Hotels on the Lake in French Polynesia

We stayed on the second floor closest to the over water bungalows. The room was average to good, but unfortunately a pipe burst apparently somewhere so they shut off the water for two hours mid-morning without informing us. Thankfully no one was taking a shower or doing a number 2. There also was construction noise on the grounds to repair the pipe which woke us up early the first morning. The building next to us is undergoing a complete gutting and reno, but we didn't hear any noise from that direction. It does look a little worrisome at first when you pass by it as there's plywood boarding up areas and open doorways. It's not what we expected from a $1000/nite hotel I guess. There are convenient shuttles available to take you to and from your room if needed, but you smell the exhaust riding in the back. Staff were generally pleasant. The view from our room was good of the pool, Moorea, and construction grader. The lagoon was very nice and full of fish swimming about. The buffet and dance show was good. Proximity to the airport and cruise port is nice. The Lotus Michelin restaurant is good but a bit pricey. Overall there's not many luxury hotels right on the water in town, and with Tahiti's popularity I guess they can charge a premium for that. In hindsight maybe staying elsewhere and just getting a day pass at the Intercontinental probably would have been equally as fine.

Spacious room with king bed, sofa, table with 4 stools. 10 minute walk to middle of Pate'ete. Friendly helpful staff.

Le Bora Bora is paradise. Every detail is cared for under the attentive eye of the director, Franc, who is always present. The grounds are immaculate—no stray leaf, perfectly raked sand, and a maintenance team that deserves awards. The food is incredible. Every meal is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared, from warm breakfast breads and omelettes to the tuna steak buffet with endless sides—poke, cheeses, yogurts, jams, desserts, and yes, fresh avocado with every meal. The staff is genuinely friendly, always greeting you with a smile and ready to help. Facilities are spotless, with bathrooms and water stations everywhere, offering cold water and fresh juices. Check‑in felt luxurious with scented towels, juice, and a warm welcome. The scenery is breathtaking—not only the crystal lagoons full of fish, but the lush, terraced gardens throughout the resort. Even garden‑view cabanas feel serene and picturesque, with countless peaceful spots to relax. The coral beneath the bungalows was a highlight, attracting triggerfish, needlefish, puffers, parrotfish, stingrays, and our favorite, the colorful Picasso triggerfish. All the staff were wonderful, but special thanks to: Hannaei at breakfast for her sweetness and attention; Lokeni at the pool bar for keeping the energy up; Viana and the concierge/boat team for seamless coordination; Daisy and Desiree at Minki Minki for being a great duo; and Taroararii, who never stops moving and helping.