It’s all about the water on French Polynesia’s idyllic island of Bora Bora. And I’m not talking about just any water. Think crystal clear and bathtub warm. Above all, Bora Bora’s waters come in a dozen shades of blue, from pale turquoise to deep marine blue. You’ll be surrounded by water no matter where you choose to hang your sunhat for the night.
If the South Pacific is on your bucket list—it should be—make the most of your island stay by splurging on an overwater bungalow.
At the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, individual bungalows stand on pilings ten feet above sea level. To reach yours, turn left at the palm trees and walk along the pier extending from the white sand beach. The beach, fittingly, has been given the title of the most beautiful in the world. And the water? It’s the turquoise variety, warm and relatively calm as the resort is set on a protected lagoon inside an encircling coral reef.
Whether over the water or on the beach, Le Moana’s 64 bungalows are nearly identical. The look is Tahitian, made with bamboo walls and polished wood floors. The roof is a thick layering of pandanas leaves. The interiors are decorated with woven grass mats and fresh flower blossoms.
Together with sweeping views of Bora Bora’s Bali Hai look-alike peak, Mount Otemanu, the highlight of your overwater lodging is its glass-topped coffee table. Peer through the glass and you’re looking at tropical fish swimming below in your own private aquarium. Slide back the table top, drop in a bit of special food and watch the colorful fish show unfold.
If you can tear yourself away from the delights of your bungalow, Le Moana offers complimentary use of kayaks, stand up paddle boards and snorkel gear. Craving a massage? Simply take the shuttle boat across the lagoon to sister property, the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa.
Should you be cruising in the South Pacific aboard the luxury ship Paul Gauguin, be sure to plan a pre or post-cruise escape at Le Moana. If time is short, you can still pamper yourself with an overwater bungalow experience. The Paul Gauguin offers a “shore excursion” overnight at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa. The package (which must be booked in advance) includes a candlelit dinner for two and breakfast delivered to your bungalow in a canoe. Either way, you’re guaranteed a night on water to remember.
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