Bora Bora is one of the few places in the world that satisfies every expectation of an island adventure, even if that adventure involves relaxing as much as possible. As part of the Leeward group of French Polynesia’s Society Islands in the South Pacific, Bora Bora is merely 6 miles long with two towering volcanoes. Perfectly turquoise waters and smaller sand-fringed islets, or motus, surround this slice paradise. With moderate temperatures throughout the year, the best time to visit is between May and October. Getting to Bora Bora on a private jet is simple from Tahiti, as flights are typically 50 minutes or less. Once you arrive to the airport at the north islet, charter a helicopter or yacht to your resort.

Sleep

St. Regis Bora Bora Resort at Motu Ome’e

With one of the most exclusive accommodations in the area, the St. Regis Bora Bora is a 44-acre resort on the Ome’e islet. Stay in a 3,455-square-foot Royal Overwater Villa, which features private terraces and a private infinity edge pool. During your stay, book a luxurious treatment at the 13,000-square-foot Clarins spa at the lagoonarium.

Four Season Resort Bora Bora at Motu Tehotu

Perfect for families and couples alike, the Four Seasons Bora Bora features all the ultra-modern comforts of French Polynesia. Book one of the Overwater Bungalow Suites with a private plunge pool and views of Mount Otemanu and the lagoon. Activities include marine life demonstrations, paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling at the Lagoon Sanctuary and cruises on the resort’s catamaran.

Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island

Upon arriving at the Bora Bora FBO, hotel staff takes you on a 20-minute cruise to the Sofitel’s private island resort. Of the 21 rooms, the Island Luxury Villas offer the best accommodations on the islet with their direct beach access and panoramic lagoon views.

Eat

La Villa Mahana

This world-famous restaurant is known for its ultra exclusiveness and seven-table dining room. Chef and owner Damien Rinaldi-Dovio and his wife create the perfect ambiance for a quiet romantic evening with elegant courtyard settings and beautiful artwork. The five-course epicurean tasting menu features French cuisine with a local twist. Advanced reservations at least a few months ahead are a must.

MaiKai Restaurant

Enjoy French cuisine infused with Polynesian flavors while overlooking the water at MaiKai Restaurant, located at the MaiKai Marina & Yacht Club. The restaurant caters to those who want a casual or intimate dining experience in an idyllic setting. Chef Teiva Tapare and his staff use only fresh ingredients and cater to those with special dietary needs upon request.

Sushi Take

Mastering the art of sushi, Sushi Take at the St. Regis resort is the first sake bar and sushi restaurant in the region. The masterful chefs use the philosophies of this culinary style and pair it with original creativity and premium seafood to bring you purest flavors from the ocean. Be sure to follow the “resort chic” dress code to keep your reservation.

Play

Helicopter Tour

Charter a helicopter to get one of the best views of Bora Bora. Circle Mount Otenmanu and Mount Pahia and marvel at the jewel-toned waters below. Look for sharks, dolphins and reef formations. Touch down on one of the islets to tour an orchid farm that produces vanilla beans.

Pearl Farm Tour

It’s a crime to fly a fractional airplane to Bora Bora and then depart without a black pearl. Take a helicopter or powerboat to a local pearl farm to learn how the experts culture pearls in large black-lipped oysters to achieve their coveted hues. The biggest, blackest pearls fetch up to $10,000 a pop. To see the ocean gems already set, ask your concierge about the best reputable vendors.

Snorkeling

Charter a private boat with a marine biologist to the best, most secluded snorkeling spots to witness bountiful coral gardens, lemon sharks, parrotfish, schools of rays, giant sea turtles and other sea life.