which offer gorgeous views and are strategically located at the far end of the resort. Book the Canoe Breakfast to enjoy an unforgettable breakfast (delivered by staff via a traditional outrigger canoe!) before lounging on the spacious sundeck terrace or going for a dip in the water.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

When you hear the words Bora Bora, the first image that pops into your head is probably that of thatched overwater bungalows that jut out from the ocean, with crystal clear waters underneath and a jagged green mountain in the background… And, coincidentally, you’ve just described Conrad Bora Bora Nui!

Couples who are searching for privacy and seclusion will certainly find it here, as the resort is cradled in a hidden cove away from the main islands. Guests can also reserve an exclusive moonlit dinner on the islet of Motu Tapu, a private island just 5 minutes away from the resort.

However, what really sets the Conrad Bora Bora apart is the incredible Hina Spa, which is built into the volcanic rock hillside and features epic panoramic views of the entire island. Of course, the treatments are also worth a rave review, with the Ultimate Polynesian Ritual being a fan favorite.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Luxurious, serene, and distinguished are just some of the words to describe the Four Seasons’ recently-renovated Bora Bora resort.

This ultra-luxury resort offers an unrivaled experience for your honeymoon thanks to its idyllic sand-fringed beaches, carefree overwater villas and huts, and romantic atmosphere.

The Four Seasons Bora Bora has a selection of five exquisite accommodations, including one- and two-bedroom overwater suites; lagoon-side beach view suites; and two- and three-bedroom premier beachfront villas. The outdoor deck offers dozens of possibilities: wake up with a refreshing plunge in the private pool, toast to your relaxing honeymoon, or cuddle up with your partner and watch thousands of stars in the night sky.

The Four Seasons is a haven for foodies and gourmands: under the direction of chef Eric Desbordes, the resort has four dining options, including eclectic Asian cuisine at Vaimiti; sea-to-table seafood at Fish House; classic French cuisine at Arii Moana; and a whimsical waterside food truck.

Le Meridien Bora Bora

True to its design-focused heritage, Le Méridien Bora Bora is a classic choice for honeymooners and couples. Opened in the late 90s, Le Méridien was one of the first luxury hotels in Bora Bora and has perfected its craft thanks to years of experience!

The spacious resort has plenty of amenities to keep guests entertained, including two pools, a picturesque beach, and a dedicated concierge. Le Méridien is also home to the Ecological Center — the only one of its kind on Bora Bora! — where guests can meet local biologists, care for the sea turtles, and lend a hand in saving the environment.

While the resort has 7 different rooms, the iconic Overwater Bungalows are especially popular because they provide guests with an unbelievable view of the famous lagoon. Likewise, each bungalow has the largest glass-bottom floor of any Bora Bora resort and offers a crystal-clear view of the island’s marine life.

Things To Do In Bora Bora

Relax on the Beach

With its gorgeous teal waters and idyllic beaches, Bora Bora is the ultimate paradise for honeymooners. To really get in the island spirit, be sure to set aside at least one day to chill out on Matira Beach.

This beach beat out thousands of other contenders to win a spot on CNN’s Best Beaches, who described it best: “[Matira] is like the Gwyneth Paltrow of beaches: a little too perfect to be believable.” Once you visit, I’m sure you’ll agree!

Go Snorkeling

The best way to get acquainted with Bora Bora. ‘Meet’ the underwater locals!

There are more than 500 different species of fish swimming around the island, and if you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot a dolphin, sea turtle, or stingray. Many resorts offer a half-day or full-day sailing adventure, which stops at various snorkeling sites. Don’t forget your underwater camera!

Venture Out to a Motu 

The official definition of a motu is a small reef island that surrounds an atoll, but to put it simply, it’s a little slice of heaven. There are thousands of motu of all sizes sprinkled throughout French Polynesia, and many can be found near Bora Bora.

Couples can opt to take a private day trip to a nearby motu, which typically includes a private cruise, lunch, and/or dinner, and the option to explore the islet with a guide. It’s the perfect activity for honeymooners who want to bask in that post-wedding glow.

Next destination: Fiji Honeymoon Resorts