Green lagoon waters in Bora Bora with Mount Otemanu in the background. Photo by Landscape Photography Blogspot
Green lagoon waters in Bora Bora with Mount Otemanu in the background. Photo by Landscape Photography Blogspot

Bora Bora is a tropical oasis rising out of the azure seas that typify French Polynesia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, a dream that simply has to be experienced to the fullest. The first overwater bungalow was built in this magical lagoon over 30 years and there is simply no other way to fully understand the beauty and isolation of Bora Bora. What could be better then escaping to a thatched-roof hideaway where a few steps will take you into one of the most colourful underwater locations in the world?

The overwater bungalow not only gives you a truly incredible experience of Bora Bora, it also caters to your personal needs in a way few other resorts around the world can. There are a hundred and one reasons why you should stay in overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, but here are six that should get you excited.

Arrive like royalty

St Regis Resort Bora Bora terrace sea view. Photo by splendia.com
St Regis Resort Bora Bora terrace sea view. Photo by splendia.com

First impressions matter and in Bora Bora they want to make sure that first impression sets the trend for a spectacular island getaway. Most resorts will provide a shuttle bus directly to your spectacular new temporary home where you will be greeted by friendly staff and a welcome drink. You will be escorted to your private overwater bungalow where you will be left to gape in wonder at the views of the island and ocean around it. Here the staff is attentive and will offer you a tour of the facilities, but they make sure not to cross that thin line into being overbearing.

Enjoy your private paradise

Four Seasons Bora Bora overwater bungalows. Photo by homedsgn.com
Four Seasons Bora Bora overwater bungalows. Photo by homedsgn.com

This trip is all about you and an overwater bungalow gives you the freedom to enjoy your own private get-away. Glass panel floors, a private outdoor deck retain the look and feel of a natural setting without the embarrassment of having a local fisherman cruise past whilst you’re in your birthday suit. What’s more, many of the up-market resorts have their own plunge pools or spas where you may sip cocktails and enjoy the view in your secluded hideaway.

MORE: 10 PLACES WITH THE CLEAREST WATER ON EARTH

Marvel at the stunning views

The beaches of Bora Bora are famous for their fine white sand. Photo by Xavier Maire, Flickr
The beaches of Bora Bora are famous for their fine white sand. Photo by Xavier Maire, Flickr

There are few islands that can provide the sort of idyllic island and ocean views that Bora Bora can. The French Polynesian islands are known for having some of the best and clearest waters in the world and even here Bora Bora is highly regarded. In an overwater bungalow you have ocean all around you and a stunning view of the dormant volcanoes of Bora Bora. The shades of blue from azure to turquoise to navy and everything in between will give you a new definition for the ocean. as you take it all in from authentic teak-wood bungalows.

Arrange personalised day trips

Your arrival in Bora Bora will feel like something out of a dream. Photo by Ugur Ozden
Your arrival in Bora Bora will feel like something out of a dream. Photo by Ugur Ozden

Any resort with overwater bungalows will also offer guests the option of personalised day trips for those that get itchy feet. Take a nature walk around the tiny island to seek out some of the unique flora and fauna in this isolated part of the world. Alternatively you can arrange a private boat to take you on a tour of the surrounding uninhabited islands and their untouched white-sand beaches. The most popular activity in these parts is snorkeling and scuba diving and the more adventurous can try shark-feeding or diving with manta rays.

Step into a colourful underwater world

The biggest draw card of Bora Bora is undoubtedly its blue sea water that is unrivalled in terms of cleanliness and clarity. Staying in an overwater bungalow means you have a private piece of this tropical bliss just a few steps from your doorway. A refreshing swim will take you to reefs with some of the most colourful coral reef and ocean life that the world has to offer.

Bungalows cater to all

Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia dominate the island of Bora Bora. Photo by Marc CARAVEO, Flickr
Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia dominate the island of Bora Bora. Photo by Marc CARAVEO, Flickr

There was a time when staying in an overwater bungalow was an experience that only the very wealthy could afford. Today the major resorts offer a range of different bungalow options ranging from the basic one bedroom hut to the family-sized, villa-style options at the high end. There are options available for those who want a simple holiday with no electricity and there are those that offer the latest in entertainment technology. Singles, couples or families can have an experience in Bora Bora to treasure forever.