The newest resort in Bora Bora, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, has reopened after extensive renovations. It sits at the base of Mount Otemanu and features a large collection of overwater bungalows, along with beachside villas. This resort offers a variety of amenities, including the largest infinity pool in Bora Bora, a private lagoon, diverse dining options, and wellness programs. It also has a commitment to marine life conservation through its Eco Center.
Resort Overwater Living
The resort offers 128 overwater bungalows, many with private plunge pools, all designed to provide expansive views of the lagoon, island, or Mount Otemanu. Each bungalow is thoughtfully placed for privacy, ensuring a unique vista for every guest. I’ve found that the positioning of these bungalows is key to a peaceful stay; you can often enjoy your morning coffee without feeling overlooked, which is a nice touch when you’re seeking a secluded island experience.
Additionally, there are 14 beach bungalows suitable for families, all overlooking the lagoon. These rooms blend modern comfort with Polynesian hospitality, featuring Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed, a Sleep Well Lavender Balm, and a Sleep Well Menu with suggestions for sleep-enhancing foods. The design uses natural materials like wood and stone, with a color palette of beige, cream, and soft gray, accented with blues to reflect the lagoon and sky. It’s a calm and serene environment that truly embraces the natural beauty of the island.
Island Inspired Design
The architecture here is a blend of modern luxury and the island’s natural surroundings. Traditional Polynesian forms are reinterpreted with clean lines, and large openings connect indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. Every building is oriented to capture views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu, blending the structures into the landscape. I particularly appreciate how the design maximizes the stunning views without overpowering the natural environment; it feels very intentional.
The public areas continue this integration with nature, offering a sense of peace and calm. Natural materials like wood and stone bring warmth to the interiors, and the color scheme of neutral tones with subtle blues mirrors the beaches and ocean. It creates a cohesive and tranquil atmosphere throughout the resort.
Culinary Experiences
The resort boasts six dining venues, from fine dining to casual beachside eateries, all focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Tipanier is an all-day French Polynesian bistro offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with locally sourced dishes like grilled tuna steak and a reinterpretation of Chicken Fafa. Maere, the signature restaurant, provides an ever-changing menu that changes based on the freshest local ingredients, featuring offerings such as dried swordfish and lacquered Mahi Mahi. When dining here, I always recommend asking your server for the day’s specials; the menu’s dynamism means there are always new flavors to discover.
Varavara offers beachfront fine dining with steaks, seafood, and lighter fare, including Tahitian fish crudo and glazed beef short ribs. For more casual options, Honu Tiki is a beach bar serving drinks and snacks right on the sand. Te Ava allows guests to enjoy vibrant dishes with panoramic views before heading to the infinity pool or swim-up bar. The ‘O’a Bar, a lobby lounge, serves craft cocktails and often features live music, perfect for watching sunsets over Mount Otemanu. I’ve found that experiencing the range of these dining options, from a relaxed beach lunch to a more refined dinner, really helps you appreciate the local flavors.
Wellness and Relaxation
For those prioritizing well-being, the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio and the Heavenly Spa by Westin™ provide comprehensive facilities. The spa is a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush vegetation and lagoon views, offering treatments inspired by Polynesian traditions, as well as Asian-inspired and holistic therapies. They use natural, organic products, with Phytoceane as their primary skincare partner. My favorite part of visiting a spa like this is the sensory experience; the scents of local oils and the calming sounds of nature truly enhance the treatments.
The spa’s signature treatments include the Heavenly Spa Bora Bora Massage, a Swedish massage with organic coconut oil, and the Tupuna Polynesian Ritual. This 90-minute ritual honors Polynesian culture with a sea salt body scrub using local Bora Bora salt, followed by a Polynesian Taurumi massage that incorporates traditional ancestral techniques and movements. The fitness studio is equipped with cardio and strength training machines, and offers classes like yoga, Pilates, and Tahitian dance. The complimentary gear lending program is a thoughtful touch, meaning you don’t have to pack your own workout clothes if you plan to use the facilities or go for a run.
Activities and Exploration
Guests can engage in a variety of activities both on and off the water. On the water, you can explore the lagoon by stand-up paddleboard or kayak, which is a fantastic way to see the island from a different perspective. On land, beach volleyball, Hydrofoil bikes, and various yoga and Pilates sessions are available. I always suggest trying at least one water-based activity; paddling on the calm lagoon waters offers incredible clarity and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to match.
The resort also offers cultural immersion through local crafts workshops, such as coconut palm weaving and flower crown weaving. Weekly Polynesian evenings with buffet dinners and traditional dances, or Tahitian dance classes, provide further cultural engagement. For more adventurous exploration, off-property options include snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing excursions. The WestinWORKOUT Routes, linked with Strava, offer guided running paths around the property for those wanting to stay active while exploring.
Marine Conservation Efforts
The Eco Center Bora Bora demonstrates the resort’s commitment to sustainability. Originally founded in collaboration with French Polynesia’s Direction of the Environment, the center now focuses on protecting sea turtles and marine ecosystems. It offers educational experiences for guests, including guided tours, slideshows, and observations of turtle feeding. I find that visiting places with active conservation programs really adds another layer to the travel experience, knowing your stay contributes to preserving the local environment.
Guests can participate in hands-on activities, such as helping to prepare food for the turtles, assisting caretakers with observations, or spending a full day with the Eco Center team. These immersive experiences aim to educate both locals and travelers about conservation efforts in French Polynesia. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn firsthand about the challenges and successes of marine life protection in this beautiful part of the world.
Getting Around Bora Bora
Navigating Bora Bora often involves the resort’s shuttle services or arranging boat transfers, especially if you’re staying at an overwater property. For excursions beyond the resort, local tour operators typically handle transportation. When arriving at the airport, which is on its own motu (islet), you’ll likely be greeted by resort representatives for your transfer. I’ve learned that booking any off-resort activities in advance is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred times and ensure seamless logistics.
Exploring the main island requires a different approach. While there are roads, many visitors opt for guided tours or rent scooters for a more independent exploration. The roads around the main island can be narrow and winding in places, so if you’re driving yourself, taking your time and being aware of local traffic is important. I enjoy renting a scooter for a few hours to discover hidden coves and local villages at my own pace, stopping wherever strikes my fancy for photos.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a trip, consider the time of year. Bora Bora has a tropical climate, with a dry season generally from May to October and a wet season from November to April. The dry season offers sunnier days and lower humidity, making it a popular choice for visitors. However, the shoulder months can offer a good balance of weather and fewer crowds. Packing light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent is essential for comfort.
It’s also beneficial to book accommodations and popular tours well in advance, particularly if you’re traveling during school holidays. Understanding the local currency, the CFP franc, and having some cash on hand for smaller purchases or tips can be useful, though credit cards are widely accepted at resorts and larger establishments. I always carry a waterproof bag for electronics and valuables when out on the water or exploring beaches, as unexpected splashes are common.
Would you get the most out of your stay by embracing the local pace or packing your itinerary full?
Each approach offers a different way to experience Bora Bora. Embracing the local pace means allowing time for spontaneous moments, like lingering over a meal or simply watching the sunset from your bungalow. This can lead to unexpected discoveries and a deeper connection with the serene environment. I often find myself choosing this path, allowing conversations to unfold naturally and taking detours that weren’t initially planned, which frequently results in the most memorable experiences.
Conversely, having a full itinerary ensures you see many of the key sights and activities available. This is ideal if you have specific interests, like diving or exploring historical sites, and want to maximize your time. It requires more planning but can offer a comprehensive overview of what Bora Bora has to offer. When I travel with family, a bit more structure often helps ensure everyone gets to experience something they enjoy, balancing relaxation with adventure. The key is to find a rhythm that suits you, whether it’s leisurely or packed with discovery.
How should you prepare for the visual splendor of the island?
Preparing for Bora Bora’s visual beauty involves more than just packing the right clothes; it’s about mentally tuning into the visual richness you’ll encounter. The colors alone are striking – the impossibly turquoise lagoons, the vibrant greens of the volcanic peaks, and the deep blues of the ocean. I always make sure to have my camera gear ready, from spare batteries to memory cards, as you’ll likely want to capture the stunning scenery. Even with a good camera, though, I remind myself to put it down periodically and just take it all in with my own eyes; some views are best experienced directly.
It’s also helpful to understand the light. The morning light is often soft and creates beautiful pastel hues across the water, while the afternoon sun can bring out more intense, vibrant colors. Sunsets are, of course, spectacular, painting the sky with a range of oranges, pinks, and purples. I suggest finding a good vantage point, perhaps a quiet spot on the beach or a restaurant terrace, and dedicating time to simply observe the changing light throughout the day. This intentional observation can deepen your appreciation for the island’s natural artistry.
What are some common things visitors might overlook?
One aspect visitors might overlook is the sheer amount of marine life visible, even without dedicated diving. Simply looking over the edge of an overwater bungalow or from a boat on the lagoon can reveal a surprising array of fish. I recommend bringing or renting a snorkel mask even if you’re not a strong swimmer; many shallow areas offer fascinating sights. Also, take note of the local flora; the hibiscus flowers and tiare flowers are abundant and fragrant, and learning a few names or their significance can add a small but meaningful layer to your experience.
Another overlooked element can be the local culture beyond the resort experience. While resorts offer Polynesian shows, engaging with local artisans or visiting the main village of Vaitape can provide a more grounded perspective. Even a brief chat with a local vendor at a market, if the opportunity arises, can be very insightful. I always try to learn a few basic Tahitian phrases like “Ia ora na” (hello) and “Mauruuru” (thank you); the effort is always appreciated and can open doors to warmer interactions.
Embark on your own journey to discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Bora Bora.
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