A Luxury Guide to a Long Weekend in French Polynesia
More than any other destination, French Polynesia proves that fantasy can become reality.
More than any other destination, this luxury French Polynesia guide proves that fantasy can become reality. Under France’s dominion, the island nation brandishes Gallic savoir faire (think: peerless service, stellar wines and top-notch cuisine). But, it never leaves its Oceania-style, barefoot chic far behind. Home to affable denizens proud to share their 3,000-year-old culture, French Polynesia comprises five archipelagos with 118 distinctive, variously sized islands and islets, set halfway between Australia and California.
It’s the picture-perfect paradise of your dreams. Just ask Marlon Brando, who came to these Pacific islands to film Mutiny on the Bounty, and never really went home again. Amid seas the same painted blues of Van Gogh’s skies and David Hockney’s swimming pools, this magical place has sugary, black- and pink-sand beaches, craggy volcanoes, unoccupied atolls perfect for romantic picnics and thatched-roof bungalows that float above its gentle lagoons.
To best experience its wonders, go island hopping. From its showpiece gem, Bora Bora, to Taha’a, known for vanilla production; Moorea, a hiker’s mecca; Tikehau with its pink-sand beaches; and Brando’s own exclusive enclave on Tetiaroa, French Polynesia offers mana (healing energy) at every turn.
Where to stay
A honeymooner’s favorite, Bora Bora means ‘created by the gods’ in an ancient Tahitian dialect. Famous for diving and snorkeling adventures, overwater bungalows and a romantic spirit, this island is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Upon arrival, expect to cruise to your hotel’s boat dock by water transfer.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui Presidential Villa
Even in Bora Bora, some spots are better than others. The Conrad, which debuted in 2017, attests to that. On a white-sand beach in Bora Bora, tucked in a private cove on Motu To’opua, a tiny islet, the hotel flaunts the only unobstructed sunset views on the island. Suites range from sites on the lagoon to beachside enclaves ideal for families. Six restaurants, shark swimming, hiking activities, and a hilltop spa add to the allure. Choose a two-story Presidential Villa, with access to a shuttle boat for reaching the Conrad’s private isle. It comes with three terraces, an infinity pool and butler service.
From $5,000 per night. Contact Stuart de San Nicolas, general manager, [email protected], +689 4060 3300, conradhotels.com
The St Regis Bora Bora Royal Estate Three-bedroom Villa
Celebrated for its immense over-water villas, the biggest in the South Pacific, this haven sprawls across so many acres that it offers butler-chauffeured golf cart rides and complimentary bikes for guests to get from one attraction to the next. Boasting the island’s most storied restaurant, Lagoon by Jean-Georges, plus three other eateries, The St Regis gets high marks for its spa, set on a private island, and its Lagoonarium, an exclusive marine sanctuary. Families will find ample space in the Royal Estate Three-bedroom Villa, a 13,000-sq-ft sanctum that opens to its own private beach.
From $17,000 per night. Contact Richard Schilling, general manager, [email protected], +689 4060 7888, stregis.com
Four Seasons Bora Bora Three-bedroom Beachfront Villa Estate
A cocoon of unsurpassed coddling, this globally hailed retreat has been recently refreshed, adding a cadre of sumptuous, Tahitian-style overwater bungalow suites, complete with plunge pools, to its repertoire. Beachfront villa estates welcome guests yearning for more privacy. Enjoy breakfast delivery by canoe, a private party island, four alfresco restaurants and one of the world’s most beautiful infinity pools. Bring siblings to share the Three-bedroom Beachfront Villa Estate for a tony family reunion. Set on its own beach, the villa features an expansive outdoor living space.
From $14,700 per night. Contact Diego Stembert, general manager, [email protected], +689 4060 3130, fourseasons.com
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa Brando Suite
A mirage amid myriad tones of shimmering blue, this overwater-cottage hotel features 88 elegant, roomy suites generously spaced along piers that extend across the lagoon. Revel in a see-through floor under the coffee table that lets you see marine creatures go about their fishy business, or jump off the bi-level deck into the lagoon, snorkel in hand. A world-class spa, tempting pool and three restaurants beckon. For ideal lagoon views and room for a crowd, opt for one of the four stylish Brando Suites positioned at the end of the piers. Measuring 3,400 sq ft, they have kitchenettes and are butler-served.
