Forget the crowded beaches and pricey restaurants. Bora Bora’s best kept secret is a private motu picnic experience – a day spent on your own stretch of pristine sand, with turquoise waters lapping at your feet and a gourmet meal prepared just for you. This isn’t just a lunch; it’s an immersion into Polynesian paradise, a chance to truly disconnect and reconnect with nature (and maybe your loved one!).
What Exactly is a Motu Picnic in Bora Bora?
Okay, let’s break it down. A “motu” is a Polynesian word for a small islet, often a sandy strip of land formed on the reef surrounding a larger island. In Bora Bora, these motus are like precious jewels scattered around the lagoon. A motu picnic is an organized excursion that takes you by boat to one of these secluded spots. Typically, it involves:
Transportation: Round-trip boat transfer from your hotel or a designated pick-up point.
A Private Beach: Your own little slice of paradise for the day (or at least for a few hours).
A Gourmet Meal: Prepared and presented with Polynesian flair. Think fresh seafood, grilled meats, tropical fruits, and local specialties.
Drinks: Usually water, soft drinks, and sometimes even beer or wine are included.
Activities: Some excursions offer snorkeling gear, paddleboards, or kayaks to explore the surrounding waters.
The beauty of a motu picnic is the unparalleled privacy and intimacy. No battling for beach chairs, no competing with other tourists for the best snorkeling spot. Just you, the sun, the sea, and a delicious Polynesian feast.
Choosing the Right Motu Picnic Experience: Factors to Consider
Not all motu picnics are created equal. To make sure you have an unforgettable experience, here’s what to keep in mind when choosing a tour operator:
Reputation and Reviews: Do your research! Check online reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and Viator to see what other travelers have to say. Look for consistent praise regarding the quality of the food, the friendliness of the staff, and the overall experience.
Menu Options: What kind of food are you craving? Some picnics focus on grilled seafood, while others offer a wider variety of meats and vegetarian options. Make sure the menu caters to your dietary needs and preferences. Contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about specific dietary requirements like gluten-free, vegetarian, or allergies.
Inclusions: What’s included in the price? Is snorkeling gear provided? Are drinks included? Are there any additional activities offered? Knowing exactly what you’re getting for your money will help you make an informed decision.
Motu Location: Some motus are more scenic than others. Ask the tour operator about the specific motu they use for their picnics. Look for motus with powdery white sand, crystal-clear water, and good snorkeling opportunities.
Group Size: Do you want a completely private experience, or are you comfortable sharing the motu with a few other couples? Some tours offer private motu picnics, while others are semi-private.
Price: Motu picnics can range in price from around $200 to $600 USD per person, depending on the level of luxury and the inclusions. Set a budget and stick to it.
Time of Day: Consider a sunset picnic for a romantic and unforgettable experience. The colors of the sky reflecting on the lagoon are simply breathtaking.
Example: Let’s say you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience. A private motu picnic with Four Seasons Bora Bora might cost several hundred dollars per person, but it would include top-notch service, gourmet cuisine, and access to a pristine motu. On the other hand, a smaller, locally-owned tour operator might offer a more affordable option with a simpler menu and a less exclusive motu, but still provide a fantastic and authentic experience.
What to Expect on Your Motu Picnic Day: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve booked your motu picnic – fantastic! Here’s what to expect on the big day:
1.
Pick-Up: The tour operator will pick you up from your hotel or a designated meeting point, usually by boat. Be punctual!
2.
Boat Ride: Enjoy the scenic boat ride to the motu. This is a great opportunity to take photos and soak in the beauty of Bora Bora’s lagoon. Your guide might share some interesting facts about the island and its history.
3.
Arrival at the Motu: Step onto the soft, white sand and prepare to be amazed. The motu will likely be set up with beach chairs, umbrellas, and a picnic table or mats for your meal.
4.
Relaxation and Activities: Take some time to relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear water, or explore the surrounding area. If snorkeling gear is provided, take advantage of the opportunity to explore the underwater world.
5.
The Feast: The highlight of the day! Your lunch will be served with Polynesian flair. Expect fresh seafood, grilled meats, tropical fruits, and local specialties like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice). Savor every bite and enjoy the stunning views.
6.
More Relaxation: After lunch, take some more time to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the motu.
7.
Departure: Sadly, all good things must come to an end. Your boat will arrive to take you back to your hotel, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Packing Essentials for Your Motu Picnic
To ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable day, here’s a packing list:
Swimsuit: Essential for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong Polynesian sun. SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
Hat and Sunglasses: Shield yourself from the sun’s glare.
Beach Towel: While some tour operators provide towels, it’s always a good idea to bring your own just in case.
Water Shoes: Protect your feet from the coral and rocks.
Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be present, especially in the evenings.
Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and your unforgettable memories.
Cash: For tipping the boat crew.
Waterproof Bag: To protect your valuables from getting wet.
Book or Magazine: For relaxing on the beach.
Beyond the Beach: Enhancing Your Motu Picnic Experience
Want to take your motu picnic to the next level? Here are a few ideas:
Request a Private Musician: Some tour operators can arrange for a local musician to serenade you during your picnic. Imagine enjoying your meal while listening to the soothing sounds of a ukulele.
Book a Photo Shoot: Capture your memories with a professional photo shoot. A skilled photographer can capture stunning images of you and your loved one against the backdrop of Bora Bora’s breathtaking scenery.
Arrange for a Polynesian Massage: Indulge in a relaxing Polynesian massage on the beach. Some tour operators can arrange for a massage therapist to meet you on the motu.
Go for a Sunset Picnic: Witness the magical sunset over Bora Bora’s lagoon while enjoying your gourmet meal. This is an incredibly romantic and unforgettable experience.
Learn Some Basic Polynesian Phrases: Impress the locals and add a touch of authenticity to your experience by learning a few basic Polynesian phrases. “Ia Orana” (hello), “Mauruuru” (thank you), and “Parāhi’a” (beautiful) are good starting points.
Respect the Environment: Dispose of your trash responsibly and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. Bora Bora’s natural beauty is precious, and it’s important to protect it.
Cost Considerations and Budgeting for Your Motu Picnic
As mentioned earlier, motu picnics can range in price depending on various factors. Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you budget effectively:
Basic Motu Picnic (Group Setting): Expect to pay around $200-$300 USD per person. This usually includes boat transportation, a shared motu with other couples, a standard Polynesian lunch buffet (think grilled fish, chicken, salads, and fruits), and non-alcoholic beverages.
Semi-Private Motu Picnic: This option, costing between $300-$450 USD per person, might offer a smaller group size on the motu or a slightly upgraded menu with higher quality ingredients or more refined dishes. It could also include alcoholic beverages like beer or wine.
Private Motu Picnic (Luxury Option): Prepare to spend $450-$600+ USD per person for a truly private experience. This will typically include a completely secluded motu just for you and your party, a gourmet multi-course meal prepared by a private chef, premium alcoholic beverages, personalized service, and potentially add-ons like snorkeling gear, paddleboards, or even a private musician.
Hidden Costs to Consider:
Tipping: It’s customary to tip the boat crew, especially if they provided excellent service. A tip of 10-15% of the total cost is generally appreciated.
Souvenirs: You might want to purchase souvenirs from local vendors, so factor in some extra spending money.
Transportation (to and from the pick-up point): If your hotel isn’t included in the tour’s pick-up route, you’ll need to arrange transportation to the designated meeting point. This could be a taxi or a rental car.
Optional Activities: While some activities might be included, others might come at an additional cost. For example, a private snorkeling tour or a massage on the motu would likely incur extra fees.
Real-World Example: My Own Motu Picnic Adventure
Let me share my personal experience to give you a better idea. I planned a surprise romantic getaway for my wife to Bora Bora and the motu picnic was a complete highlight. I opted for a semi-private experience through a local tour operator I found online after meticulously reading reviews. The price was around $350 USD per person.
The boat picked us up directly from our overwater bungalow at the InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa by IHG Resort & Thalasso Spa. The motu was about a 20-minute boat ride away and it was STUNNING. The sand was incredibly soft, the water was so clear you could see all the colorful fish swimming around, and there were only two other couples on the entire motu – it truly felt secluded.
The lunch was incredible! We had grilled lobster, tuna sashimi, and the most amazing poisson cru I’ve ever tasted. They even had a vegetarian option for my wife. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure we always had a drink in hand. After lunch, we spent the afternoon snorkeling, swimming, and simply relaxing on the beach. The whole experience felt incredibly special and personalized. It was worth every penny.
Activities In Bora Bora That Complement Your Motu Picnic
A motu picnic is a fantastic experience on its own, but it can be even better when combined with other activities in Bora Bora. Here are a few suggestions:
Lagoon Tour: Explore the entire lagoon on a guided tour. This will give you a broader perspective of Bora Bora’s beauty and allow you to discover hidden gems that you might not otherwise see.
Jet Skiing: Experience the thrill of riding a jet ski across the lagoon. This is a great way to see the island from a different perspective and get your adrenaline pumping.
Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: Discover the underwater world of Bora Bora. The lagoon is teeming with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even manta rays.
Hiking Mount Otemanu: If you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the top of Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora’s iconic volcanic peak. The views from the summit are breathtaking.
Visit Vaitape: Explore the main town of Bora Bora, Vaitape, and experience the local culture. Visit the market, browse the shops, and enjoy a traditional Polynesian dance performance.
Sunset Cruise: End your day with a romantic sunset cruise. Sip on cocktails, enjoy the stunning views, and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Dealing with Weather and Contingency Plans
Bora Bora enjoys a tropical climate, but even paradise can experience occasional rain. Don’t let a little drizzle ruin your plans. Here’s how to handle potential weather issues:
Check the Weather Forecast: Keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your motu picnic. While forecasts aren’t always accurate, they can give you a general idea of what to expect.
Flexible Booking Policies: Choose a tour operator with a flexible booking policy that allows you to reschedule your picnic if the weather is unfavorable. Many operators will offer a full refund or allow you to rebook for a different day.
Rain Gear: Pack a light rain jacket or poncho, just in case. A little rain doesn’t have to spoil the fun.
Indoor Alternatives: If the weather is truly terrible, consider alternatives like a cooking class, a spa treatment, or exploring the local shops and restaurants.
Embrace the Rain: Sometimes, the best experiences are the unexpected ones. Embrace the rain and enjoy the unique atmosphere it creates. A rainy day in Bora Bora can be just as magical as a sunny one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a motu picnic suitable for children?
Yes, absolutely! Many tour operators cater to families with children. Some offer special kids’ menus and activities. Just be sure to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure they can accommodate your family’s needs.
Q: What happens if I have dietary restrictions?
Most tour operators are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. Simply inform them of your needs when booking your picnic. They can usually provide vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other special meal options.
Q: Is it safe to swim and snorkel in the lagoon?
Yes, the lagoon is generally safe for swimming and snorkeling. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and follow the instructions of your guide. Be careful of coral reefs and avoid touching or disturbing marine life.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Bora Bora for a motu picnic?
The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant during these months. However, the wet season (November to April) can also be a great time to visit, as the prices are lower and the crowds are smaller.
Q: Can I bring my own drinks and snacks to the motu picnic?
This depends on the tour operator. Some operators allow you to bring your own drinks and snacks, while others do not. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to clarify their policy.
Q: How far in advance should I book my motu picnic?
It’s always a good idea to book your motu picnic in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Booking at least a few weeks in advance will ensure that you get the tour operator and motu location that you want.
Q: What’s the difference between a private and semi-private motu picnic?
A private motu picnic means you’ll have the entire motu to yourselves, while a semi-private picnic means you’ll be sharing the motu with a few other couples or small groups. Private picnics offer more privacy and exclusivity, but they also tend to be more expensive.
Q: What if the weather is bad on the day of my motu picnic?
Most tour operators have a flexible booking policy that allows you to reschedule your picnic if the weather is unfavorable. If rescheduling isn’t possible, they may offer a full refund.
Q: Are there mosquitos on the motu?
Yes, mosquitos can be present on the motu, especially in the evenings or after rain. It’s a good idea to bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
References
TripAdvisor. (n.d.). Bora Bora Forum. Retrieved from TripAdvisor website.
Viator. (n.d.). Bora Bora Tours & Activities. Retrieved from Viator website.
Four Seasons Resorts. (n.d.). Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. Retrieved from Four Seasons Resorts website.
InterContinental Hotels Group. (n.d.). InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa by IHG Resort & Thalasso Spa. Retrieved from InterContinental Hotels Group website.
Ready to trade the ordinary for extraordinary? A motu picnic in Bora Bora is more than just a meal; it’s an investment in unforgettable memories. Imagine yourself sinking your toes into the softest sand, the turquoise water beckoning, and the scent of grilled seafood filling the air. This is your chance to escape the crowds, connect with nature, and create a memory that will last a lifetime. Don’t just dream about paradise; book your motu picnic today and experience Bora Bora’s best kept secret!
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