At Arii Moana, the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora’s signature restaurant, candlelit tables sit over the lagoon with uninterrupted views of Mount Otemanu. For visitors deciding where to eat for the best sunset and starry night views, Bora Bora offers several distinct settings, from overwater fine dining to casual beachside bars. This article covers the island’s most scenic dining spots and helps you choose based on setting, cost, and the kind of evening you want.
The fresh poke bowl at Fare Hoa Beach Bar was noted as a favorite meal in all French Polynesia.
If you want the full experience, book Arii Moana for a special dinner and Fare Hoa for a relaxed lunch. Saint James is ideal for a long afternoon with cocktails. If your budget is tight, grab a drink at Bora Bora Yacht Club at sunset.
| Restaurant | Location | Setting | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arii Moana | Four Seasons Resort | Overwater fine dining | High (check current prices) | Special occasion dinner |
| Fare Hoa Beach Bar | Four Seasons Resort | Sandy beachfront | High (check current prices) | Casual lunch or sundae |
| Saint James Bora Bora | Vaitape | Deck above water | High (check current prices) | Long lunch or sunset |
| Bora Bora Yacht Club | Vaitape | Waterfront bar | Moderate (check current prices) | Sunset drinks |
All prices and hours change seasonally, so check the restaurant’s official page before planning your visit.
Arii Moana: Overwater Fine Dining at Four Seasons
Arii Moana sits over the lagoon at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, with candlelit tables facing Mount Otemanu. The menu draws on French Polynesian ingredients: fresh reef and lagoon fish, Tahitian lobster, locally grown root vegetables, and island fruits. A sommelier leads the wine list, which the resort compares to Paris. The Arii Moana page shows current menus and hours.
This is the spot for a splurge dinner. If you’re not staying at the Four Seasons, you can still dine here by reserving a table or purchasing a day pass (around $165–$220 per person, subject to availability). Book well ahead, especially during high season (July–October).
Fare Hoa Beach Bar: Toes in the Sand
A short walk along the sand from Arii Moana, Fare Hoa Beach Bar and Restaurant offers a relaxed alternative. Tables sit directly on the sandy shore of the lagoon, and the menu leans casual: the fresh poke bowl was noted as a favorite meal in all French Polynesia, and the sundae layers Tahitian vanilla ice cream, Tahitian vanilla ice cream, house-made chocolate and caramel sauces, caramelized pecans, fresh caramel popcorn, cookies, and whipped cream. The Fare Hoa page has the full menu and reservation link.
Fare Hoa suits a lunch or early dinner when you want good food without the formality. Same access rules apply if you’re not a guest: book a day pass or reserve directly.
Saint James Bora Bora: Deck Over the Lagoon in Vaitape
On a deck above the water in Vaitape, Saint James Bora Bora provides unobstructed views of the lagoon and surrounding motus. The setting is relaxed, with inventive cocktails and fresh French Polynesian fare that honors local ingredients. A long lunch might include starters, the catch of the day, and a bottle of local Tahitian Rosé.
Saint James is a good choice for a sunset dinner if you want to be in the main village without resort formality. It’s also walkable from the Vaitape ferry dock, making it convenient if you’re staying on the main island.
Planning Your Scenic Dinner in Bora Bora
Most scenic dining spots are at resort motus separated from the main island. If you’re not a guest, you can still visit by purchasing a day pass or reserving a table directly. Day passes at luxury resorts run $165–$220 per person and include access to the private beach, pool, and sun loungers with lunch. Contact the resort in advance; availability is not guaranteed, especially in high season.
Transport between the main island and resort motus is by boat. The daily shuttle costs roughly $77 one way per person if you’re not a guest. For a different perspective, consider a dinner cruise that combines lagoon views with a meal.
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If a sunset cruise suits your plans, Bora Bora sunset cruises on Viator offer a floating dining option with lagoon and mountain views.
Scenic Dining in Bora Bora
Can I eat at Four Seasons restaurants if I’m not a guest?
Yes. Non-guests can reserve a table directly or purchase a day pass (around $165–$220 per person) that includes lunch and resort facilities. Contact the Four Seasons in advance to check availability.
Do I need to book ahead for dinner?
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during high season (July–October) and for overwater tables. Book at least a few days in advance for Arii Moana and Saint James.
What’s the best time for sunset views?
Sunset times vary by season, but aim to arrive 30–45 minutes before the sun goes down to secure a good table and watch the lagoon change color. Check the local sunset time on the day of your visit.
Choosing Your Evening
Match your plans to your budget and mood.
- If you want the most dramatic overwater setting for a special occasion, book Arii Moana.
- If you prefer a relaxed lunch with your toes in the sand, head to Fare Hoa Beach Bar.
- If you’re staying on the main island and want a sunset dinner with cocktails, Saint James is the most convenient choice.
- If you’re on a tighter budget, grab a drink at Bora Bora Yacht Club and watch the sunset from the waterfront.
- If you’re short on time and not staying at a resort, skip the resort restaurants and try Saint James for a full meal without the day-pass cost.
References
Lonely Planet. Top things to do in Bora Bora. Website. ↗
My Little Polynesia. Best things to do in Bora Bora. Website. ↗
Texas Lifestyle Magazine. Six days in Bora Bora. Website. ↗
Robb Report. French Polynesia new Bora Bora One private retreat. Website. ↗
If you’re curious about what to order, our guide to decoding the Bora Bora menu explains local dishes and ingredients.
Explore Places to Stay in Bora Bora
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