A dreamy hideaway nestled in the French Polynesian archipelago, Bora Bora is the epitome of tropical island living. Blessed with serene turquoise waters, coral reefs, abundant marine life, breathtaking vistas and around 9,000 truly lovely locals, it’s a simply idyllic isle to explore.
As you approach this South Pacific gem, you are immediately taken with its central peak – Mount Otemanu – a view postcards (and Instagrams) are made of.
This jagged central peak – an ancient volcano – rises up majestically on the main island. The surrounding motus or little islets are palm fringed and perfect, many of which are dotted with luxurious resorts, protected by the surrounding reef.
With a multitude of incredible accommodation options and activities to suit all kinds of couples, Bora Bora is a dream destination. So, if you and your love are seeking a sundrenched escape to welcome in married life, put Bora Bora at the top of your list and get ready to say ‘Ia Orana’ to paradise!
Polynesian Experiences
If you’re after some post wedding downtime, Bora Bora certainly delivers. Your daily itinerary could consist of something like this: relaxed buffet breakfast, morning swim, a spot of stand up paddle boarding, afternoon massage, cocktails and dinner before retreating back to your opulent villa. Sigh – what an introduction to married life! Equally, if you and your love are keen to explore, there are lots of things to see and do:
Ray feeding and swimming with sharks
This action-packed boat trip with Moana Adventure Tours is a must-do for adventurous newlyweds. After departing your resort, the tour guide will take you to a colourful coral garden to snorkel with curious tropical fish and perhaps a moray eel or two.
Next up, it’s ray feeding time! After anchoring in the lagoon, you will disembark and wade among hoards of hungry rays cruising in for a feed. Although a little intimidating at first, the rays are friendly, inquisitive creatures with velvety soft skin.
The final part of the adventure is swimming with blacktip reef sharks – definitely a honeymoon experience to remember! These reef dwellers are considered fairly harmless and once you get over any initial trepidation, you will no doubt find it an incredible wilderness encounter.
Four wheel drive tour
For a personalised way to navigate the island, book a private four-wheel drive tour with Vavau 4×4 Adventures. Your guide will take you along the main ring road to see the beaches, resorts and villages, while regaling you with the fascinating history and tales of the South Pacific!
Your excursion will take you off the beaten track to fantastic vantage points, which offer sweeping views of the lagoon below. For extra romance, book into a sunset tour and catch the last rays of the day from a picturesque viewpoint, champagne in hand!
Island Dining
Depending on where you choose to stay, you will no doubt be spoilt for choice with fantastic dining options at your resort, however they can be a little pricey. For a cost-effective culinary experience, head to the food trucks at Vaitape Village.
Serving up authentic French Polynesian fare including fresh seafood, chips, steaks and ribs, these little Les Roulettes (‘rolling food trucks’) offer a delicious way to experience local life. Try the mahi mahi (a pacific fish) with Roquefort sauce, or poisson cru – a summery Tahitian dish of raw fish marinated in coconut milk and citrus juices – divine!
Another must-visit dining destination is Bloody Mary’s. A breezy bungalow complete with tropical greenery and sand underfoot, this island-style eatery is arguably the go-to of every celebrity visiting Bora Bora – just check the names on the ‘wall of fame’ out the front!
Each evening, the daily catch and fresh meat cuts are displayed on ice, so upon arrival the wait staff will help you make a selection then send it straight to the chef! With tasty appetisers, a classic cocktail list and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect venue for an island date night.
Island Havens
Nestled on a lush motu, Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa boasts a variety of accommodation options – from classic overwater bungalows, to garden guest rooms and hillside villas which offer panoramic views.
For a quintessential Bora Bora experience, check into an overwater bungalow and enjoy waking up with the lagoon on your doorstep. You can opt to have breakfast delivered to your room by outrigger canoe, relax on your private sundeck and take a swim whenever you desire!
Active couples will love the water sports on offer, including scuba diving, jet skiing and sailing – the perfect activities to while away those summer days.
For a rejuvenating afternoon with your partner, book a couple’s massage at the resort’s Hina spa, perched on the hillside. Marital bliss!
All images by Anika Reynolds
Sprawled over 44 acres, the spectacular St Regis Bora Bora Resort is another heavenly honeymoon choice. With exquisitely appointed villas and bungalows, a tropical lagoonarium, bicycle hire, water sports, fine dining options and newly rebranded Clarins spa – it offers true Polynesian paradise.
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Oh, I’m in honeymoon heaven just looking at the pictures; what a divine spot to relax and enjoy the start of married life!
About Anika: I’m a freelance writer with a love of weddings and creatively styled events. I have a penchant for pretty stationery and perfectly put together cheese plates, and a never-ending sense of wanderlust!
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