The Westin Bora Bora is officially open — with bookings starting from 69,000 Marriott Bonvoy points

The much-awaited Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa has opened its doors in French Polynesia, one of the most enchanting destinations on the planet.

Nestled beneath Mount Otemanu, this Westin property has undergone a transformation and rebranding, breathing new life into its communal areas, with accommodation options that include beach bungalows and overwater villas.

This resort boasts the largest selection of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, along with the biggest swimming pool, which features cabanas, a swim-up bar, and a waterfall.

Within the resort's 128 overwater bungalows and 14 beach bungalows, guests can enjoy the Westin's signature Heavenly Bed, along with the Sleep Well Menu offering sleep-enhancing superfoods, and accommodations with private plunge pools and breathtaking views; there are also multi-room options available for those needing extra space.

The resort features six bars and restaurants, including an all-day French Polynesian bistro with a breakfast buffet; a signature restaurant that highlights seasonal and sustainable dishes like lacquered mahi-mahi; a beachfront steakhouse and seafood eatery; a tiki-themed beach bar; a poolside dining venue; and an outdoor lobby bar and lounge.

True to its commitment to wellness, the Bora Bora location offers guests the chance to stay active at the WestinWorkout Fitness Studio, with options like yoga, Pilates, and even Tahitian dance classes.

At the Heavenly Spa, guests can enjoy signature treatments such as the Tupuna Polynesian Ritual, which incorporates local sea salt, coconut shells, and coconut oils into rejuvenating full-body massages that connect them with the island and their inner selves.

In addition to lounging by the pool or enjoying your overwater bungalow, a variety of activities await, such as stand-up paddleboarding, learning traditional crafts like coconut palm weaving, snorkeling, and chartering boats for deep-sea fishing. The resort also hosts a weekly traditional Polynesian night featuring live music, dancing, and a buffet dinner.

Focused on ecological sustainability, the Eco Center Bora Bora provides guests the opportunity to learn about the fragile ecosystem of French Polynesia and actively participate by preparing meals for sea turtles and observing their feeding sessions.

How to make a reservation at the Westin Bora Bora

Cash rates at the Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa begin at approximately $1,000 per night but can significantly increase during peak seasons.

Marriott Bonvoy members can book award nights through a somewhat unpredictable award calendar. Rates may dip as low as 69,000 points on certain dates, but typically fall between 70,000 and 85,000 points per night.

A fantastic way to turn your dream trip to Bora Bora into reality is by utilizing Marriott Bonvoy's "Stay for 5, Pay for 4" benefit. This offer enables members to receive a complimentary night when redeeming points for five consecutive nights at the same hotel.

However, even when scoring a great rate with points, be prepared to cover some of those savings with considerable taxes and fees. For instance, by taking advantage of the free fifth night, TPG discovered that a five-night stay in November booked with points would still incur 59,750 French Pacific francs ($560) in taxes and fees.

Yes, it's pricey. However, it’s still a decent deal when you consider that you’d be paying more than twice that per night if you were booking with cash.

With the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you can earn a free night at the Westin Bora Bora by accumulating 95,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 within the first six months of card membership.