Year after year, Travel + Leisure The beauty of the Stunning Beauty of the South Pacific. While it could be argued that there’s no bad place to stay in such a dreamy locale, World’s Best Awards voters would be the first to point out that certain touches—like anticipatory service and an expansive slate of programming—can take a visit to this region from wonderful to wow-worthy. This level of excellence is often associated with major hotel brands, and two are on this list. However, this year’s number one boutique resort also stands out. The No. 1 spot proves that boutique resorts who go above and beyond also win hearts (and votes).
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Voting is a Simple Process
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. The 2025 survey was completed by nearly 180,000 T+L subscribers. Over 657,000 votes were cast for over 8,700 different properties (hotels cities cruise lines etc.).).
Based on their location and amenities they were classified into resort hotels, city hotels, inns, or safari lodges. They were also rated according to the following criteria:
- Rooms/facilities
- Location
- Service
- Food
- Value
Respondents could rate each characteristic as excellent, above the average, average or below average. The final scores are the averages of all these responses.
What Readers Really Loved
It’s only reasonable that someone who invests time and money to travel to the South Pacific would expect an exceptional experience. The T+L readers chose two Polynesian resorts as their favorite in the area. They exceeded all expectations. One reader wrote that the Four Seasons Bora Bora resort, a family-friendly resort, was “excellent all around in terms of rooms, food and service.” This year’s No.3 is the family-friendly Four Seasons Bora Bora Resort. The beachfront villas are ideal for guests who want to travel in a large group, or those who prefer to be near the beach, restaurants and recreation areas. Couples may choose the overwater bungalows that have private plunge pools with views of Mount Otemanu. Its cultural and active pursuits are equally impressive, ranging from nature hikes to helicopter tours.
Enjoy the many attractions at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort (No. No. 2: Guests can snorkel with Napoleon fish, other tropical species and protected Lagoonarium in the morning and enjoy a candle-lit massage at night. What really impresses is the hospitality. One reader says, “You feel the luxury and attention to details as soon as your step foot on this island until the last moment when your butler bids farewell while you’re sailing off,” The level of service was excellent, from planning activities and events to greeting everyone with a smile every time they see you.
The Winner
Tokoriki Island Resort
Tokoriki Island
For the second year in a row, this beachfront hideaway has retained its No. This beachfront hideaway, which has been ranked No. 1 for the second consecutive year, reserves its 36 villas exclusively for guests aged 16 and older, giving it a more mature vibe than other honorees. The lush gardens and thatched roof buildings give the property a relaxed Fijian feel. However, the luxury spa is where couples will find the most tranquility. The resort also offers a variety of active activities. In addition to snorkeling and paddleboarding, guests can take part in a guided herbal medicine tour or play petanque. The resort offers a teppanyaki dining table for a more social experience. For something romantic, a seafood tasting menu on the jetty is a great option. One reader summarized the experience as “Hands Down one of most magical places I have ever stayed.”
T+L Reader
One of the most beautiful places I have ever been.
— T+L Reader
The Complete List
1. Tokoriki Island Resort: Tokoriki Island, Fiji
Reader Score: 96.80
2. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Reader Score: 92.36%
3. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.40
