Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows
Bora Bora is the phrase most people type before they type anything else, and the handful of resorts on the lagoon are not interchangeable. What separates them is which side of the motu you sit on, whether Mount Otemanu fills the view or sits behind you, how deep the water under the deck runs, and whether the bungalow has a real pool or a hot tub the brochure calls one. Polynesian bungalows tend to be larger and older than Maldivian ones, with glass panels in the floor and steps rather than a vertical ladder. We rank on the view, the water, how well the build has aged, and the price step up from a garden room.
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A private-islet resort marketing the largest overwater villas in French Polynesia, with one- and two-bedroom configurations starting at 1,550 square feet, private swimming pools or whirlpools, glass-floor panels, and a dedicated on-site lagoonarium for protected snorkeling.
- 2
Bora Bora's largest overwater resort with around 128 bungalows over the lagoon. Modern-Polynesian design, glass floor panels, Mount Otemanu views, some with private plunge pools.
- 3
A resort on Motu To'opua featuring Tahiti's first two-story overwater villas with private infinity pools, direct snorkeling from villa platforms, and recent renovations completed in May 2026 that introduced new sunset-facing pool villas and updated digital controls throughout.
- 4
A 100-suite overwater resort on Motu Tehotu offering traditional Y-shaped pier bungalows in multiple categories, from 100-square-meter standard units to temperature-controlled plunge pool suites that sleep up to six guests, all with direct lagoon access and Mount Otemanu views.
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Bora Bora's oldest resort on Matira Point with overwater bungalows suspended above clear lagoon waters, featuring glass-floor views of tropical fish and unobstructed sightlines to Mount Otemanu from select villas.
- 6
Secluded Pearl Resorts property on Motu Tevairoa with overwater bungalows and villas sized from 851 to 1,003 square feet, each with glass floor panels and hammocks over turquoise lagoon water.
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A 3-star lagoon property on Bora Bora's south side near Matira Beach with 13 overwater bungalows. Thatched roofs, wooden decks, glass floor elements, and direct water access at accessible rates.
Frequently asked questions
What are my options if I want a direct view of Mount Otemanu?
Several resorts offer views of the mountain, including The Westin Bora Bora Resort and Spa and the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort. Some villas at the InterContinental specifically feature unobstructed sightlines to the peak from their decks.
Are there any overwater villas that include private pools?
Yes, you can find several options depending on your budget. The St Regis Bora Bora Resort offers villas with private swimming pools or whirlpools, while the Conrad Bora Bora Nui features two-story villas with private infinity pools.
Which resorts are best for snorkeling right from my room?
The Conrad Bora Bora Nui provides direct snorkeling from its villa platforms. Other properties like Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts and the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort feature glass floor panels so you can watch tropical fish from inside your bungalow.
I am looking for a more budget-friendly overwater stay. What should I consider?
Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora is a 3-star lagoon property that offers overwater bungalows at more accessible rates. It features traditional thatched roofs and direct water access for those wanting a simpler experience.
How large are the overwater accommodations in Bora Bora?
Sizes vary significantly across the island. The St Regis Bora Bora Resort has the largest options starting at 1,550 square feet, while Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts offers villas ranging from 851 to 1,003 square feet.