Visiting Bora Bora - a French Polynesian Paradise
Bora Bora might truly be the epitome of a romantic honeymooner's dream vacation. Private bungalows with stunning views of Mount Otemanu. Exclusive dining options and a bathtub that looks out onto bright blue waters. Maybe not the place you immediately consider taking your four children during a worldwide pandemic but, hey, options were limited?
Staying at the Four Seasons
There are stunning properties all over Bora Bora *cue Kim K losing her diamond earring*. That much is obvious. We chose the Four Seasons because we had heard wonderful things. We love the various other locations we have stayed with them and trusted this would be the same. If you want a private, luxury vacation and ideal location with top-quality service, this is it. The concierge was quick to respond with any activities we were interested in and easily set up transportation. Everything we could need in our rooms was delivered by friendly staff and activities were easy to book. Not to mention the property itself is stunning and unique.
Getting There
We flew Air Tahiti Nui direct from LAX. You'll most likely take a night flight straight to Tahiti International Airport. There are various short flights from Tahiti to Bora Bora. If you want to spend some time in Tahiti, I highly recommend it. We spent time there during our first visit to French Polynesia back in 2001. If you just have some time to kill between flights, the Intercontinental provides a day pass to access their restaurants, pools, and other amenities and is quite close to the airport. Once you touch down in Bora Bora, you'll hop on a quick boat ride to the hotel provided by the Four Seasons.
Overwater Bungalows
I feel like the epitome of Bora Bora, or anywhere in French Polynesia really, are the overwater bungalows. These bungalows are private, romantic, and, honestly, iconic. When we first booked our trip, we booked 3 over the water Mountain View bungalows. Seven of us were traveling, which meant 2 in each room and 3 in the last room. This is totally doable for families with young kids. You have the option of Mountain View, Beach View or Lagoon View, but to be honest, both look at the ocean because it is right beneath you. These stunning bungalows hold a bedroom, bathroom, living area, sun deck, ladder into the sea, and my favorite part - a massive bathtub with windows that open all the way. Some of the larger family-style suites also have private pools.
You'll be welcomed with a bottle of rose and the urge to jump right into the South Pacific.
A Special Breakfast
Another perk of staying in these bungalows is the option to have your breakfast delivered by a traditional French Polynesian canoe called a va'a. The only thing better than waking up to room service is room service delivered via the ocean. The breakfast spread is complete with traditional and locally sourced dishes, pastries, juices, and coffee.
Aside from this unique breakfast, the resort has four other restaurants on the property, including an above-water sushi restaurant. There is a casual lunch and dinner spot on the beach and a fine-dining Italian spot. Reservations might be recommended depending on the time of year, but the concierge will be happy to do this for you. If you want to set up a private dinner, regardless of staying in one of the villas, this can easily be done as well.
Beachfront Villa Estates
For a few days of the trip, we decided to stay at one of the beachfront villa estates, one of the 4 private beachfront villas on the property. This stunning house had 3 bedrooms, a kitchen, massive living area, outdoor kitchen, multiple outdoor showers, infinity pool, jacuzzi, gazebo, and a private beach complete with kayaks and paddleboards. Aside from a game of tennis, with courts right next door, there was indeed no reason to leave. If you're visiting with a large group or want a little more privacy - this is it. With all the added resort amenities available directly to the house, it's ideal. In addition to traditional room service, you have the option to book a chef for the week or even just one night. If you're celebrating something special or just want some entertainment for the evening, add in traditional dancers to give a show. You won't be disappointed.
Activities
There is nothing wrong with spending each and every day on the beach sipping a mai tai or mojito, baking in the sun. But if you're like some of the people in my family and get a bit antsy on beach vacations, don't fret. You will be anything but bored. Aside from soaking in the saltwater, the resort itself has some beautiful snorkeling spots with gear ready to go. The best snorkel location is set up in the middle of the property with shallow waters and endless animals. Take a peek at the regenerative coral plants they have placed around to help ocean life get back to thriving. You will also find stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, wake surfing boats, and jet skis in the activities hut. The jet skis come with a complete tour of Bora Bora, where you might stop at various islands or sand bars to find floating coconuts. Kayaking and paddleboarding around the property are unique experiences, floating through ocean rivers above schools of colorful fish.
If you're looking for a chance to explore the actual island of Bora Bora, the concierge will be happy to set you up with a jeep tour. This open-top adventure takes you to various historical lookout points, locally crafted shops, and a trip to Bloody Mary's for a famous bloody. Want to spend the day on the water? Book a day on a motorized outrigger canoe with lunch included. This experience is complete with a delicious traditional lunch on a private island, swimming with sharks and stingrays, and a personal ukulele performance by the captain himself. If you're looking for more ways to relax out of the sun, hit the gym or an incredible spa for an ocean view massage.
And finally, if you're looking for the exact opposite of a relaxing time on the beach, head back to the airport for Sky Dive Bora Bora. What view could be better than jumping out of a plane above the South Pacific?
The Four Seasons is obviously a fantastic hotel and incredible stay, but if you're want to compare options, here are a few more of the best hotels in Bora Bora:
For some budget-friendly options, I would recommend looking into some of the charming boutique hotels on the main island or even Airbnb. You may not get the overwater bungalows and private beaches, but your stay will not be limited in terms of stunning views and ocean access.
Of course, Bora Bora is a lovely spot for new love birds to spend time relaxing, but it's also a perfect place for adventure and culture. Don't be afraid to take the thrill-seeker or even the kids. There is something for everyone.
