InterContinental bora bora resort & thalasso spa - a review

An Enchanting South Pacific Getaway

Perched in the middle of a world-class lagoon with striking views of Mt. Otemanu, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is as close to magic as you’ll find in a tropical getaway. From the moment that we stepped off the shuttle from Bora Bora’s main island and onto the grounds of InterContinental Thalasso, we were transported into a world of best-in-class hospitality, atmosphere, and aesthetics. When we finally made it to IC Thalasso, the combination of lush forests, crystal blue waters, and luxury overwater bungalows gave off the impression that we had entered into a realm that we could only dream of.

Although Bora Bora has long been labeled as a picturesque hotspot for honeymooners and couples, we found this beautiful island to be an incredible place for families with young kids to unplug, unwind, and relax. Not only were our kids fully immersed in the outdoor/beach lifestyle, but InterContinental Thalasso provided an endless array of activities across the sprawling property grounds for our kids to stay entertained.

With the combination of several great restaurants, spacious and elegant rooms, and unique activities all around, the family travelers at Havoc on Holiday would absolutely recommend InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa as an exceptional choice for families looking to splurge on a high-class adventure.

Where is InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa Located?

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is located on the Motu Piti Aau (the Tahitian word for a reef islet) just 20 minutes from the main island of Bora Bora. The property boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the world and is situated along the eastern side of the island. InterContinental Thalasso is accessible only by boat with two main ways to reach the Motu.

In our opinion, the easiest way is to take the shuttle from InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora right across the lagoon. The shuttle takes about 20 minutes and it brings you right to the dock at IC Thalasso. If you’re taking the boat from IC Moana, the typical rate for a boat transfer to IC Thalasso is about 1 695 CFP/XPF per person (about $16.95 USD) and is free for children.

The other route you can take is by hopping on a shuttle in downtown Bora Bora or Vaitape. When checking with the IC Thalasso concierge, they also advised us to take the shuttle right from InterContinental Le Moana as it was the easiest and most direct way to reach our destination. If you are keen on traveling to InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa from Vaitape, there is a shuttle that runs twice a day and costs about 800 CFP/XPF or roughly $8.00 USD per person.

After reaching InterContinental Thalasso, we were warmly greeted by the hotel staff as the sound of the famous conch echoed through the air. When we were done checking in, the hotel staff kindly took our picture in front of Mt. Otemanu as a souvenir before escorting us to our private bungalow with immaculate lagoon views.

Location map of IC Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

The Room

Much like we expected, our overwater bungalow at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa was absolutely magnificent. From the moment we walked through the big wooden door of our villa, Casey and I couldn’t help but smile from ear to ear. We were completely blown away and just so grateful to be visiting one of our dream destinations.

In the living space, there was a medium-sized couch (about the size of a full bed) with another pullout mattress for the kids on the floor. This was essential for naps and we had access to a mini-fridge, coffee maker, and pantry stocked with water and other little snacks for the kids—the staff at IC Thalasso was truly incredible in their attention to detail. Attached to the living space was a sliding door that led out onto a balcony with comfortable patio furniture to dine and eat, and two chairs for sunbathing. There was also a spacious dock attached to the deck with a few stairs where you could go swimming or watch the lagoon under the sun.

The bathroom came with two beautiful sinks and a spacious bath with a window looking out to the water. Perfect for relaxation after a long day in the sun, the youngest members of Havoc on Holiday had a blast bathing at our villa. In fact, it was hard to get them out. Adjacent to the bathroom there was a roomy walk-in closet with ample closet space to hang clothes and a safe for personal belongings.

But the best part was hands down was the bedroom. Although you can’t see it from the shot below, the bed was positioned towards a huge window that looked out onto the lagoon. The room also came with a flat-screen TV for essential downtime and a side door that led out onto the patio. As many families can imagine, it’s hard for parents to sleep with their kids during naptime in Bora Bora. While Casey and I were undoubtedly tired and highly stimulated with all the beauty around us, we decided to spend nap time floating around the lagoon. Having side-door access to the bedroom while relaxing under the sun was super helpful for checking in on our kids while they slept. Our two-year-old tends to wake up and wander around (he also knows how to open doors) so it was important for us to make sure everything was in order.

With plenty of privacy, sunlight, and shade if needed, the view from the bedroom made for perfect slow mornings with a steaming cup of espresso.

Amenities

The amenities at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa are best-in-class. To start, the property features a unique natural lagoon with hundreds of colorful fish and other sea life known as the Lagoonarium. IC Thalasso’s Lagoonarium is a beautiful protected ocean habitat for local Polynesian aquatic life that is designed for coral growth using colder ocean water. Our kids had an absolute blast watching the bright fish swim by!

Some other notable amenities on the property include tennis courts, a spacious fitness center, water sports like paddleboarding, the famous Deep Ocean Spa with the first thalassotherapy center in the South Pacific—thalassotherapy is the use of seawater in wellness treatments to promote skin health—the Secret Garden of Love, a new water swing facing Mt. Otemanu, and several other activities like life-size chess.

Dining Options

During our time at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, we found Sands Restaurant to be the go-to dining option for our family. As a casual dining experience right on a private beach with views of the lagoon, the food and ambiance are spectacular and the staff goes out of their way to make sure your experience is nothing short of magnificent. Lunch typically includes light snacks, salads, sandwiches, and other grilled dishes. For dinner, Sands features a new local dish with other flavors of the world.

Besides Sands, you can expect to find Reef Restaurant—a stylish open-air venue with a sprawling outdoor terrace perfect for breakfast by the sea or a romantic dinner at sunset. Reef Restaurant is open for breakfast from 7 AM to 10:30 AM, and again for dinner from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Here, guests can experience authentic Polynesian flavors in a bistro-style setting.

For a relaxing outdoor option, South Beach Bar is perfect for cocktails under the sun. At IC Thalasso’s waterfront lounge, we found several guests sipping cocktails under the shade of coconut trees. Lastly—and as a more formal dining option—Le Corail is InterContinental Thalasso’s exclusive and intimate gourmet dining experience.

Overall Experience

Compared to the many other island resorts we’ve had the pleasure of staying with during our travels, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa has by far been the most incredible experience to date. Like many would expect, Bora Bora is pure magic and the property at IC Thalasso captures every ounce of bliss that is paradise. The weather on the island is immaculate, the villas are a combination of elegant luxury and comfort, the staff is nothing short of amazing, and the food at every restaurant is delicious. While InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa sits more on the pricey side, 10/10 would definitely recommend visiting this hotel at least once in your lifetime. You certainly won’t be disappointed.

See you out there!