16 Greatest Locations to Keep

If you’re looking for a magical destination where your worries simply melt away under the hot tropical sun, a trip to Bora Bora is an absolute must. This South Pacific jewel is located in the beautiful country of French Polynesia, along with its famous sister islands, Tahiti and Mo’orea.

The main island is understated with a quiet, low-key feel. Accommodations on the main island are perfect for those who want to experience the island’s natural beauty without breaking the bank. Surrounding the main island are multiple “motu” (or islets) dotted with upscale hotels comprised of luxury villas and overwater bungalows.

A range of accommodations is available in Bora Bora – from beachside bungalows to family-run hotels and dreamy overwater villas with private plunge pools. Generally speaking, flights to Bora Bora can be expensive, but once you get there, you can find activities and accommodations to fit almost every budget. No matter where you stay, you can enjoy the incredible turquoise waters of Bora Bora’s famous lagoon, stunning views of Mount Otemanu, and fantastic weather.

We’ve compiled a list of the best places to stay in Bora Bora. If you want to find an affordable place just to rest your head at night so you can splurge on once-in-a-lifetime activities, or you’re dreaming of the ultimate luxury vacation, we’ve got you covered! I’ve visited French Polynesia many times over the years, and I can say it’s truly worth the long travel days and savings to visit this magical place.

Where to Stay in Bora Bora

Motu Piti A’au

Perhaps the most iconic place to stay in Bora Bora, Motu Piti A’au is a long, sandy island east of the main island. It’s the outer barrier of the atoll, with a rocky shoreline facing the open sea and a white-sand, clear-water paradise facing the inner lagoon.

Motu Piti A’au hosts some of the most glamorous resorts in Bora Bora, with outrageous overwater bungalows and beaches that don’t even look real. They offer shuttle boats to the main island for those who want to explore and unlimited relaxation for those who don’t.

1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Address: Bora-Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Luxury travelers, snorkeling, wellness, families

Imagine waking up to stunning views of Mount Otemanu and the soft sound of small waves crashing as you sip espresso on the balcony of your private overwater bungalow. That’s what staying at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is like.

This is where my husband and I stayed when we visited this magical island and one of the best resorts we’ve ever stayed at. It’s just a short boat trip from Motu Mute Airport.

This resort is the epitome of luxury. Room options range from “simple” overwater bungalows to overwater bungalows with private pools and spacious bungalows with their own private beach.

I definitely recommend building in at least one day of your vacation to simply soak in the vibes of being in your own private bungalow. You can lay out on your private terrace and hop into the lagoon whenever you please.

The Four Seasons also features a lovely beach, a lagoon sanctuary filled with tropical fish, an infinity pool surrounded by cabanas, and four on-site restaurants. Be sure to stop by the stunning waterfront spa or partake in the resort’s seasonal wellness activities, like stand-up paddleboard yoga and starlight sound healing.

Pros:

• Private lagoon for snorkelers
• Several dining options with different cuisines
• Friendly, welcoming staff
• Phenomenal kids’ club

Cons:

• Airport transfer is not always included in the rate
• Inconvenient times for the boat taxi to town and back

See Related: Best Tropical Vacation Spots in the World

2. Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

Address: Motu Piti Aau Bora Bora French Polynesia, 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Overwater bungalows, spa experiences, wellness

The Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa perfectly embodies romance and wellness. This five-star resort features some of the best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora and a spa that is second to none. Enjoy the pristine lagoon from the comfort of your own overwater bungalow or the resort’s idyllic private beach.

This resort was one of the first luxury hotels to open in French Polynesia and remains a leader when it comes to sustainability in tourism in the South Pacific. It also has a sister resort, the InternContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, which is located on the main island.

InterContinental strives to minimize its waste output while protecting the delicate ecosystems of the island. It also supports the local community by partnering with local businesses to provide authentic Polynesian experiences for its guests.

Each overwater villa at the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is cooled by air conditioning powered by the Pacific Ocean. Some overwater bungalows even include a stunning private plunge pool and stairs that lead straight into the lagoon.

Pros:

• One of the best spas in the country
• Glass-bottom tables in overwater bungalows
• Top-tier service

Cons:

• Water shoes are needed for the beach
• One of the farther resorts from the airport (longer boat ride)

3. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Address: Motu Piti A, Motu Ome’E Bp 506 Bora Bora, au 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Family vacations, Foodies

As the only Forbes-rated five-star hotel in Bora Bora, the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is hard to beat. Choose from a beach bungalow, overwater bungalow, or deluxe overwater bungalow, all of which feature separate bedroom and living room areas, thatched roofs, and stunning ocean views.

Guests can enjoy a relaxing stroll down the wooden walkways to the overwater bungalows while admiring sea turtles and other marine life that call Bora Bora home. All overwater bungalows at the St. Regis Bora Bora feature glass viewing panels throughout the villas, so you can even watch the sea life swim on by from the comfort of your king bed.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort features three restaurants offering different cuisine and a pool bar. The property also has two stunning swimming pools to relax in if you’re looking for a little break from the ocean. And while I’m not the biggest proponent of working out while on vacation (you do you), I have to say, the views from the fitness center aren’t too shabby.

With its Kids Club, childcare service, and adults-only pool, this hotel is perfect whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly vacation destination. The private lagoonarium (it’s a word now) is also an amazing place to check out at the resort. It’s protected and filled with lots of marine life, making it the perfect spot for an underwater adventure.

Pros:

• Snorkeling and windsurfing equipment are available free of charge
• Butler service included with all room types
• Fantastic fitness center

Cons:

• One of the most expensive resorts in Bora Bora
• Expensive breakfast (~$50 per person per day)

Tevairoa

Tevairoa is also a barrier island on the atoll’s fringes. It’s located just south of the airport’s island and across the lagoon from scenic Fa’anui Bay, where much of Bora Bora’s local population lives. A shuttle boat ride will be required to explore it, but this island is closer to the mainland, making for quicker access.

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts is the only true resort here, with a few vacation rental-style bungalows available as well. This is another great choice for relaxation and seaside leisure.

4. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

Address: Motu Tevairoa Vaitāpē, Bora-Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Mid-Range Travelers

Comparatively speaking, if you’re looking for where to stay in Bora Bora that’s on the more affordable end of the spectrum, Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts is the place for you. It’s still extremely luxurious and offers an array of accommodation options, including garden suites with a private pool, beachfront suites with a private jacuzzi, and overwater bungalows that offer direct access to the lagoon.

Many of the overwater bungalows at Le Bora Bora offer absolutely unparalleled views of Bora Bora’s majestic Mount Otemanu. The resort provides guests with everything they’ll need to enjoy days out on the water, including stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment. There’s also an on-site tennis court, petanque (basically French-style bocce ball), and a fully-equipped gym.

There are three on-site restaurants for guests to choose from, including Poerava, a fine-dining gourmet dining experience. Forgotten anything? The hotel has you covered with two amazing boutiques.

Pearl Resorts is the only fully Polynesian-owned hotel collection, which shows in its attention to detail and respect for the natural environment. The hotel also owns the first-ever luxury catamaran powered by solar panels and is home to a coral nursery.

Pros:

• Luxury catamaran for guests of the resort only
• Plenty of on-site outdoor sports and activities
• Locally-owned and operated

Cons:

• Long walk to some overwater bungalows

5. Only You Motu

Address: Motu. Tevaroa Nunue, Bora-Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Couples, Honeymoons, Unique Experiences

Want to feel like you’re staying on your very own private island? This vacation rental can make your dreams come true! Situated on the north end of Tevairoa (the opposite side of Le Bora Bora), this villa definitely lives up to its name. You’ll feel like the only people in the world as you get to enjoy your own private island and private beach.

Many guests of Only You Motu stay here as a honeymoon getaway or even as an elopement destination. The owners of the one-bedroom villa are happy to organize wedding festivities for you to enjoy. Drop-off to the island will be organized, and you’ll be left with a stocked fridge and wine or champagne.

In the morning, indulge in fresh pastries and fruit juice. For an extra cost, you can also be transported to one of the island’s most popular restaurants or have a famous local chef prepare your meals.

This villa is pretty off-grid, making it a naturally sustainable place to stay in Bora Bora. Rainwater is gathered for the shower and bathroom facilities, and trade winds will be providing some “natural” air conditioning. Guests will still be able to access Wi-Fi to keep up with life back home or to watch their favorite Netflix series.

Pros:

• Totally private beach
• Wi-Fi is available throughout the property

Cons:

• No air conditioning
• Difficult to get to restaurants and the main island
• A bit outdated

See Related: Best Places Like Bora Bora to Visit

To’opua

This private island is within Bora Bora’s lagoon and not on its barrier reef, meaning the calm azure waters are all around its shores. The only resort on the island is the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, which is as luxurious as can be and the perfect solution for guests in search of privacy. While To’opua has the closest possible boat shuttle access to the main town of Vaitape, being right across from it, the airport shuttle will be one of the longer ones.

6. Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Address: BP 502, Bora Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Luxury Travelers, Sustainability

Located on its very own private island, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui is probably the most recognized resort in Bora Bora. It was where the Kardashians stayed during season six of Keeping Up With the Kardashians, where Kim famously lost her diamond earring.

If you want to go all out, you can stay at the hotel’s incredible two-story Presidential Overwater Villa for a cool $15,000 USD per night. The Conrad Bora Bora Nui also features the only floating helipad in French Polynesia – offering guests arrival and departure by helicopter.

Most overwater bungalows here are not nearly as pricey as the Presidential Overwater Villa, though, but still on the expensive side. Of course, with the price tag, guests will be treated to some of the finest amenities you’ll find in all of French Polynesia. The resort features five restaurants on the property, including Tamure Beach Grill, which hosts a Polynesian Dinner & Show every Friday evening.

There is no shortage of amazing activities to enjoy at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. Everything from snorkeling to jet-skiing, outrigger canoeing, and scuba diving can be arranged by the hotel. The resort’s infinity pool features a swim-up bar, and the Hina Spa offers a variety of healing treatments.

Hilton’s sustainability practices are some of the most powerful in the industry. The Travel with Purpose program focuses on reducing the consumption of natural resources, paving the way to a net-zero future through less waste, fewer watts, and less water waste. The Conrad Bora Bora Nui specifically invests some of its revenue back into the community and local sustainability projects.

Pros:

• Gorgeous, updated rooms
• Lots of restaurants to choose from
• Hotel invests in the local community and sustainability projects
• Live Polynesian entertainment
• Stunning spa facilities

Cons:

• Extremely expensive
• Costly shuttle boat to the main island and airport

Matira Beach

The best place to be on Bora Bora’s main island, in my opinion, is Matira Beach. It’s the southernmost tip of the island, extending into the shallow, sandy water of the lagoon. The warmest, clearest water that you’ll ever see, with nothing but soft white sand on the bottom, graces Matira Beach for as far as the eye can see, and guests here have easy access to everything the main island has to offer.

7. InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort

Address: F757+CQQ, Bora-Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Relaxation, Mid-Range Budget, Outdoor Activities

Located on the calm shores of Matira Bay, the Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is the best resort located on the main island of Bora Bora. The resort perfectly combines refined luxury with convenience and close proximity to the island’s main attractions – a thing that many luxury resorts lack due to their locations off the main island.

Guests at the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort can enjoy the clear, shallow waters of the bay as they relax in their overwater bungalows. Each overwater bungalow is air-conditioned – a rarity on the main island.

Nearby, guests can enjoy an array of water sports, including canoeing and snorkeling. The hotel is also happy to provide information regarding the local ecosystems.

The public beach on the opposite side of the peninsula features many snack bars and restaurants serving up local favorites like poisson cru (similar to ceviche) and fresh fruit. Additionally, the resort features an on-site restaurant as well as a pool bar.

Pros:

• More affordable alternative to other luxury resorts in Bora Bora
• Calm, clear lagoon waters
• Close to Matira Beach
• Convenient location on the main island
• Sports equipment is available free of charge

Cons:

• No on-site spa (you can visit the spa at the other InterContinental property for a fee)
• Wi-Fi can be spotty in some areas

8. Maitai Bora Bora

Address: F777+FG8, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Mid-Range Travelers, Outdoor Activities

If you want the experience of staying in an overwater bungalow but don’t wanna break the bank, consider staying at Maitai Bora Bora. This charming hotel has many of the same features as the luxury resorts that surround Bora Bora without the outrageous price tag. You can also opt to stay in a normal room in the main building of the hotel in order to save money.

This hotel is awesome if you want to spend your vacation enjoying outdoor activities. Fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling equipment is available on-site. There’s also a gorgeous tropical garden, complete with a restaurant that specializes in traditional French and Polynesian cuisine, and guests can also enjoy live music and dancing.

If you want to explore Bora Bora outside of the resort, Maitai Bora Bora can assist you with booking activities like scuba diving and lagoon cruises. I highly recommend going on a jet ski tour of the mesmerizing lagoon and also a guided tour of the island, stopping at all the best viewpoints.

Pros:

• Beautiful and affordable
• Offers traditional Polynesian cuisine
• Great location

Cons:

• Some rooms need updating
• Wi-Fi can be slow at peak times

See Related: Don’t Miss These Underrated Summer Travel Ideas

9. Royal Bora Bora

Address: F787+MW5, Route de Ceinture, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Beach Bums, Mid-Range Travelers, Fun Seekers

The Royal Bora Bora is located on the main island, just a short walk away from popular Matira Beach. While this hotel doesn’t have any overwater bungalows, it’s affordable and surrounded by lush tropical gardens that will transport you to another world. This hotel is a very good value on the island and will certainly allow you to splurge on exciting experiences.

The main highlights of this hotel are the virtually private beach and the beautiful beachfront swimming pool. You can enjoy the clear waters of the lagoon with only a handful of other visitors. The hotel also has a full-service restaurant specializing in both local and international cuisine and hosts live music performers twice a week.

Since the hotel is located on the main island, all of the most fun activities will be easily at your fingertips. If you’re looking to make unforgettable memories, go on a sailing and snorkeling tour of the lagoon. You could also do an introductory scuba diving lesson with experienced scuba divers, where you’ll get to visit the famous coral gardens and experience life under the sea.

Pros:

• Great beachfront location
• Affordable for most budgets
• The pool is open all day
• Bikes and mopeds for rent

Cons:

• The pond near the guest rooms can attract a lot of mosquitoes
• Somewhat outdated

10. Villa Yrondi

Address: Amanahune cote montagne, Bora-Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Longer Stays, Budget Travelers, Art Lovers

Villa Yrondi brings European flair to the South Pacific. The expansive villa was once the residence of Garrick Yrondi, a world-famous artist from Antibes, France, who now calls French Polynesia home. Today, the villa is a hotel that features works of art made by Yrondi throughout the property.

While it may be small, Villa Yrondi is equipped with everything you’ll need to have an amazing holiday in Bora Bora. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a relaxing pool, lush gardens designed by Garrick Yrondi, and a concierge service to arrange activities and dinner reservations. The one thing Villa Yrondi lacks is a restaurant (though breakfast is offered for a fee), but they do offer free transfers to most of Bora Bora’s restaurants.

This small hotel is perfect if you’re someone who doesn’t need much but still wants to enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings. It’s certainly a good value on the island compared to other resorts, and while there’s no direct beach access from the hotel, it does offer incredible views of Mount Otemanu and the mesmerizing lagoon.

Pros:

• Gorgeous lagoon and mountain views
• Relaxing atmosphere
• Helpful staff

Cons:

• Not walkable
• Pool is small

Vaitape

The “capital” of Bora Bora is Vaitape, but you won’t find any big buildings or busy streets here. Most of the population lives in this village on the west shore of the main island, and it’s where the public shuttle boat from the airport comes and goes. A number of local restaurants, shops, vacation rentals, and boutique hotels are here, as are some tours and activities.

11. Oa Oa Lodge

Address: Bora-Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Budget Travelers, Cheap Overwater Bungalows

If you’re looking for a chill, laidback place to stay in Bora Bora, Oa Oa Lodge is it. While Bora Bora has garnered a very glitzy and glam reputation, Oa Oa Lodge remains steadfast in its authentic Polynesian feel. It really reminds me more of the family-run hotels you can find in Mo’orea and Tahiti.

Oa Oa Lodge features three different types of bungalows: the standard bungalow, the deluxe garden-view bungalow, and the panoramic sea-view bungalow, which are located right on the water. These are the best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora for budget travelers, as they’re the most affordable. While there’s no air conditioning at this property, the lodge does enjoy a nice sea breeze since it’s not blocked by any motu.

There are only eight rooms at Oa Oa Lodge, making it a great place to disconnect from the rest of the world. Oa Oa Lodge does not have its own restaurant, but it’s just a short walk away from Restaurant Saint James, one of the most famous and highly-rated restaurants in all of Bora Bora.

Pros:

• Most affordable “overwater” bungalows on the island
• Family-run hotel with friendly staff
• Within walking distance of Restaurant Saint James

Cons:

• No restaurant
• No air conditioning

12. Sunset Hill Lodge

Address: BP58 Vaitape, 98730 Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Families, Budget Travelers

Located just a short walk from the main town of Vaitape, Sunset Hill Lodge is where to stay in Bora Bora if you’re planning a tropical family vacation on a budget. The lodge offers rooms that can accommodate between two and six people with sea or mountain views. Although the lodge doesn’t offer direct lagoon access, you can still access the lagoon from the dock at its sister property, Villa Moana.

The best part of this lodge is its location. Many guided activities start in Vaitape or are very easy to get to from here. You can go on an ATV tour of the mountains, a full-day tour of the lagoon, and so much more. At the end of the day, you can enjoy the sunset from your private balcony as you overlook the lagoon.

Sunset Hill Lodge does not have an on-site restaurant, but each room is equipped with its own kitchen, so you can choose to save money by making your meals at home or going out to eat. The hotel does provide free transfer from the boat dock, but you will have to arrange your own transfer to Motu Mute Airport, which is only accessible by boat.

Pros:

• Convenient location
• Each room is equipped with a small kitchen
• Located in a quiet area

Cons:

• Outdated decor and facilities
• Not close to the beach

See Related: Best Islands to Visit Around the World

13. Studio Vue Lagon Moana

Address: Vaitape, 98730 Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Small Families, Budget Travelers

Studio Vue Lagon Moana is an awesome accommodation that’s affordable and comes with unbeatable views. It’s just a one-minute walk from the Vaitape Boat Harbor, so you can maximize your time exploring the island and lagoon instead of traveling to your accommodation.

This vacation rental can accommodate up to three people and offers amenities, including a full kitchen, a washing machine, and free Wi-Fi. A small beach is located just across the street, so you won’t have to venture far in order to immerse yourself in that delicious turquoise water.

At a vacation rental like this, you’ll definitely want to rent a car to explore the island or book numerous tours. You can go snorkeling with sharks and stingrays, experience a unique underwater walk using a helmet, enjoy a whale-watching excursion between July and November, or have a private lunch on a sandbar in the middle of the lagoon. There’s certainly no shortage of adventure when it comes to this tropical paradise.

Pros:

• Gorgeous views
• Affordable
• Equipped with a washing machine and kitchen – great for longer stays
• Close to the beach

Cons:

14. Chez Mimi et Daniel

Address: BP 929 Vaitape, 98730 Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Couples, Budget Travelers

Concealed within the lush gardens below Mount Otemanu, Chez Mimi et Daniel is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This small vacation rental is perfect for couples looking for a quiet place to reconnect with each other while disconnecting from everything else in life.

Chez Mimi et Daniel is equipped with one bedroom, a gorgeous tropical garden, free Wi-Fi, and a small kitchen. The hosts also offer bicycles to rent along with lots of tips on what to do and see during your vacation.

If you don’t plan on using the bikes for rent to get around the island, I highly suggest renting a car. You’ll definitely have more freedom to explore all the beaches the island has to offer. Bora Bora is tiny – it only takes 45 minutes to drive around the entire island, but with a few stops, you can definitely spend an entire day exploring every coast of the island.

Pros:

• Quiet, secluded location
• Friendly hosts
• Bicycles available for rent

Cons:

• No privacy between the main room and the bathroom
• The road to the house is dark and may be hard to navigate at night

Terei’a

Finally, the northern tip of Bora Bora is also known as Terei’a, a quiet village just across the lagoon from Tevairoa. This is a great option for visitors who don’t want the quintessential overwater bungalow experience, the Instagram-famous Matira Beach, or the “busy” Vaitape. There’s also an unlikely piece of World War II history here in the form of old cannons on a hilltop.

15. Bora Vaite Lodge

Address: BP197, Vaitape, 98730 Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Best For: Budget Travelers, Couples, Solo Travelers

Bora Vaite Lodge is a charming guest house located in the north part of the island. Most visitors to Bora Bora stay in the south near Matira Beach or at a resort on one of the surrounding motu, so staying in the north gives you the advantage of having the beaches on that part of the island all to yourself, especially in the early mornings.

This guest house offers four different room types, including a family apartment with two bedrooms. All guests at Bora Vaite Lodge can enjoy free parking, free Wi-Fi, and continental breakfast. It’s worth noting that some rooms at this guest house do have to share a bathroom, and there is no air conditioning.

Nearby, guests can explore some of Bora Bora’s most interesting landmarks, including old World Ward II canons and the Naval Museum Bora Bora, which features handmade wooden ships and models. There are countless swimming spots on this side of the island, so just take a relaxing car or bike ride and stop off wherever you see a good spot.

Pros:

• Family apartment is good for larger families
• Located in a quiet area
• Friendly and helpful hosts

Cons:

• Most rooms must share a bathroom
• No air conditioning

16. Orama Lodge

Address: BP 444, Bora-Bora 98730, French Polynesia

Best For: Couples, Solo Travelers, Budget Travelers, Extended Stays

Orama Lodge offers guests true laidback island vibes. This beautiful studio is decorated with traditional Polynesian designs and art, making you feel like you’ve transported back 100 years (in a good way). Fear not, though! The amenities are as modern as can be and is even comfortable enough for an extended stay in Bora Bora.

Spend your days out on the lagoon or hiking up Bora Bora’s two famous mountains: Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia. Both are quite challenging but worth the work to get to enjoy the most stunning views of the island and the lagoon.

At the end of the day, wind down with some Tahiti Drink (this can be found in almost any supermarket or convenience store) and watch the sunset from the comfort of your own place. The studio is right across the lagoon from the airport, too, so you can watch the small airplanes take off and land throughout the day.

Pros:

• Beautiful sunset views
• Cute decor and modern amenities
• Helpful hosts

Cons:

• Far from most sights and landmarks

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