The Motu Islands

Motus are the flat, sandy reef islands that form the coral ring around the lagoon. They are rarely higher than 3 meters above sea level, covered with coconut palms and tropical vegetation, and offer the most spectacular locations for luxury resorts. On the motus, you have the lagoon and the view of Mount Otemanu right at your doorstep.

The Main Motus

• Motu Tevairoa — Home to the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, one of the most exclusive hotels in the world. Overwater villas with private pools, butler service, and a view that puts postcards to shame.
• Motu Toopua — The large motu island opposite Vaitape, location of the Hilton Bora Bora (now Conrad). From here, you have the most iconic view of Mount Otemanu.
• Motu Piti Aau — Location of the Four Seasons Resort and the InterContinental Thalasso. Here stand some of the world's most famous overwater bungalows.

Overwater Bungalows — The Experience

Bora Bora is the birthplace of the overwater bungalow: the first hotel of this kind opened here in 1967. What began as a creative solution to the lack of beachfront land became the most iconic hotel form in the world. The experience:

• Glass Floor — Many bungalows have glass floor panels through which you can watch tropical fish, stingrays, and occasionally even small sharks beneath your room.
• Direct Lagoon Access — A staircase or ladder leads directly from the deck into the warm lagoon. In the morning, three steps from bed, and you're swimming among colorful fish.
• Canoe Transport — Some resorts serve breakfast by outrigger canoe directly to your bungalow — a tray with croissants, tropical fruits, and fresh juice delivered over the turquoise water.
• Sunset from the Deck — The private sundeck of each bungalow offers an unobstructed 180-degree view of the lagoon and mountain. A glass of wine at sunset here is the perfect end to the day.