St James
Vaitape, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
St James is one of Bora Bora’s most recognisable waterfront restaurants, set in Vaitape with terrace dining above the lagoon. The setting is as important as the menu: guests come for refined French cooking built around fresh local produce, with direct views over the water and an easygoing island atmosphere that still feels polished. It is a strong choice for a first evening on the island because it combines a central location with an unmistakable Bora Bora sense of place. The appeal here is balance. St James sits close to the island’s main village, so it works well for visitors who want a straightforward dinner without resort transport logistics, yet it still delivers the scenic, special-occasion feel people expect in French Polynesia. Its editorial position is deserved because it represents the classic Bora Bora lagoon-front dining experience in a lively, accessible setting.