%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-header-exterior-conrad-bora-bora-nui-CONRADBORABORA0325-effcc6e1416748afbc9e53ceead858b2.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
This Bora Bora Resort Has Overwater Bungalows With Plunge Pools, a Hilltop Spa, and a Private Island Available to Guests
The hilltop spa features open-air treatment rooms, offering stunning views of the resort and the South Pacific Ocean.
Upa Upa, the lounge bar, has glass-panel floors, allowing guests to spot fish and various species of sharks while enjoying cocktails.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui has the only two-story overwater villa in Bora Bora, boasting two bedrooms, three balconies, an infinity pool, and a hot tub.
I Hunger-Gamed my way onto the small plane from Tahiti to Bora Bora and plopped down in a window seat: I was told to sit on the left side for the best views of the notoriously photogenic French Polynesian island. The advice was solid, as turquoise waters and sand bars appeared out of nowhere, giving me a glimpse of the beauty I was about to immerse myself in.
Within 15 minutes of deplaning, I was on a boat headed to a private cove on Motu To'opua, a small islet in Bora Bora. As we approached land, I caught a glimpse of the overwater bungalows at Conrad Bora Bora Nui sitting in the turquoise lagoon.
A warm welcome and a swift check-in later, I was on a golf cart en route to my luxurious one-bedroom villa, which, with its thatched roof and wooden interiors, blended harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Roger Godin, the resort's general manager, described the hotel as a combination of modern luxury and Polynesian charm.
During my stay, I was often surprised by how intimate and private the resort felt. It was only at breakfast that I got an inkling that it might be fully booked. And this illusion is a highlight of the guest experience. "Conrad Bora Bora Nui is designed to provide a sense of seclusion and tranquility, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Bora Bora," Godin told Travel + Leisure . "Our resort offers a unique position and shape that provides 100 percent privacy, making guests feel as though they are nearly the only ones here, far from the mass tourism experience."
Bora Bora has a reputation as a honeymoon destination, but after a few days here, I realized that the island—and the resort—are worth visiting, whether or not you're celebrating a life milestone.
"We create unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're honeymooners seeking a romantic escape, families in search of luxury and adventure, or friends on a getaway, our resort has it all," Godin said.
Here's what it's like to stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui.
The hotel offers 114 suites and villas divided into multiple categories, including lagoon view suites, garden villas, beach villas, overwater villas, and the presidential overwater villas.
"Each type provides unique features such as direct lagoon access, private pools, and stunning views," Godin said, adding that lagoon view suites with their spacious living areas are a good option for families, while the garden villas and beach villas offer more privacy within a secluded, lush environment.
I stayed in an overwater villa, which Godin described as the "quintessential Bora Bora experience." Inside the bungalow were all the modern conveniences I could want: air conditioning, a massive bathroom with a tub, a closet, and ample seating. Outside, I had a private deck with an infinity pool and stunning views of the lagoon.
A ladder on the side of the deck allowed me to dip into the ocean and snorkel whenever I pleased, while the coral reef under my bungalow ensured an array of colorful fish were swimming at all times. One of the most special moments during my visit was an early morning when I watched sharks, rays, and a school of fish swim by as I sat on the deck.
Another highlight is the two-story presidential overwater villa, which offers guests 3,229 square feet of space, lagoon views, an infinity pool, and a dedicated butler.
Regardless of the room category, guests have access to an island host, the resort's take on a butler. "This ensures that every guest's stay is tailored to their needs, making each visit truly unforgettable," Godin explained.
Interior of the Iriatai French Restaurant; A bowl of poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk).
From left: Adam Bruzzone/Conrad Bora Bora Nui; Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure
Conrad Bora Bora Nui has five restaurants and bars: Iriatai, a fine-dining French restaurant; Banyan, a modern seafood and Chinese restaurant; Tamure Beach Grill, an open-air kitchen serving Mediterranean and Polynesian fare; the Tarava Pool Bar, where guests can order drinks by the pool; and The Upa Upa Lounge Bar, which offers cocktails and light bites. Godin told T+L that the chefs at each restaurant use local ingredients to whip up dishes that showcase the flavors of Polynesia.
"Guests can enjoy themed dining experiences, private beach dinners, and a variety of international cuisines," Godin added. One example is the weekly Ahi Ma'a, a Polynesian dinner and show that takes place every Friday. The evening features live entertainment, including local dancers and a fire show, along with a buffet of Polynesian dishes prepared in an underground oven. Guests can also jet off to the private islet of Motu Tapu for a picnic in the water. (And by picnic, we don't mean finger sandwiches—think lobster and champagne at sunset.)
But one of the coolest dining experiences was having my breakfast (fresh fruit, bread, and poisson cru ) delivered by canoe and set up on my deck, and then enjoying my meal while taking in the view of the endless blue waters. The resort's main pool.
Adam Bruzzone/Courtesy of Conrad Bora Bora Nui
The resort has an infinity pool with in-water chaise lounges and cabanas, as well as the swim-up Tarava Pool Bar. There are also activities with local experts—you can learn how to open a coconut, dabble in weaving banana leaves into bags, learn how to tie a pareo in various ways, or take a ukulele class.
And, of course, water adventures abound. Guests can check out kayaks, snorkel equipment, and paddleboards. Other activities, such as jet-skiing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, and outrigger canoe rides, can be coordinated upon request. (During my visit, the hotel arranged a snorkeling trip to a nearby site, along with swimming with sharks and rays.)
Rays and fish spotted in the see-through blue waters of the Bora Bora lagoon.
Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure
The hotel's hilltop spa boasts scenery so stunning that I was a few minutes late checking in for my treatment. The upward path is lined with fragrant tropical blooms of every color imaginable, while the panoramic views that unveil with every step are jaw-dropping. Entering Hina Spa—the name pays tribute to the Polynesian moon goddess—immediately sets the tone for sheer relaxation with earthy tones and views of the sea.
Each serene treatment suite looks out to the lagoon, while the opulent double treatment villas also feature whirlpools.
The resort has partnered with French skincare brand Biologique Recherche to offer a range of therapies, from a Polynesian body scrub to a Detoxifying Algae Wrap. (Godin shared that one of the signature treatments is the Face Sculpting Massage.) I booked the Tahitian massage, a medium-pressure Polynesian-style massage, that left me so relaxed I wished there were on-site nap pods.
The hotel offers a dedicated kids club featuring activities such as arts and crafts, treasure hunts, babysitting services, and a children's playground. Additionally, there are family-friendly accommodations, including the Lagoon View Suites and Beach Villas.
The hotel has accessible facilities, including ramps and pathways, and guest rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and amenities placed at a lower height.
As for sustainability, Conrad Bora Bora Nui's eco-friendly efforts include the installation of solar panels, recycling initiatives, sourcing sustainable ingredients and products for its restaurants, and implementing energy-efficient practices. The resort also works with marine biologists to protect and restore the local reef. "We actively participate in coral reef preservation and support local artisans by showcasing their crafts in our boutique," Godin said. Scenic views of Bora Bora's main island from the resort.
Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure
Conrad Bora Bora Nui is situated on a secluded private island in the Bora Bora lagoon. To get here, you have to fly to Tahiti's Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) and then take a 45-minute interisland flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). Here, the resort's team will usher you onto a yacht that will deliver you to the resort's dock, where a welcome team greets you with a refreshing drink.
Pro-tip: I recommend giving yourself a few days on Tahiti to explore its many local offerings. And if you're looking for a quality stay close to the airport, Hilton Hotel Tahiti is an excellent option with fantastic food, service, and the island's largest pool.
Guests can save up to 40 percent by booking in advance and earn double Hilton Honors points for each night of stay. AARP members can save up to 10 percent. For the latest information on resort deals and discounts, visit the "Offers" page on the hotel's website. Nightly rates start at $1,000.
Every T+L hotel review is written by an editor or reporter who has stayed at the property, and each hotel selected aligns with our core values.
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Yahoo
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A List Development, a member of the comprehensive real estate company List Group, announces a new hotel resort project under the luxury hotel brand "Anantara", marking the brand's first entry into Japan
TOKYO, July 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- List Co., Ltd. (Representative Director and President: Naoyuki Kitami; Headquarters: Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture), a comprehensive real estate company, announces that its consolidated subsidiary, List Development Co., Ltd. (Representative Director and President: Hiroyuki Kiuchi; Headquarters: Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture; hereinafter "LD"), has entered into a hotel management agreement with Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd. (Representative Director and President: Kohei Motoyama; Headquarters: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo; hereinafter "Royal Minor Hotels") on July 10, 2025. At the signing event held on the same day at the Tokyo American Club, the two parties announced plans for a new luxury resort hotel under the "Anantara" brand — marking the brand's first entry into Japan. The property, to be named Anantara Karuizawa Retreat (hereinafter "the Property"), is scheduled to open in 2030 in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture. 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Anantara Karuizawa Retreat will provide its guests with highly personalised service and exclusive accommodations, offering 23 suites measuring 60 to 120 sqm and 18 luxury two- and three-bedroom villas, which are being considered for future branded residence offerings, with further details to be announced as plans progress, ranging in size from 70 to 270 sqm. The villas will provide an additional 28 keys to the hotel's inventory, with select two-bedroom villas available as 70 sqm standard and 130 sqm one-bedroom villas, bringing the total key count to 51. Guests will enjoy three on-site food and beverage outlets, including an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty concept and a bar. Wellness will be a fundamental part of the resort's offering, centred around an Anantara Spa and onsen, and with additional wellness programming across the property. Other leisure facilities will include a swimming pool, fitness centre, library and resident's lounge. Additionally, the property will offer flexible meeting facilities to meet the growing demand for corporate gatherings in the region. The design of Anantara Karuizawa is anticipated to blend modern design with the site's natural surroundings, utilising natural materials such as exposed timber peaks and large windows to create harmony with the environment and offer sweeping views of Mount Asama. Kohei Motoyama, President and CEO, Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd., commented:"We are extremely proud to partner with List Development Co., Ltd. for the launch of the Anantara Karuizawa Retreat. The company brings exceptional expertise in creating luxury properties, aligning perfectly with Anantara's philosophy of offering refined stays and distinctive design. Together, we aim to create a retreat that coexists harmoniously with Karuizawa's rich natural surroundings and further enhances its unique appeal." Hiroyuki Kiuchi, President and COO, List Development Co., Ltd., commented:"We are truly honoured to bring the renowned luxury hotel brand Anantara to Japan for the first time through this landmark project in partnership with Royal Minor. We have long been committed to enriching people's lifestyles by creating high-quality homes and communities. In recent years, we have extended this philosophy to hotel condominiums and luxury residences, applying the know-how we have cultivated over time. It is within this context that our vision has aligned with that of Royal Minor, resulting in the signing of this hotel management agreement. Karuizawa is one of Japan's premier resort destinations, offering excellent access from the Tokyo metropolitan area as well as rich natural surroundings and beautiful seasonal landscapes. We were particularly drawn to its global recognition and the growing demand among affluent travellers seeking high-quality experiences. The site also enjoys a rare vantage point overlooking Mount Asama, a symbol of Karuizawa, and we are confident that introducing the "Anantara" brand to this location will enable us to provide a truly luxurious experience that fully satisfies both the mind and body of our guests, from both Japan and abroad. We are committed to dedicating our full efforts to ensure that this "Anantara Karuizawa Retreat" becomes a new landmark in Karuizawa and contributes to the revitalization of the local economy." Project OutlineLocation: Happa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano PrefectureAccess: Approximately 15 minutes by car from "Karuizawa" Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen LineDevelopment Area: 41,933.01 sqmOpening: 2030Number of Guest Rooms: 23 Suites (approx. 60-120 sqm), 18 Villas with 28 rooms (approx. 70-270 sqm) This project is currently awaiting building permit application. The content described in this press release may change in the future. Details on facilities and sales information will be announced again once finalized. About Anantara HotelsAnantara Hotels & Resorts are designed to maximize the unique charm of each destination within a luxurious setting, allowing travelers to experience the true essence of the locale through the brand's attentive and personalized service. The brand has established a strong presence in Thailand, throughout Asia, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean, and Africa, and has recently expanded into major European capitals, gaining broader global recognition. Anantara currently operates 59 hotels across 25 countries. About Minor HotelsMinor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its hotel brands including Anantara, Elewana Collection, The Wolseley Hotels, Tivoli, Minor Reserve Collection, NH Collection, nhow, Avani, Colbert Collection, NH, Oaks, and iStay, as well as a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences, and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners. Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY. Discover our world at and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. About Royal Minor Hotels Co., 1-34-6 Sakurashinmachi, Setagaya-ku, TokyoRepresentatives: Kohei Motoyama, President & CEO; Dilip Rajakariar, Representative Director & Vice PresidentEstablished: March 31, 2025Business Overview: Hotel management and operationURL: About List Development Co., 4-47 Onoe-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa PrefectureRepresentative: Hiroyuki Kiuchi, President & CEOEstablished: May 10, 1991Business Overview: Planning, development, and sale of condominiums, detached houses, office buildings, and tenant buildings; Consulting on real estate sales, brokerage, and asset management; Real estate property managementURL: About List Co., 3-35 LIST EAST BLD., Onoe-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa PrefectureRepresentative: Hisashi Kitami, President & CEOFounded: May 10, 1991Established: May 20, 2016Consolidated Sales: ¥56.2 billion (Fiscal Year ending December 2024)Business Overview: Holding company, Group managementURL: In 1991, List Co., Ltd. was established as a real estate brokerage company. Since then, the company has consistently engaged in real estate-related businesses, including the development and sale of detached houses and condominiums, asset management, and urban redevelopment projects. In 2016, the company reorganized its group structure and transitioned to a holding company system, establishing the "List Group" with List Co., Ltd. at its core. In 2010, List International Realty Co., Ltd. acquired the exclusive domestic rights to operate the real estate brokerage brand "Sotheby's International Realty®," which originates from one of the world's largest auction houses, Sotheby's. Under the brand name "List Sotheby's International Realty," the company has since expanded its real estate brokerage and development operations to locations including Hawaii, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, and Thailand. Through these businesses, the List Group remains committed to providing clients with "valuable real estate" around the world. All other images (4pcs) – can be directly downloaded from the link below, please ensure to clearly credit the source when using these URL: available until August 10,2025 Media ContactList Group Public Relations & IR Department: Yukari Tajiri & Mayu NishimotoTEL: 03-6457-9401MAIL: pr@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE List Co., Ltd. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data