Photography provided by Four Seasons Bora Bora
Polynesia’s legendary hospitality is evident from the very moment you step off the plane on the island of Bora Bora. The Four Seasons staff greets you with a flower lei and chilled pineapple-infused water and escorts you onto a dedicated boat that whisks you away across the turquoise-blue waters to the idyllic property. The resort is set on a private motu in a beautiful lagoon surrounded by lush foliage and towering coconut palms — a true tropical oasis.
The Four Seasons defines laid-back luxury. With 107 accommodations, vacationers have their choice of overwater bungalows or secluded beachfront villas. Guest quarters are made of volcanic stone and have thatched roofs, blending in seamlessly with their surroundings. Inside, you’ll find teak furniture, mother-of-pearl accents, traditional artwork and other décor inspired by local architecture. Bungalows are equipped with plush king beds, oversize soaking tubs and a seating area overlooking the lagoon; some even boast vistas of majestic Mount Otemanu. A private wooden deck beckons you outdoors, where you can take a dip in the South Pacific, snorkel amid colorful fish or simply enjoy the incredible views from your chaise lounge.
Photography by Barbara Kraft
Begin your morning with guided yoga or a tennis class. Spend the rest of the day lounging on the white-sand beach or in a poolside cabana or exploring the lagoon aboard complimentary kayaks and standup paddleboards. If you’re itching for more adventure, try the Jet-Ski tour, guided catamaran snorkel or on-land ATV tour. For a half-day excursion, board a private boat to take in the scene from the water. Thrill seekers can stop at various points to hand feed stingrays and snorkel above blacktip sharks. At the end of the day, unwind at the spa with the Polynesian massage, whose signature rituals blend essential oils and scrubs made with local ingredients.
The resort features four exceptional eateries. Breakfast is served at open-air Tere Nui, which offers both buffet and à-la-carte options that do not disappoint. For a casual post-swim meal, head to seaside Faré Hoa and order the fresh catch of the day, the ceviche and the signature piña colada. Come sundown, sit at the bar at Sunset, take in the spectacular views with a glass of chilled Rosé in hand and look forward to another day in paradise.
If You Go
GETTING THERE
Nonstop flights are available from Los Angeles to Papeete, Tahiti, on American Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui. From there, Bora Bora’s sole airport is a short 45-minute flight.
WHEN TO GO
High season runs May through October. The shoulder months of November and April are considered some of the best times to go, with fewer crowds and temperatures in the 70s.
GETTING AROUND
Bora Bora resorts are located on motus and are accessible only by boat. Each property has its own shuttle available for guests to access the mainland. Once there, the preferred methods of transportation for tourists are taxi, bicycle or scooter.
