Home Blog Page 5

InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort

The InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is situated on the famous Matira Point, one of the most beautiful beaches in French Polynesia. Located on the main island of Bora Bora, the resort brings together the finest of Polynesian artisans.

Overeater bungalows at the InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora.

The InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort has 62 individual bungalow suites. Twelve of these bungalows sit on the magnificent white sand beach, and 50 are located over the lagoon. The bungalows and public areas feature woodcarvings, pandanus, and bamboo weaving. Handmade tapa cloth and mother of pearl carvings also decorate this resort.

Combining all these elements brings an authentic Tahitian style to this deluxe resort. Innovative cuisine and top-notch customer service. Guests are transported from the Bora Bora airport to the hotel by a 20-minute private boat shuttle. There is also a free boat transfer to the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, ideally located on a virgin beach called “Motu Piti Aau.”

Aerial view of the overwater bungalows at the InterContinental Le Moana.

All room interiors feature a separate living room with a sofa bed and writing desk, while the bedroom features king-size or twin beds. Other features are a beautiful bathroom with a separate toilet, shower, bathtub, double vanity, and dressing area decorated with live vanilla plants.

The bungalows include a hairdryer, bathrobes, mini-bar, private safe, two televisions, DVD player, radio, tea & coffee making facilities, air-conditioning, ceiling fan, direct dial phone, and iron & iron board.

Hotel map of the InterContinental Le Moana in Bora Bora.

Available Accommodations

Beach Suite Bungalow (12)
Shaded by coconut palms and facing the blue lagoon, these units are located on the resort’s white sand beach.

Lagoon Overwater Suite Bungalow (24)
Built on stilts out over the lagoon. A unique feature is the glass coffee table in the living room, looking into the natural aquarium of the water. The top slides open to feed the fish and is illuminated for night viewing. Split-level terraces with sun loungers, a dining area, a fresh water shower, and a stairway into the lagoon.

Horizon Overwater Suite Bungalow (24)
Offering the best vistas, settled far out into the lagoon with only the ocean and the reef on the horizon, these bungalows provide a fantastic front-line view. Same size and layout as the “Lagoon Overwater Suite Bungalow.”

2 Bedroom Beach Suite Bungalow (1)
This unit combines two beach bungalows linked in the middle by a lounge room. Two king beds, four sofa beds – accommodating 4 – 8 guests.

2 Bedroom Overwater Suite Bungalow (1)
This unit consists of combining two overwater bungalows linked by a lounge room. Two king beds, four sofa beds – accommodating 4 – 8 guests.

Hotel Information

  • Name: InterContinental Le Moana Resort
  • Description: This resort occupies what most people say is the most beautiful site in French Polynesia. Two white sand beaches, a wide array of water sports, intriguing cultural activities, and unique bungalows stationed over the water are the ingredients for the ultimate island escape.
  • Address: Matira Point BP156, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
  • Phone: +(689) 604 900
  • Fax: +(689) 604 999
  • Email[email protected]

Video

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

InterContinental Thalasso Resort & Spa in Bora Bora.

The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa features an eco-friendly air-conditioning system by using the cold of deep-sea water extracted from the Pacific Ocean, and its spa is the very first Thalasso spa in the world to utilize the benefits of the deep-sea water and minerals in all of its signature treatments.

The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is located on a virgin beach on the “Motu Piti Aau” (In Polynesian languages, motu refers to a reef islet formed by broken coral and sand surrounding an atoll) along the eastern side of Bora Bora and is accessible only by boat.

The view of the main Island from the Resort is unique, especially “Mount Otemanu” (727m), rising majestically from the crystal blue waters of the Bora Bora lagoon.

View of the pool and lagoon from the InterContinental Thalasso Resort.

The resort’s central location makes it very convenient for direct airport transfers (20 minutes) and access to the main Island (free boat transfer to the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, ideally located on Matira Beach).

From the Moana Resort, you have easy access to Matira Beach, the only public beach on the island and ideally located for breathtaking sunset views every night. There are also a few shopping places for souvenirs, supermarkets, bike and car rentals, snacks and restaurants, tattoo artists, and art galleries.

All the restaurants are located 5-10 minutes by taxi or within walking distance (free transportation for dinner), and you’ll be 15 minutes away from Vaitape, the main village.

Hotel map of the InterContinental Thalasso Resort

Available Villas

Emerald Overwater Villa – Located closest to the main resort, each villa offers magnificent views of the InterContinental Resort’s beaches and motu.

Sapphire Overwater Villas – Situated between the Emerald and Diamond category villas, each Sapphire villa offers a remarkable view over the lagoon and the island of Bora Bora. This category is one of the best values at the resort.

Diamond Overwater Villas – Located farthest out from the resort and at the end of each pontoon, each Diamond Overwater Villa offers prized views of Mount Otemanu and the surrounding lagoon, as well as the utmost privacy.

Diamond Otemanu Overwater Villa – Located on the inner pontoon facing away from the resort, these villas are specially categorized for their direct views of Mt. Otemanu from the bedroom window.

Hotel Information

  • Name: InterContinental Resort & Thalasso Spa
  • Description: Opened in May 2006, the resort lies on a virgin beach on the Motu Piti Aau (meaning “two hearts” in Tahitian) along the eastern side of Bora Bora and is accessible only by boat.
  • Address: Motu Piti Aau, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
  • Phone: +689-60-7600
  • Fax: +689-60-7699
  • Email: [email protected]

Video

Eating Lunch Bora Bora Style

Eating Lunch in Bora Bora

Eating Lunch Bora Bora Style | boraboraphotos.com

Here’s a photo of two locals and traveler about to enjoy a nice lunch Bora Bora style. With table and chairs in the beautiful blue lagoon. With some champagne on the table they look to be celebrating something special or simply just enjoying paradise in French Polynesia. What do you think they are celebrating? Leave a comment at the bottom of the page.

In most places of the island, the lagoon water is not too deep, you can tell by the different shades of blue, the lighter the color the more shallow it is and vice versa, the darker the deeper the water. With such a beautiful location, just being in Bora Bora is cause for a celebration. The location of the photo could perhaps be on a private motu taken not too far from the St. Regis Resort by the look of Mount Otemanu. With the clouds covering part of the mountain peak you can still tell the angle of the highest rock.

The overwater bungalows in the distance look to be the Le Meridien Bora Bora resort. The Le Meridien resort is home to the Bora Bora Lagoonarium which is a place to swim with sea turtles and other marine life.

Photo By: Duncan Rawlinson

Bora Bora 4×4 Excursion Tour

Bora Bora 4x4 Excursion Tour | boraboraphotos.com

Looking for some fun? A Bora Bora 4×4 excursion tour is the way to go! After boarding a customized, open-air 4×4 Land Rover, explore some of Bora Bora’s isolated regions and mountainous interior.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the valleys, the barrier reef and the lagoon with its magnificent colors. You’ll learn about the flora and fauna, and about the history and culture of local life. This tour lasts roughly 3 to 4 hours.

Off-road 4x4 Excursions in Bora Bora | boraboraphotos.com

A climb of Pahonu Hill will allow spectacular views of the island’s western and southern shores, while a slow drive on a ridge behind Pahua Point will bring you to the World War II vestiges, with cannons still standing in their position. Refreshments will be served on your last stop. Please note: The terrain throughout this tour is bumpy and rough.

World War II cannon in Bora Bora | boraboraphotos.com

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan, the United States entered World War II. The U.S. chose Bora Bora as a South Pacific military supply base, and an oil depot, airstrip, seaplane base, and defensive fortifications were constructed.

Known as “Operation Bobcat,” it maintained a supply force of nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment and nearly 7,000 men. Seven massive naval cannons were set up at strategic points around the island to protect it against potential military attack.

Driving in the hills of Bora Bora on a safari excursion | boraboraphotos.com

Quick Tip – The mountains of Bora Bora are surprisingly tall, the 4X4 excursions drive up to some incredible lookout points. There are great photo opportunities along the way.

Quick Tip – Bring shoes on this excursion! There are many sharp objects, especially near the cannons. Save yourself a hospital visit as I went to when I cut my foot open on a rusty metal bolt.

Air Tahiti Nui Bora Bora Flight

Air Tahiti Nui Bora Bora Flight | boraboraphotos.com

There is a major airline carrier dedicated to taking honeymooners and vacationers to Tahiti, and that airlines is called Air Tahiti Nui. The airlines is based in Papeete (Tahiti), and flies to Auckland (New Zealand), Los Angeles (USA), Tokyo (Japan), and Paris (France). My wife Jessica and I took off from LAX and it was roughly an 8 hour flight to Papeete, Tahiti.

Air Tahiti Nui Flight Map | boraboraphotos.com

While sitting at the gate before we boarded the aircraft, it is definitely apparent that 80% of the passenagers are going to Tahiti for their honeymoon. The rest look like family vacations with the kids. If you purchased anything from the duty-free shop, the items will be delivered to the gate before you board the plane. Air Tahiti Nui doesn’t have the best of reputations as pilot strikes frequently occur and flights are cancelled because of this. Our departing flight was one of the unfortunate instances, where we had to wait over night before we could fly out. There was no compensation for the duration of time we lost in Tahiti by the airlines, but luckily our travel agency was kind enough to offer a small refund for that time.

Air Tahiti Nui Bora Bora Plane | boraboraphotos.com

The Papeete airport on Tahiti is clean and at the time of our trip there was some construction going on to improve the terminals which should be nice when completed. You need to work your way through the customs area and once through, you can transfer to your connecting flight or meet your hotel guide who will take you to your hotel if your staying in Tahiti.

Jessica and I stayed 1 night in Tahiti, then traveled to Moorea via 1hr ferry boat ride and stayed 3 nights. From Moorea we flew to Bora Bora Airport on Air Tahiti.

Quick Tip – If you drink alcohol, then save some money and buy a bottle of something at the airport duty free shop, alcohol in French Polynesia is very expensive! French Polynesia has some incredible local fruit juices, you can make your own mixed drinks.

Quick Tip – If its your honeymoon, on the flight to Papeete ask the flight attendents for complimentary champagne. Ask for another bottle just before landing and save it for later when you get to your hotel.

Quick Tip – Bora Bora is the most popular island in the world, so of course the prices are going to be expensive. You can break up your trip into multiple islands to save some money and you won’t be dissappointed as there are many other beautiful locations throughout the Society Islands.

Bloody Mary’s Restaurant & Bar

Bloody Mary’s Bora Bora Restaurant and Bar is a must-see attraction for visitors and locals to the Bora Bora island. Many celebrities like the Laker’s Head Coach Phil Jackson and even the Kardashians have dined at this favorite Bora Bora restaurant.

Bloody Mary's Bora Bora Restaurant.

As you enter the restaurant, you are greeted by the friendly staff of Bloody Mary’s. You can grab a few island-inspired drinks at the tiki-themed bar or be seated for dinner. The open-air restaurant provides a fun and comfortable ambiance. Flip-flops are encouraged, especially since the floors are covered in sand, making you feel like you never left the beach.

The handcrafted table and seats are made of wood, and engaging local art is scattered around the restaurant. The bathrooms alone are a sight to see, but you must experience them yourself. We promise it will be memorable!

Bloody Mary's Bora Bora restaurant inside view of the table and seats in the sand.

For patrons looking to sip on Mai Tai’s and other island-inspired drinks, Bloody Mary’s opens their bar at 9:30 am for an early start. Lunch is served from 11 am to 3 pm, consisting of sandwiches, house specials, and salads. Dinner service begins at 6 pm and is a must-see experience! Bloody Mary’s is open daily except for Sundays.

Bloody Mary’s Restaurant and Bar is more than just pizza. The restaurant provides an exciting culinary adventure for a real foodie.

Bloody Mary's Bora Bora restaurant outside view of the building and property.

Dinner features Bloody Mary’s world-famous seafood display. You can find the most exquisite and mouth-watering daily catch from the local fisherman of Bora Bora presented on ice. It is a custom that the host guides the guest through the evening’s menu, and once you stop drooling, your order is taken directly to the chef.

The menu features the freshest seafood and a vast variety of irresistible options; mahi mahi, scallops, opa, ahi tuna, swordfish, marinated beef ribs, kabobs, and crispy fried calamari are just some of the options. The hardest part is trying not to order one of everything!

Restaurant Information

  • Name: Bloody Mary’s Bora Bora Restaurant and Bar
  • Description: Each evening (except Sundays), the daily catch of the local fishermen from Bora Bora is displayed on ice, where after an explanation of exactly what’s available on your particular evening, the host takes your order directly with the chef.
  • Address: BP 38, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
  • Phone: +(689) 677 286
  • Email[email protected]

Video of the Restaurant

Bora Bora Beaches

Bora Bora white sand beach with palm trees | boraboraphotos.com

There’s a good chance that if your not on your over water bungalow, that you will be hanging out on a Bora Bora beach. The beautiful island beaches are nice but they are often rocky because of the reefs. There are few locations, such as the Lagoonarium that have nicely maintained white sandy beaches. Some hotels offer morning Yoga classes on the beach while other hotels provide hammocks to take a nap.

Relax on a Bora Bora Hammock | boraboraphotos.com

Because of the abundance of tropical sea-life, just peering into the water from the beach you will probably see colorful fish, we even saw an octopus! What makes the beaches in Bora Bora awesome, is the island lifestyle, palm trees with coconuts, warm breeze, view of the blue lagoon and the sound of water touching the shore.

Bora Bora beach paradise to relax | boraboraphotos.com

The hotel beaches typically have a bar on the sand or not too far away from reach. A cool mai tai can make lounging on the beach that much better. The lagoon does have a strong current depending on the time of day and if the tide is coming in or going out, so be careful.

Quick Tip – Depending on your hotel and how busy it is, you may want to explore by walking to find a private spot, although be warned once you leave the hotel grounds the beaches are not well maintained.

Quick Tip – Some hotels charge to rent snorkels and fins, bring your own pair and save some money. If you don’t have room in your bag, email the hotel and ask if they have rental charge or provide complimentry gear. Jessica and I brought our own gear and we could jump in the water any time we wanted without worrying about checking out gear and returning it.

Bora Bora Helicopter Tours

See the island from above on a Bora Bora helicopter tour.

Grab your camera and take to the air in majestic Bora Bora helicopter tours from the perspective as you fly over the incredible blue lagoon. Hover above dramatic tropical cliffsides and marvel at the highest point on the island, Mount Otemanu.

There is the choice of a 15 or 30-minute helicopter tour range in price. The 30-minute tour covers the neighboring atoll of Tupai. Contact your hotel concierge to book this tour, and they will arrange travel accommodations to the heliport.

View of the lagoon and mountains during the helicopter tour.

Have you ever dreamt about flying above paradise? A 15- or 30-minute helicopter tour of Bora Bora is breathtaking on board of A-Star (“Squirrel” AS350BA Mono Turbine).

Be prepared for spectacular views, showcasing the contrast of the turquoise lagoon and majestic Mount Otemanu and Pahia. Don’t forget your camera – as you’ll have a bird’s eye view of Bora Bora.

Bora Bora helicopter tour getting close to Mt Otemanu.

The price is not cheap. It’s a few hundred dollars for a quick ride, but if money is no object, then definitely check this out. We did not do the helicopter tour on our honeymoon, but we saw several helicopters flying around, which looked fun. We could only imagine that it must have been a fantastic sight to hover above Mount Otemanu and see the entire island.

Operator Information

Video

Map of Bora Bora Resorts

Here is an island of Bora Bora map that will allow you to see where all the major accommodations are located. You can also see symbols for the main town of Vaitape and the Bora Bora Airport in the north.

Bora Bora island hotel map showing the locations of all the major resorts.

There are a decent amount of hotel accommodations to choose from despite this being a remote island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re asking yourself, where is Bora Bora? Then I suggest you check out our other pages. This popular south pacific destination for honeymooners and vacation travelers from around the world tends to fill up in their Winter months (May-August). You may consider visiting during the off-season if it works for your budget.

One of the significant factors Jessia and I discussed during our honeymoon was the price since we had just shelled out a hefty amount for our wedding. We wanted a resort with a beautiful view of Mount Otemanu and an overwater bungalow, but we also wanted to explore the island on a budget. We decided to pick a hotel that offered a free shuttle to the main island that was within walking distance of Matira Point. Some resorts charge up to $20 USD for a one-way boat ride to Vaitape. Obviously, they want to keep you spending money at their resort.

The Sofitel Private Island and InterContinental Thalasso resorts are the only two places with sister hotels on the main island. With this connection, they offer free boat shuttles for their guests. We were able to shop at the markets for supplies (food & booze) and walk to Matira Beach on multiple occasions without it paying additional resort fees to do so.

Major Bora Bora Resorts

Other Notable Locations

Quick Tip: You can’t go wrong with a hotel location on Bora Bora. There are various price options available for things like a private plunge pool or whether the overwater villas face a white sand beach or the majestic Mt. Otemanu. There is a “you get what you pay for” experience, but the island is so beautiful, it’s a bucket list destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Bora Bora holiday cost?

The average cost of a one-week trip to Bora Bora is $10,000 for a couple. Note that this average price to Bora Bora is from anywhere in the world.

Where did the Kardashians stay in Bora Bora?

The entire family stayed in overwater bungalows. Kris and Bruce Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and Kris Humphries stayed at the Conrad Nui Resort & Spa (formerly the Hilton Nui Resort) in $5,000/night Presidential villas.

What is the best time of year to go to Bora Bora?

The best time to go to Bora Bora is between November and April. The short-shoulder season has fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. The high season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated, and the number of tourists swells.

How many days in Bora Bora is enough?

We recommend you stay 3-4 days in Bora Bora. This gives you plenty of time to explore this fantastic island and all the shades of blue the lagoon offer. If you have more time, you will love spending that here too, just keep in mind that Bora Bora is the most expensive island in French Polynesia.

Bora Bora Lagoon Tours

Bora Bora Lagoon Tours via sailboat | boraboraphotos.com

Once you’ve made it to the Island and depending on your level of activity, a Bora Bora lagoon tours are an excellent way to see all the major sites of the island. Some tour operators run half-day or full day excursions such as the shark and ray feeding and often include a boat tour of the lagoon as part of the package. It’s a simple loop around the main island which takes roughly an hour to complete.

Bora Bora Lagoon View | boraboraphotos.com

From the lagoon boat tour, you can see many of the other resorts on the island and also see many of the smaller motus that makes up Bora Bora. Historic items such as the World War II cannons are pointed out and seeing Mount Otemanu from different angles is also nice. Don’t be surprised if you see reef sharks in the water along the way as the marine life is very abundant.

Lagoon boat excursion tours in Bora Bora | boraboraphotos.com

Contact your hotel reception to book a reservation on one of many Bora Bora lagoon tours by boat otherwise, verify that a lagoon tour is included in one of the activity packages that you may have already signed up for. We reccomend cruising the lagoon.

Quick Tip – Bring sunscreen and water with you on the lagoon tour. The lagoon water does get a little choppy with the wind, so if you get sea sick easily be sure to take something for it.

Quick Tip – There are sail boats operated by private companies that troll by the hotels with “Rent Me” signs, so there is an opportunity to do a spontaneous boat tour or sunset cruise.

Map of Bora Bora

Here we have a Bora Bora map for you to reference. The island is located about 250 kilometers (160 mi) northwest of Tahiti and is surrounded by a large lagoon and several Motus (islands) which act as a natural barrier.

Bora Bora Island Map - Help to orient yourself with this Tahitian island in the South Pacific with overwater bungalows.

In the center of the island is the town of Vaitape which is the main City, where shops and markets are found. There is a free 20-minute boat shuttle from Vaitape to Bora Bora Airport that runs several times a day. Most major resorts have their own boat shuttles that will pick you up directly from the Airport. Although you might want to verify that a free transfer is included as part of your accommodations, otherwise, it could cost you extra.

Just East of Vaitape are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 meters (2,385 ft). There are several Bora Bora resorts on the main island and surrounding Motus. Be sure to check out our Bora Bora hotel map to see where all the major resorts are located.

View of Mount Otemanu towering over the Bora Bora lagoon and resort bungalows.

The lagoon has very distinct blue colors to it which depends on the depth of the water. In some areas such as the Southern part of the island near Pointe Matira, the water is not very deep. Those that are sailing to the island need to be very careful navigating boats around the lagoon. Fortunately, there are markers in the water that help boats identify potential dangers.

There is a 31km (19 mi) road on the main island that will take you around in one big loop. To drive around Bora Bora takes roughly 1 hour because the speed is low, plus your driving on an island so what’s the rush? A bike ride can take about 1 hour and 30 minutes although you’ll probably want to stop to take lots of pictures along the way. There island loop road is mostly flat with only one decent hill along the way.

Quick Tip – The view of Bora Bora from the air is fantastic, be sure to check out a helicopter tour or catch a quick view just before the Air Tahiti plane lands on your way to the island.

Bora Bora Pizza

Bora Bora Matira Pizza | boraboraphotos.com

One our favorite food finds on Bora Bora was a small outdoor pizza stand, no name, just a glowing sign that said “Pizza & Crepes.” We had decided to explore the food scene near our hotel one evening and stumbled across this gem about 5 minutes walking distance from our hotel. We were hesitant at first but saw a lot of locals patiently waiting for a hot slice of pizza pie.

The pizza stand is owned by a friendly couple, who were excited to see that we returned for yet a second time during our trip. Their menu consisted of two sizes of pizza. A large gives four slices per person, perfect to share with one other lucky diner.

The flavors included; classic margarita, Bora Bora (ham, cheese, pineapple, cream), four Fromages, and Royal (ham, egg, cheese, olive) to just name a few. The pizza was delicious! The pizza had the right amount of sauce, a chewy thin crust, and tasty toppings; the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Not only was the food good, the price was very reasonable, between 1000 to 2300 CFP ($10.64 – $24.45 USD).

Cheap food in Bora Bora | boraboraphotos.com

The restaurant did not serve alcohol or fish. That’s best experienced at Bloody Marys Restaurant, but we did pick up a few beers from the small market next door. A must try beer native to the Tahitian Islands is called “Hinano.” You can’t miss it; a blue can with a symbolic Polynesian girl on the front of the can.

The beverage complemented our half pepperoni and Bora Bora pizza nicely. The restaurant has about six small outdoor tables, which is particularly useful if you want a peaceful break from the fancier hotel restaurants. If you happen to come across this little pizza stand, take a chance and give it a try!

Quick Tip – There is a small markert next door where you can buy a “Hinano” Tahiti’s national beer as Bora Bora Pizza doesn’t serve alcohol.

Quick Tip – Ask your tour guides or hotel concierge for recommendations of any local spots that are off the beaten path. Don’t be afraid to explore, but be careful as you walk around the island especially at night, there are not always sidewalks for pedestrians, and the locals tend to drive fast.

St. Regis Resort in Bora Bora

St Regis Resort & Spa in Bora Bora.

The Bora Bora St Regis Resort is one of the most luxurious and popular destinations in French Polynesia. This is the resort where Couples Retreat was filmed. The accommodations here provide guests with the most unforgettable and lavish experience in Bora Bora. The resort is spread across 44 acres of gorgeous land, featuring a modern paradise and exceptional service.

The resort has created exclusive accommodations for each guest with room options that include one-bedroom garden villas, overwater one-bedroom villas, Royal two-bedroom pool villas, or overwater two-bedroom pool villas featuring private infinity pools.

For those looking for a home away from home experience, the royal estate is three bedrooms and features three separate pavilions that surround a pool, two luxurious living rooms, a chef’s kitchen, a private spa area are whirlpool. All standard room amenities include outdoor showers, plasma screen TVs, espresso/coffee maker, internet access, a stocked mini-bar, and a safe. The resort even provides butler service, with a dedicated butler for guests who stay at the exclusive Royal Estate.

View of the large luxury overwater bungalows at the St Regis Resort.

There are many exciting dining options at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. All the restaurants feature the highest quality local ingredients. For an elegant dining experience, try LAGOON by the world-renowned chef Vongerichten who features exquisite French and Asian-inspired cuisine. Other venues include Te Pahu Restaurant (Meditteranean Grill), Sushi Take, and the poolside Aparima Bar, where you can swim up and order a meal, snack, or cocktail to cool off your sun-soaked day.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort features many activities throughout your stay for those who want to be active or just want to relax. For the adventurous guests, visit the impeccable coral reefs, dive sites, hiking trails, saltwater lagoon swimming with local fish and stingrays, snorkeling, personal watercraft, sailing on site, waterskiing, scooter, moped or bicycle rentals, or a sunset cruise.

There is a 24-hour gym available to keep you in shape and a kids club for children between the ages of 5 to 12. Relaxing activities include yoga instruction or a visit to the world-class 13,000-square-foot Miri Miri Spa and fitness center on its own private island. Relax with Tahitian and Pacific Rim spa

Aerial view and hotel map of the St Regis Resort in Bora Bora.

For couples looking to enhance their romantic getaway, wedding ceremonies or renewal vows can be arranged at the island of love. At the St. Regis Bora Bora, you can have your wedding on the resort’s main beach or a private motu. Couples can choose from a traditional Polynesian, simple or intimate ceremony.

The cost range $5,800 to $24,900 USD. The destination wedding option is certainly on the higher end of the price range for weddings. However, it will be the most romantic and memorable event you and your spouse will ever experience.

Hotel Information

  • Name: Bora Bora St Regis Resort
  • Description: Offering the most exclusive island accommodations in the region, this sprawling 44-acre resort matches blissful Polynesian paradise with flawless signature service.
  • Address: Motu Ome’e Bp 506, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
  • Phone: +(689) 607 898

Video

Bora Bora Weather

One of the most common questions people ask us about traveling to Bora Bora has to do with the weather. We hear “When is the best time of year to go?” all the time. Since the Society Islands of French Polynesia is a tropical environment in the South Pacific, you need to consider the humidity, rain, sunshine, and heat.

Bora Bora weather information on the average temperature conditions on the island.

The year-round temperature is relatively constant due to its location just south of the equator, and its elevation is only ten feet above sea level. The primary consideration about the Bora Bora weather is the rain and what season you plan on visiting.

There are two seasons in French Polynesia:

  • The Summer (wet season) is from November through March
  • The Winter (dry season) is from April through October

The average temperature in the Summer months is about 85 degrees, and in the drier Winter, the average temperature is about 82 degrees. As you can see, not a huge difference, but just remember you should pack plenty of sunblock and prepare for the sun’s intense rays. You’ll want to apply sunscreen generously throughout the day as it typically comes off when you sweat or go in the water.

Most rainfall occurs during the Summer months with high humidity. The safest time of the year to visit Bora Bora weatherwise is in the Winter months, with the least risk of storms. On a clear night, the stars over Bora Bora feel much closer as they are dazzling because there’s no light pollution like you find in the major cities. Another great part about the weather is that the lagoon water temperature hovers in the 80s on average regardless of what’s happening above the surface.

Bora Bora weather information on the average yearly rainfall on the island.

If you’ve never been to French Polynesia before and you happen to look at your phone’s weather app and see cloudy or thunderstorms, don’t worry too much. You’ll be happy to know the reporting is somewhat conservative and the weather moves quickly.

Much like Florida or other tropical locations, you can see torrential rains in the morning, and then it will clear up and be beautiful in the afternoon. We noticed some of the most incredible sunsets on a cloudy day in Bora Bora. On the flip side, we also enjoyed a swim in the calmest lagoon water during the morning, got plenty of sunshine in the afternoon, and then watched the evening rain after dinner from our overwater bungalow.

Travel Tip

When planning when to go to Bora Bora, consider scheduling a trip during the shoulder months (November or April) or off-peak season (summer months). Keep your eyes peeled for special vacation packages or flight deals during these months to save big on your travels.

Money Saving Food Tips

Bora Bora money saving food tips | boraboraphotos.com

It is not a surprise that food is very expensive on a tropical island, so here are a few Bora Bora money saving food tips. One US dollar is equal to 94 French Pacific Francs (exchange rate January 2012). You will find that a burger may cost $8 in the United States, will cost 29 francs (CFP) at the hotels in Bora Bora, before the monetary conversion!

As we were informed by one of our tour guides, Bora Bora only gets shipments of food and supplies once, maybe twice a week from the main port islands. As you would imagine, this drives the cost of food very high, especially in a place that is not known for agriculture or raising livestock.

The delicacy that visitors enjoy during their stay come at a cost, but is understandable when you are staying in one of the most stunning places in the world. As we planned our trip and was aware of high food costs, we thought of ways that we could still dine at nice establishments for dinner like Bloody Marys Restaurant, and save some money during the afternoon.

Cheap food in Bora Bora make your own sandwiches | boraboraphotos.com

Being a thrifty wife, I bought a week worth of packaged tuna, dried fruit and fruit bars. We bought a bottle of rum at the duty free store at the airport to last our entire trip. We found a small grocery store on the main island a few minutes from our hotel, so we were able to buy water, bread, juice and beer for our room. If you are bold enough to do so, the breakfast buffet has plenty of condiments, yogurt, whole fruit and bread that you could utilize for snack time or lunch.

Bungalow lunch on a budget | boraboraphotos.com

I took advantage of our stay in our overwater bungalow, and transformed our room into a mini kitchen to make our lunch. Where we were able to enjoy picnics on our deck and enjoy the serenity. These small tricks helped us to a lot of money!

Quick Tip – Currency- French Pacific Francs (XPF or CFP)
1 Euro = 119.33 XPF*
1 US Dollar = 94 Pacific Franc*
*Based on January 2012 rates. Please check to see the current rate at your time of travel.

Quick Tip – Pick up some liquor from the duty free store at the airport and buy juices and sodas from local stores on the island. This way you can have fun mixing your own drinks, enjoying the views from your room and spending a lot less money on your bar tab at pricey restaurants or hotel bars!