As Bora Bora’s newest addition, built just one and a half years ago, the Four Seasons Resort does not disappoint. The resort offers 121 spacious bungalows and villas offered in either accommodations on stilts over turquoise lagoons or tucked throughout the resort next to the Four Seasons own tropical wonders.

“Ia Orana” is a greeting often heard around the breathtaking grounds of the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. Upon our arrival my husband and I were swept up from the airport in a luxurious Four Seasons yacht and brought directly to the flawlessly decorated lobby of the Four Seasons Resort. We were introduced to our own personal concierge and encouraged to sit down, sip a mango smoothie and relax while our bags were immediately brought to the room. We then hopped on a golf cart, which took us on a tour of the grounds where we would be enjoying our honeymoon for the next 10 days. The jaw-dropping beauty astounds you as you cross over private lagoons and vibrant turquoise waters. And as we pulled up to your own personal overwater bungalow we confirmed that we had crossed into our own personal Eden.

My husband and I stayed in a beach view over-water bungalow, which offered the ultimate in luxurious accommodations for our honeymoon, and when we stepped into the 1,500 square-foot bungalow every detail was accounted for. From the rectangular looking glass under our feet to the ultra plush king bed that looked out over the volcano, no luxury was left unturned. A favorite detail of mine was the oversized sliding windows that framed a Jacuzzi tub in the center of the bathroom. This was accompanied by his and hers tile sinks and behind that lay the rain shower.

As we went out onto the veranda we discovered our sliding doors with sensory air conditioning which lead us out to our own private dock where we could take a plunge in our own private section of the ocean. Lawn chairs and a dining set adorned the patio, making dining during sunset an absolute delight. I highly recommend enjoying a special in-room three-course dining service that allows you to enjoy a delicious dinner within the privacy of your deck. The food and service is spectacular and they even decorated our dining table with candles, local flora of the island and added a chilled bottle of Champagne. A perfect romantic night in paradise.

At the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora you'll discover four spectacular ocean-view dining venues, ranging from casual to fine dining, each satisfying the palate and engaging the senses. My husband and I would usually enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet at the Tere Nui restaurant overlooking the pool, beach and the astounding Mount Otemanu. The buffet included personalized omelet stations, fresh fruits, baked goods and daily juice combinations. During our amazing 10-day stay, the chef often customized our breakfast orders when we preferred options that were a la carte. This tropical, open-air restaurant also offered themed dinners and BBQ’s throughout the week.

We also endulged with a nightly visit to the over water terrace at the Sunset Restaurant and bar where you can enjoy the magnificent colors of the setting sun over the lagoon while sipping on incredible fresh fruit cocktails (I recommend the Kiwi Mojito), wines from around the world, or our favorite local beer, Hinano. This is where we would also enjoy fresh sushi — with fish caught that day — and relax in the soothing atmosphere.

We also had the fortune of dining at the formal Arii Moana restaurant on one of our last nights for dinner. The romantic setting, coupled with a delightful open-air atmosphere, made the culinary experience very relaxing. The menu boasted the freshest seafood specialties paired with a distinguished wine list, topped off with an unforgettable dessert assortment. We recommend the lobster and shrimp risotto for the main course and the chocolate volcano cake with fresh coconut sorbet for dessert. The peaceful surroundings of the Four Seasons made the stroll back to the bungalow unforgettable.

The Four Seasons Resort offers one main pool and one children’s splash pad, along with its own private stretch of lagoon where plush chaise lounges, love seats and umbrellas are set for daily use. The pool and beach attendants are extremely doting and offer chilled water, cold towels and water spritzes throughout the day. You can also order a poolside lunch. I recommend the grilled swordfish wrap accompanied by a fresh blended drink you enjoy right out of the coconut. They also offer large cabanas that are complimentary should you opt to get out of the sun for a while, and you must not forget to also take advantage of napping in the large hammock near the pool deck that is partially shaded for optimal relaxation.

The water sports and activities center at the Four Seasons made the trip as entertaining as it was soothing. We had access to kayaks, canoes, snorkels and flippers whenever we would like to take an adventure off our private deck. We also took advantage of the more daring water activities, which included shark and bat ray feeding (my top recommendation), a lagoon eco-tour complete with snorkeling through four different coral gardens, as well as a three-hour adventure circling the island on wave runners. The world famous snorkeling in Bora Bora is unparalleled; we encountered more than 50 species of tropical fish, octopus, sting ray, eagle ray, lemon shark and sea turtles. You can get up close and personal with the marine life, which makes this water excursion more intimate than any I have experienced in the past.

A signature spa treatment is a perfect way to end a long and arduous day of sunbathing or lagoon exploring. I enjoyed an 80-minute Balinese massage that melted the tension right out of my neck and shoulders. I arrived at the spa two hours early in order to enjoy the outdoor vitality pool on the lagoon’s edge, the steam sauna with twinkle lights and dark tile, and the sensory shower. Cuddled up on a super plush chaise lounge, I enjoyed a quick nap in the relaxation room, which provided an assortment of warm teas and fresh coconut chips,blankets, and super plush chaise lounges. The overall experience left me restored, tranquil and fully rejuvenated.

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora provided the ultimate surroundings and experience for our luxury honeymoon. The outstanding service, incredible attention to detail, and magnificent grounds just brought a new standard of luxury to the island of Bora Bora. “Heaven on Earth” is the only way to describe this unique island and its rich culture. Overall, the Four Seasons Resort not only exceeded our expectations, but has successfully redefined the term “luxury resort experience.”

By Valen Scott