T+L’s Review of The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa

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The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa

The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa is distinguished by its overwater bungalows that ensure privacy and offer direct access to the mesmerizing lagoon of Bora Bora. Some accommodations even boast individual plunge pools. Guests will find various dining options with three bars and three distinctive restaurants, one of which features a dynamic tasting menu. The resort’s private beach presents stunning views of Mount Otemanu and provides a range of waterside activities suitable for guests of all ages. For those interested in aquatic conservation, the on-site eco-center educates visitors on the protection of sea turtles through informative guided tours and seminars. Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, including rejuvenating massages at the spa or self-guided workouts at the fitness center.

As I settled into my plunge pool one sunny afternoon, the soft sounds of the waves against the stilts of my bungalow created a calming atmosphere. Below me, schools of vibrant blue fish swam gracefully, while the towering presence of Mount Otemanu—an extinct volcano—cast a magnificent backdrop, reminiscent of a scene from Jurassic Park. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in gentle hues of yellow and pink, I reflected on the unique beauty of Bora Bora.

This serene moment was one of countless reflects during my visit to The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, which has recently opened to guests after its transformation, marking the latest addition to the French Polynesian hospitality scene since 2017. The resort was recently included in Travel + Leisure‘s 2025 It List. After an exhausting journey spanning nearly 24 hours from the East Coast, my mom and I arrived at the resort just as the rain clouds began to dissipate, revealing the majestic Mount Otemanu.

Although the buildings themselves date back to the previous property, Le Méridien Bora Bora, extensive renovations have made The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa a completely different experience since its rebranding in September 2024. The resort features 142 bungalows, each complete with a private terrace that offers either lagoon or ocean views. The interconnected overwater bungalows form a charming boardwalk where guests can explore the area on colorful bicycles, embodying a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The service at the resort is commendably attentive. On our second day, the staff at Tipanier, a restaurant specialized in breakfast, promptly served coffee upon our arrival at the table. Even small requests—like snorkeling gear delivered to our bungalow after I casually mentioned wanting to see stingrays—were accommodated with ease. The massage I received at the spa included a soothing local serum to help with my sunburn, and during our last dinner at Maere, the chef crafted a special dish for my mom, who prefers cooked seafood.

Here’s my comprehensive review of The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa.

The Rooms

Home to the largest collection of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, the resort harmonizes modern luxury with a natural ambiance that effortlessly connects guests to the environment. The bungalows come in various sizes, with some featuring private plunge pools on their terraces. Additionally, there are 14 beach bungalows designed with family travel in mind, offering stunning views over an exclusive lagoon.

During my stay, we occupied the premium Otemanu overwater bungalow, which provided breathtaking views of the iconic mountain. Its unique features included a transparent glass floor panel, a spacious terrace with a dining area, a private plunge pool, and convenient access to the water via a step ladder. An outdoor Bluetooth speaker proved perfect for enjoying music during my evening swims at sunset. The room featured the renowned Westin Heavenly Bed, a highlight my mom loved so much that she decided to order the pillows for our home.

Food and Drink

Guests have a selection of three bars and three restaurants, each presenting a variety of culinary delights. Tipanier, the French-inspired dining venue alongside the lagoon, became our favorite spot due to its lavish breakfast buffet and seasonal dinner offerings. At Varavara, the poisson cru, a refreshing Tahitian dish of raw tuna, coconut milk, and lime juice, was so exceptional that I found myself ordering it three times during our visit.

On our final night, we indulged in a meal at Maere, the resort’s signature establishment, which offers a rotating tasting menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, with wine pairings available. Standout dishes included the homemade dried swordfish complemented with fresh coconut milk and grilled tuna steak served alongside sweet potatoes.

For a more casual dining experience, guests can enjoy excellent drink selections at poolside eatery Te Ava, ‘O’A on the second floor, or the beachside bar Honu Tiki, where daily happy hours attract visitors eager to enjoy a mudslide.

Our stay coincided with the rainy season, leading to alternating restaurant hours. This serendipitous situation resulted in us dining with familiar faces and engaging with the same staff, enhancing the resort’s warm and welcoming ambiance.

Activities and Experiences

The resort features a wealth of activities, facilitating an opportunity for guests to bond quickly. The Westin Bora Bora boasts the largest swimming pool in the region, complete with a swim-up bar, in-water loungers, and cabanas that are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Along the private beach, guests can access stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, or Hydrofoil bikes for adventurous outings. There are also organized group activities, such as coconut palm weaving, shell crafting, and flower crown making.

For those seeking to explore Tahitian culture beyond the resort, the staff can facilitate off-property excursions including diving, snorkeling, or off-road Jeep tours of the island. My mom and I participated in a lagoon cruise that featured an opportunity to engage with sharks and stingrays. We spent the entire day with a knowledgeable local guide, swimming with marine life while also enjoying a delightful lunch on a palm-fringed motu within the lagoon.

The Spa

The Heavenly Spa by Westin is a serene enclave tucked away toward the rear of the resort, easily reachable by foot or bike. Treatments draw inspiration from Polynesian wellness practices, complemented by holistic and Asian therapies. I had booked a deep-tissue massage, but upon arrival with a noticeable sunburn, the skilled masseuse adeptly adjusted the treatment to ensure a deeply relaxing experience.

The resort also features a comprehensive fitness facility and a selection of workout classes, including sunrise yoga, Pilates, and traditional Tahitian dance.

Family-friendly Offerings

While Bora Bora is often seen as a romantic getaway, it also hosts a variety of activities suitable for families. The Eco Center Bora Bora, established in 2000, provides an educational platform for younger visitors. This on-site facility allows guests to become involved in the care of injured sea turtles found in the area. The hotel offers guided tours and seminars about the facility and regularly schedules the release of rescued turtles back into the lagoon for guests to witness. During my stay, I had the chance to see two sea turtles that were being rehabilitated at the Eco Center.

Accessibility and Sustainability

The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa is committed to accessibility, featuring ADA-compliant areas throughout the property. Key public spaces are equipped with ramps and wheelchair access, and four bungalows—two overwater and two beachside—are specially designed to accommodate guests with disabilities, complete with plunge pools.

Location

The resort is situated on a picturesque atoll surrounding the main island of Bora Bora, a common configuration for many local resorts. Transportation from the airport is facilitated via the hotel’s speedboat, with the journey lasting just under 15 minutes. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu set against a stunning and peaceful backdrop, complemented by a private lagoon that gracefully flows through the property.

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Being part of the Marriott chain, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa offers Marriott Bonvoy members the chance to redeem points for stays, with rates typically running between 70,000 to 85,000 points per night. Booking four nights warrants a complimentary fifth night, with nightly rates starting from $1,000.

Each hotel review from T+L is crafted by an editor or reporter who has personally experienced the property, ensuring that selections align with our guiding principles.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com