Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

When we planned our first trip to Bora Bora 5 years ago, I was torn between the Four Seasons and St. Regis. They were consistently rated as the top two properties in Bora Bora, but I had difficulty finding direct comparisons. I have now stayed at both, so I thought I'd share my thoughts. We didn't end up going to the St. Regis until 2023 because of Covid and we recently returned from the Four Seasons. Both were anniversary trips. I will start by staying they are both amazing resorts. We loved them both and if you are going to either of them, I'm sure you'll have a great time. There are differences, but it depends on what's important to you to determine the right one. Both resorts had great facilities, wonderful food and top level service. The biggest differences that stood out to me were the amount of kids and the service. Four Seasons had a lot of kids! The pool was filled with kids each day and there is no separate adult pool. I never noticed any kids when we stayed at the St. Regis. One other person staying there said he chose the Four Seasons because he brought his kids with him and the Four Seasons is known for accommodating kids. I have kids of my own, but given this was an anniversary trip, I would have preferred not having as many kids around. The St. Regis felt like more of a honeymoon and anniversary spot than the Four Seasons. The other big difference was the personalized service which is much better at the St. Regis due to each bungalow being assigned a butler. I didn't think it would be a big deal when I heard about it, but it really was wonderful. Also having the butler coffee service each morning delivered to your room and set up on your deck was a great way to start the day. Our butler always seemed to know where we were and what we did each day. She was always checking in to ensure we were having a great time and that everything was running smoothly. We did all of our interactions at the Four Seasons via their app, so it felt much more impersonal. I never got to know the concierge or anyone else specifically. All the service we received was warm and of a high level, but without the level of personalization. We loved all the restaurants at each resort (we ate at each one), but the Lagoon was a stand out to us and the Bar 727 was the best spot for sunset drinks. Truly spectacular. The Four Seasons bungalows seemed to be better maintained and of a higher caliber, but we truly enjoyed both of them. The a/c was phenomenal at the Four Seasons. We really enjoyed having bikes at the St. Regis and did a lot of walking at the Four Seasons. It rained quite a bit when we were there, so we had to depend on the golf cart pick ups frequently. They were generally on time, but sometimes late and you had to give them a 15 minute lead time. Both properties were incredibly beautiful and well maintained. Possibly the most beautiful place I've ever been. I'd say the Four Seasons has better photographic opportunities, but they are both gorgeous. The other big difference is that I felt a bit nickel and dimed at the Four Seasons. When you're paying thousands of dollars per night, I would think they wouldn't charge you for certain things. The St. Regis has a free shuttle to the main island, whereas the Four Seasons charges $80 per couple round trip. We wanted to go to the Lagoon for dinner one night and it would have cost $110 per couple just for the 2 minute shared boat ride to the St. Regis. The St. Regis is the next resort over and you could literally swim there. There were several other charges that seemed to be there just because you're a captured audience and they can. It just didn't sit well with us when you're paying so much per night and then to add on extra charges. When we celebrated our anniversary at the St. Regis, they left us a bottle of good Champagne with treats and allowed us to have them deliver it to the Lagoon to enjoy with dinner one night without a corkage fee. While celebrating our anniversary at the Four Seasons, they left us a plate with 2 mini muffins and 2 chocolates. It was nice to be recognized, but again at these prices it would be classy to add a bottle of champagne that wouldn't cost them much. Given the drinks are about $30 each, if you're cost conscience, I recommend buying alcohol at the Duty Free shop in Papeete and taking with you to Bora Bora. You can take them on the plane without a problem. Bottom line, both resorts are wonderful and you can't go wrong with either one. If I were to go back with kids, I would choose the Four Seasons but if I were to go back as a couple, I would choose the St. Regis.

Amazing, more than exceed my expectations. Simply the best place to stay. cannot say enough good things about this place. Cant wait to return for my anniversary. There was really no negatives about this place. Best service, villas, food everything

FS Bora Bora is just like the photos, you simply CANNOT believe your eyes. From the moment you arrive, the team welcomes you home. Lise, was our concierge and provided excellent service from before arriving to the moment we left. The General Manager- who worked daily at the lunch restaurant, made a point to say hello to us, by name, daily. With all the guests coming and going, that cannot be easy to remember. It made an impression. Our daily bartender, located at the beach bar, was lovely woman, with biggest and most genuine smile. Last but not least, the transportation- as I call them, my personal golf cart guys- all made us laugh on each few minute ride. They were all over the top funny and made our trip. This destination is one of those- once in a lifetime experiences, for some, if you are so lucky. This hotel ensures, it will be the most memorable of your life. Hats off to FS Bora Bora, I hope one day we can return. The Hartfields

This hotel is exceptional in every way. The staff go out of their way with joy to make you feel special and acknowledged and take care of all of your needs. The rooms are unbelievably comfortable with the most beautiful view you’ve ever seen. Two of the days we stayed we never left our room because we were so comfortable and they bring everything to you. If I could give 10 stars, I would.

The resort grounds are beautiful, and the overwater bungalows are spacious, luxurious, and well-kept. It was incredible to be able to simply descend a few stairs from the deck and swim in the warm, clear water, and the outdoor shower made it so we felt clean and refreshed upon returning to the deck (which also served as a beautiful location for a few well-presented room service lunches and dinners). The internal lagoon is amazing, filled with various types of coral and multitudes of sea life. We spent a lot of time there just looking around on our own, but Marc and Cyril also served as terrific lagoon guides, pointing out many things that we likely would have missed (the octopus was a particular highlight). The night snorkel, complete with flashlights and a UV light that allowed us to see the hidden colors of the sea, was a very unique and special experience. Other off-resort activities (transportation to Vaitape, a snorkeling excursion to see sharks and rays, transportation to/from the airport) were easily arranged, both in advance and during our stay, through the highly-attentive staff, who made everything very easy. The resort ended up being an even more perfect environment for our family to spend quality time together than we imagined it would be.