Bora Bora Honeymoon Guide
Bora Bora is the definition of paradise, and one of those places where pictures just don't do it justice. My husband and I decided on a Bora Bora honeymoon, and it truly was one of the best weeks of our lives.
We stopped in Moorea first for a little more adventure before completely decompressing from the wedding. If you're headed doing a Bora Bora honeymoon, but looking for a little more adventure and activities, I would recommend going to Moorea first. I felt like 2 days was perfect for us, but 3-4 would give you more time to explore in town and/or swim with whales if you're doing Bora Bora after.
For our Bora Bora honeymoon, we were there for 7 days / 6 nights. Although I could've stayed there for weeks, I felt like it was a good amount of time. So, let's get into allllll the details.
Bora Bora Honeymoon Travel Guide
Getting There
Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia. To get to French Polynesia, we took an ~8 hour red eye flight from LAX to PPT airport in Tahiti. The red eye was nice because by the time we arrived, it gave us pretty much a full day. Our honeymoon started in Moorea. But, if we had been flying straight to Bora Bora, we would've had a layover in PPT, and then taken a quick flight from PPT to BOB (Bora Bora airport).
*Tip: Sit on the left side of the plane flying into Bora Bora and on the right side of the plane flying out for the most amazing views.
Once you fly into BOB, your hotel will usually have transportation upon arrival. You'll take a boat from the airport to the hotel and the ride is... gorgeous.
Getting Around
We really didn't leave our resort, but if you need to, you can arrange transportation through the hotel. If you're doing any sort of tour, they will typically include a driver for pickup/drop off at your hotel.
Best Time Of Year To Go
Bora Bora is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite of Europe/North America. The best time for a trip to Bora Bora is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is beautiful, and you can expect fewer rainfall and more sunshine. That said, May to October is also the most expensive time to visit. If you're looking for great weather without the high prices, try going during the shoulder months (April/November). We went in November and got a few hours of rain, but it clears up pretty fast. No matter what time of year you go, there is plenty to cross off your Bora Bora honeymoon list!
Where To Stay
If you're doing a Bora Bora honeymoon, you'll want to stay in one of the main resorts. A big part of the Bora Bora experience is the amazing hotels. I only say that because if you're looking to save on costs, I would recommend looking into another island (like Moorea) instead of Bora Bora. It's not to say that you couldn't have an amazing time elsewhere on the island, but again, these resorts really make the experience. If I'm going to be spending a lot of money to experience something, I prefer it's the place of my dreams, not its backup. But, that's just my opinion!
For our Bora Bora honeymoon, we actually stayed at the Conrad AND the Four Seasons. I did SO much research before booking the hotels. It seriously felt like I was making the biggest decision of my life LOL. But I wanted our Bora Bora honeymoon to be perfect, especially considering the hotels are pretty pricey. Even after endless research, everything I read/watched had pretty much the same opinion - the best hotel is really up to your preference. I decided to play it safe and book the Conrad for 2 nights, and the Four Seasons for 4 nights (I give alllll the details here - including which was my favorite!). If you decide to go this route and split your time, I highly recommend doing the shorter stay first.
Four Seasons Bora Bora
The Four Seasons Bora Bora is arguably one of the most amazing hotels in the world. Aside from the gorgeous views at every turn, the property is pretty big. There is a spa, fitness center, 4 restaurants, pool, lagoons, and plenty of beach access. They also have things you can rent like snorkels, kayaks, and paddle boards.
We stayed in the One-Bedroom Mountain-View Overwater Bungalow Suite. The room itself is pretty spacious, and the outdoor has 2 deck spaces (1 covered, one uncovered) and a lower deck with access to the lagoon. I kept reading that the Mountain-View rooms were worth the extra money, and I was happy we ended up splurging on it. It gave us such a beautiful sunset sunrise. One of the best parts of the room was the bathtub. It sits in front of a floor to ceiling window that you can open completely, with a full view of the lagoon. It feels like you're taking a bath outside!
Price: The average cost for an overwater bungalow starts around ~$1,800 USD / night.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
As soon as we arrived at the Conrad, I was in love. I can't explain the feeling other than just pure happiness, relaxation, and contentment. The property has a spa, fitness center, 4 restaurants, pool, and beach access. Our room wasn't quite ready when we arrived, so we had lunch at the pool restaurant. Once our room was ready, a member of the hotel came to get us and she showed us all the features of the room.
We stayed in a King Deluxe Overwater Villa. The room had full sliding glass doors opening to the deck, giving it a spacious feel. They also have an overwater hammock on the deck. But, my favorite part was the Bluetooth speaker system. You could connect your phone and play music throughout all speakers, including outside. It's a small touch, but I felt like it really elevated the experience.
Price: The average cost for an overwater bungalow starts around ~$1,200 USD / night.
The St Regis
The St Regis was fully booked when we were planning our Bora Bora honeymoon, so we obviously couldn't even consider it. That said, I have heard from a few people that the St Regis is another amazing resort. They are known for their amazing service and amenities, including complimentary butler service. The property has a spa, fitness center, 5 restaurants, pool, Lagoonarium, and of course beach access.
Price: The average cost for an overwater bungalow starts around ~$1,800 USD / night.
Top Things To Do
Stay in an Overwater Bungalow: Bora Bora is famous for its overwater bungalows with direct access to the crystal-clear lagoon from your own private deck. You could never leave your overwater bungalow during your Bora Bora honeymoon and still feel like you experienced a lot.
Couples Massage: If you're on a Bora Bora honeymoon, chances are you're recovering from months of wedding planning and stress. Spend a day at the spa and treat yourselves to a couples massage. All hotels have the most amazing spas.
Relax on the Beaches: I have a hard time doing nothing on trips, but I forced myself to soak it all in during our time in Bora Bora. It's your honeymoon! Don't feel bad if you're not being active. This is a once in a lifetime trip. Bora Bora is a place where you go to escape and truly disconnect. Take advantage of it :)
Go on a Jet Ski Tour: If you're looking for something a little more "active", go on a jet ski tour around the island.
Private Dinner on the Beach: What says Bora Bora honeymoon more than a private dinner on the beach? Most hotels offer a private dinner on the beach for a fee. It can be such a memorable experience.
Hike Mount Otemanu: If you can't sit still on your honeymoon, go on a hike to the summit of Mount Otemanu. It's a little strenuous (be sure to gauge if it's something you feel up to), but the views of Bora Bora from the top are breathtaking.
Top Places To Eat:
Like I mentioned, we didn't leave our resorts at all (except to move from the Conrad to the Four Seasons). Both hotels has an amazing breakfast buffet (my favorite was the Conrad) and some great restaurant options. Another thing to consider is ordering room service, especially if you have a view of the ocean. It's like your own private dining experience-I don't think it gets much better than that. I fell in LOVE with Poisson Cru - I think I ate it for every meal (yes, including breakfast). It's considered the national dish of Tahiti, and it's fresh fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice. Be sure to try it at least one!
Four Seasons
Arii Moana: A Mediterranean inspired restaurant that serves delicious appetizers, meats, and fresh fish. They also have Italian nights where their featured dishes are pasta based. We made reservations here both nights we went.
Beach Bar: You can sit down in the dining area or be served from one of the beach chairs. They have your typical lunch-style foods. I loved the poke bowl. Omg and the Poisson Cru was especially amazing and came in a big coconut.
Tere Nui: This is where the breakfast buffet is served. They also have themed dinners (typically 1-2x/week) with a pre fixe menu.
Vaimiti: This is their version of a sunset bar. We grabbed a drink before dinner here each night, and had a full meal here once. They had the most amazing Lychee martini. They play fun music too. It's a great vibe.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Upa Upa Lounge Bar: We ate dinner here our first night, and got drinks/appetizers the second night. They have live music and even fire dances on select nights. Watching the sunset, listening to music, and sipping on a glass of white wine there was truly a dream. My husband and I both said it was one of our top travel experiences to date. I could've stayed there all night!
Iriatai: Iriatai is a French inspired restaurant with gorgeous views of the lagoon. We ate here for our second night. The food was okay...I felt like it was a little bland and there weren't many other options. I honestly really enjoyed the food at the Upa Upa Lounge Bar better.
Banyan: This spot was booked both nights we were at the Conrad, so we didn't get to eat here. That said, I heard it's the better choice of Banyan vs Iriatai. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time if you're looking to eat here. Even though
Tamure Beach Bar: We ate lunch here both days. I got the shrimp roll and poisson cru (shocking), and both were amazing. I still dream about the shrimp roll - something about it just tasted so fresh. My husband got the burger and it was delicious too.
Off Property
Bloody Mary's: Bloody Mary's is an iconic restaurant, located on the main island of Bora Bora. It's an open-air space with a laid-back feel (think sand-covered floors). The walls of Bloody Mary's are filled with pictures of celebrities who have dined there too. They serve fresh seafood and (of course) their signature cocktail is the Bloody Mary.
Know Before You Go
Budget: Bora Bora is one of the most expensive destinations in the WORLD. A trip here (especially for a honeymoon) is truly a once in a lifetime experience, and the prices are definitely reflected. If you're looking for ways to be more budget-friendly, I would recommend purchasing alcohol at duty-free in the airport OR bringing a checked bag with alcohol.
Check travel requirements: Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter French Polynesia as well as be up to date on certain vaccines. Be sure to double check the travel requirements before booking your trip to Bora Bora.
Book activities ahead of time: Decide what are the top "must-dos" of your Bora Bora travel guide and book everything in advance.
Pack accordingly: Bora Bora's tropical climate calls for light and breathable clothing.
Learn some basic French Polynesian phrases: Even though English is spoken in Bora Bora, it's definitely helpful to known some basic French Polynesian phrases:
Ia ora na (EE-ah oh-rah nah) = Hello
Nana (Nah-nah) = Goodbye
Mauruuru (Mow-roo-roo) = Thank you
Fa'aitoito (Fah-eye-toy-toh) = Please
E (Ay) = Yes
Aita (Eye-tah) = No
Parau mai (Pah-roh my) = Excuse me
Pardon (Par-dohn) = Sorry
Ua parau 'oe i te reo Anglais? (oo-ah pah-rah-oo ay teh reh-oh ahn-glay) = Do you speak English?
Eaha te moni? (Ay-ah teh moh-nee?) = How much does it cost?
O taku ingoa ko... (Oh tah-koo ee-no-ah koh...) = My name is...
Protect the Environment: French Polynesia's natural beauty is its biggest asset. Help preserve the environment by practicing responsible tourism. Dispose of waste properly, avoid touching or stepping on coral reefs, and adhere to any guidelines for interacting with marine life.
Stay Hydrated and Use Sun Protection: The tropical sun in Bora Bora can be intense, so it's crucial to stay hydrated and protect your skin. Drink plenty of water and regularly apply sunscreen with a high SPF. Remember to seek shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Watch The Weather Conditions: Keep an eye on the weather forecast before and during your trip. Bora Bora can experience tropical rain showers, so it's good to be prepared with lightweight rain gear. However, don't let a little rain dampen your spirits (no pun intended) as it usually passes pretty fast.
Embrace "Island Time": Bora Bora operates on a slower pace known as "island time." Embrace the relaxed atmosphere, and be patient if things don't always go according to plan. Enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and savor the moments of tranquility that the island offers during your trip to Bora Bora.
What To Pack For Your Bora Bora Honeymoon
Lightweight, breathable clothing: The weather is warm and humid most of the year, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing for your trip to Moorea.
Swimsuit: Hopefully this is pretty obvious, but you'll pretty much be living in a swimsuit when visiting Bora Bora. So be sure to pack a few!
Shoes: I recommend bringing:
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring
Water shoes or reef-safe flip-flops for water activities
Sandals for casual wear and beach outings
Daypack: Bring a small daypack to carry essentials such as sunscreen, water, and a camera while exploring or on your tours.
Waterproof phone case: A waterproof phone case is perfect for underwater photos or just to keep your phone safe around water.
Electrical adapter: French Polynesia uses type C and type E plugs. Most hotels will have converters, but I recommend packing your own.
Enjoy your trip!
*This post is not affiliated with any of the mentioned establishments.