Are you on the hunt for a lovely holiday in Bora Bora, French Polynesia without spending all your savings?
Well, Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora might be just for you! This beautiful almost all-inclusive resort allows you to experience Bora Bora at its best for a fraction of the usual Bora Bora resort price.
Yes, since you pay less, it has some downsides. But that’s what I’m here for. In this article, I cover all the pros and cons to give you the clearest picture of what to expect from Bora Bora Le Moana resort. I dive deep into all the aspects from the accommodation, on-site food & drinks, and atmosphere to getting there and traveling around.
Because even though the Le Moana resort is cheaper than others, you deserve to make a fully informed decision about what you’re getting for your money.
Ready to jump in? Let’s go!
Accommodations at Bora Bora Le Moana Resort
From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the true Polynesian culture in every corner. The Bora Bora Le Moana resort consists of 2 branches of overwater bamboo bungalows & villas right on the beach.
However, I need to point out right away that the interior design all over this Ihg hotel is quite dated and not as mindblowing as the other resorts in Bora Bora. Be sure to check out the room pictures thoroughly (even from other sources) before booking.
Types of accommodations @ Le Moana Bora Bora
Firstly, let’s see what to expect from each type of bungalow.
Overwater bungalows at Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora
The bungalow design and layout are the same for all bungalows. The only difference is the view. You enter a small living area with a large glass coffee table from which you can see the fish and corals beneath your bungalow. The room (which is quite small) can be closed off with two sliding doors and has a large window on one side. The bathroom is simple, with his and her sinks, a separate toilet, a shower, and a bath. The outside deck has a table for two people and direct access to the lagoon
Different views from bungalows
Good to know
The water at Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora is shallow, so you can stand in it from any of the bungalows.
Le Moana Beachfront villas
If you prefer to stay on land, they also have beach bungalows. The pristine beach is right outside your door, with a view of the overwater bungalows.
That being said, please keep in mind that the beach in front of your bungalow is not private, and there will undoubtedly be a lot of people going back and forth, tanning and swimming in front of your unit. If you want privacy, you’d better avoid this option.
My recommendation for booking the best accommodation at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora (with #)
- If you want the best views of the mountain → 8, 9, 10, 11 & 72, 73
- If you want the best views of the sunset → Sadly, none of the bungalows are facing the sunset. If you want to enjoy the best sunset views, you’ll have to cross the road and get to Matira beach around 6 PM.
- If you want the best views on the sunrise → Any bungalows from 12 to 27 + 74, 75 & 76.
- If you want the best snorkeling → There are a lot of fish throughout the resort thanks to the bio rocks that have been installed around the resort. Because the structures are larger there, I would recommend the first part of the bridge (before the bridge slit up 1 to 7 and 37 to 43) – but it does not make a huge difference with the others.
- If you want to be close to the common areas → The resort is not very spread out, but if you don’t want to walk for too long, to reach the restaurant then try to stay in bungalows 1 through 7 or 38 through 43.
Bungalow/villa # to avoid at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora
If at all possible, I would avoid bungalows 1–5. They face the resort’s main dock, so there will be a lot of boats going back and forth during the day.
I’d also avoid bungalows 35-43 and 70-73. They all face the main beach and provide little to no privacy on the deck for those who are closest to the shore.
And for the same reasons, I would stay away from the beach villas.
Prices per category in Le Moana resort Bora
The following are the minimum (low season) costs per night for each room category at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora Bora Bora:
- Overwater bungalow with beach view: from $700 and up
- One-bedroom overwater bungalow suite with ocean view: from $790 and up
- One-bedroom overwater bungalow suite with lagoon view: from $790 and up
- One bedroom overwater bungalow with mountain view: from $700 and up
- Beach bungalows: From $500 (one bedroom)
Good to know
Yes, Le Moana has some of the most affordable overwater bungalows in Bora Bora… However, you get what you pay for. As a result, don’t expect the bungalow to take your breath away. It is small compared to other resorts, and both the decor and the way the property is taken care of show its age.
Restaurant, Bar & culinary experiences at Le Moana Resort Bora Bora
Now, foodies, pay attention! We’re about to discuss all things food in Le Moana Bora Bora.
Unlike other resorts, the Le Moana resort has only one restaurant.
Some people get upset about it, and some say it’s an opportunity to explore the local restaurants around the island. If you choose to stay at this IHG hotel, you’re probably on a budget. And what better way to save money than eating at local restaurants and discovering the area outside of your Intercontinental Le Moana resort?!
Good to know
Most restaurants on the island offer a free transfer service, so you won’t feel trapped as you might in a motu resort that charges exorbitant fees if you want to go out for dinner. That being said, if you don’t want to be charged extra, book your restaurant directly rather than through the resort.
And if you don’t want to bother getting anywhere, the Intercontinental Le Moana facilities are available. ;) Let’s get started!
Noa Noa terrace restaurant in Bora Bora Le Moana resort
Open for breakfast & dinner the Noa Noa restaurant prides itself on being a gourmet french inspired restaurant serving international dishes from all around the world as well as local delicacies. Eating here, you’ll enjoy a beautiful terrace with a view of the Bora Bora’s azure lagoon and authentic Polynesian decor.
The ambiance here is very warm, soothing & romantic, a perfect place to be present and enjoy every little bite of your delish meal.
Keep in mind, though: Some people say (and I quite agree) that the service here is quite slow and the food isn’t worth the expensive price. You definitely have better options on the main island for a similar price.
Click here to check Noa Noa’s menu
Price : Expect to pay around 3 500 XPF for a main course
Vini Vini bar in Bora Bora le Moana resort
Vini Vini bar serves drinks & cocktails all day long with the possibility to get a light lunch or a snack before dinner (3-6 pm). Here you’ll sip your cocktail with the view of Bora Bora’s famous lagoon surrounded by tropical palm trees. They serve everything from alcoholic cocktails, chilled fresh juices, and tapas dishes. Make sure to try the Ihg hotel special: their signature tapas dish “poisson cru à la tahitienne,” made of marinated fish, tomatoes, cucumber, lime, and coconut milk.
Click here to check the tapas menu
Click here to check the food menu
Happy hour at Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora
While the food is not great at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora, the cocktails are!
They also have a fantastic happy hour deal (every day from 5.30 to 6.30). You’ll get 50% off the cocktails of your choice bringing the cost of a cocktail to around 1000 XPF which is a VERY good deal for the island. Many locals (including myself) will arrive in time for sunset.
The cocktails come with olives and roasted coconut meat (both of which are delicious), and the tapas menu is also quite good. They even have a rhum bar that is worth a try.
Room service in Le Moana resort Bora
If you feel like just enjoying your gorgeous bungalow and having some privacy while eating, you’ll love their room service. People in my FB group say they’re always fast with your order and the food is great.… Breakfast in bed anyone? ;)
Canoe breakfast in Intercontinental Le Moana Resort
Another option to enjoy your meal is the Insta-famous canoe breakfast. The canoe breakfast is so popular around the whole Bora Bora island that almost every resort offers this service. Because how often do you get your breakfast delivered in a canoe? Once your brekkie has arrived, you can enjoy it on the pontoon of your overwater bungalow along with the breathtaking views and the smell of the ocean. If you’re interested, be sure to book your canoe breakfast at least 24h in advance.
Good to know
It is often VERY (i could not stress that more) windy at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora so… don’t have high expectations about that breakfast before arriving. It might not be enjoyable at all due to the wind.
Le Moana Resort Bora Bora Theme nights
Craving something more than just a dinner in a picturesque location? Well, why not spice it up with some Polynesian dancing and a fire show? On Polynesian nights, you’ll get a buffet with multiple dinner dishes to choose from (various cuisines & local dishes too) and a traditional Polynesian dance show combined with drums, guitars, and ukuleles.
Theme nights usually draw in many Ihg hotel guests as well as people who don’t stay at the resort. The show takes place every Tuesday and Saturday at 7:45. However, this is subject to change depending on the occupancy and weather conditions.
Money Saving Tips
If you are on a budget you can still see the show from the bar without booking the whole-themed dinner, you won’t be seated tho.
Amenities at Le Moana Resort Bora Bora
This is where the Intercontinental Le Moana resort falls short. Paying a minimum of $600 USD per night, you’d expect you’d get at least some basic gym or spa facilities (if not included in the price, then at least for an extra charge). But unfortunately, that’s not the case with this Ihg hotel.
Since Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is a ‘budget resort’ you’ll only find a swimming pool as a wellness amenity.
The good news is that you can use all the facilities (SPA and gym included) at their sister Ihg hotel Intercontinental Thalasso free of charge. If you book a whole day at the resort, you’ll get a free boat transfer. Otherwise, you have to pay $25 for a one-way ticket.
Bora Bora Le Moana Resort on-site activities
So what can you do during your stay here? This Ihg hotel has many options for you! Some of them are free and some are for an extra charge (usually if you need equipment).
Snorkeling at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora
Because of the nearby coral biorocks, snorkeling is excellent throughout the resort. You’ll see healthy coral as well as kaleidoscopic schools of fish. You’ll almost certainly see stingrays and, if you’re lucky, small black tip sharks.
Cruise around on a kayak
For even more adventure, explore your area in a kayak or a traditional Polynesian canoe! At your IHG hotel, kayaks are free of charge. You can take it for a ride around the lagoon or to paddle in the crystal clear turquoise ocean.
Insider Tip
One of the most beautiful coral gardens on the island is located just in front of the resort. This is where you’ll get to see the famous “I ❤️ Bora Bora” underwater. You can easily get there in your kayak in 10 to 15 minutes.
Shows & culture in Bora Bora Le Moana resort
As we mentioned above, Intercontinental Le Moana organizes Polynesian theme nights twice a week. If you’re interested in checking out the traditional Polynesian dance or just the local food delights, be sure to stop by at Noa Noa restaurant either on Tuesday or Saturday.
Sports in Bora Bora Le moana resort
For the endorphin addicts, as a Bora Bora Le Moana resort guest, you’re free to use the gym at their sister Ihg hotel Intercontinental Thalasso. If you love the outdoors go hike the mountains or take one of their free kayaks for a cruise. Don’t mind paying a bit extra? Choose some of the many Le Moana resort Bora Bora water sports activities available – kitesurfing, scuba diving, paddle boarding, and a lot more.
Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora : Pros & Cons
Let’s sum up the pros & cons of picking the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora for your holiday in Bora Bora.
👍 Pros :
- This resort offers the opportunity to stay in an overwater bungalow for a (relatively) low price.
- This resort is on the main island, so you won’t feel “trapped,” which means you can physically walk out if you want to, which is not the case with motu resorts.
- Being on the main island you can save a lot of money on food, alcohol & transfers.
- Close proximity to the coral garden – save money on a snorkeling tour.
- Beautiful lagoon colors, especially in the morning.
- You can use the Intercontinental Thalasso Bora Bora facilities (just pay for the boat transfer)
👎 Cons :
- The entire resort, as well as the bungalows, appear dated and poorly maintained.
- Small resort and bungalows
- Some days, the beach can feel crowded
- Not facing the sunset, not facing the mountain (even if you can see it from the side)
- Food is not great
- Service is slow and can feel impolite & unsupportive.
- It is often very VERY windy on that part of the island
Who is the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora for?
The Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora is an excellent choice for a budget-conscious couple seeking the overwater bungalow experience. If you want to move around freely on the main island, this is a great option. To get to the center, you can walk to Matira beach and some restaurants and then rent a car or a bike. People who are unable to swim will benefit from the resort’s shallow water.
Who is the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora not for?
If you are looking for luxury, this is not the place to be. If you only want to stay in your resort and relax during your vacation, this is not the place for you. The infrastructure is outdated, and you’ll quickly run out of things to do.
Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora: Prices
What is the entire cost of a week’s vacation at Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora resort?
Without airfare, a week at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora will run you around $7000; naturally, the price will vary based on how many activities you partake in, how much food and drink you eat at the resort, etc. The normal round-trip price for flights to Bora Bora from California is between $1200 and $1500, however, you may be able to get a deal if you can be flexible with your travel dates and if you can use credit card points, which I highly suggest. So, with airfare, a weeklong trip for two individuals will only set you back less than $10,000.
How much do food and drinks cost at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora?
Without a meal plan, you can expect to pay around $165 per person, per day.
Here is a realistic example :
Breakfast buffet : 5 200 XPF
+ Lunch @ Vini Vini (1 beer + 1 tahitian raw fish + 1 ice cream) = 4 640 XPF
+ 2 cocktails for the happy hour @ Vini Vini : 2 000 XPF
+ 3 courses dinner @ Noa Noa : 7500 XPF
= 19 340 XPF
The arrival: What does it cost for the transfer to the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora from the airport?
To get to the resort, you have 3 options:
- Budget option: You can get the free Air Tahiti shuttle to the main island and then use a taxi. The taxi will cost you 2000 XPF (day time – up to 4 people)
- Faster option: You can use the resort shuttle – 13 370 XPF + tax for the round trip / per person.
- Smart option if traveling as a group: Use a private transfer: For a few more bucks, you can also book a private transfer to the resort. This is the best option if you are traveling as a group.
Frequently asked questions about the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora
Where is the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora located?
The Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora is located on the island’s southernmost point, Matira. Matira beach is literally right across the street! It takes about 25 minutes by boat to get to the resort and 20 minutes by car to get to Vaitape (the main town). It is also possible to bike to town, which will take about half an hour.
Who is the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora clientele?
Unlike other resorts such as the Four Seasons Bora Bora and St. Regis Bora Bora, the clientele is international and not primarily from the United States. The clientele is also slightly older than that of other resorts.
Is the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora a good choice for a vacation with children?
Yes, children are welcome at the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Borat. Having said that, the resort does not have a kids club, and the rooms are a little too small for more than one (young child) to stay comfortably in my opinion.
Is the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora all-inclusive?
No, the Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora is not all-inclusive (neither are the other Bora Bora resorts), but if you want to save money on food, I highly recommend researching meal plans. Furthermore, because the resort is on the island, you will be able to eat outside or go grocery shopping and save money on food and alcohol.
Hopefully, this article helps you get clear on whether or not the Intercontinental Le Moana resort is for you. Now you know all the good stuff and the not-so-good stuff and can decide for yourself. :) Make sure to check out my reviews of other popular resorts in Bora Bora :)
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