Luxury French Polynesia Resorts: Le Taha’a, The Brando & Four Seasons Bora Bora

What was the most magical part of my recent luxury French Polynesia vacation? Honestly, it’s impossible to choose. From the moment I stepped off the boat at Le Taha’a and felt the warm embrace of local song and flower crowns, to my last sunrise at Four Seasons Bora Bora watching the sky turn impossible shades of pink behind Mount Otemanu, every single day exceeded my expectations.

I just returned from 8 nights exploring three of the best luxury resorts in French Polynesia, and I’m already planning my return visit. Whether you’re planning a French Polynesia honeymoon, family vacation, or romantic escape, this South Pacific paradise is surprisingly easy to reach from the US with nonstop flights from San Francisco or Los Angeles to Tahiti.

LE TAHA’A BY PEARL RESORTS: AUTHENTIC LUXURY RESORT FRENCH POLYNESIA

Our arrival at Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts was nothing short of spectacular. After a 15-minute boat ride from Raiatea, we were greeted by staff playing traditional music and singing local songs. The fresh fruit drink and cool towel as we took in our first glimpses of this stunning property set the tone for three wonderful nights.

I stayed in an end-of-the-pontoon overwater bungalow, and the privacy was exceptional. Our deck became our favorite spot—we’d jump directly into the crystal-clear water whenever we wanted. At night, we’d turn on the light over the water, and within minutes we were surrounded by blacktip sharks, stingrays, and dozens of colorful fish. It was thrilling to watch these gentle creatures glide just below us.

This resort is home to the famous Coral Garden, and it absolutely lives up to its reputation. The reef is truly unusual—filled with so many different types of fish, sea cucumbers, and we even spotted an octopus! From the top of the river, you can see Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu in the distance.

The Premium Beach Villas are my favorite accommodation. You have your own large villa with a private pool sitting directly on the beach at the end of the resort. It genuinely feels like your own private beach, and the sunset views over Bora Bora’s Otemanu are magnificent.

What makes Le Taha’a so special is its authenticity. The entire staff are locals to the region, and their pride in sharing their island is palpable. Our favorite drinks and food orders were quickly learned by the attentive wait staff. The Polynesian show is fantastic—a genuine celebration of their culture. The resort offers wonderful activities including vanilla plantation visits, pearl farm tours, 4×4 island explorations, jet skiing, and lagoon tours. For those seeking a truly local experience in stunning natural surroundings, Le Taha’a is an absolute gem.

THE BRANDO TETIAROA: PRIVATE ISLAND LUXURY RESORT

You reach The Brando on Tetiaroa by a small 20-minute plane ride from Tahiti. This exclusive private island resort offers the ultimate in French Polynesia luxury—the entire island is the resort, making it ideal for clients who desire complete privacy. Marlon Brando purchased Tetiaroa after filming Mutiny on the Bounty, and its beauty is truly indescribable.

My beach villa featured a very large outdoor living space with a private pool, hammock, dining area, and direct access to the beautiful beach facing the sunset. Every moment felt like a dream.

The Varua Te Ora Polynesian Spa is one of the most atmospheric spas I have ever experienced. Nestled on the shores of a tranquil pond, this sanctuary features elevated pathways that wind through lush vegetation to secret treatment villas and a couples’ suite high in the palm trees. It’s a hidden oasis where ancient Polynesian healing traditions meet contemporary wellness.

The tasting menu at Mutinee, their most formal restaurant, was absolutely delicious. What impressed me most was the passion of the staff—many have worked there for years, and their dedication shows in every interaction.

The Brando partners with the Tetiaroa Society on remarkable conservation efforts. Scientists conduct research on coral reef restoration and seabird populations. After successfully eradicating invasive rats in 2022, they’re monitoring the return of seabirds and studying positive impacts on coral reefs. We visited Bird Island and were amazed by the brilliant blue coconut crabs and the abundance of birds. If you visit during turtle season (November to March), you can join biologists for night observations of sea turtles—an unforgettable experience.

The Brando is best for clients seeking a completely private island experience where luxury and environmental stewardship exist in perfect harmony.

 

FOUR SEASONS BORA BORA: TOP LUXURY FAMILY RESORT

This was my second stay at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, and it remains one of my absolute favorite luxury resorts in the world. My overwater bungalow offered a stunning view of Mount Otemanu with breathtaking sunsets every evening.

While the overwater bungalows are spectacular, the Residence Villas are the true standout. They’re huge and feel like a home away from home, with beautiful gardens, private pools, and prime beachfront locations—perfect for families or groups who want space and privacy.

The spa here is outstanding. You can relax in a whirlpool facing Otemanu, or move to the other side where you can watch and listen to ocean waves crash against the reef. The pool area is beautiful and festive, filled with couples and families. My favorite activity was jet skiing around the island—the changing shades of blue are simply breathtaking. You must stop at the Bora Bora Beach Club for lunch and a cocktail.

Four Seasons excels at catering to all ages with an excellent kids club and a dedicated beach space with its own swim platform just for teenagers. It’s this attention to every guest’s needs that makes it such a special family destination.

 

PLANNING YOUR LUXURY FRENCH POLYNESIA VACATION

A stay at any of these luxury French Polynesia resorts is certain to create memories of a lifetime. Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts offers authentic Polynesian culture with incredible overwater bungalows and snorkeling at the famous Coral Garden. The Brando Tetiaroa provides the ultimate private island resort experience with meaningful eco-tourism and conservation at its heart. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora delivers iconic luxury with impeccable service, stunning Mount Otemanu views, and activities for all ages—making it perfect for families, couples, and honeymoons alike.

Here’s what makes booking through me different: My preferred partner status with Le Taha’a, Four Seasons Bora Bora, and The Brando guarantees you receive VIP treatment that often exceeds standard Virtuoso benefits. This means daily breakfast for two, generous resort or spa credits, room upgrades based on availability, flexible check-in and check-out times, thoughtful welcome amenities, and priority placement in the best room locations. The staff knows you’re my client, and you’ll feel that recognition throughout your entire stay. It’s the difference between simply visiting these properties and being welcomed like family.

Click here to start planning your dream escape to French Polynesia!