Origin
The St. Regis Bora Bora opened in 2006 and boasts a sophisticated and elegant design, incorporating natural materials in the resort, such as pandanus for the ceilings, Asian hardwood for the floors, and robust granite for the finishing touches. The Polynesian influences seamlessly blend into its modern architecture.
The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, opened in 2008 and underwent a significant refurbishment in 2019, giving them a contemporary Polynesian style with new furniture, fixtures, lighting, and technology. The decor feels fresh and chic, with an undeniable wow factor. The resort’s design reflects a sense of privacy and tranquility, enhancing the overall island experience.
Overwater Villas
St. Regis Bora Bora offers the largest overwater bungalows in the South Pacific. The Villas have separate bedroom and living room areas, with window panels embedded in the floor, which allow one to look into the turquoise-blue lagoon and marine life swimming beneath.
The Four Seasons Bora Bora is equally luxurious, boasting spacious interiors and direct access to the lagoon but is smaller than the St. Regis Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows. Guests can relish panoramic views and enjoy sunsets from their private decks.
The Overwater bungalows at both resorts are far from the beach and central areas. At the St. Regis Bora Bora, complimentary bikes and a golf cart service (24/7) are available, making it easy to get around. At the Four Seasons Bora Bora, guests must either walk or rely on the 24/7 buggy service, often requiring a 15-minute wait.
Beach Villas
The St. Regis Bora Bora provides exquisite beachfront villas with private outdoor Jacuzzis, and the 2-bedroom villas have a private swimming pool. The villas allow guests to step right onto the sandy shores of Bora Bora.
The Four Seasons Bora Bora also offers deluxe beachfront villas that embody relaxation and seclusion. Nestled along the pristine shores of Bora Bora’s enchanting turquoise lagoon, guests can enjoy the ultimate beach experience. Multi-bedroom villa options include infinity-edge pools, enclosed gardens, and panoramic views of Mount Otemanu.
The Lagoon & Mount Otemanu
Both resorts offer breathtaking views of the lagoon. The St. Regis Bora Bora directly faces Mount Otemanu, the famous mountain at the center of the island; only a few areas of the resort enjoy an iconic view of the mountain. The Four Seasons resort overlooks the iconic Mount Otemanu. So if a vista of the mountain is what you’re looking for, the Four Seasons is superior to the St. Regis.
The Sunset
The sunsets in Bora Bora are legendary, and both resorts provide ideal spots to witness this daily spectacle. You won’t be disappointed if you’re relaxing in an overwater hammock or enjoying cocktails at the beachside bars. The only difference is that at the St. Regis , the sun will disappear behind the island early. In contrast, the Four Seasons enjoys the complete sunset experience from every resort location until the sun fades into the horizon.
Beach
Both resorts boast stunning private beaches where guests can bask in the sun, take leisurely walks, or engage in water sports. The St. Regis beach is gorgeous, but the sand has some rocky parts, so water shoes are recommended. If you like barefoot walks on soft, white sand, the Four Seasons is for you.
Restaurants
The St. Regis offers diverse dining options, from fine French cuisine to Polynesian-inspired dishes. The resort’s signature restaurant, Lagoon by Jean-Georges, promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
The Four Seasons houses exceptional restaurants, including a beachside eatery with mouth-watering seafood specialties. Guests can also enjoy romantic dinners on the beach or intimate in-villa dining experiences.
Spa
Both resorts feature world-class spas that offer an array of pampering treatments, blending traditional Polynesian therapies with contemporary wellness practices.
Snorkeling & Lagoonarium
The St. Regis has a private Lagoonarium, allowing guests to snorkel alongside captivating marine life without venturing far from their accommodations.
The Four Seasons offers guided snorkeling experiences, where guests can explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter exotic sea creatures. They, too, have a Lagoonarium called the Lagoon Sanctuary that offers activities for guests of all ages — snorkeling, coral grafting, discussions on Polynesian ecology, and more.
For Luxury Travelers
St. Regis and Four Seasons cater to luxury travelers seeking refined elegance, top-notch amenities, and impeccable service, whether you prefer lounging in an overwater bungalow or a beach villa.
In conclusion, choosing between St. Regis and Four Seasons in Bora Bora comes down to personal preferences and priorities. Both resorts promise an unforgettable experience, but their distinct styles may resonate differently with various travelers. Whichever you choose, one thing is sure – Bora Bora’s mesmerizing beauty will make your stay a once-in-a-lifetime journey.