10 Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows for 2023: True Taste of Paradise

I had heard so much about the beautiful overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, and I finally got the chance to experience it for myself. From the moment I stepped into my luxurious bungalow, I was blown away by the stunning panoramic view of the crystal clear lagoon below.The interior was equally impressive, with a comfortable king-sized bed, a spacious living area, and a bathroom with a large soaking tub overlooking the water.

One of my favorite features was the private deck, complete with a ladder that led directly into the warm, turquoise water. I spent hours lounging on the deck, sipping cocktails and watching the colorful fish swim beneath me.In the evening, I watched the sun set over the water from my bungalow’s glass floor, which provided a unique and unforgettable perspective of the ocean.

I felt so relaxed and at peace during my stay in Bora Bora, and the overwater bungalow was the perfect way to experience the island’s natural beauty in luxury and comfort.

One of the most memorable bungalows I saw during my stay was the “Royal Overwater Villa” at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. This stunning villa features a private pool, a spacious outdoor terrace with stunning views of Mount Otemanu, and a glass viewing panel on the floor that allows guests to observe marine life below. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget.

Based on our many years of island travel, we are frequently asked to provide a list of our top hotels and resorts in Bora Bora and The Islands of Tahiti. These discussions inevitably feature the charming overwater bungalows of Bora Bora.We have decided to share our selection of the best hotels with overwater bungalows in Bora Bora.

Best Overwater Bungalow In Bora Bora

There are only a few locations on earth that include overwater bungalows. Bora Bora is one of the most pretty of French Polynesia’s 118 islands.

Numerous overwater bungalow resorts have been constructed on the motus (small islets) that encircle the famous lagoon of Bora Bora.These wooden homes are perched over turquoise waters teeming with sea turtles, tropical fish, and other marine life.

And while you may feed stingrays, snorkel, and take island jeep tours, one of the nicest things to do in Bora Bora is to lounge in your overwater house.

1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

 

It was rated the best hotel in French Polynesia and is situated on a private island. If you’re sifting through a plethora of reviews to determine where to stay in Bora Bora, you can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons. The brand is superior.

Each cottage has its bedroom, living area, and bathroom. At nearly 1,000 square feet in size, they are roomier than the accommodations of the majority of the hotel’s customers, who are honeymooners.

They include native artwork such as a crystal mother-of-pearl necklace, classic teak furnishings, a vaulted tatami ceiling, a double-sized stone tub overlooking the sea through enormous sliding windows, and natural Panpuri bath items in pottery pots, an espresso machine, and snorkeling equipment.

Some bungalow decks even feature private pools. The Four Seasons Bora Bora is strongly recommended for both honeymooners and families.

The resort provides a club for children and adolescents. And there are other things to keep everyone entertained, like tennis lessons, jeep trips, beach volleyball courts, snorkel safaris, outrigger canoe rides, and complimentary SUP boarding and kayaking.

Pros:

• These bungalows are opulent havens. You will not wish to depart from your bungalow! The distance between the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons makes them feel more private than those at other resorts on Bora Bora.
• The resort is family-friendly and offers several activities. Couples receiving massages in the spa’s couple’s suite will have a view of the blue lagoon through a glass panel.

Cons:

• The resort’s ship from Bora Bora island is expensive (about a 15- to 20-minute ride away).
• The resort’s snorkeling is not the finest. As the bungalows are situated on a sand bottom, snorkeling is not possible from them.

2. Le Bora Bora

The Pearl Beach Resort has been renamed Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts following an extensive makeover in 2020. If you want to be closer to the restaurants on the main island, Le Bora Bora is only a ten-minute boat ride away. (Daytime boat trips are gratis, but evening transports incur a fee.)

Free activities include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and outrigger canoeing.

You may be quite pleased to relax the entire day, periodically peering at the close-up views of Mount Otemanu. 50 of the resort’s 80 thatched-roof bungalows are built on stilts over the lagoon; keep an eye out for (harmless) sharks swimming close to your deck.

Each 850-square-foot bungalow has a bedroom, bathroom (with separate tub and shower), and equipped sundeck with a gazebo.

And do not fret. At the foot of the bed is still the much-loved glass coffee table; raise the lid to nourish the fish in the lagoon below. A second glass panel for viewing the lagoon is located next to the bathtub.

This resort offers the privacy of a private island. However, you are close enough to Bora Bora’s Vaitape village to enjoy the island’s activities and eateries. Do not miss the opportunity to bicycle along Bora Bora’s 18-mile coastline route.

Pros:

• The spa is magnificent and surrounded by a garden. Coconut is used in its distinctive hair mask, body polish, and full-body massage.
• The white sand beach at Le Bora Bora is as close to heaven as possible.

Cons:

• The WiFi signal strength is inconsistent around the property.

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3. St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

 

This resort in Bora Bora is nearly unbelievable in its level of luxury. Spread across three little private motus, the emphasis is on seclusion and unmatched care.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is a nice playground for well-heeled visitors, including celebrities like Justin Bieber and Nicole Kidman.

The resort offers an abundance of activities and dining options (five restaurants) and loads of private areas, and guests are attended on hand and foot.

Here, mature and well-traveled couples will discover a greater proportion of similar-aged visitors than at Le Bora Bora, which primarily attracts young couples. You can also choose from a variety of bungalow types.

The Overwater Deluxe features a separate bedroom with a king-size bed, a marble bathroom, and a glass panel in the living area that allows guests to view fish in the lagoon below.

With the size and space of these overwater villas in Bora Bora, you have all the room you need to unwind thoroughly.

You are provided with so much private space that you may stretch out and enjoy the 24-hour food and beverage room service.

Pros:

• Complimentary butler service is ready to meet your every need. The trademark Lagoon restaurant of the resort features an Asian fusion menu.

Cons:

• The resort is so vast that moving from A to B is difficult. Forgot your sunglasses in your villa? You may need a golf cart to return and get them.
• If you don’t have a substantial amount of loose change in your pocket, you may get heart palpitations whenever you peruse the menu and drink pricing.

4.Le Meridien Bora Bora

 

Le Meridien’s overwater bungalows in Bora Bora feature the largest glass floors of any resort in the region. And Le Meridien Bora Bora offers spectacular vistas of Mt. Otemanu at close range. Those are the additional benefits. The unique undersea perk?

In the vicinity of the resort, you may swim with sea turtles under the supervision of a marine biologist. The largest glass floor in Bora Bora is between the bed and sofa, on one side of which is a coffee table.

The only difference between the overwater bungalows at Le Meridien is their views (the more costly have Mount Otemanu views).

Allowing higher pools on the beachfront of the resort overlooking the lagoon and Mt. Otemanu beyond. And if swimming in these pools is not enough workout for you, there is also a modern fitness center.

Pros:

• These glass floors create a truly unique experience. Almost every time you look, you will discover something unusual beneath your feet.
• The views of Mount Otemanu from the infinity pools are unparalleled.
• The turtle sanctuary adjacent to the resort is a fantastic destination, where you can study so much from the oceanographers and even “cure” sea turtles for a day.

Cons:

• If you have dietary limitations, you have restricted food alternatives (especially for vegans).
• The decks of these over-the-water bungalows in Bora Bora are disappointing; they are too small to relax on comfortably.

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5. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

 

The five-star InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is situated on the long, thin, crescent-shaped island of Motu Piti Aau. It has some of the most stunning overwater bungalows of all the resorts.

The grounds of the resort are also meticulously kept, complementing the elegance of the overwater bungalows.

There are also various food options, including three restaurants, two pubs, and themed evenings. This resort is mainly about bungalows.

Separate bedrooms and living areas are featured. Additionally, the bed faces a floor-to-ceiling window, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views of the lagoon.

And the tub is situated next to a picture window. The bungalows also include several facilities that make them feel like a second home. That includes two televisions in every cottage!

In addition, there is a terrace overlooking the water (with a fresh outdoor shower and a shady place for relaxation), a minibar, and a work desk.

All the 1,000-square-foot bungalows share the same interior plan, with only differences in perspective and location.

Some accommodations, however, are elevated by private pools. The resort pioneered and employed a sustainable air-conditioning technology known as Sea Water Air Conditioning (SWAC), which uses cool deep-sea salt water to chill the resort — no need to feel bad about air conditioning!

Invest in one of the four new overwater Brando Suites placed at the extremities of the two outstretched arms of bungalows if you want to splurge.

Brando Suites are among the most luxurious overwater villas in Bora Bora, including upper-level decks, expansive private plunge pools, and exquisite art and furniture. Indeed, they are among the most affluent in the world!

Pros:

• You may feed the fish in the water below by lifting the lid of the glass coffee table in the living room. One can observe fish swimming below when receiving a massage in one of the spa’s glass-bottomed chambers.
• Several free activities include playing pool and ping pong, stand-up paddleboarding, and feeding the tropical fish.
• Every day, wild stingrays come to the beach to be fed, and it is pretty amazing to pet their silky skin and help feed them.

Cons:

• Some guests have complained about the blandness of the cuisine.
• The bungalows are situated above an active stretch of water.
• While the Brando Suites are luxurious and contemporary, they are not as private as the resort’s other overwater bungalows. In addition, the noise of jet skis passing nearby could be bothersome. (The villas’ interiors are, however, soundproof.)

6. InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana

 

The majority of resorts on Bora Bora are situated on their motus. The InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana is not like this.

It is situated on the southernmost tip of the main island of Bora Bora, on Matira Point beside Matira Beach (regarded by some as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world).

Being on the main island makes you feel more connected to the life and vibe of Bora Bora, as opposed to being isolated and private.

With their pointed thatch roofs, walls coated in the textured paper (that resembles straw matting), polished hardwood countertops in the bathrooms, and wooden louvers, the comfy wooden bungalows have a Polynesian vibe.

The bedroom is separated from the living area, which features a glass coffee table through which you can see fish swimming below.

Wooden decks have cushioned sun loungers made of wood and a rustic table and chairs. If you’re trying to decide between this resort and the InterContinental Thalasso resort (#5 above), most people recommend Thalasso. The reason is that Le Moana is not as luxurious.

However, perhaps “elegant” is not everything. The IC Le Moana is more affordable. And it provides excellent value. And the service is exceptionally courteous and helpful.

Le Moana is preferable to Thalasso if you wish to quickly access Bora Bora’s attractions (such as jeep tours and island cycling) and sample a variety of local restaurants.

Pros:

• The snorkeling directly beneath the bungalows and in the lagoon is excellent (see if you can spot the stingrays).
• Free use of kayaks, SUP boards, and snorkeling gear. There is also an outrigger boat available for use.

Cons:

• Because this resort is not situated on a private motu, it has a less private atmosphere.
• The resort is not as luxurious as other comparable resorts. It is quite dated as one of the older overwater bungalow hotels in Bora Bora.
• The lagoon water around the overwater bungalows is not particularly deep (about chest-high); thus, you should not dive from your deck.

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7. Conrad Bora Bora Nui

 

The Conrad Bora Bora Nui, located on the private island of Motu To’opua, overlooks a seemingly endless expanse of beautiful white sand (the longest stretch of beach in Bora Bora).

And with a coral reef adjacent to the resort, the snorkeling is superior to that of the Four Seasons and St. Regis.

With six restaurants, ranging from French and Chinese to a Polynesian beach grill, you are unlikely to become tired of the food.

The 1,249-square-foot overwater bungalows at the Conrad feel fresh and modern. They are furnished with granite countertops, contemporary furnishings, and in-suite coffee makers and have an open floor layout (there is no separation between the bedroom and living space).

We adore its fully retractable windows, which bring the outdoors in; when you wake up, you can lie in bed and look out over the sea while breathing in the fresh air.

Approximately one-third of the Bora Bora overwater bungalows feature private pools.

All bungalows, however, provide breathtaking views of the lagoon and its ever-changing aqua, green, and blue hues.

You’ll also discover bicycles on the property’s paths so you can bike from your bungalow to the beach or restaurant. According to the knowledge, the best snorkeling is accessible from the 300 wing’s overwater bungalows.

Pros:

• Enjoy an abundance of solitude!
• There is decent snorkeling immediately outside your bungalow.
• Sunset, mountain, and lagoon views provide an endless visual feast.
• The infinity pool cannot be surpassed.

Cons:

• The resort faces the open ocean, not the lagoon. Therefore the water is occasionally less tranquil than desired.
• Although free, the WiFi is sluggish.

8. Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora

 

What distinguishes the Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora is its location on Bora Bora, surrounded by waving palms and lush tropical gardens. Let’s call these water-based Bora Bora huts what they are: huts. Nice ones, nonetheless!

Bora Bora’s other overwater villas are more luxurious than the Matai’s (3-star) accommodations. However, they are quite tidy.

The most charming detail is discovering your bed adorned with local flowers (a charming way to welcome you). Each overwater villa is furnished with a glass coffee table, transforming it into a private aquarium.

Pros:

• These overwater houses in Bora Bora are reasonably priced (likely the lowest in Bora Bora).
• It is helpful to have access to neighboring stores that sell water, beer, wine, and snacks (and helps with the budget).
• The glass coffee table can observe all the small fish, rays, and other marine life in the water below.
• Snorkeling off the resort’s shore, you will encounter octopus, eels, and stunning corals.

Cons:

• The lack of water activities and other resort diversions means there is not much entertainment at the resort, but if you want to rest, this may be OK. (And you have immediate access to Bora Bora’s activities.)

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9. Sofitel Private Island Bora Bora

 

Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island is a unique private getaway that exemplifies the French art of sophisticated hospitality. The hotel is situated on its island, surrounded by a gorgeous blue lagoon, and is only minutes away from Bora Bora via private shuttle.

This one-of-a-kind boutique hotel mixes French elegance with Polynesian accents. The hotel offers complimentary WiFi and a minibar that is restocked daily to make guests feel more at home.

The Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island is situated on Motu Piti U’uta, a short private boat trip from Bora Bora’s main island. Bora Bora’s enchantment can be approximated by conjuring up visions of an idyllic existence on a private island.

During your time at Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island, relaxing will undoubtedly be your top priority, but when you’re ready to explore, you won’t be disappointed. Numerous activities are available, including some of the finest snorkeling in French Polynesia.

Discover true paradise in magnificent blue waters, pure white sand beaches, and the protected nature of our very own private island, which features a unique botanical garden, 360-degree panoramic vistas, opulent sunsets, and an outstanding coral garden.

Pros:

• Located on a breathtaking private island with views of the mainland of Bora Bora.
• Beautiful sand beach with wicker chairs and umbrellas.
• Luxurious overwater bungalows and villas with Polynesian flair.
• In-room amenities include complimentary minibars, Nespresso machines, flat-screen televisions, safes, and air conditioning.
• Free breakfast buffet served in restaurant open all day.
• Free snorkeling equipment, life vests, kayaks to borrow, and a coral garden.
• Stunning vantage point with chairs and expansive views

Cons:

• Some evident deterioration in the rooms
• Bathrooms without bathtubs.
• Food receives a range of reviews.

10. Le Taha’s island Resort & spa

Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa is a luxurious resort located on the beautiful island of Taha’a in French Polynesia. The resort boasts breathtaking views of the crystal clear lagoon, vibrant coral gardens, and lush tropical vegetation.

The resort’s overwater bungalows are particularly noteworthy, offering unobstructed views of the turquoise waters below. Guests can relax on their private decks and soak in the stunning surroundings, enjoying the serenity of the island paradise.

The resort’s beachfront villas also offer magnificent views, with their private gardens overlooking the white sandy beach and swaying palm trees. Guests can unwind in their own private oasis and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the lagoon.

In addition to the stunning views, Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa also offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Visitors can also take part in cultural experiences such as traditional Tahitian dance performances, outrigger canoe tours, and Polynesian cooking classes.

Overall, the view from Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa is simply breathtaking, offering guests a true escape to paradise.

Pros: Stunning views, luxurious accommodations, range of activities and cultural experiences.

Cons: High prices, remote location may not suit everyone’s taste, limited dining options outside the resort.

Why Stay In An Overwater Bungalow?

No matter how often you encounter them, the relaxing winds and fantastic lagoon views from a tropical overwater home are addictive.

I vividly recall my first time staying in an overwater bungalow. The enticing and soothing assault on all of my senses has left an indelible mark on my mind and spirit.

Years later, when I’ve felt that life’s challenges are overwhelming me, I’ve been able to mentally conjure the sensory bliss of my time spent in an overwater house floating above the warm seas of the South Pacific.

These memories have frequently provided me with a little reprieve from whatever is occupying my mind.

The “Bali Hai Boys” designed the overwater bungalow to attract more customers to their hotel and deliver a unique experience. These cottages with thatched roofs on stilts quickly became a symbol of French Polynesia.

Today, overwater bungalows represent luxury and escape in the tropics. Their stunning vistas, direct water access, and glass floor panels are gaining popularity.

However, they are still uncommon enough to maintain the illusive allure of Polynesian enlightenment that seems to call to you like a siren singing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Much Does It Cost To Stay In An Overwater Bungalow In Bora Bora?

Find beach bungalows at one of Bora Bora’s five-star resorts for as little as $400 per night. Are you interested in upgrading to a conventional overwater bungalow? Expect to shell out between $800 and $1200 every night. Spend some nights in a beach or garden cottage if you cannot afford to stay the entire time in an overwater property.

2. Where Did The Kardashians Stay In Bora Bora?

Kris and Bruce Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and Kris Humphries stayed in two $5,000-per-night Presidential villas at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa. At the same time, the rest of the family remained in Tahiti’s distinctive overwater bungalows.

3. Which Is Better, Bora Bora Or Tahiti?

Tahiti is a more urbanized island, and although its beaches aren’t as well-known as those in Bora Bora, it provides fantastic shopping, nightlife, cultural events, and great outdoor activities.

Bora Bora is the picture that comes to mind when one considers the word paradise. This island is more secluded and luxurious.

4. What Are The Huts On The Water In Bora Bora Called?

Overwater bungalows assure you’ll be a few steps away from shimmering waves, surrounded by the ultimate vacation heaven.

5. What’s Cheaper, Fiji Or Bora Bora?

However, Fiji is more reasonably priced than Bora Bora. Everything in Bora Bora is prohibitively expensive, not just the opulent lodgings. Even basic products such as toothpaste and sunscreen. Bora Bora is the superior option for a stay that spares no expense in terms of luxury.

6. What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To Bora Bora?

November and April are the best months for a trip to Bora Bora. These brief shoulder seasons feature pleasant weather with the mid-70s to mid-80s temperatures.

The peak tourist season is from May through October when rain showers are few and the number of visitors increases.

Bora Bora remains an untouched paradise with clean water and virgin beaches due to the lack of tourist crowds and high-rise hotels. French Polynesia is, in reality, one of the purest locations on earth.

No matter where you stay in Bora Bora, the friendly and welcoming locals will be eternally appreciative that you took the time to enjoy their tiny slice of paradise.

My experience with the Bora Bora trip is amazing. You should also go there and create some good memories with your partner.

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