8 Best Overwater Bungalows in Bora Bora: Pros and Cons
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There’s something deliciously sensual about drifting off to sleep to the splish-splash of waves beneath your bungalow…
Slipping straight from your deck into warm turquoise water for a morning swim. Sunning topless, French-style, with craggy Mount Otemanu rising in the distance…
Topless? Oops – don’t peek!
Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows are some of the world’s most romantic and luxurious places to stay.
We’ve slept over the water in Fiji and in Caribbean overwater bungalows. But nothing quite compares to the dreamy overwater escapes of Bora Bora.
A handful of overwater bungalow resorts sit on the necklace of motus (tiny islets) encircling the island’s famous crystal-clear lagoon.
And while you can feed stingrays, snorkel and explore the island by jeep, one of the very best things you can do in Bora Bora is simply soak up the magic of your own private overwater bungalow.
Here, we compare the eight best Bora bora resorts with overwater bungalows – complete with the pros, cons and insider tips to help you choose the perfect one.
Featured reader comments and questions
Best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora (at a glance)
|
Resort |
Best known for |
|---|---|
|
(Details: See #1) |
|
|
(Details: See #2) |
|
|
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort (Details: See #3) |
|
|
The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa (Details: See #4) |
|
|
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa |
Closed for a complete renovation until 2027 |
|
InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort (Details: See #6) |
|
|
(Details: See #7) |
|
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(Details: See #8) |
Quick pick: Find your match
- Most luxurious → Four Seasons and St. Regis
- Best boutique resort → Le Bora Bora
- Best modern resort → Westin
- Best snorkeling → Conrad
- Best beach → Conrad
- Best location for exploring Bora Bora → InterContinental Le Moana
- Best value luxury → Le Bora Bora
- Best budget overwater bungalows → Maitai Polynesia
Contents: Bora Bora’s overwater villas and bungalows
How much are overwater bungalows in Bora Bora?
Details plus pros and cons
1) Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
We bedded down at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, where 108 palm-thatched bungalows perch on stilts above bathtub-warm water. (Read all about our stay in our detailed review!)
The resort sits on its own private motu on the eastern side of Bora Bora’s lagoon, opposite iconic Mount Otemanu and next door to The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort (#3 below).
If you’re drowning in reviews trying to decide where to stay in Bora Bora, know that you simply can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons – it’s one of the island’s very best resorts!
Who’s it for?
Travelers who want the “classic” Bora Bora luxury experience. It’s equally wonderful for honeymooners (who account for about half the guests), couples and families, making it one of the easiest resorts to recommend if you can’t decide.
Families will especially appreciate the complimentary kids’ club and teen center.
The bungalows
Even the entry-level overwater bungalows are huge, spanning 1,080 sq. ft., with separate sleeping and living areas:
- Choose your view – Beach, lagoon or Mount Otemanu.
- Polynesian design – Traditional teak furnishings, soaring pandanus ceilings and indigenous artwork.
- Amenities – Espresso machine and complimentary snorkeling gear.
- Fun touch – Glass floor panels for peeking at the fish below.
We especially loved the enormous bathroom, with a double-size stone tub facing the lagoon though big windows that open.
Outside, each bungalow has a private deck with loungers, a dining table and steps leading straight into that glorious blue water.
What’s wow? Private plunge pool bungalows!
“Specialty” bungalows even sport private infinity-edge plunge pools on their decks! Yes, 27 have freshwater temperature-controlled pools (roughly 11 by 8 feet in size).
Available in one- and two-bedroom layouts, these villas range from 1,120 to 2,228 square feet.
Four Seasons pros and cons
The pros
- Ultra-luxurious villas – We didn’t want to leave ours!
- Lots of privacy – The bungalows are spaced far apart, so they feel more private than those at some other resorts on Bora Bora. (A little topless sun-tanning perhaps?)
- Shallow-water bungalows – Some bungalows near the shore sit above waist-deep water, making them ideal for families with young children or less-confident swimmers.
- Complimentary activities – Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, outrigger canoeing and more are all included.
The cons
- Limited access to Bora Bora – The resort’s scheduled midday shuttle to the town of Vaitape is great for shopping or lunch. But to venture out for dinner is super expensive (you need a private boat transfer). Once here, you’re pleasantly “marooned.”
- Snorkeling from the bungalows isn’t the best – The sandy lagoon beneath the bungalows means the snorkeling right off your deck is ho-hum. (But the resort has a fish-filled lagoon sanctuary for getting your snorkeling fix!)
Resort rating and to book
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 108
- Expedia guest rating – 9.6/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
2) Le Bora Bora
Say hello to Le Bora Bora!
Beautifully reimagined by a French Polynesian hotel company, Le Bora Bora is a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux collection of unique independently-operated hotels. It also picked up two MICHELIN Keys in 2025.
Set on a white-sand motu, it’s just a 10-minute boat ride from Bora Bora.
Complimentary onsite activities include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and outrigger canoeing. You may be perfectly content, though, just to chill all day long on the deck of your bungalow.
Who’s it for?
Couples and honeymooners who prefer a “boutiquey” resort with a distinctly Polynesian soul, rather than an international luxury brand. (Guests also tend to be younger than those staying at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, #3 below).
The bungalows
Of the resort’s 108 thatched-roof bungalows and villas, 50 are built on stilts over Bora Bora’s crystalline lagoon. Keep an eye out for the (harmless) sharks that sometimes glide right past your deck!
Featuring local wood and handcrafted décor, most overwater bungalows measure 850 sq. ft., with a bedroom, bathroom (with a separate tub and shower) and a furnished sundeck with a gazebo.
A fun touch is the glass-topped coffee table at the foot of the bed. Lift the lid to feed the fish below! There’s also another glass viewing panel beside the bathtub.
Overwater bungalow choices include:
- Overwater Bungalow – Closest to shore.
- Lagoon Overwater Bungalow – Unobstructed lagoon view.
- Otemanu Overwater Bungalow – Lovely views of Mount Otemanu.
- Pool Overwater Villa – End-of-pontoon location, with (you guessed it!) a plunge pool on your deck.
- End of Pontoon Overwater Suite With Pool – More than 1,800 sq. ft., with two bathrooms, an overwater hammock net and an infinity pool. Honeymoon heaven!
Best of both worlds
One thing we especially like about Le Bora Bora is that you have the tranquility of a private-island resort. But you’re close enough to Vaitape on the main island to enjoy its activities and restaurants.
Cycle Bora Bora’s scenic 18-mile coastal road, have lunch or happy hour at the legendary Bloody Mary’s, or treat yourself to dinner at Saint James, widely considered one of Bora Bora’s best restaurants (and less expensive than most resort restaurants).
Le Bora Bora pros and cons
The pros
- Authentically Polynesian – With its traditional architecture and lush gardens, it has an intimate feel and a genuine sense of place.
- Excellent spa – The tranquil Tavai Spa is tucked among lily ponds, with signature coconut-based treatments
- Gorgeous white sand beach – It’s as close to paradise as you can get!
- Easy access to Bora Bora – There’s a complimentary hourly daytime boat shuttle to the main island, plus an evening shuttle (for a small fee).
The cons
- No sunset views – The resort faces east, so sunsets are behind the property.
- Limited Mount Otemanu vistas – Because the overwater bungalows sit directly in front of the beach, they block much of the iconic Mount Otemanu view from the beach and restaurants.
Resort rating and to book
- Le Bora Bora – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 50
- Expedia guest rating – 9.4/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
3) The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
This is Bora Bora luxury at its most extravagant.
Spread across three private motus, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is all about space, privacy and unparalleled service. (We walked almost to it from the Four Seasons, getting great views across a narrow ribbon of water.)
It’s long been a favorite of celebrities, including Nicole Kidman (who has returned several times).
And it’s raked in countless awards. Most recently, the resort was named one of the top three South Pacific resorts in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards (2026). And it ranked #6 in the list of best resorts worldwide in Travel Weekly’s Readers Choice Awards (2025).
Who’s it for?
Luxury travelers who want the biggest overwater villas, personalized butler service and a sophisticated atmosphere.
The vibe is more formal than at Le Bora Bora (#2), the IC Thalasso (#5) and IC Le Moana (#6). Mature well-traveled couples will also find more guests in their age range here than, say, at Le Bora Bora.
If you prefer barefoot luxury over white-glove service, another resort may suit you better.
The bungalows
Of the resort’s 90 bungalows and villas, 77 are set on stilts.
They’re among the largest accommodations in Bora Bora.
Even the entry-level Overwater Villa spans an impressive 1,550 sq. ft., with a separate bedroom, spacious marble bathroom and a glass floor panel for watching tropical fish drift beneath your feet.
Choose from several categories:
- Overwater Villa (Superior and Deluxe) – Lagoon views.
- Overwater Otemanu Villa (Deluxe and Premier) – Larger at 1,905 sq. ft., with Mt. Otemanu views. Premier Villas add a whirlpool on the deck.
- Royal Overwater Villa With Pool – A whopping 2,798 sq. ft. villa with its own private pool.
- Royal Otemanu Overwater Villa – Two bedrooms, two bathrooms and plenty of room for two couples or a family.
The St. Regis pros and cons
The pros
- Complimentary butler service – Want help unpacking your luggage or arranging restaurant reservations? Butler service is available 24/7 to satisfy your every need.
- Exceptional dining – The resort has four restaurants, but Lagoon by Jean-Georges Vongerichten is the standout. Its refined French-Asian cuisine is served in one of Bora Bora’s most romantic settings. (Thai chili-crusted lamb chops or mahi mahi with celeriac puree and maple syrup? Tough choice!)
The cons
- The resort is enormous – Forget your sunglasses in your villa? You might need to hail a golf cart (or hop on a bicycle) to retrieve them. The resort is even larger than the Four Seasons.
- You need a serious vacation budget – Just about everything here comes with an eye-watering price tag.
Resort rating and to book
- The St. Regis Bora Bora – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 77
- Expedia guest rating – 9.6/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
4) The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
The newest luxury resort in Bora Bora, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa opened in late 2024 (after a complete transformation of the former Le Meridien).
It combines sleek contemporary style with one of the island’s best locations, offering jaw-dropping views of Mount Otemanu.
Who’s if for?
Travelers who prefer a fresh, modern aesthetic over traditional Polynesian décor. It’s also a great choice for Marriott Bonvoy members wanting to redeem points.
The bungalows
One-bedroom overwater accommodation ranges from 441 sq. ft. (for lower categories) to 613 sq. ft. for Lagoon Overwater Bungalows With Pool. Two-bedroom bungalows are 1,194 sq. ft.
- Most overwater bungalows – More overwater accommodations (128 bungalows) than any other Bora Bora resort.
- Choose your view – Lagoon- or Mount Otemanu-view villas, many with private plunge pools.
- Biggest glass floors – The largest glass floor panels in Bora Bora. You can see something intriguing almost every time you look.
- Modern design – Light wood, clean lines, free-standing tubs and floor-to-ceiling windows.
What’s wow? The sea turtle Eco Center
The turtle sanctuary connected with the resort is a remarkable place – you can learn so much from the marine biologists here and even be a “healer” for the day, helping care for injured turtles before they’re released back into the wild.
Westin pros and cons
The pros
- Unbeatable Mount Otemanu views – You’ll never tire of the views, especially from the two infinity pools, the beach and many overwater villas.
- Brand-new feel – Everything is fresh and stylish.
- Happy hour! – Sunset cocktails at O’A Bar cost about $20 USD instead of the usual $35 USD or so.
- Great resort fee perks – The mandatory destination fee includes airport transfers, daily wine and rum tastings, flower crown making, coconut weaving, non-motorized water sports, use of the fitness center and daily fitness classes.
The cons
- Limited restaurant variety – Dining can feel repetitive if you’re staying for several nights.
- Shared bicycles could use a little TLC – While handy for getting around, a few could use maintenance.
- Less convenient for dining off-resort – The complimentary daytime shuttle drops you at Anau, on the east side of Bora Bora’s main island, so you’ll need a taxi (20-minute ride) to reach the restaurants and shops in Vaitape. Evening transfers cost extra. (The Four Seasons, Conrad, St. Regis and Le Bora Bora, for example, drop you off at more convenient docks.)
Resort rating and to book
- The Westin Bora Bora – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 85
- Expedia guest rating – 9.8/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
5) InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa*
*Note: The resort closed on June 1, 2026, for a complete top-to-bottom renovation and is expected to reopen in 2027.
Before closing, the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa was one of the island’s most elegant resorts.
Located on the long narrow crescent-shaped island of Motu Piti Aau, directly facing Mount Otemanu, it was known for its spacious overwater villas, excellent spa and pioneering eco-friendly technology.
Resort rating and to book (when open in 2027)
- IC Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 84
- Expedia guest rating – 9.4/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
6) InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana
Most of Bora Bora’s luxury resorts sit on their own private motus. Not the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort.
It’s located on the southern tip of Bora Bora island – right by lovely Matira Beach (often ranked one of the world’s prettiest beaches).
Who’s it for?
Travelers who want the overwater bungalow experience without paying top-dollar resort prices. It’s also ideal if you like the freedom to explore the main island on your own.
The bungalows
The resort has 61 comfortable bungalows, including 49 overwater bungalows:
- Traditional Polynesian detailing – Soaring thatch roofs, walls covered in textured paper (reminiscent of straw matting), polished wooden countertops in the bathrooms and wooden louvers.
- Separate bedroom – The living area has a glass coffee table through which you can glimpse fish swimming underneath.
- Spacious wooden decks – Furnished with wood sun loungers covered in cushions, along with a rustic table and chairs.
Great value resort
If you’re trying to choose between the InterContinental Thalasso resort (#5 above) and this one, most people say go to Thalasso. That’s because Le Moana isn’t as “fancy” or high-end.
But Le Moana has its own advantages.
Rates are significantly lower, and the service is consistently warm and friendly.
It’s also earned a TripAdvisor “Travelers’ Choice Award” for multiple years, recognizing it as one the top 10% of properties on the platform.
IC Le Moana pros and cons
The pros
- Easy access to everything – You can easily walk to restaurants, shops and the beach, rather than feeling secluded on a private motu.
- Convenient to eat out – The front desk provides a list of nearby restaurants, many offering complimentary transfers. Go to the Bora Bora Yacht Club for fresh seafood and a heart-stopping setting overlooking the water. Or stroll to Lucky House for yummy pizza.
- Excellent snorkeling – Colorful fish and stingrays are often spotted right beneath the overwater bungalows.
- Complimentary watersports – Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling gear and traditional outrigger canoes are all free to use.
The cons
- Less secluded – Because it’s on the main island, it doesn’t have the same exclusive private-island feel as resorts on the surrounding motus.
- Older accommodations – While well maintained, the resort isn’t as luxurious or contemporary as newer Bora Bora resorts.
- Shallow lagoon – The lagoon water isn’t very deep (maybe chest-high) by the overwater bungalows. No diving from your deck!
Resort rating and to book
- IC Bora Bora Le Moana – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 49
- Expedia guest rating – 9.6/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
7) Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Set on the private island of Motu To’opua, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui boasts the longest stretch of white-sand beach in Bora Bora, backed by 16 acres of lush tropical hillside.
With a coral reef at its doorstep, the snorkeling is better here than at the Four Seasons or St. Regis.
And with six different restaurants and bars serving everything from French and Chinese cuisine to Polynesian beach fare, you’re not likely to get bored with the food.
Who’s it for?
Couples who value privacy, great snorkeling and unforgettable sunsets. It’s also a terrific choice if spending your days on a pristine beach is just as important as having an overwater bungalow.
The bungalows
Along with beach and garden villas, there are 86 overwater bungalows
At 1,249 sq. ft., they’re among the largest overwater bungalows in Bora Bora:
- Open-plan layout – Think contemporary interiors with granite countertops, warm wood furnishings and in-suite coffee facilities.
- Indoor-outdoor living – Fully retractable floor-to-ceiling windows let you open the entire front of the bungalow, flooding the room with fresh air and smashing views of the lagoon’s ever-changing hues of aqua, emerald and blue.
- Private plunge pools – Many overwater bungalows come with their own plunge pool.
Hammocks over the water
What’s better than a mere deck? A hammock suspended over the lagoon.
Every overwater bungalow features a built-in catamaran-style hammock net – perfect for reading or napping. We wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to sleep on it under the stars!
Conrad pros and cons
The pros
- Revel in lots of privacy! – Unlike the Four Seasons, St. Regis and IC Thalasso (on the east side of Bora Bora island), the Conrad is on Bora Bora’s quieter southwest side. There’s little boat traffic and it’s very peaceful.
- Great snorkeling – It’s one of the best resorts for snorkeling right from your bungalow. (Request a bungalow in the 300 Wing.)
- Endless views – Depending on your villa, you’ll enjoy mountain, lagoon views and sunset views.
- Unbeatable infinity pool – It’s a knockout.
The cons
- Less sheltered water – Because the Conrad faces the outer edge of the lagoon, the water can be choppier than at resorts on the eastern side.
- Large resort – Expect a fair bit of walking or bicycling between your bungalow and the main facilities. (You’ll find bicycles on the walkways.)
- Inconsistent WiFi – Some guests report weaker connections in parts of the resort.
Resort rating and to book
- Conrad Bora Bora Nui – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 86
- Expedia guest rating – 9.6/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
8) Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora
If your dream is simply to sleep in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora without blowing your vacation budget, the Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora is hard to beat.
Set among swaying palms and lush tropical gardens on Bora Bora itself, it’s a relaxed, unpretentious resort that delivers the overwater experience at one of the island’s lowest prices.
Who’s it for?
Travelers who care more about waking up over Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon than staying at a 5-star luxury resort. (It’s perfect if you’re happy to trade luxury for a much lower price.)
It’s also ideal for easy access to Matira Beach, local restaurants and grocery stores. If you want the freedom to easily leave your resort, you’ll love the Maitai!
The bungalows
Let’s call Maitai’s overwater bungalows what they are – huts. Charming ones though!
At this 3-star resort, they’re much simpler than other more luxurious villas on this list. But they’re clean, comfortable and excellent value.
There are 13 overwater bungalows (along with 13 beach bungalows and 28 garden-view rooms):
- Most affordable – Among the cheapest hotels in Bora Bora on the water.
- Glass coffee table – Watching fish, rays and other sea creatures through it turns your bungalow into a private aquarium of sorts.
- Sweet welcome – Beds come sprinkled with fresh local flower petals on arrival.
Location, location, location
Like the IC Bora Bora Le Moana (#6 above), the Maitai is located right on the mainland of Bora Bora island.
It’s just a 7-minute stroll from two small grocery stores, several restaurants and picture-perfect Matira Beach.
Matai pros and cons
The pros
- No breaking the bank – These Bora bora huts on the water are probably the cheapest.
- Walkable location – Having access to nearby stores for water, beer, wine and snacks is convenient (and helps with the budget).
- Fun snorkeling – Spy octopus, eels and colorful corals at the house reef.
- Budget-friendly extras – Nearby grocery stores make it easy to save on drinks and snacks.
The cons
- Fewer resort amenities – Not many activities are offered at the resort. (If you’re happy to relax and explore the island on your own, that may not matter at all.)
- No swimming pool – If you prefer pools to the salt water, you’ll miss having one.
Resort rating and to book
- Matai Polynesia Bora Bora – Official website
- Overwater bungalows – 13
- Expedia guest rating – 8.8/10
- Rates, availability and more reviews – Expedia | Booking.com
How much do overwater bungalows cost in Bora Bora?
There’s no denying it – Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows are a splurge.
Prices vary by resort, villa category and season. As a general guide, these are the approximate starting rates for June:
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – From about US$2,000 per night
- The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort – From about US$1,900 per night
- Conrad Bora Bora Nui – From about US$1,400 per night
- The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa – From about US$1,400 per night
- InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa – From about US$1,200 per night (following its planned reopening)
- Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts – From about US$1,200 per night
- InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort – From about US$900 per night
- Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora – From about US$700 per night
The most expensive overwater bungalows in Bora Bora
The Four Seasons and The St. Regis generally command the highest rates. They’re also among the island’s most luxurious resorts, making them top choices for honeymoons and milestone celebrations.
- Four Seasons Resort – A standard overwater bungalow typically starts at about US$2,000 per night in June. Specialty villas with private pools or prime Mount Otemanu views can easily top US$4,000 per night.
- The St. Regis – It’s only slightly less expensive. Expect to pay from about US$1,900 per night, with its largest and most exclusive overwater villas often exceeding US$3,000 per night.
Other luxury resorts
The Conrad, The Westin and IC’s Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa also sit firmly in Bora Bora’s luxury category. They offer stunning overwater villas and exceptional service, but typically at lower starting prices than the Four Seasons and St. Regis.
Mid-range accommodations
Le Bora Bora and IC’s Le Moana offer a more affordable way to enjoy the classic Bora Bora overwater bungalow experience, without sacrificing the postcard-perfect setting.
Choosing one of these resorts instead of the Four Seasons or St. Regis could save you several thousand dollars over a week-long stay.
The cheapest overwater bungalows
There are no true budget places to stay over the water in this paradise.
That said, Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora is one of the island’s most affordable options. You can often book an overwater bungalow here for a fraction of what you’d pay at the Four Seasons or St. Regis.
Planning your Bora Bora overwater bungalow stay: Tips
Pack a floatie
Bring a blow-up floating mat or inner tube plus a rope, so you can attach it to the deck of your bungalow and float on the water (without floating away).
Split your stay
Most Bora Bora resorts offer both overwater and beach bungalows. Save money by spending a few nights in a beach bungalow before splurging on an overwater one.
Better yet, stay at two different resorts – in a beach bungalow at one resort and in an overwater bungalow at the other. You’ll experience two sides of Bora Bora while stretching your budget further.
Bring your own wine
Alcohol is ridiculously expensive in Bora Bora. Cocktails average $25 to $35 USD each at overwater bungalow resorts, so it’s worth bringing your duty-free allowance.
French Polynesia allows each adult to bring in two bottles of wine – you’ll save money while sipping your favorite vintages on your deck.
Pack snacks
Bring non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, crackers and/or trail mix. It might sound silly, but you’ll be thankful you packed these when hunger strikes and you don’t feel like paying high resort prices for a light bite.
Spend a night in Tahiti
Most visitors fly into Faa’a International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti, then connect on a 50-minute Air Tahiti flight to Bora Bora.
To get over jet lag after your long international flight, we suggest you spend a night in Tahiti first, before continuing on to Bora Bora. We enjoyed our stay at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa, just a 5-minute drive from the airport.
Visit during the shoulder season
The driest, sunniest weather is generally from May to October, with temperatures around 82°F (28°C).
- July and August – Expect gorgeous weather. But these are the two busiest and most expensive months.
- Early May or late October – This is a great time to visit! You’ll enjoy the best balance of sunshine, low humidity and more affordable hotel rates.
- November – This month is another excellent option if you don’t mind the occasional brief shower. Expect warm days (around 85 F (29 C), bath-like lagoon temperatures and good hotel rates. On one November visit, we found the weather beautiful, with just a few short showers and some passing clouds.
If saving money is your top priority, January and February usually have the lowest hotel rates. Just be prepared for hotter, more humid weather and a greater chance of tropical showers.
Are over-the-water bungalows in Bora Bora worth it?
Only a handful of places in the world have true overwater bungalows, and Bora Bora is arguably the most spectacular.
With plenty to do beyond enjoying your bungalow – from snorkeling with rays and sharks to sunset cruises, private motu picnics and ATV adventures – you’ll never be bored.
But some of our favorite moments were the simplest: chilling on our deck, slipping into the lagoon whenever we felt like it, watching fish drift beneath the glass floor panel…
If staying in an overwater bungalow has always been on your bucket list, Bora Bora is one place where the experience truly lives up to the dream.
Discover more overwater bungalows
- Caribbean Overwater Bungalows for Your Bucket List
- Stay in a Dreamy Overwater Bungalow in Fiji!
- You’ll Love Punta Caracol Aqua Lodge’s Huts on the Water
Pin this post on Bora Bora’s hotels on the water
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Photo credits: 3 to 5, 46 to 48 © Janice and George Mucalov, SandInMySuitcase | 2 Four Seasons Bora Bora | Remaining images courtesy the respective Bora Bora resorts
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We have stayed at over-the-water bungalows twice with Sandals in Jamaica and St. Lucia. We’re finding it hard to step down to just a beach room now that we’ve tasted the OWB experience. We LOVE it!!!
We live in the US so it’s kind of hard to justify flying all the way to Bora Bora.
Just curious. Are there any other places in the general area that are worth seeing besides going to Bora Bora? Most flights from USA go LAX to Tahiti.
We just came back from Thailand and spent 5 days in Koh Phi Phi. Perfect vacation for combining the amazing sights of Thailand with 5 days on the beach.
So I’m curious if you can think of tying in another location with, say, 7 days at an OWB.
Appreciate your thoughts and found your site really useful!
Yes, we know. Overwater bungalows can spoil you!
For French Polynesia, you could combine Bora Bora with Moorea. There’s lots of great snorkeling on Moorea. But overall, it’s still a tropical sand-and-sea vacation.
You could consider Panama and combine the Panama Canal, historic sights in Panama City and an overwater bungalow experience in Bocas del Toro.
Or perhaps look at Fiji. Stay in an overwater bungalow in Fiji and mix it up with adventures like river rafting.
Have fun planning your next OWB trip :-).
We are going to Bora Bora for our 25th Anniversary next year and I’m having a very difficult time choosing a resort as I like different aspects of each one. Any advice?
Choices, choices! That’s the problem with choices, eh? It’s sometime hard to make a decision :-).
Maybe first look at your budget and compare the rates of each. That might rule out some.
Or if price is no object, then look at if seeing fish while snorkeling from your bungalow is really important (or is it okay just to be able to swim?)
Do you have a favorite resort brand? St. Regis? Or Four Seasons?
Since it’s your 25th anniversary, and you’re not young honeymooners, would you prefer to be in the company of other guests of a similar age? Then you can rule out the resorts which tend to attract younger guests.
Anyway, it’s a very nice decision you have to make :-).
Have a wonderful anniversary vacation!
I am from Ghana and I’ve been watching Bora Bora on TV, when the Kardashians went there on vacation. It’s a very nice and beautiful place to be. I would like to go there with my boyfriend. How can I get there?
Yes, Bora Bora in the island nation of French Polynesia (an overseas “country” belonging to France) is definitely celeb-worthy!
Your best bet would probably be to talk with a travel agent.
The resort you’re interested in may also be able to help you with flights — they’ll also know the latest entry rules (e.g., vaccinations, visas, etc.)
Crossing fingers you get there one day :-).
Excellent post here! Thank you.
What would you recommend if these are important to us: 1) private enough to go topless, 2) organic grocery shopping nearby, 3) calm water for swimming, 4) feels secluded.
Small rooms are fine. Does not need to be luxurious, just clean. Need to go on the cheap side.
We live in The western United States, so I think Fiji and Tahiti are our best bets for overwater bungalows.
Thanks for the kind commment on our blog!
Hmmm… Tahiti isn’t cheap; it’s just an expensive destination. But if you can swing it, it’s very special.
On Bora Bora, for access to a grocery store, then you need to stay close to the main island – meaning Le Bora Bora (boat shuttle to the island), InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana or Maitai.
You can walk to the convenience store, Tiare Market, from both the IC Le Moana and Maitai (which are the only two resorts with overwater bungalows on Bora Bora island). Tiare Market has cheese, milk, crackers, yogurt, cereals, etc., and some fruits and veggies. Organic? Sorry, don’t know :-). And these two resorts happen to be the two least expensive resorts with overwater bungalows too :-).
As for calm swimming water, depending on the weather gods, it can be windy and the water choppy sometimes. Regular trade winds blow from the south-east between May and October (strongest June to September); June to August is winter in Bora Bora. If you stay at the IC Le Moana or Maitai then, you’re exposed to these trade winds if they’re strong. The saving grace is that Matira Beach at the tip of the island (across the road from the IC Le Moana) faces west and is sheltered from these trade winds, so you can always go and hang out there.
Le Bora Bora is also on the windy side.
The InterContinental Thalasso is more protected from the wind, but it’s more expensive.
Unfortunately, though, if the wind is strong, all resorts will be affected to some degree.
The overwater bungalows at Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji are beautiful and secluded, but they’re not inexpensive. Strong winds are uncommon (most likely June to November).
I hope this helps a little :-).
Bora Bora is absolutely stunning! Your photos are beautiful :) My wife and I were in Fiji back in the late 80’s. Hope to visit this tropical paradise in the very near future. Thanks for sharing this great post and inspiration!
We’d love to go back to Bora Bora too :-). And sleep in another overwater villa, of course… Sending you good wishes for when you visit!
These images are so inspirational! Can’t help but dream myself away!
Ok, I now have this place on my radar!!
What a dream to visit Bora Bora! I read an article from a grumpy travel writer not long ago who claimed it was one of the most boring and overrated places on earth. Not sure how someone could become so jaded after relaxing among those views. C’mon! Sleeping in a beach bungalow. Over a crystal-clear ocean. How could anyone complain about that? :)
OMG – how anyone could say Bora Bora is boring is beyond us. Maybe if you don’t like swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving in gorgeous warm lagoons, petting sting rays, exciting jeep rides, visiting pearl farms, bedding down in luxury, or gazing out at scenery like paradise, you might not like Bora Bora. But sounds like that travel writer was really, as you say, just a very grumpy writer – one who has probably lost their zest for discovering and enjoying new places.
I am so incredibly green with envy!! Great photos!
This has been on my bucket list for a loooong time now! These overwater bungalows look so incredibly relaxing. What I wouldn’t give to spend a week (or month…) sitting on one of those balconies and taking in those views! :)
No matter the reason, I need to do this for at least one night during my life … just outstanding!
I’ve always wondered if it was “worth it” to splurge on the overwater bungalow experience. I just haven’t been able to get past the price tag…yet. I’m sure we’ll get there eventually, though as Bora Bora does look beautiful, that’s for sure!
I am very very jealous. I have always wanted to visit Bora Bora but it’s so far from home in the UK and obscenely expensive.
One day I hope to be able to go it looks so beautiful.
We hope you make it there too some day :-).
These places look like a fantasy! How lucky you were to have visited and stayed here~
I definitely dream of sleeping in places like this. Unfortunately, it’s way out of my budget. Hope someday I get the chance to do so. Bora Bora looks unbelievably beautiful!