Review of Le Méridien – Bora Bora

With so many French Polynesian resorts to choose from, perhaps we can help with your decision with our review of Le Méridien Bora Bora, by Marriott.

When thinking of the gorgeous resorts situated in the coveted vacation location of Bora Bora, it’s hard to believe that any are family-friendly.  Most have such an exotic and romantic look that they appear as though they are for couples only.  But looks are often deceiving because there is, in fact, a resort that can be classified as one of the best for families, mainly due to the amenities and organized children’s activities.  It retains the exotic look and all of the luxury that one would desire and expect of a French Polynesian resort but is so loaded with recreation and pastimes that even the hardest-to-please child would be beyond excited to be there.

Sitting opposite Otemanu Mountain and on a six-mile-long islet, Le Méridien features a wide variety of contemporary-style bungalows, some of which are on the beach, others of which are famously over the crystal clear water.  That water can be seen through the floor considering that Le Méridien boasts the largest glass viewing panel of any resort in the area.  With amazing views of Mt. Otemanu and the surrounding lagoons, all bungalows are very clean, comfortable, and well maintained. Each air-conditioned bungalow contains similar decor featuring true Polynesian flair with wood canopy beds, a novelty surfboard-shaped coffee table, a black stone double sink and sunken bathtub in the spacious bathroom, and a large panoramic window because trust us – you won’t want to miss the spectacular view. Depending on your budget, guests can even choose bungalows that feature their own private plunge pool.

Bungalows also include WiFi internet access, flat-screen televisions with video on demand and music channels, as well as, CD/DVD/ MP3 players, a hairdryer, Le Méridien signature bed, mini bar, private sun deck, in-room safe, telephone, ceiling fan, coffee/tea facilities.

The resort features three restaurants and one bar, called Miki Miki, all of which offer a wide variety of authentic local dishes and international cuisine, making it easy to remain on the resort property.

Le Méridien Bora Bora is well known for its sea turtle sanctuary which is set on a private lagoon that is home to more than 100 species. The resort is active in environmental efforts to protect marine turtles, which guests can experience on-site in their natural habitat. There are also two infinity swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa bungalow.

Additionally, the resort offers a wide variety of complimentary watersports for adults and children, including kayaking, windsurfing, and outrigger canoes. Snorkeling equipment is available as are beach volleyball and table tennis.  There are sailing tours, and for the smaller children, there is an on-site children’s playground. The Kaïnalu Club offers traditional Polynesian outrigger canoes, scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, and… shark feeding.  Though it sounds frightening, the sharks are small and docile, and the hotel staff ensures to keep guests safe and sound.  All of these activities are at an extra cost but are well worth it and will help to make your next vacation a memorable one.

Le Méridien’s overwater bungalow wedding chapel offers a spectacular backdrop for your Polynesian wedding ceremony or vow renewal, making this a great destination for a weddingmoon.   But it’s also a great destination if you are far past the stage of taking vows and now have children who are looking for plenty to do.

Let’s face it, no matter how great this resort is, or any resort for that matter, price points can be a deterrent. But it goes without saying that Bora Bora is expensive. In the grand scheme of things, price points for Le Méridien fall somewhere in the middle ground of resorts in French Polynesia, with others being considerably lower and others much, much higher.

In the end, there are plenty of positives at this resort – clean, comfortable, a multitude of amenities and events, amazing food, and first-rate service.  As for drawbacks, we can’t name any off the tip of our tongue. How can there be any drawbacks in paradise?

PROS:  Plenty of amenities, outstanding cleanliness, great service from friendly employees, gorgeous property, and unforgettable views. 

CONS: Expensive.