Travel Diary: Bora Bora

Written By LeeAnn Sauter

Located northwest of Tahiti is the small South Pacific island of Bora Bora. As one of the French Polynesian islands, it is surrounded by islets and a beautiful turquoise lagoon. The lagoon is protected by a stunning coral reef making Bora Bora a popular travel destination for adventurers and chill-seekers alike. The island itself is set on a dormant volcano, bringing life, allure, and mystery to the island. The white sand beaches and gorgeous blue waters along with the iconic floating bungalow resorts makes Bora Bora a must visit.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Bora Bora
BP 547, Motu Tehotu, 98730 French Polynesia
+689 40 60 31 70

Four Seasons Bora Bora is a private island paradise in the heart of French Polynesia. The overwater bungalow suites, beachfront villa estates and underwater adventures make this our top accommodation choice. Enjoy sunsets from your own private plunge pool or choose to explore waters filled with reef fish and colorful coral. Boasting one of a kind experiences, Four Seasons will succeed your expectations and leave you wanting to visit yearly.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui
BP502 Vaitape Bora Bora, 98730, French Polynesia
+689 40 60 33 00

A blissful and luxurious resort where relaxation and unparalleled views await you. Located on a private island - Motu To'opua, their guests experience the longest private stretch of soft white sand beaches nestled between the soaring backdrop of Mount Otemanu and the mesmerizing lagoon.

Where to Eat

Bloody Mary’s
Povai Bay, French Polynesia
+689 40 67 69 10

People go to Bloody Mary’s restaurant expecting to have a good time, as well as to enjoy some good food and sand-bottomed floors. Some also go there in hope of seeing a famous movie or television star, or a well known singer.

Arii Moana
Four Seasons Bora Bora, BP 547, Motu Tehotu, 98730 French Polynesia
+689 40 60 31 70

By Executive Chef Eric Desbordes, Arii Moana is mastery of French cuisine in the chicest dining experience. Based on the freshest ingredients of the day, their nightly Chef's Menu is complemented by French Polynesia's finest wine collection, with over 150 labels from around the world.

Lagoon By Jean-Georges
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, 98730 French Polynesia
+689 40 60 78 88

Considered Bora Bora’s top dining experience, the French-and-Asian melding of cuisines is an unexpected delight especially with unique creations like Crusted Ahi tuna with citrus and Sriracha emulsion. With breathtaking overwater and sunset views, the cuisine isn’t the only star of the show. Glance below your feet for the floors of Lagoon’s terrace and dining room feature long glass panels that offer a window unto the many creatures who make their home in the lagoon underneath the restaurant.

La Villa Mahana
BP 941 Amanahune Vaitape, 98730 French Polynesia
+689 40 67 50 63

Located north of the gorgeous Maitra Beach, La Villa Mahana is the ultimate romantic venue, and highly rated as an epicurean experience not to miss. With only seven tables in the outside dining courtyard, this restaurant makes for an intimate, pleasant, and calm evening night in paradise. Known for his simple yet elegant and flavorful approach, Chef Damien Rinaldi-Dovio incorporates native Polynesian inspired ingredients with Mediterranean techniques.

St. James Restaurant
Centre Helene’s Bay Face SuperMarket Super'U, Vaitape 98730 French Polynesia
+689 40 67 64 62

Offering French Polynesian fusion style cooking with delightful lagoon side ambiance, Restaurant St. James is a popular venue for tourists. Dine outdoors on the deck for spectacular sunset views while enjoying a handcrafted cocktail. Chef Jonathan serves delicious French cuisine created using only locally sourced ingredients.

What to Do

Jet Ski: To fully explore and immerse oneself in Bora Bora life, book a jet ski adventure in the morning.

Go snorkeling: Meet your local guide at Four Seasons and head to Bora Bora's famous lagoon on a motorized outrigger canoe. Your private tour takes you to three incredible locations for underwater adventure: the Coral Garden, the shallow waters— all with different and unique ocean life to observe and swim with.

Sail out on a Boat Tour: The best way to appreciate the island’s unique setting is by sailing out on a boat excursion. Sailing around the island will allow you to see the beautiful sandy motus that surround the main island. Many of these excursions include snorkeling, shark and ray feeding, and ultimately a beautiful day out on the Pacific Ocean.

Hike or Mountain Climb: With stunning mountains and lush greenery, hiking in Bora Bora is a must for nature-lovers. Make it a full backpacking day-trip or an easy, breezy stroll— there’s trails for every experience level.

Where to Shop

MoeMoea at FS Bora Bora
BP 547, Motu Tehotu, 98730 French Polynesia

Located in Four Seasons Bora Bora, MoeMoea (“dream” in Polynesian) is a 3,552-square-foot shopping experience that combines the best of resort wear, casual and active apparel, accessories, women’s luxe apparel, swimwear and more – from both name brands and boutique brands. Some name brands sold here are Camilla, Missoni, Onia, Solide & Striped, Vilebrequin, and Zimmerman.

What to Eat

Where to Go

  • Mount Otemanu

  • Matira Beach

  • Vaitape

What to Do

  • Shop: Local artisans and MoeMoea at Four Seasons Bora Bora

  • Jet ski

  • Hike, mountain climb, and walk

  • Swim, snorkel, scuba dive

  • 4x4 adventure

  • Boat excursions

If you would like to see more of our travel adventures, tips, tricks, and photos, make sure to follow our Instagram.

LeeAnn Sauter http://www.leeannsauter.com
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