How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Bora Bora

With its stunning scenery, crystal clear blue waters, and tropical sights, Bora Bora is a quintessential honeymoon destination. The island offers a lovely mix of land and marine adventures alongside idyllic luxury resorts, which combine to create an incredible escape for newlyweds. 

“Bora Bora is a unique island for many reasons,” explains Kristin Carlson, managing director of Tahiti Tourisme North America. “It is a uniquely beautiful island with stunning mountain summits rising out of a remarkably multi-colored, brilliantly hued lagoon encircled by coral reefs, on which you will find some of the world’s most beautiful resorts. Bora Bora is just one of the 118 islands in The Islands of Tahiti which is well known for its welcoming Polynesian locals, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and high environmental standards.” 

If this sounds like the perfect honeymoon, read on for a comprehensive guide on how to plan a Bora Bora honeymoon—including what to do, where to stay, and how much to budget.

Planning Your Bora Bora Honeymoon

“Bora Bora is in French Polynesia, which is a short eight-hour nonstop flight from the west coast of the United States, and in the same time zone as Hawaii, meaning it is much closer than most people think,” explains Carlson. “Most hotels there are located on motus (or miniature islands), which surround the main island.” Anyone flying in will take a direct flight from LAX, SFO, or SEA to get to the main island of Tahiti. Once you land, you’ll transfer to a smaller plane to head to Bora Bora before transferring via a boat to your hotel.

The island is a year-round destination with average temperatures of 80 degrees, so it can be visited anytime. However, families tend to visit during the holiday season and summer months, which is worth keeping in mind ahead of booking. To get the full experience of the island, Carlson advises staying between five days to a week to be able to relax and include a few adventure-based activities.

Places to Stay During Your Bora Bora Honeymoon

From overwater bungalows to resorts with onsite biologists, Bora Bora has a whole slew of charming hotel options. While many of the properties are bungalow-style accommodations, they all boast unique features that distinguish them from one another. Onsite activities include everything from secluded culinary experiences to snorkeling.

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Located on an exclusive island with all-suite accommodations, the Four Seasons Bora Bora offers ample privacy for any newly married couple. According to Carlson, the property is incredibly spacious and offers tons of activities to experience on-site, including the Wise Oceans program, which allows guests to engage with an on-site biologist. During your stay, book a private culinary experience, such as a romantic dinner on the Sunset Motu or a cooking class for two.

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

Complete with authentic Polynesian-inspired architecture, Le Bora Bora provides magical views of Mount Otemanu. “This locally owned and operated Relais & Chateaux property has a stunning, recently renovated spa in a serene jungle-like outpost,” explains Carlson. While onsite, couples can take advantage of the variety of activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, tennis, ping pong, and canoeing.

St. Regis Bora Bora

With the largest overwater bungalows of any resort in Bora Bora, the St. Regis Bora Bora is ideal for couples looking to spend lots of quality time together. During your stay, couples should take advantage of the complimentary butler service, which offers couples the opportunity to reserve a completely secluded beach for a day (or two) spent basking in the sun. Carlson advises dining onsite at The Lagoon by Jean Georges, which is a fine dining restaurant with a view of Mount Otemanu.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Nestled on a private cove, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a lovely reprieve with expansive scenic views. Its hilltop spa, which features seven private cabin treatment rooms, is gorgeous and one of the largest draws of the hotel. “The overwater bungalows have the most stunning bathtubs for a romantic soak, and the sun rises over the coral garden under the gaze of Mount Otemanu, making it the best sunrise spot for romantics,” says Carlson.

Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana

As the only luxury hotel on the main island of Bora Bora, the Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana is great for adventurous couples who want to easily access the mountains. Due to it’s location, Carlson mentions that this hotel is great for accessing local restaurants, hiking, and biking. In addition, the resort offers fun activities for couples such as the canoe breakfast, which includes a dreamy breakfast being delivered to your room on a  traditional canoe.

Things to Do During Your Bora Bora Honeymoon

There are so many incredible activities to do in Bora Bora, ranging from snorkeling through the breathtaking coral reefs to biking around the island. For those looking for adventure, hiking with a local guide or taking a helicopter ride over the mountain are great activity options. On the other hand, those looking to relax can take advantage of all the fantastic resorts have to offer, including the spectacular beaches and pools. 

From caring for sea turtles to enjoying a romantic evening stargazing, here are some activities you shouldn’t miss during your honeymoon to Bora Bora.

Experience a Helicopter Ride

For a truly romantic experience, opt to take a helicopter ride over the iconic Mount Otemanu. Once you reach the top, pop open the champagne for a toast during this extra special moment. 

Take a Boat Tour of the Lagoon

With colorful corals, brightly-hued fish, and an abundance of sea life, Bora Bora is the ultimate snorkel spot. To take the experience a bit further, book a tour of the stunning lagoon, which offers you the opportunity to snorkel with sharks, rays, and other marine life. After the activity, enjoy a classic ‘motu’ picnic for two with your feet in the water.

Bike Around the Island

Since many of the resorts offer bikes, it’s best to take advantage of the beautiful resorts with a bike around. In addition, couples can also rent bikes on the main island and explore around the mainland, if they want something a bit more adventurous.

Go on a Hike

According to Carlson, the Bora Hiking Explorer is an awesome new experience. With local certified guide Django, the experience takes couples (or travelers) all around Bora Bora to hike different trails. As a local, he has amazing insights into local legends and culture, which only adds to the experience.

Spend an Evening Stargazing

There’s something incredibly romantic about snuggling up underneath the sky, taking in the bountiful stars above. Sit outside your overwater bungalow or on the beach to make the most of this romantic experience. Since there is no light pollution from any city, you’ll be able to see the sky up above with complete clarity.

What to Eat During Your Bora Bora Honeymoon

Whether you’re on the mainland or visiting one of the many resorts in Bora Bora, you’ll find ample food options. “Classic dishes in Tahiti are Poisson crû, a mixture of freshly caught raw fish (usually tuna), coconut milk, lime, rice, and vegetables, and feasts prepared in an underground oven, called an ahima’a,” says Carlson. Opt to try the seafood, local cuisine picks, and a wide variety of flavor combinations when you go out to eat.

La Villa Mahana

Dubbed one of the most exclusive dining experiences in Bora Bora, La Villa Mahana should be booked well before you head on your honeymoon. Located within a Mediterranean-style house, couples will experience an intimate dining experience with a five-course menu. Its ever-changing menu is based on local ingredients and daily catches, however, it always features Polynesian dishes made with classic French cooking methods.

The Lagoon by Jean-Georges at the St Regis Bora Bora

This restaurant is the most upscale restaurant in all of Bora Bora with floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass floor right over the lagoon. During your meal, expect to see rays, fish, and sharks swim by while you enjoy the delicious cuisine, which is inspired by French and Asian influences. Don’t forget to order a wine—the restaurant is known for having the best selection in Bora Bora.

Blood Mary's

As one of the most iconic restaurants in Bora Bora, couples love this popular spot. Located right on the water, you can order seafood favorites like shark, marlin, lobster, or mahi mahi. It’s worth noting that the eatery has been around since the 60s, and has hosted more celebrities than one can count.

Bora Bora Yacht Club

For a more laid-back meal, the Bora Bora Yacht Club is a great pick. With a waterfront location, the restaurant offers Polynesian cuisine with a French Twist. Options like Poisson crû alongside their famous freshly-grilled steaks are highly recommended.

Budgeting for a Bora Bora Honeymoon

The price of a honeymoon to Bora Bora can vary, depending on where you stay and what activities you do. According to Carlson, it’s best to budget between $4,000 to $8,000 per person for five to eight nights on the island. You can opt to book the trip on your own and utilize one of the many Bora Bora vacation packages available, which often include international and inter-island airfare, transfers, meals, activities, and a hotel stay. If you plan to splurge on business-class flights and ultra-luxe hotel suites, you’ll have to spend a bit more.