Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa

Opened in 1998, the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa isn't as sparkly and modern as newer hotels like the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. However, the common areas and 80 rooms here have an authentic Polynesian feel from rampant carved wood, thatched-straw roofs, and tropical prints. The biggest pro though is the resort's breathtaking setting with a private beach overlooking a coral garden and Mount Otemanu on Bora Bora's mainland. The open-air eateries, numerous recreational facilities, and easy access to the airport and mainland add to its appeal. Grounds are expansive and well-manicured, with great care given to preserve natural elements like lily ponds and palm trees. Travelers here are almost exclusively couples (many honeymooners) and the atmosphere is relaxed and fun, yet still upmarket. Unfortunately, events are common here and can often mean areas are off-limits to guests. For instance, during our stay, a wedding and film production blocked us from part of the beach and the sushi restaurant. 

This is undeniably an excellent pick for a romantic, luxury stay in Bora Bora, but those looking for a more modern design should consider the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa. For a more intimate stay and slightly cheaper rates, check out the Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island.

The resort is reportedly going to start renovating spaces in 2018.

Reaching the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa is no easy feat, as international travelers must first arrive to the main Fa'a'ā International Airport on Tahiti, then take a 45-minute flight from Tahiti to the Bora Bora Airport, where guests will be picked up by a resort representative for a 10-minute boat shuttle (fee). On the upside, this is one of the closest hotels to the airport and it occupies its own small island. It's also a quick 15-minute boat ride to Bora Bora's mainland -- the shuttle drops guests off about a 10- to 15-minute drive from the downtown area of Vaitape. Note that shuttles to the mainland are free until early evening and there are no non-resort restaurants or shops on the island.

The 80 rooms here are all decorated in a similar style that melds traditional Polynesian design with upscale amenities. Travelers can expect floor-to-ceiling wood, with lots of rattan and carved elements (some representing Bora Bora's history), plus tropical-print bed runners and throw pillows in green hues. Wear and tear is evident, and the style could use a modern update, but rooms are attractive and have character. Rooms are divided between overwater, garden, and beach bungalows, with the former further categorized by view. Each room has one wall of sliding glass doors that open to an outdoor space: Overwater bungalows have a terrace with loungers, seating, and ladder leading directly into the water; garden bungalows (the largest of the bunch) have a big, enclosed area housing a gazebo, plunge pool, and seating; and beach bungalows have a fenced-in area with a hot tub and loungers.

Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, kettles alongside tea and coffee, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, desks, and wardrobes with safes, ironing facilities, bathrobes, and slippers. Beach units add living rooms with couches and two-person round tables. Big bathrooms can be partitioned from bedroom areas and have free toiletries, hairdryers, and magnifying mirrors. Overwater bungalows come with stall showers and separate deep tubs, while the other categories have outdoor showers. 

The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa offers an extensive list of recreational facilities, both for relaxation-minded and activity-seeking guests. Certainly a standout here is the beautiful, long stretch of white sand lined with loungers and umbrellas overlooking Mount Otemanu. The surrounding water and coral garden can be explored via free non-motorized water sports such as kayaks, snorkeling gear, and stand-up paddleboards. Close to the beach, a freeform pool with a zero-entry point is lovely and wrapped by loungers. Set in a somewhat secluded area off the walkway leading to the overwater bungalows is a whirlpool.

For additional repose, the outstanding spa is expansive and offers multiple treatment rooms for singles or couples, both indoors and outdoors. It's encircled by a lily pond that the architect took into account when designing. Rather uniquely, a tattoo artist is on-site for guests that want to commemorate their trip with a traditional Polynesian design. A small gym is also in this area, and outfitted with all necessary equipment. Also spread among the grounds are a mini-golf course, volleyball court, flood-lit tennis court, ping-pong table, and billiards, plus a Top Dive center. A helipad is on-site.

Tevairoa Restaurant is the main open-air buffet eatery open for breakfast and dinner, serving well-reviewed international fare. Once a week, a Polynesian buffet and accompanying show are offered, though it's pricey and the only dinner option on those nights. For lunch or casual dinners (except Mondays and Fridays), the poolside Miki Miki Bar & Grill serves fare such as paninis, salads, pizzas, and full bar menu. Taurearea Sushi Bar serves dinner, except on Mondays and Saturdays. Food across the board gets positive reviews.