A Slice of Paradise: My Unforgettable Stay at The Westin Bora Bora
As I floated in my private plunge pool one tranquil Sunday afternoon, the gentle lapping of waves against my overwater bungalow created a soothing soundtrack. Below, a vibrant school of electric blue fish danced through the crystal-clear waters, while directly ahead, Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora’s majestic extinct volcano, rose dramatically, looking as if plucked from the set of Jurassic Park. With the sun beginning its descent, painting the sky in soft hues of yellowish-pink, it struck me just how profoundly special Bora Bora truly is. This moment was just one of many indelible memories from my stay at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, an experience filled with serene reflection and invigorating sensory delights. This resort, the newest jewel in French Polynesia since 2017, recently earned a coveted spot on Travel + Leisure’s 2025 It List, a testament to its exceptional charm and luxury.
The Westin Bora Bora Resort
My journey to this idyllic haven began with nearly 24 hours of travel from the East Coast, a series of three flights and a short boat ride from the airport. As we approached the resort’s welcome dock, a rainy-season storm started to dissipate, and the clouds graciously parted, revealing the awe-inspiring grandeur of Mount Otemanu. It was a spectacular welcome, setting the stage for what would be an extraordinary escape.
Courtesy of Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
The resort’s landscape, while not entirely new—it previously housed Le Méridien Bora Bora—has been completely reimagined. Following an extensive renovation and rebranding, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa officially reopened in September 2024, offering a fresh and luxurious experience. There are 142 bungalows in total, each thoughtfully designed with a private terrace that offers direct access to either the calm lagoon or the sparkling blue ocean. A long, winding boardwalk connects all 128 overwater bungalows, inviting guests to explore at their leisure. The resort’s signature blue and pink bikes, available on a “leave a bike, take a bike” policy, encourage a relaxed, spontaneous vibe, allowing guests to cycle along the pathways at any time of day or night.
What truly elevated my experience was the impeccable service. By the second day, the staff at Tipanier, one of the three on-site restaurants and our breakfast favorite, already knew our coffee order and brought it to our table the moment we were seated. A casual comment I made to a waiter about spotting stingrays from our plunge pool resulted in snorkeling gear being left discreetly outside our bungalow door. At the spa, the masseuse, noticing my unfortunate back sunburn, thoughtfully incorporated a local soothing serum into my massage. And on our final evening at Maere, the resort’s signature restaurant, the chef graciously cooked the raw seafood courses for my mother, who prefers not to eat raw fish. These small, personalized touches truly highlighted the resort’s commitment to exceptional guest care.
Below, you’ll find a detailed account of my stay at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa.
Luxurious Dwellings: A Look at the Rooms
The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa boasts the largest collection of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, each a harmonious blend of modern comforts and natural aesthetics, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding environment. The bungalows vary in size and layout, depending on their position along the boardwalk. Some even feature private plunge pools on their terraces, offering an exclusive splash of luxury. For families, 14 beach bungalows, conveniently located closer to the main area of the property, overlook a private lagoon, providing a more accessible option.
During our stay, my mother and I were fortunate to experience the premium Otemanu overwater bungalow. As its name suggests, this bungalow offers some of the most breathtaking views of Bora Bora’s iconic mountain. Our room featured a captivating see-through glass panel on the floor, allowing us glimpses of marine life directly beneath us. The spacious terrace, complete with a dining table, a private plunge pool, and a step ladder leading directly into the water, quickly became our favorite spot. The outdoor Bluetooth speaker was a delightful touch, perfect for enjoying music during my evening swims as the sun dipped below the horizon. Inside, the signature Westin Heavenly Bed was an absolute stand-out. My mother was so enamored with its comfort that she immediately ordered the pillows for our home upon our return.
A Culinary Journey: Food and Drink Options
The resort offers a delightful array of dining experiences with three distinct bars and three restaurants. Our most frequent haunt was Tipanier, named after French Polynesia’s fragrant Plumeria blooms. This French-inspired eatery, nestled alongside the lagoon, serves an elaborate breakfast buffet and seasonal dishes for dinner. At Varavara, the poisson cru—a traditional Tahitian dish made with raw tuna, coconut milk, and lime juice—was so incredibly fresh and delicious that I found myself ordering it three times during my stay.
For our final evening, we dined at Maere, the hotel’s signature restaurant, which showcases a sophisticated rotating tasting menu crafted exclusively with locally sourced ingredients. Wine pairings are also available, elevating the dining experience. Highlights from our meal included exquisite homemade dried swordfish with fresh coconut milk and a perfectly grilled tuna steak accompanied by sweet potatoes.
For more casual fare and excellent libations, guests can choose from the poolside restaurant Te Ava, ‘O’A on the resort’s second floor, and Honu Tiki. Honu Tiki, a charming beachside bar, hosts a daily happy hour, drawing guests from their poolside loungers to its inviting swinging beach chairs for refreshing drinks like mudslides.
As we visited during the rainy season, just before the holiday rush, restaurant hours were sometimes alternated. This serendipitous scheduling meant we often dined alongside the same guests and were served by the same friendly staff members, which fostered a wonderfully intimate and communal atmosphere throughout the resort.
Engaging Experiences and Activities
With a plethora of on-site activities and experiences, guests at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa often find themselves getting to know each other quite quickly. The resort boasts the largest swimming pool in Bora Bora, complete with a swim-up bar, comfortable in-water loungers, and adjacent cabanas available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Along the private beach, an array of water sports equipment—stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and Hydrofoil bikes—are available all day long for guests to enjoy. The resort also organizes daily group activities such as coconut palm weaving classes, shell crafting, or flower crown weaving sessions, offering a taste of local culture and craftsmanship.
Courtesy of Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
For those eager to venture beyond the resort and immerse themselves deeper in Tahitian culture, the hotel’s team can arrange a variety of off-property excursions. Options include diving adventures, snorkeling trips to vibrant coral reefs, or a thrilling Jeep tour of the island. My mother and I opted for a memorable lagoon cruise that included a shark and stingray encounter. We spent the entire day with a knowledgeable local guide, swimming alongside native wildlife, soaking in the breathtaking scenery, and enjoying a delicious lunch on a palm-fringed motu, a small island, within the serene lagoon.
Courtesy of Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Tranquility at The Heavenly Spa
The Heavenly Spa by Westin offers a sanctuary of peace and rejuvenation, conveniently located towards the back of the resort, accessible via a short walk or a quick bike ride. The spa’s treatments draw inspiration from ancient Polynesian wellness traditions and holistic, Asian-inspired therapies, ensuring a truly revitalizing experience. I had initially booked a traditional deep-tissue massage, but arrived with a rather dramatic sunburn. The accommodating masseuse, with her expert knowledge and gentle touch, adjusted the treatment to ensure I still had an extremely relaxing and beneficial experience, despite my sunburn.
In addition to the spa, guests have access to a well-equipped fitness center offering a variety of workout classes. These include invigorating sunrise yoga sessions, Pilates, and lively Tahitian dance classes, catering to diverse fitness preferences.
Family Adventures and Sustainable Practices
While Bora Bora often conjures images of romantic honeymoons, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa also provides numerous family-friendly activities. The on-site Eco Center Bora Bora, originally established in 2000, offers an excellent opportunity to engage younger travelers in an educational and meaningful experience. This center serves as a rehabilitation hub for injured sea turtles found in the wild. The hotel provides guided tours and insightful seminars, allowing guests to observe the daily care and eventual release of rescued turtles into the lagoon. During my visit, two sea turtles were being diligently cared for at the Eco Center, a heartwarming sight.
Stephan Debelle/Courtesy of Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Accessibility and Commitment to Sustainability
The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa is thoughtfully designed with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for all guests. The main public spaces feature ramps and wheelchair access. Specifically, four bungalows are equipped to accommodate guests with disabilities: two overwater bungalows offering serene lagoon views and two beach bungalows, each featuring its own plunge pool, providing comfort and luxury for all.
Location: An Idyllic Island Retreat
Much like many of Bora Bora’s premier resorts, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa is not situated on the main island but rather on the picturesque atoll that encircles it. A sleek hotel speedboat promptly picks up guests from the airport, whisking them away on a scenic journey of just under 15 minutes to the resort. Upon arrival, the setting is nothing short of breathtaking and incredibly tranquil. Unobstructed views of Mount Otemanu serve as the primary focal point, creating a dramatic backdrop for the entire property. A private lagoon gracefully meanders through the resort, further enhancing the picturesque and serene ambiance.
Making the Most of Your Stay: Value and Rewards
As part of the Marriott family, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa offers an excellent opportunity for Marriott Bonvoy members to redeem points for their stay. Nightly rates typically range between 70,000 and 85,000 points. A fantastic perk for members is the “book four nights, get the fifth free” offer, maximizing the value of your points. Cash rates for doubles begin at approximately $1,000 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
What types of bungalows are available at the resort?
The resort offers 142 bungalows, primarily overwater, with direct lagoon or ocean access. There are also 14 family-friendly beach bungalows overlooking a private lagoon. Some bungalows feature private plunge pools.
Are there dining options that cater to specific dietary needs?
Yes, the resort’s restaurants, like Maere, the signature restaurant, are accommodating. During our stay, the chef at Maere prepared raw seafood courses for my mother who does not eat raw fish, demonstrating their flexibility.
What kind of activities are available for guests?
Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities including swimming in Bora Bora’s largest pool (with a swim-up bar), watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking, and daily group cultural activities such as coconut palm weaving. Off-property excursions like lagoon cruises, diving, and Jeep tours can also be arranged.
Does the resort offer any wellness facilities?
Yes, the Heavenly Spa by Westin provides various Polynesian and Asian-inspired treatments. There is also a well-equipped fitness center offering classes like sunrise yoga, Pilates, and Tahitian dance.
Is The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa suitable for families?
Absolutely! While popular with honeymooners, the resort is family-friendly. The Eco Center Bora Bora offers educational experiences focused on sea turtle conservation, and there are family-friendly beach bungalows.
How accessible is the resort for guests with disabilities?
The resort is ADA-compliant with ramps and wheelchair access in communal areas. Four bungalows are specifically designed for guests with disabilities: two overwater and two beach bungalows.
How can Marriott Bonvoy members get the best value for their stay?
Marriott Bonvoy members can book stays using points, with nightly rates typically ranging from 70,000 to 85,000 points. Booking four nights often grants the fifth night free, providing excellent value.
References
Marriott.com
Travel + Leisure
Book Your Dream Escape to The Westin Bora Bora!
Ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and unparalleled luxury of Bora Bora? Imagine waking up to the gentle waves beneath your overwater bungalow, swimming with vibrant marine life, and being pampered by bespoke service. The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa offers an unforgettable escape, blending idyllic natural surroundings with exceptional amenities and personalized care. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a serene retreat, your slice of paradise awaits. Don’t just dream about Bora Bora—experience it. Start planning your extraordinary vacation today and discover why this resort is a celebrated gem on Travel + Leisure’s 2025 It List. Your unforgettable journey to French Polynesia begins here!
