dessert
The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa Review: Overwater Luxury in French Polynesia
Last updated on December 23rd, 2025 at 03:59 pm
Do you remember the first time you ever saw an overwater bungalow on social media? I bet it was years ago. I’ll never forget when the real OG travel influencers first started posting these crazy pics and videos from the Maldives, Bora Bora, Bali, and more.
I remember thinking, “One day… what do I have to do to stay there?” Turns out the answer was 10+ years of working my ass off, mastering credit-card point strategy, and ultimately turning all of that into our honeymoon. Which is how we ended up at the Westin Bora Bora for a true once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list stay.
So if you’re planning your own honeymoon or an unforgettable Bora Bora getaway, here’s my completely unsponsored, fully paid-for-with-my-own-money review of our 5-night stay at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa 🛁
Read more on French Polynesia 🇵🇫
- Top 10 Things to do in Bora Bora for Couples
- 12 Bucket List Things to Do in Mo’orea for First-Timers
This site contains affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Getting to The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Idk about you but finding my way to a hotel isn’t usually the most exciting thing in the world UNLESS you’re in Bora Bora. We took an Air Tahiti flight from PPT (Tahiti) in the late afternoon and got to Bora Bora right before sunset.
There’s actually only two main airline options for getting to Bora Bora. Air Tahiti is the more established carrier with the most frequent flights, solid reliability, and a long track record of running the classic Tahiti to Bora Bora route. Air Moana is the newer player with a smaller fleet and fewer routes, but it’s a perfectly fine option if the timing fits your itinerary.
The flight itself is quick, around 50 minutes, and it’s easily one of the most scenic short flights you’ll ever take. Pro tip – ake sure to sit on the left on your way to Bora Bora and on the right when leaving for those epic turquoise views!!!
If you’re tight on schedule, Air Tahiti tends to be the safer bet simply because there are more flight options throughout the day. Air Moana works well if you’re flexible or looking for alternatives during busier travel periods.
You might not be able to control this but I actually recommend taking an earlier flight into Bora Bora. We had a ~2pm flight and we were slightly delayed because of weather. And then when we were landing…we had to go around TWICE because of high winds. It was probably the scariest f*cking flight we’ve ever been on. Like, tiny propeller planes and having to go around twice was insane.
It gets kinda windy in the evenings in Bora Bora so I definitely recommend flying in earlier!
Once you land in Bora Bora, the airport is tiny! There’s only one direction to go. And all you need to do is look for the Westin Bora Bora sign and walk right up to it. Most of the luxury hotels will have wooden stands waiting to welcome their guests. You’ll even get greeted with a freshly made lei!
The Westin handles your transfer from the airport to the resort by boat, and the ride itself already feels like a preview of everything you came here for. Crystal blue water, mountain views, and that first warm gust of Bora Bora air hitting your face.
If you’re connecting from Moorea or another island, the transfer works the same way. The only thing to keep in mind is timing since these inter-island flights can run on island time. Pad in some buffer and enjoy the (kinda chopppy boat) ride.
Rooms and Accommodations at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
The Westin’s overwater bungalows really are the star of the show. And I’m pretty sure the Westin has the MOST overwater bungalows available in Bora Bora (for now). It’s probably because it’s now one of the newest resorts on the island. (It was formerly Le Meridien but went through a MASSSSIIIIVEEEE remodel recently).
Don’t get me wrong – I love my Four Seasons and St. Regis but there’s nothing better than a completely remodeled hotel with brand new rooms, floors, restaurants, and more.
Overwater Bungalows
The basic overwater units measure about 441 sq ft (~41 m²) and come with a king bed, sofa, terrace, and those signature floor-panels. And yes, THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE.
We had a lagoon view bungalow and thought it was perfect. You can upgrade to the mountain view bungalows or the suites with a private pool but we thought ours was just fine! (They offered to upgrade us for the last 2 nights since we’re Marriott gold but at that point, we were way too lazy to move all our shit).
Overwater Suites & Villas
If you want more space or a more elevated experience, the resort offers larger overwater suites and multi-bedroom overwater villas. These include separate living areas, bigger terraces, and private plunge pools that overlook the lagoon. Everything is designed to give you more breathing room and more of those panoramic views.
The suite layouts feel residential rather than hotel-like, and the expanded deck space makes a huge difference. For families, groups, or travelers who want that “I could actually live here” feeling, the two-bedroom overwater villas are the highest-tier option. These come with generous indoor-outdoor space, multiple lounging zones, and premium views.
Think of these as the overwater bungalows turned up to eleven. If the bungalows are the dream, the suites and villas are the dream with extra square footage.
Beach Bungalows & Beach Villas
Not all luxury in Bora Bora sits above water. The beach accommodations are just as beautiful, and in some cases even more practical. The beach bungalows offer the same polished interiors as the overwater units but place you directly on the sand. You get a private terrace, immediate lagoon access, and lush landscaping that feels both tropical and private.
Some of the beach bungalows also come with private plunge pools, which is a great alternative if you want more privacy or easier access to the resort grounds. For travelers needing additional space, the beach villas are the largest land-based units. Multi-bedroom options are available, making them perfect for families, small groups, or guests who want more room to spread out without sacrificing views or comfort.
These categories are ideal if you prefer direct land access, want shorter walking distances to dining and resort amenities, or simply aren’t drawn to the overwater experience.
Regardless of which room type you choose, all the rooms come with…
- Every room is newly renovated with a modern-Polynesian style.
- Signature Westin amenities: Heavenly® Bed 2.0, sleep-well program (lavender balm, etc).
- Direct access to the lagoon (whether you’re stepping off your deck into the water or walking a few steps to the sand)
- Most overwater units include the glass-floor panel (seriously fun)
- Some version of a private terrace/lounge space (and in many cases a private plunge pool) is available in the higher-tier categories.
Luxurious Amenities at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Guys I don’t think I’ve ever explored every inch of a resort the way we explored the Westin Bora Bora. Like, we did EVERY.SINGLE.THING possible during our 5-day stay. And we easily could’ve stayed for another 5 more.
People kept warning us that we’d get bored but we didn’t experience anyyyyy of that. How can you get bored when you can literally just jump into the ocean from your balcony everyday????
There are seriously soooo many amenities at the Westin but these were definitely the hi-lights of our trip:
The Pool and Lagoon
The main pool area at The Westin Bora Bora is massive and beautifully designed, with plenty of loungers whether you want sun, shade, or the sandy beachfront section. It’s the kind of pool where you can easily spend the entire afternoon without realizing how burnt you might be! But don’t worry – they provide free sunscreen and aloe vera!
When you’re ready for a swim in the lagoon, the water is warm and calm, and the resort even has its own coral garden!! Snorkeling here is incredibly easy because snorkel gear is included in your destination fee and the moment you put your face in the water, you’re greeted by schools of colorful fish. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a quick, beautiful snorkel session without leaving the property.
Pro tip – get some bread rolls from the breakfast buffet and save em for later. The fishies in Bora Bora love to eat bread!!!
The Spa
For the amount of hotels I stay in, I am actually pretty picky about when I treat myself to the spa. And we were on our honeymoon so obviously this was going to be one of the times.
The spa at The Westin Bora Bora honestly feels like its own little world. We booked a couples Polynesian massage and it was one of those treatments where you walk out wondering why you don’t do this more often. And then you remember why because it’s expensive AF but totally worth the splurge.
The therapists we had were so good we fell asleep for part of the way!
After the massage, you’re guided into the wellness area where you can rotate between the steam room, sauna, and a private outdoor pool that overlooks the lagoon. We even brought our own bottle of champagne and toasted to our final evening in the relaxation lounge 🥂
Kayaks and Paddleboards
The lagoon around The Westin is calm and unbelievably clear, which makes it perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. The best part is that the resort lets you use both for free, so you can head out whenever the water looks too good to resist. There’s no sign-up sheet or pressure to join a group. It’s all super laid back and at-your-own-pace.
Eco Turtle Center
One of the coolest and most unexpected parts of the resort is the eco turtle center. It’s an on-site rehabilitation program where injured or rescued turtles are cared for before being released back into the wild.
We paid to join one of the feeding sessions (all proceeds go back to the rehab of the turtles) and got to learn about how the team evaluates each turtle, what the recovery process looks like, and how long they typically stay at the center.
I’m not gonna lie, there were parts of this experience that were super sad. But it adds a really meaningful layer to your stay because you’re not just vacationing, you’re seeing firsthand how the resort contributes to local conservation.
Resort Activities and Wellness Experiences
The Westin Bora Bora has a surprisingly full lineup of activities if you’re the type who likes a little structure mixed into your relaxation. They offer things like flower crown making, which is such a fun and very Polynesian way to start the day. It’s hands-on, creative, and you walk away with something beautiful to wear for the rest of the trip.
There are also wine tastings for anyone who wants a quieter afternoon activity paired with a little education. The staff walks you through different varietals and regions, and it’s a nice contrast to all the water-based fun.
On the wellness side, the resort has free yoga and Pilates classes held in peaceful open-air spaces that overlook the lagoon. The gym is also well equipped with modern machines, weights, and plenty of space, which is a huge plus if you like to keep your routine going even while traveling.
Altogether, the activity schedule gives you plenty to choose from so you can make each day as full or as mellow as you want.
Complimentary Bikes
Getting around the resort on the complimentary bikes was way more fun than I expected. It’s a “first-come first-serve” model with the bikes which means you can take any bike you see UNLESS it’s in the walkway of a bungalow. Then those are off limits but there’s plenty to go around!
Refillable Water Bottles
One of the most practical amenities is the set of refillable water bottles they give you at check-in. Bora Bora heat hits fast, so having water on hand at all times is a lifesaver. These bottles are good quality, easy to carry, and accepted at the refill stations across the property.
I know it’s not the *shiniest* amenity but I think it’s a thoughtful touch that keeps you hydrated and cuts down on single-use plastic, which feels aligned with the resort’s vibe and the eco-friendly initiatives like the turtle center.
And because you’ll use them every single day, it becomes one of those small perks that actually makes a big difference 💧
Food & Drinks at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
If you’re wondering what the food is like at The Westin Bora Bora, the short answer is: really good!!!! And also expensive. But hey, that’s the price you pay for staying at a remote island resort. My suggestion is to either pack a few bottles of alcohol to save on costs OR just splurge since this is probably a once-in-a-lifetime trip anyway.
The resort has a little bit of everything when it comes to food! From casual beach bar eats to curated dinner menus and fun themed nights. Here’s a full look at everything we ate and drank and why we left Bora Bora 5-10 lbs heavier 🤪👇
Ps. YOU NEED TO MAKE RESERVATIONS IN ADVANCE. This was kind of annoying because we were only able to snag an 8pm reservation which is super late for us. And we originally wanted to do the Italian tasting menu at Maere but settled for Asian. So if you’re a planner, I’d suggest reaching out to the concierge BEFORE your trip to ensure you can snag some 6 or 7pm dinner slots!
Tipanier
If breakfast is included in your room, then Tipanier is where you’ll start every morning. The breakfast buffet is HUUUUGE with tons of fresh tropical fruit, flaky croissants, Tahitian specialties, and a made-to-order omelette station that never disappointed.
One of my favorite surprises was the fresh sashimi and salmon. I know eating fish first thing in the morning isn’t really for everyone but it definitely is for me. (Also one of the reasons I love Hawaii so much)
We also booked Polynesian Night here, which is a full dinner buffet paired with a cultural show (aka live bellydancers and music). It’s lively, filling, and such a fun way to dive deeper into local food and traditions.
Maere
I was shocked to find out that the Westin Bora Bora has a restaurant that offers a tasting menu??? I guess it makes sense but it was a shock to me. And the menu at Maere rotates nightly, which keeps things interesting. As mentioned earlier, you need to book reservations in advance!!
We originally wanted to book for Italian night but were told that it was full since they only have two seatings every night (at 5:30 and at 8). We ended up coming on Asian night and still loved every course.
The flavors were bold, the presentation was beautiful, and the pacing was perfect.
They also offer a champagne flight in the beginning which ended up being one of the most memorable (and expensive) parts of the meal.
Other rotation nights include Fisherman’s Seafood Night and Mexican night, so no matter when you go, you’re in for something different and genuinely delicious.
Varavara
Varavara is the main beach bar and the ultimate low-effort dining spot for your first night, especially if you’re arriving tired like we were. We grabbed a poke bowl, a beer, and a couple small bites and it was exactly what we needed. The setting is casual, breezy, and right on the water.
‘O’A Rooftop Bar
If you want the best sunset views on the property, head straight to the rooftop of ‘O’A. This is the resort’s dedicated sunset bar with front-row views of Mount Otemanu that turn golden at the end of the day.
The drinks are great too. We loved the espresso martinis and their happy hour specials. It’s the perfect pre-dinner stop and one of the most photogenic places on the resort.
Te Ava
Te Ava is your go-to for a poolside lunch, and yes, you can literally eat while lounging in the pool.
The menu is casual with salads, wraps, and refreshing small plates that hit the spot when you’re spending the day swimming or tanning.
It’s all very relaxed and exactly the kind of meal you want when you don’t feel like putting on real clothes.
Room Service at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
We ordered room service after our jet ski day and it was suuuuuch a good call. The food arrived fast, everything was fresh, and there is something unbeatable about eating dinner AND DESSERT in a comfy hotel robe.
Staying at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa: Final Thoughts
Well I hope it’s clear that we had the most incredible 5 nights at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. We almost extended our stay for a couple nights but we sadly couldn’t do so without paying a large change fee for Air Tahiti.
There’s a lot of overwater bungalows to choose from but we couldn’t be happier with our choice of staying at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. It was completely new and remodeled, the service was outstanding, and we ate and drank til our hearts (and stomachs) were full.
Did you get a chance to stay at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa? Let me know in the comments below!
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Last updated on December 23rd, 2025 at 03:59 pm
Do you remember the first time you ever saw an overwater bungalow on social media? I bet it was years ago. I’ll never forget when the real OG travel influencers first started posting these crazy pics and videos from the Maldives, Bora Bora, Bali, and more.
I remember thinking, “One day… what do I have to do to stay there?” Turns out the answer was 10+ years of working my ass off, mastering credit-card point strategy, and ultimately turning all of that into our honeymoon. Which is how we ended up at the Westin Bora Bora for a true once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list stay.
So if you’re planning your own honeymoon or an unforgettable Bora Bora getaway, here’s my completely unsponsored, fully paid-for-with-my-own-money review of our 5-night stay at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa 🛁
Read more on French Polynesia 🇵🇫
- Top 10 Things to do in Bora Bora for Couples
- 12 Bucket List Things to Do in Mo’orea for First-Timers
This site contains affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Getting to The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Idk about you but finding my way to a hotel isn’t usually the most exciting thing in the world UNLESS you’re in Bora Bora. We took an Air Tahiti flight from PPT (Tahiti) in the late afternoon and got to Bora Bora right before sunset.
There’s actually only two main airline options for getting to Bora Bora. Air Tahiti is the more established carrier with the most frequent flights, solid reliability, and a long track record of running the classic Tahiti to Bora Bora route. Air Moana is the newer player with a smaller fleet and fewer routes, but it’s a perfectly fine option if the timing fits your itinerary.
The flight itself is quick, around 50 minutes, and it’s easily one of the most scenic short flights you’ll ever take. Pro tip – ake sure to sit on the left on your way to Bora Bora and on the right when leaving for those epic turquoise views!!!
If you’re tight on schedule, Air Tahiti tends to be the safer bet simply because there are more flight options throughout the day. Air Moana works well if you’re flexible or looking for alternatives during busier travel periods.
You might not be able to control this but I actually recommend taking an earlier flight into Bora Bora. We had a ~2pm flight and we were slightly delayed because of weather. And then when we were landing…we had to go around TWICE because of high winds. It was probably the scariest f*cking flight we’ve ever been on. Like, tiny propeller planes and having to go around twice was insane.
It gets kinda windy in the evenings in Bora Bora so I definitely recommend flying in earlier!
Once you land in Bora Bora, the airport is tiny! There’s only one direction to go. And all you need to do is look for the Westin Bora Bora sign and walk right up to it. Most of the luxury hotels will have wooden stands waiting to welcome their guests. You’ll even get greeted with a freshly made lei!
The Westin handles your transfer from the airport to the resort by boat, and the ride itself already feels like a preview of everything you came here for. Crystal blue water, mountain views, and that first warm gust of Bora Bora air hitting your face.
If you’re connecting from Moorea or another island, the transfer works the same way. The only thing to keep in mind is timing since these inter-island flights can run on island time. Pad in some buffer and enjoy the (kinda chopppy boat) ride.
Rooms and Accommodations at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
The Westin’s overwater bungalows really are the star of the show. And I’m pretty sure the Westin has the MOST overwater bungalows available in Bora Bora (for now). It’s probably because it’s now one of the newest resorts on the island. (It was formerly Le Meridien but went through a MASSSSIIIIVEEEE remodel recently).
Don’t get me wrong – I love my Four Seasons and St. Regis but there’s nothing better than a completely remodeled hotel with brand new rooms, floors, restaurants, and more.
Overwater Bungalows
The basic overwater units measure about 441 sq ft (~41 m²) and come with a king bed, sofa, terrace, and those signature floor-panels. And yes, THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE.
We had a lagoon view bungalow and thought it was perfect. You can upgrade to the mountain view bungalows or the suites with a private pool but we thought ours was just fine! (They offered to upgrade us for the last 2 nights since we’re Marriott gold but at that point, we were way too lazy to move all our shit).
Overwater Suites & Villas
If you want more space or a more elevated experience, the resort offers larger overwater suites and multi-bedroom overwater villas. These include separate living areas, bigger terraces, and private plunge pools that overlook the lagoon. Everything is designed to give you more breathing room and more of those panoramic views.
The suite layouts feel residential rather than hotel-like, and the expanded deck space makes a huge difference. For families, groups, or travelers who want that “I could actually live here” feeling, the two-bedroom overwater villas are the highest-tier option. These come with generous indoor-outdoor space, multiple lounging zones, and premium views.
Think of these as the overwater bungalows turned up to eleven. If the bungalows are the dream, the suites and villas are the dream with extra square footage.
Beach Bungalows & Beach Villas
Not all luxury in Bora Bora sits above water. The beach accommodations are just as beautiful, and in some cases even more practical. The beach bungalows offer the same polished interiors as the overwater units but place you directly on the sand. You get a private terrace, immediate lagoon access, and lush landscaping that feels both tropical and private.
Some of the beach bungalows also come with private plunge pools, which is a great alternative if you want more privacy or easier access to the resort grounds. For travelers needing additional space, the beach villas are the largest land-based units. Multi-bedroom options are available, making them perfect for families, small groups, or guests who want more room to spread out without sacrificing views or comfort.
These categories are ideal if you prefer direct land access, want shorter walking distances to dining and resort amenities, or simply aren’t drawn to the overwater experience.
Regardless of which room type you choose, all the rooms come with…
- Every room is newly renovated with a modern-Polynesian style.
- Signature Westin amenities: Heavenly® Bed 2.0, sleep-well program (lavender balm, etc).
- Direct access to the lagoon (whether you’re stepping off your deck into the water or walking a few steps to the sand)
- Most overwater units include the glass-floor panel (seriously fun)
- Some version of a private terrace/lounge space (and in many cases a private plunge pool) is available in the higher-tier categories.
Luxurious Amenities at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Guys I don’t think I’ve ever explored every inch of a resort the way we explored the Westin Bora Bora. Like, we did EVERY.SINGLE.THING possible during our 5-day stay. And we easily could’ve stayed for another 5 more.
People kept warning us that we’d get bored but we didn’t experience anyyyyy of that. How can you get bored when you can literally just jump into the ocean from your balcony everyday????
There are seriously soooo many amenities at the Westin but these were definitely the hi-lights of our trip:
The Pool and Lagoon
The main pool area at The Westin Bora Bora is massive and beautifully designed, with plenty of loungers whether you want sun, shade, or the sandy beachfront section. It’s the kind of pool where you can easily spend the entire afternoon without realizing how burnt you might be! But don’t worry – they provide free sunscreen and aloe vera!
When you’re ready for a swim in the lagoon, the water is warm and calm, and the resort even has its own coral garden!! Snorkeling here is incredibly easy because snorkel gear is included in your destination fee and the moment you put your face in the water, you’re greeted by schools of colorful fish. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a quick, beautiful snorkel session without leaving the property.
Pro tip – get some bread rolls from the breakfast buffet and save em for later. The fishies in Bora Bora love to eat bread!!!
The Spa
For the amount of hotels I stay in, I am actually pretty picky about when I treat myself to the spa. And we were on our honeymoon so obviously this was going to be one of the times.
The spa at The Westin Bora Bora honestly feels like its own little world. We booked a couples Polynesian massage and it was one of those treatments where you walk out wondering why you don’t do this more often. And then you remember why because it’s expensive AF but totally worth the splurge.
The therapists we had were so good we fell asleep for part of the way!
After the massage, you’re guided into the wellness area where you can rotate between the steam room, sauna, and a private outdoor pool that overlooks the lagoon. We even brought our own bottle of champagne and toasted to our final evening in the relaxation lounge 🥂
Kayaks and Paddleboards
The lagoon around The Westin is calm and unbelievably clear, which makes it perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. The best part is that the resort lets you use both for free, so you can head out whenever the water looks too good to resist. There’s no sign-up sheet or pressure to join a group. It’s all super laid back and at-your-own-pace.
Eco Turtle Center
One of the coolest and most unexpected parts of the resort is the eco turtle center. It’s an on-site rehabilitation program where injured or rescued turtles are cared for before being released back into the wild.
We paid to join one of the feeding sessions (all proceeds go back to the rehab of the turtles) and got to learn about how the team evaluates each turtle, what the recovery process looks like, and how long they typically stay at the center.
I’m not gonna lie, there were parts of this experience that were super sad. But it adds a really meaningful layer to your stay because you’re not just vacationing, you’re seeing firsthand how the resort contributes to local conservation.
Resort Activities and Wellness Experiences
The Westin Bora Bora has a surprisingly full lineup of activities if you’re the type who likes a little structure mixed into your relaxation. They offer things like flower crown making, which is such a fun and very Polynesian way to start the day. It’s hands-on, creative, and you walk away with something beautiful to wear for the rest of the trip.
There are also wine tastings for anyone who wants a quieter afternoon activity paired with a little education. The staff walks you through different varietals and regions, and it’s a nice contrast to all the water-based fun.
On the wellness side, the resort has free yoga and Pilates classes held in peaceful open-air spaces that overlook the lagoon. The gym is also well equipped with modern machines, weights, and plenty of space, which is a huge plus if you like to keep your routine going even while traveling.
Altogether, the activity schedule gives you plenty to choose from so you can make each day as full or as mellow as you want.
Complimentary Bikes
Getting around the resort on the complimentary bikes was way more fun than I expected. It’s a “first-come first-serve” model with the bikes which means you can take any bike you see UNLESS it’s in the walkway of a bungalow. Then those are off limits but there’s plenty to go around!
Refillable Water Bottles
One of the most practical amenities is the set of refillable water bottles they give you at check-in. Bora Bora heat hits fast, so having water on hand at all times is a lifesaver. These bottles are good quality, easy to carry, and accepted at the refill stations across the property.
I know it’s not the *shiniest* amenity but I think it’s a thoughtful touch that keeps you hydrated and cuts down on single-use plastic, which feels aligned with the resort’s vibe and the eco-friendly initiatives like the turtle center.
And because you’ll use them every single day, it becomes one of those small perks that actually makes a big difference 💧
Food & Drinks at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
If you’re wondering what the food is like at The Westin Bora Bora, the short answer is: really good!!!! And also expensive. But hey, that’s the price you pay for staying at a remote island resort. My suggestion is to either pack a few bottles of alcohol to save on costs OR just splurge since this is probably a once-in-a-lifetime trip anyway.
The resort has a little bit of everything when it comes to food! From casual beach bar eats to curated dinner menus and fun themed nights. Here’s a full look at everything we ate and drank and why we left Bora Bora 5-10 lbs heavier 🤪👇
Ps. YOU NEED TO MAKE RESERVATIONS IN ADVANCE. This was kind of annoying because we were only able to snag an 8pm reservation which is super late for us. And we originally wanted to do the Italian tasting menu at Maere but settled for Asian. So if you’re a planner, I’d suggest reaching out to the concierge BEFORE your trip to ensure you can snag some 6 or 7pm dinner slots!
Tipanier
If breakfast is included in your room, then Tipanier is where you’ll start every morning. The breakfast buffet is HUUUUGE with tons of fresh tropical fruit, flaky croissants, Tahitian specialties, and a made-to-order omelette station that never disappointed.
One of my favorite surprises was the fresh sashimi and salmon. I know eating fish first thing in the morning isn’t really for everyone but it definitely is for me. (Also one of the reasons I love Hawaii so much)
We also booked Polynesian Night here, which is a full dinner buffet paired with a cultural show (aka live bellydancers and music). It’s lively, filling, and such a fun way to dive deeper into local food and traditions.
Maere
I was shocked to find out that the Westin Bora Bora has a restaurant that offers a tasting menu??? I guess it makes sense but it was a shock to me. And the menu at Maere rotates nightly, which keeps things interesting. As mentioned earlier, you need to book reservations in advance!!
We originally wanted to book for Italian night but were told that it was full since they only have two seatings every night (at 5:30 and at 8). We ended up coming on Asian night and still loved every course.
The flavors were bold, the presentation was beautiful, and the pacing was perfect.
They also offer a champagne flight in the beginning which ended up being one of the most memorable (and expensive) parts of the meal.
Other rotation nights include Fisherman’s Seafood Night and Mexican night, so no matter when you go, you’re in for something different and genuinely delicious.
Varavara
Varavara is the main beach bar and the ultimate low-effort dining spot for your first night, especially if you’re arriving tired like we were. We grabbed a poke bowl, a beer, and a couple small bites and it was exactly what we needed. The setting is casual, breezy, and right on the water.
‘O’A Rooftop Bar
If you want the best sunset views on the property, head straight to the rooftop of ‘O’A. This is the resort’s dedicated sunset bar with front-row views of Mount Otemanu that turn golden at the end of the day.
The drinks are great too. We loved the espresso martinis and their happy hour specials. It’s the perfect pre-dinner stop and one of the most photogenic places on the resort.
Te Ava
Te Ava is your go-to for a poolside lunch, and yes, you can literally eat while lounging in the pool.
The menu is casual with salads, wraps, and refreshing small plates that hit the spot when you’re spending the day swimming or tanning.
It’s all very relaxed and exactly the kind of meal you want when you don’t feel like putting on real clothes.
Room Service at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
We ordered room service after our jet ski day and it was suuuuuch a good call. The food arrived fast, everything was fresh, and there is something unbeatable about eating dinner AND DESSERT in a comfy hotel robe.
Staying at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa: Final Thoughts
Well I hope it’s clear that we had the most incredible 5 nights at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. We almost extended our stay for a couple nights but we sadly couldn’t do so without paying a large change fee for Air Tahiti.
There’s a lot of overwater bungalows to choose from but we couldn’t be happier with our choice of staying at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. It was completely new and remodeled, the service was outstanding, and we ate and drank til our hearts (and stomachs) were full.
Did you get a chance to stay at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa? Let me know in the comments below!
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