Four Seasons Bora Bora Hotel Review: Is This the Most Luxurious Hotel in the World?

Home to several of the most luxurious hotels in the world, and hidden in the far reaching expanse of the South Pacific Ocean, is Bora Bora. The island has become known around the world for its breathtaking turquoise lagoons, luxury hotels, and vibrant coral reefs.

Bora Bora is the epitome of paradise, an island that seems to have been made by the gods as a once in a lifetime retreat for those seeking tranquility, romance, and opulence.

The Four Seasons is one of the world's leading hotel chains so I knew I was in for a magical experience, but I didn't realise just quite how magical it would be.

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora isn't just a simple hotel stay, it’s an experience of a lifetime.

The natural beauty is unmatched and the resort has been meticulously designed to fit into its surroundings rather than trying to stand out.

The Four Seasons Hotels brand is synonymous with luxury, excellence, and outstanding service, it has been setting the standard in the luxury hospitality industry since being founding in 1960.

The brand runs over 100 incredible hotels and resorts across the world, in major cities, in beach destinations, and in the countryside. It's no surprise that many of their guests become repeat visitors, opting to always stay at Four Seasons hotels because they know exactly the level of services and experience they will get.

How to get to the Four Seasons Bora Bora

One of the reasons Bora Bora is seen as the pinnacle of hotel experiences, is due to the sheer determination its guests have in order to get there.

I am writing this from the viewpoint of someone from the UK, reflective in my experience in the majority of Europeans who travel here.

I took a flight from London Heathrow to LAX which took 13 hours overnight. I had a 3 hour connection in LAX Airport (which ended up being just one hour due to a host of delays) where I had to pick up my luggage and re checkin - this is something you have to do if you are transfering international flights at LAX, no matter where you are travelling from or whether your connecting flight is on the same ticket).

It was then time to board a flight to Tahiti, the capital of French Polynesia, the country in which Bora Bora is part of. This was an 8 hour flight over a huge expanse of ocean!

On arrival in Tahiti I would recommend spending a few days to relax, unwind, and catch up with your new time zone (we are now 11 hours behind the UK!). This also puts you in good stead for feeling great when you then move onto Bora Bora.

The flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora takes just 50 minutes, with regular flights throughout the day on propellor planes. We flew with Air Tahiti - the flights are expensive compared to European standards (£150-£200 for the flight) but it is certainly worth it!

Expect the most beautiful landing in Bora Bora (sit on the left side of the plane for the best views), and what seems like the world's smallest airport. As you enter the tiny terminal, you are instantly met with several branded stands of various luxury hotels, you want to head straight to the Four Seasons stand and this is where your holiday truly begins!

You are whisked off on a beautiful boat across the lagoon to the Four Seasons which is just a 15 minute ride away. You are given water, fresh towels and there is free WiFi on the boat.

As your boat pulls into the hotel you pass alongside the first row of the Four Seasons Bora Bora overwater bungalows, and up a small lagoon to reception where you are met by a man and his Ukulele, giving you a proper Polynesian welcome!

First impressions

The Four Seasons Bora Bora has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember, so my expectations were pretty much as high as the sky.

From the moment we were met by staff at the airport, I knew we were in for something good. The staff were friendly and helpful. We were led to a beautiful luxury boat and taken straight to the resort.

As we sailed past the first water bungalows, I just thought, 'Wow', I knew this was a once in a lifetime thing.

The water was the most vibrant shade of blue, as if it had been coloured by paint. It was so surreal that I had to pinch myself to believe it was real.

We were met by Damien, a smooth-talking Frenchman who had come from Paris to work in French Polynesia (what a life change!). He gave us a quick tour of the hotel before dropping us off by the pool.

The grounds were meticulously maintained, a testament to the luxury that awaited us. As we relaxed, I couldn't help but feel like I was in paradise, a place where every whim was catered to.

The grounds at Four Seasons Bora Bora

The 54-acre resort strikes the perfect balance - not too vast, not too compact. Its thoughtful design ensures that almost everything faces Mount Otemanu, with the exception of the spa, which boasts its own breathtaking views of the South Pacific Ocean.

The grounds are pristine, not a grain of sand out of place or a blade of grass left on the pavement. Every part of the resort and hotel is beautiful; every corner is designed with peace and luxury in mind.

The large pool overlooks a line of fluffy palm trees, set back from a white sand beach leading into the lagoon. The main beach area has plush sun loungers with inoffensive blue umbrellas to match the hue of the water that gently laps the shore just yards away.

The resort was created to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. There are no tall buildings, the colours remain neutral, and much has been built using local materials.

As you walk through the resort, you are surrounded by lush tropical gardens, home to singing birds and beautiful flowers like hibiscus and frangipani. There is a buggy service to take you around the resort, but I really enjoyed walking everywhere and immersing myself in the scents and sounds of the island.

The overwater villas at Four Seasons Bora Bora

One of French Polynesia's main attractions is its romantic overwater villas, found in few places across the world.

Four Seasons Bora Bora is home to 100 overwater villas, which may sound like a lot, but it really doesn't seem like it.

Spreading out from the beach and into the lagoon, the overwater villas come with different views. We were staying in a mountain view room, giving us one of the most iconic views in Bora Bora.

Other water villas come with beach views, and some with private plunge pools too. Each offers direct access into the ocean from a private decking area.

The expansive villas offer a living area, large bathroom with double sinks, spacious shower and a separate bath area, as well as a good size king bedroom that faces the ocean.

The bed was as comfortable as you would imagine when staying in one of the world's most premium resorts, and you can even request specific pillow and mattress types depending on your taste.

Beach villas at Four Seasons Bora Bora

Whilst we didn't stay in one of the beachfront estates, we were lucky enough to have a look at one.

At Four Seasons Bora Bora, there are seven beachfront estates. Ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom villas, these accommodations are perfect for families and groups of friends, ensuring everyone has their own space.

Each beach villa comes with its own private piece of beach and a large pool that stretches from the villa terrace out towards the sea. There is plenty of privacy, shaded by tall palm trees, so no one will be walking past while you relax in the sun.

The facilities at Four Seasons Bora Bora

The Main Infinity Pool

As mentioned, the main pool is slightly set back from the beach and has beautiful lagoon views. Guests can lounge in style with a cocktail and cool off in the pool or the sea.

There are always staff nearby, bringing around refreshing snacks or drinks. There is also a pool bar nearby where you can order drinks, or staff are happy to take your order at your sunbed.

Private Cabanas

For an extra touch of luxury, set up camp in one of the pool cabanas, which are free to use on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Te Mahana Spa

The Te Mahana Spa is a place of ultimate relaxation, where you'll find single and couples treatment rooms overlooking the lagoon and lush tropical gardens. Indulge in signature treatments using local ingredients like black pearl powder and Tahitian monoi oil. After your massage or facial, take a moment to unwind in the relaxation lounge or the outdoor vitality pool with another amazing view of the lagoon.

Fitness Centre

The resort is home to a state-of-the-art fitness centre, open 24/7.

For some outdoor fitness activities, there are two tennis courts and complimentary yoga sessions available. Tennis lessons are available for a fee, with a specialised tennis coach on site.

Kids and Teens Facilities

So many have asked me, 'Is the Four Seasons Bora Bora family-friendly?' and yes, there are plenty of activities for kids and teens.

The Kids For All Seasons club keeps younger guests entertained with arts and crafts, treasure hunts, and educational programs about the local marine life.

Teens have their own space, too, at Chill Island. With video games, ping-pong, and snorkelling excursions, there's always something cool to do.

I loved the food at Four Seasons Bora Bora. I always get a little nervous as I am a fussy eater who doesn't eat fish.

There are plenty of incredible dining experiences, from sophisticated gourmet dinners to relaxed beachside snacks; each restaurant at the resort promises a unique dining experience that complements its tropical paradise setting.

Arii Moana

Located in the heart of the resort, Arii Moana is the epitome of fine dining with a view. Oozing romance and overlooking the surrounding tranquil waters, It is an elegantly designed restaurant specialising in French cuisine with a Polynesian twist.

Faré Hoa Beach Bar & Grill

Perfect for lunch, Tere Nui is the ultimate beachside dining venue. The vibe here is casual and laidback, with a mix of international dishes and Polynesian classics. In the evenings, live music plays as you watch the late glow of the sun slowly fade below the horizon.

Vaimiti

My favourite of all the restaurants at Four Seasons Bora Bora! Vaimiti is an Asian fusion restaurant with expansive lagoon and beach views, the ultimate sunset watching spot on the island.

A popular spot for evening drinks and cocktails, Vaimiti offers dishes such as Grilled Red Tuna Tataki, Spicy Salmon with Crispy Sushi Rice, and Sizzling Beef Stir fry - all cooked to perfection!

Romantic private dinners

There are a couple of options available for those celebrating something special or for anyone who wants to enjoy the dining experience of a lifetime.

Sunset Motu Dinner

Sail over to your private dinner, set up at Golden Hour on a sandbank between the resort and the mountain. This unforgettable includes champagne and a three-course gourmet dinner; there is also an option to add on a candle display and traditional fire dancers.

Romantic Beach Dinner

Set up on a secluded corner of the beach, couples can enjoy an intimate dinner with champagne and canapés as the lagoon waters gently lap the sand around them.

Frequently Asked Questions: Four Seasons Bora Bora Hotel Review

What types of accommodations are available at the Four Seasons Bora Bora?

The Four Seasons Bora Bora offers both water bungalows (some with plunge pools) and beach villa estates. The water bungalows are bookable depending on their views - lagoon, mountain, and beach. The beach villa estates offer a variety of different room configurations.

How many dining options are available at the resort?

There are four on-site restaurants:

Arii Moana is a French restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere.
Fare Hoa Beach Bar & Grill offers relaxed beachside dining.
Vaimiti offers Asian fusion dishes and sunset drinks.
Tere Nui is an open-air breakfast restaurant.

What activities are available at the Four Seasons Bora Bora?

Is there much to do at the resort?

Guests can enjoy various activities, including snorkelling, paddle boarding, canoeing, jet skiing, flyboarding, tennis, scuba diving, and shark and ray feeding excursions. The resort also offers cultural experiences such as Polynesian dancing lessons, flower crown making and ukulele lessons.

Does the Four Seasons Bora Bora offer offsite excursions?

Yes, guests can take a ATV tour around the main island of Bora Bora or take a 4x4 safari.

Is there a spa at the resort? What kind of services does it offer?

Yes, the Four Seasons Bora Bora has a luxurious spa that offers many treatments, including massages, facials, and full-body treatments using traditional Polynesian techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Spa facilities include steam rooms, saunas, plunge pools and relaxation lounges.

Can the resort accommodate special dietary needs?

Absolutely. The dining venues at the Four Seasons can accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies, if necessary. It's recommended that you inform the resort in advance so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.

What is the best time to visit Bora Bora for a stay at the Four Seasons?

Bora Bora is lovely year-round, but the best weather is typically from May to October when there is less rain and more mild temperatures.

How do I get to Four Seasons Bora Bora from the airport?

Guests typically fly into Bora Bora's Motu Mute Airport and from there, take a boat transfer directly to the resort. The Four Seasons arranges these transfers for guests for a seamless and scenic ride to and from the resort. Helicopter transfers are available on request.

Does the resort offer wedding or honeymoon packages?

Yes, the Four Seasons Bora Bora is a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons and offers customised packages to make these occasions unforgettable. The resort can arrange everything from intimate beachfront ceremonies to lavish receptions.

Is Wi-Fi available at the resort?

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort for all guests.

Ready to Book Your Stay?

We hope these FAQs have helped answer some of your questions about the Four Seasons Bora Bora! If you have more questions or are ready to book your stay, don't hesitate to ask me anything!