It’s time to travel to French Polynesia! Here is the collection of The Keys to Travel blog posts highlighting the Tahitian Islands, French Polynesia travel guides and itineraries, and travel tips.

How to Choose the Best Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora for Your Vacation

How to Choose the Best Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora

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Staying in an overwater bungalow is a dream for many and rightly so! Our recommendation is to experience these accommodations in their birthplace – the French Polynesian Islands, specifically the iconic Bora Bora. With so many options to choose from, how do you pick the best overwater bungalow for your vacation? We’re here to help! Below are the top five luxury resorts in Bora Bora and the differences between the overwater bungalows. 

If you want help planning and coordinating the logistics for your vacation to Bora Bora, we would love to help. Fill out our travel inquiry form HERE and we will be in touch.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui overwater bungalows with turquoise blue water

The Best Overwater Bungalows in Bora Bora

Do you want to go to Bora Bora specifically to experience staying in an overwater bungalow? If so, it’s important to know the differences between them so you can pick the right one for your vacation. If you want to know what makes each resort unique, you can read our blog post on How to Choose the Best Resort in Bora Bora.

St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

What sets them apart: Largest overwater bungalows in Bora Bora

Bungalows over the turquoise blue water at St Regis

St. Regis Bora Bora has the largest overwater bungalows in Bora Bora. They start in size at 1,549 square feet and get larger from there. The overwater bungalows at St. Regis Bora Bora Resort are perfect for travelers who like to spread out and have plenty of space on vacation. They are also ideal when taking an extended vacation due to the size and space provided. 

How to Book A Stay at St. Regis Bora Bora: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – Prefer to book your own stay at St. Regis Bora Bora with VIP amenities? You can book through our link via Virtuoso.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows

What sets them apart: Separated into three spaces (bedroom, bathroom, living room) all with incredible views

Views of the bedroom at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Views of the bathroom, bathtub and living space at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Our personal favorite is the layout of the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. They are slightly smaller than the St. Regis Bora Bora, starting at 1,080 square feet, but the footprint allows for optimal views from every room indoors. If you enjoy taking full advantage of baths, Four Seasons is where you’re going to want to be. Most overwater bungalows tuck the bathtubs in the back of the bungalow with no views. Not at the Four Seasons. The large bathtub is positioned right near the terrace with full-length windows that open to amazing views. In addition, the full-length terrace provides great outdoor space. The overall aesthetics are light and airy with a welcoming vibe for the ultimate vacation relaxation. 

How to Book A Stay at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – Prefer to book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora with VIP amenities? You can book through our link via Virtuoso.

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa

What sets them apart: Closest views of Mt. Otemanu

Mt. Otemanu with overwater bungalows in the foreground with palm trees and grass at the InterContinental

 

Out of all the 5-star resorts in Bora Bora, The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa is located the closest to Mt. Otumanu, which makes it appear the largest here. It is a magnificent view, especially from the overwater bungalows at this property. The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa also knows that travelers coming to Bora Bora want an overwater bungalow, so that is the only accommodation type they offer.

How to Book A Stay at Intercontinental Bora Bora Thalasso Spa: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – Prefer to book your stay at Intercontinental Bora Bora Thalasso Spa with VIP amenities? You can book through our link via Virtuoso.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui Overwater Bungalows

What sets them apart: The most private plunge pools

Views of the ocean from the bed in the Conrad Bora Bora Nui with private pool

Out of all the resorts in Bora Bora, Conrad Bora Bora Nui has the most overwater bungalow options with private plunge pools. If views of Mt. Otemanu are your priority, we wouldn’t recommend Conrad Bora Bora Nui. Based on its location, it has very limited views of Mt. Otemanu. There are only 4 overwater bungalows with a view of Mt. Otemanu, which makes availability very limited and prices high. If you would like your own private plunge pool with your overwater bungalow, Conrad Bora Bora Nui has a lot of options with great ocean and sunset views. 

How to Book A Stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – Prefer to book your stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui with VIP amenities? You can book through our link via Virtuoso.

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

What sets them apart: Most affordable

Inside Le Bora Bora bungalow with a king bed

The first four resorts listed are all considered 5-star properties. Le Bor Bora by Pearl Resorts is a beautifully renovated 4-star resort, which makes it the most affordable out of these five options. Also, it is the closest transfer from the airport with a 10-minute boat ride. If you’re looking to stay in an overwater bungalow at a lower price point, Le Bora Bora is a great option. 

How to Book A Stay at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – Prefer to book your stay at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts with VIP amenities? You can email us for more information.

How to Book Your Stay in Bora Bora

We hope this blog helped you decide on the best overwater bungalow in Bora Bora for your vacation. But if you are still overwhelmed with making the right decision for your dream vacation, one of the many benefits of working with The Keys to Travel is that we remove the stress and overwhelm when booking a vacation. To start planning your trip to Bora Bora, email us at hello@thekeystotravel.com or fill out our travel inquiry form. 

We can’t wait to help you plan your dream vacation to French Polynesia!

 

How to Choose the Best Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora

Featured photo for the Ultimate Guide on How to Choose the Best Resort in Bora Bora Blog by The Keys to Travel. White sandy beach, palm trees and crystal clear turquoise waters.

Ultimate Guide: How to Choose the Best Resort in Bora Bora

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Bora Bora is often a bucket list destination for most travelers. It is the ultimate paradise with overwater bungalows, palm trees, white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters with a special turquoise hue only found in French Polynesia. Once you decide to make this dream vacation a reality, how do you decide where to stay in Bora Bora? We’re here to help you narrow down the choices. After touring and staying at the five major resorts in Bora Bora, we’ve broken down the differences that set each hotel apart to help you find the best resort in Bora Bora for your memorable vacation.

To save you time and stress when planning your dream vacation to Bora Bora, let us handle coordinating all the details and logistics. Fill out our travel inquiry form to start the planning process.

White sandy beach with palm trees and turquoise clear waters in French Polynesia.

The Five Best Resorts in Bora Bora

Currently, there are five main resorts in Bora Bora. The Five-Star resorts include Conrad Bora Bora Nui, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, and St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. The only Four-Star luxury resort in Bora Bora is Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts. There is a new Westin being built next to The St. Regis that is set to open in the second half of 2024. Stay tuned for details on that property!

Here is a breakdown of the five main hotels to help you choose the best resort in Bora Bora for your dream vacation.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui – Best option in Bora Bora for the most overwater bungalows with pools

Perfect For: Younger couples wanting to stay in an overwater bungalow without a Mt. Otemanu view and a resort with a lively atmosphere.

Why Choose The Conrad

Out of all the resorts in Bora Bora, Conrad Bora Bora Nui has the most overwater bungalows with pools. If an overwater bungalow with a private pool is at the top of your bucket list, Conrad Bora Bora Nui is going to offer you the most options. However, Conrad Bora Bora is located on its own motu in the southwest part of Bora Bora. Due to its location, there are only four overwater bungalows that have a view of Mt. Otemanu. If you want this view, you’re better off staying at another resort.

The overwater bungalow rooms at Conrad Bora Bora with a private plunge pool. View from the bed looking out onto the ocean.

What Sets Conrad Bora Bora Apart from Other Resorts

  1. It offers the most overwater bungalows with pools.
  2. A lively atmosphere throughout the resort.
  3. The best infinity pool overlooking the beach and ocean. 
  4. Only floating helipad in French Polynesia, which allows its guests the ability to arrive or leave the resort by private helicopter.
Aerial view of the overwater bungalows at Conrad Bora Bora one of the best resorts in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

How to Book A Stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – If you prefer to book your stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui and still want VIP amenities, you can book through our link via Virtuoso.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Best option in Bora Bora for service 

Perfect For: Couples and families looking for relaxed luxury.

Why Choose The Four Seasons Resort 

Four Seasons as a brand prides itself on its service. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is no different. With the Polynesian culture being very hospitable, they take this to a whole other level. The second you arrive at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, you’re going to feel like you’re home. The entire staff provides outstanding service. One tiny example is when we asked for a golf cart to come drive us to the spa. We noticed the driver arrived at our bungalow about five minutes early. However, he waited in the golf cart and didn’t knock on our door until the exact time we requested so he wouldn’t disturb us. It’s those tiny details and extended courtesies that set Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora apart from other resorts.

Star gazing experience at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora.
Views of the bedroom at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

What Sets Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Apart from Other Resorts

  1. Their people and service throughout your stay.
  2. The property went through a complete enhancement recently so every part of the resort is top-notch, all the way down to the meticulous landscaping.  
  3. All of the restaurants, beach, and pool face Mt. Otemanu making for a great location with unobstructed views. 
  4. A swimmable inner lagoon with hundreds of species of fish and coral. 
  5. Exclusive activity partnerships on-property with experts guiding guests in marine biology (WiseOceans), scuba (DIVEASY), and tennis (PBI). 

My personal opinion is that Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora takes the prize. I personally like the layout and aesthetic of the overwater bungalows best, it’s a great fit for families and couples, has amazing views of Mt. Otemanu, and it’s a great balance of relaxation, romance, activities, and entertainment.

Views of overwater bungalows and Mt. Otemanu at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora one of the best resorts in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
Lagoon and adults beach area at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora.

How to Book A Stay at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process. 
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – If you prefer to book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora and still want VIP amenities, you can book through our link via Virtuoso. 

Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa – Best option in Bora Bora for the spa 

Perfect for: Spa lovers.

Why Choose The Intercontinental 

Does a 14,000-square-foot spa sound good to you? If enjoying the spa during your vacation in French Polynesia is top of the list, Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa is where you want to be. The Deep Ocean Spa uses water drawn from the ocean. There are glass-bottomed treatment rooms that offer views of the lagoon and wildlife while being pampered. Finally, the multi-sensory outdoor spa has stunning views of Mt. Otemanu. This is a spa lovers paradise.

The spa at the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa with views of Mt. Otemanu.
A spa treatment room at the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa.

What Sets Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa Apart from Other Resorts

  1. Most unique spa treatment options.
  2. Closest resort to Mt Otemanu out of the 5* resorts so it appears the largest here.
  3. Largest wine cellar in all of French Polynesia.
Views of Mt. Otemanu and overwater bungalows.

 

How to Book A Stay at Intercontinental Bora Bora Thalasso Spa: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – If you prefer to book your stay at Intercontinental Bora Bora Thalasso Spa and still want VIP amenities, you can book through our link via Virtuoso.

The St. Regis Bora Bora – Best option in Bora Bora for longer stays

Perfect For: Families and couples wanting a longer stay in Bora Bora.

Why Choose The St. Regis 

The St. Regis Bora Bora has the largest overwater bungalows in all of Bora Bora starting at 1550 square feet. It is also the most expansive resort covering 44 acres. Due to the size of the villas and overall property, St. Regis Bora Bora is the best resort for longer stays. With such large accommodations, there is enough room to spread out and feel comfortable. Being so spread out, the resort has plenty of things to explore and experience without getting bored for a week or longer.

The beach at St. Regis in French Polynesia.

What Sets The St. Regis Bora Bora Apart from Other Resorts

  1. Largest overwater bungalows in Bora Bora.
  2. Adults-only pool.
  3. All suites have butler service.
  4. Most spread out resort in Bora Bora so each villa gets its own bike.
  5. Lagoonarium for calm snorkeling and stunning views of Mt. Otemanu.
One of the bikes that is included in your stay at St. Regis Bora Bora.
The lagoonarium at St. Regis Bora Bora with views of Mt. Otemanu.

 

How to Book A Stay at St. Regis Bora Bora: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process.
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – If you prefer to book your stay at St. Regis Bora Bora and still want VIP amenities, you can book through our link via Virtuoso.

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts – The best 4* hotel with an authentic experience

Perfect for: Couples wanting an authentic Polynesian experience in Bora Bora at a more affordable price. 

Why Choose Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

While the majority of luxury resort accommodations in Bora Bora are 5* hotels, Le Bora Bora is an amazing alternative option as a 4* luxury resort with an authentic Polynesian experience. They recently went through a renovation and their entire property is beautiful and high-quality. If the price point is the main concern, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts.

King bed overwater bungalow room at Le Bora Bora.

What Sets Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts Apart from Other Resorts

  1. Recent renovations make this 4* a top-notch experience at a more affordable option.
  2. Located in its own motu on the northwest part of Bora Bora. This location is the closest to the airport and has the least amount of boat traffic compared to the 5* resorts on the eastern side of Bora Bora.
  3. Authentic Polynesian experience with design and decor.
Walkway to the overwater bungalows at Le Bora Bora with palm trees and views of Mt. Otemanu.
The beach and ocean with palm trees at Le Bora Bora, one of the best resorts in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

How to Book A Stay at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts: 

  • VIP Custom Travel Planning – If you would like help planning and coordinating your entire French Polynesian vacation with a travel expert, click HERE to fill out our inquiry form and we will be in touch to start the planning process. 
  • VIP Self-Booking Options – If you prefer to book your stay at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts and still want VIP amenities, you can email us for more information. 

How to Book Your Vacation to Bora Bora

Are you overwhelmed about choosing the best resort in Bora Bora for your dream vacation? It’s a big decision and there is a right resort for everyone. We’re here to take the stress of planning and help you find the best resort for your vacation. 

To start planning your visit to Bora Bora, email us at hello@thekeystotravel.com or fill out our travel inquiry form. 

We can’t wait to help you plan your dream vacation to French Polynesia!

Woman at a Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora private pool in a private 2 bedroom villa.
Woman standing next to the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora transfer boat.

 

 

Ultimate Guide: How to Choose the Best Resort in Bora Bora

Featured Photo for The Brando A Private Island Experience

The Brando: A Private Island Experience

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Even before our stay at The Brando, there was no question that this resort was the epitome of luxury. Just look at a few photos and you’ll wonder if a place like this truly exists on Earth. Well, thankfully it does exist and it’s the best luxury island resort we have had the opportunity to experience. If you are looking for a luxury private island experience for your honeymoon, anniversary, romantic getaway, or family vacation, look no further. The Brando will meet and exceed all your private island expectations.

Blue sky, white clouds, palm tree blowing in the wind, white, sandy beach, and crystal clear turquoise ocean water. A true private island experience.

A Quick History

Before diving into everything The Brando offers, it’s important to understand how it came to be. Marlon Brando first saw the island of Tetiaroa while filming Mutiny on the Bounty in the early 1960s. He ended up buying the island and dreamed of building a resort that would focus on sustainability and stewardship. Marlon helped with the vision for The Brando, but unfortunately, he passed away before his vision came to life in 2014. Read more about the interesting history and Marlon Brando’s vision for the island HERE.

What It’s Like to Stay at the Brando, A Private Island Experience

Getting to the Island

To get to The Brando, you start your short journey in the private departure lounge at the Tahiti airport. Then you board a private plane with a few other guests for a quick 20-minute plane ride to Tetiaroa. The views from above are breathtaking. When you get off the plane, you are welcomed with music, which is actually a blessing welcoming you to the island.

The small airplane that takes you to your private island experience at The Brando on the island of Tetiaroa on the airstrip at the Tahiti airport.

Woman walking up the stairs to the small prop plane for The Brando Resort
Woman in front of the welcome sign that says The Brando Tetiaroa.

Accommodations at The Brando

There are only 35 private villas on the entire island, which lends itself to incredible peacefulness, quiet, and privacy. While staying at The Brando, you can choose between a 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, or residence villa. The villas are either located on Mermaid Bay, which is great for calm water, soft white sandy beaches, and sunrises, or Turtle Beach, which is perfect for snorkeling and sunsets. All villas include its own private plunge pool overlooking the beach and ocean. The architecture is designed to provide the highest level of privacy. When you are sitting on your back deck, you can’t see the other villas around you. The accommodations at The Brando make you feel like you are on your own private island.

Entrance to a private villa at The Brando with sandy bottom and thatched roof covering.
Woman in a plunge pool overlooking the sunset which feels like a private island experience.

The private residence at The Brando. The back deck with large infinity pool and private beach with palm trees. Accommodations that create the private island experience.

All-Inclusive Luxury, A Private Island Experience

The Brando is the one true all-inclusive resort option in French Polynesia. Unless you’re doing a cruise around the islands, there are no other options for all-inclusive. And it’s definitely not your typical all-inclusive resort that you may initially think of when hearing the word “all-inclusive”. To The Brando, all-inclusive means not having to worry about a thing the minute you arrive. You know you will receive pristine service, the best food and drink, and incredible accommodations. Some additional costs include the spa, the shops, and private, customized excursions. There is an option to only book the villa and breakfast option instead of the villa and all-inclusive package, but it just doesn’t make sense to do so.

Main infinity pool at The Brando overlooking the beach and ocean with palm trees, lounge chairs, and umbrellas, perfect for a private island experience.

What Makes The Brando Special

We could talk about many things that make The Brando special, including the beauty of the island, the quality of service, the staff, the luxury, and relaxation. But what truly makes The Brando special is the dedication to sustainability. The Brando is singularly focused on one mission: zero carbon. It is beautiful to see in action how they consistently respect the environment and Polynesian heritage. At this point, it’s just the way of life here. They want the island to leave an everlasting impact on each guest, but to leave no trace on the atoll itself. 

When you visit the island, make sure to join their Green Tour to understand how much they are doing to be sustainable. You can also view their efforts on their website HERE. Some of The Brando’s sustainability efforts include renewable energy that meets 60% of the energy requirements, being the first resort in the world to be awarded the LEED Platinum Certification, implementing a Sea Water Air Conditioning (SWAC) system that cuts energy consumption for air condition up to 90% compared to traditional methods, and creating an intense compost and organic gardening system. These sustainability efforts are just the tip of the iceberg for The Brando and the island of Tetiaroa.

Airstrip in Tetiaroa lined with solar panels and palm trees.

How Long to Stay at The Brando

If it was possible, we wouldn’t ever leave The Brando! However, amazing vacations always must come to an end. There is a 2-night minimum when staying at The Brando. We recommend staying at least 3 nights to have the opportunity to experience the island and have time to unwind and relax. If you can stay even longer, definitely do it! 

One important tip when staying at The Brando is to make sure it’s your last stop on your French Polynesia itinerary. There are many other luxurious and wonderful resorts throughout the Islands of Tahiti, but none can fully compare to the experience of The Brando. 

Type of Traveler Who Would Enjoy This Private Island Experience

While we believe everyone could benefit from the relaxation that the private island experience of The Brando offers, it may not be for everyone. The Brando is for the traveler who wants privacy, stillness, quiet, relaxation, and to disconnect from the stress of everyday life. It is for the person who wants the private island experience where they may not see another guest the entire stay. If you’re a traveler who’s looking for a ton of entertainment, socialization, and energy, The Brando is not for you.

What Not to Miss on Your Trip to The Brando

Here are some of our favorite experiences during our short stay at The Brando. 

  • Spa 
  • Dinner at Nami Teppanyaki
  • Meeting other guests at lunch at Bob’s Bar, Marlon Brando’s original bar
  • Tetiaroa Ultimate Tour
  • Green Tour
  • Biking around the island
  • Sunset or sunrise in your private plunge pool
  • Stargazing at night
Nighttime in the tropical jungle with palm trees, dark sky, a few whispy white clouds, and many stars.
The spa facilities at The Brando set in the lush, green jungle with rounded, wood stick structures.

Why Book Your Stay at The Brando with The Keys to Travel

A vacation to French Polynesia can logistically be complicated. With so many islands, hotels, tours, and experiences available, planning a magical trip to the Islands of Tahiti can be very overwhelming. When you work with us at The Keys to Travel, we take the overwhelm and stress away. When you want to stay at The Brando, you are looking for a place to unwind, relax, and recharge from your hectic everyday life. Working with us will help you relax before even departing for your trip. Knowing you have an expert on your side to guide you through the planning and booking process and during travel if anything goes wrong will give you peace of mind. Our relationships with the staff at The Brando will ensure a VIP experience for you every step of the way.

For more information on what it looks like to work with us, click HERE.

To start planning your visit to French Polynesia and The Brando, email us at hello@thekeystotravel.com or fill out our travel inquiry form. 

We can’t wait to help you plan your dream vacation to French Polynesia!

Woman on back deck next to the infinity pool at a private villa at The Brando during sunset.
Woman on a bike on a bike path in the tropical jungle feeling like a private island experience.

 

The Brando: A Private Island Experience