Is the Aman Brand Finally Returning to Bora Bora?

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Today: Is the Aman Brand Finally Returning to Bora Bora?

For almost two decades, one of Bora Bora’s most storied hotels has remained closed, leaving behind an extraordinary location and a fascinating chapter in the history of luxury hospitality. Now, new reports from French Polynesia suggest that the long-awaited redevelopment of the former Hotel Bora Bora, once home to one of the earliest Aman resorts, may finally be moving forward. Could Aman – the world’s most exclusive hotel brand – be preparing to return to the island that helped shape its early history? While neither an Aman takeover nor a reopening date has been officially confirmed, the latest developments offer fresh hope that this iconic property could be restored. If the project moves ahead as reported, it could breathe new life into one of the South Pacific’s most historically significant hotel sites.

Aman Hotel Bora Bora — Old Hotel Bora Bora

Hotel Bora Bora: The Birthplace of the Overwater Bungalow

The story begins in 1961, when Hotel Bora Bora opened its doors as the island’s first major hotel. Located on Pointe Raititi, near the famous Matira Beach, the property occupied a remarkable position between the turquoise lagoon and the lush volcanic landscape of Bora Bora. With views towards Mount Otemanu and the neighboring islands, it offered a glimpse of the tropical paradise that would eventually become one of the world’s most sought-after luxury travel destinations.

Initially comprising just 18 thatched-roof huts, the hotel would go on to make a lasting contribution to the hospitality industry. In 1970, it introduced overwater bungalows, allowing guests to stay directly above the lagoon. The concept became synonymous with French Polynesia and was subsequently adopted by luxury resorts around the world, from the Maldives to Southeast Asia.

Over the following decades, Hotel Bora Bora established itself as one of the South Pacific’s most celebrated properties. Its secluded setting, spectacular views and distinctive Polynesian character attracted an international clientele, helping to establish Bora Bora as a destination for discerning travelers seeking an exceptional island escape.

When Aman Took Over Hotel Bora Bora

In 1988, Hotel Bora Bora became part of Aman Resorts, the luxury hospitality group known for its intimate properties, remarkable locations and understated approach to luxury. Founded in 1988, Aman was building a collection of resorts that prioritised privacy, thoughtful design and a strong connection to their surroundings.

Hotel Bora Bora was a natural fit for this philosophy. Its extraordinary location and long history gave it a character that could not easily be replicated elsewhere. The property also became part of Aman’s early story, making its eventual closure particularly significant for loyal guests of the brand.

In October 2008, the hotel closed for what was announced as a complete reconstruction. The intention was to transform the property and reopen it in time for its 50th anniversary in 2011. The redevelopment was expected to give the historic resort a new lease of life while preserving its special place in Bora Bora’s history. Some renderings of the refurbished Aman Bora Bora were even released, which you can watch here.

However, the anticipated reopening never materialized. The original timeline passed, and successive years brought no confirmed return. What had been expected to be a temporary closure turned into an absence lasting nearly two decades.

Could the Former Hotel Bora Bora Finally Be Restored?

Now, there are fresh indications that the project could finally be progressing. According to Wander in Paradise, a coordination meeting involving Bora Bora’s mayor and representatives associated with the project (including representatives of the Aman brand) was held ahead of construction, which was scheduled to begin on 16 May 2026. The reported discussions involved infrastructure and utility providers, as well as work connected to the surrounding road network.

The report suggests that the redevelopment could take several years. However, it does not establish a confirmed opening date, and independent confirmation that construction began as scheduled remains limited. Even so, the reported preparations are encouraging after so many years of uncertainty. The involvement of local authorities and infrastructure providers would represent a meaningful step if it leads to work on the long-awaited redevelopment.

What Could a New Aman Bora Bora Look Like?

For now, details about the future resort remain scarce. Aman has not publicly announced a reopening date or released a comprehensive description of the proposed property.

The original site’s appeal is nevertheless clear. Its position near Matira Beach offers a different setting from the private motus that accommodate several of Bora Bora’s established luxury resorts. Rather than relying solely on the classic overwater-villa experience, a new resort here could draw on the site’s history, tropical vegetation and proximity to the main island.

Should Aman return, expectations would naturally be high. The brand has built its reputation around exceptional locations, architectural restraint, privacy and highly personalised service. A successful redevelopment would need to respect the character of the original Hotel Bora Bora while meeting contemporary expectations for comfort, design and sustainability.

It remains too early to know whether the new property would retain the original hotel’s name, how many accommodations it would offer, or precisely how Aman intends to develop the site. Until further details are released, any description of the future resort must remain speculative.

When Will Aman Bora Bora Reopen?

The most important question for travelers is, of course, when they might finally be able to book a stay.

At present, there is no officially confirmed reopening date. The reports of construction preparations in 2026 suggest that the project may be advancing, but the estimated duration of several years means that a near-term opening should not be assumed.

Aman has also yet to provide a public announcement setting out the project’s timeline. The distinction matters: reported preparations are encouraging, but they are not the same as a confirmed hotel opening. For now, travelers hoping to experience Aman in Bora Bora will have to wait for further news. After years of silence, however, the prospect of activity returning to this historic site is reason enough to follow the story closely.

A Long-Awaited Return to the Pearl of the Pacific?

Hotel Bora Bora occupies a special place in the history of luxury travel. It helped introduce the world to the overwater bungalow, contributed to the island’s international reputation and became part of Aman’s early portfolio before closing in 2008.

Nearly 18 years later, the possibility of redevelopment offers hope that this remarkable location could welcome guests once again. Whether the project ultimately delivers a new Aman resort, and when that resort might open, remain unanswered questions.

For admirers of the brand and travelers who remember the original Hotel Bora Bora, the coming months and years could prove decisive. After such a long wait, the prospect of a new chapter for this legendary property is certainly one to watch.