Bora Bora is synonymous with overwater bungalows, but limiting your accommodation search to just those iconic structures means missing out on a wealth of unique and memorable lodging experiences. Think private motu villas, hillside havens with panoramic views, luxurious yachts, and even charming Polynesian-style pensions. Ready to discover the hidden gems? Let’s dive into the diverse array of accommodations beyond the bungalow, focusing on specific spots in Bora Bora where you can find them.
Beyond the Bungalow: A World of Choice
While the overwater bungalow offers unparalleled lagoon access, exploring other options can lead to a more personalized and often more budget-friendly vacation. The key is to consider what’s most important to you: privacy, views, local immersion, activities, or value. Let’s explore some alternatives, location by location.
Luxury Villa Escapes on the Main Island
Matira Beach Area: Moving away from the resorts, toward the southern tip of Bora Bora’s main island, around Matira Beach, you’ll find luxurious villas available for rent. These aren’t just standard vacation rentals; many are lavish homes with private pools, gourmet kitchens, and even dedicated staff. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves, enjoying breakfast on your terrace overlooking the turquoise water, and spending your days swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in your own private paradise. Villas in this area often range from $500 to upwards of $5,000 per night, depending on size, amenities, and season. Expect to pay a premium during peak season (June-August and December-January). To find such villas, check out platforms like Airbnb Luxe or specialized villa rental agencies that focus on high-end properties in Bora Bora. Remember to book well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season. Securing the services of a local concierge can enhance your stay, providing insights, from arranging private boat tours to securing reservations at popular restaurants.
Hillside Villas: For panoramic views that rival, but are fundamentally different from overwater bungalows, consider hillside villas. These are located on the slopes of Mount Otemanu or Mount Pahia, offering breathtaking vistas of the lagoon, surrounding motus, and the Pacific Ocean. These villas offer more privacy and space than many overwater bungalows. Expect to pay extra for the view. Consider the location not just for the view, but also whether a rental car is advisable; many hillside properties are remote and benefit from independent transport.
Motu Magic: Private Island Experiences
Motu Tane: While not strictly a single accommodation option, the concept of renting a whole motu (small island) is, in itself, a unique accommodation experience. Some motus, like sections within Four Seasons Bora Bora, allow for extended stays. Envision your own private paradise, complete with pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear water. This is the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity. Renting an entire motu is a significant investment, with prices ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per week, depending on the size and amenities of the island. Such rentals often include a full staff, including chefs, butlers, and boat captains, ensuring that your every need is met. The logistics of renting a private motu are complex, involving permits, transportation, and staffing. It’s best to work with a specialized luxury travel agency that has experience in arranging such unique experiences. Bear in mind, however, that you may not get exclusive use of the nearby parts of the lagoon as visitors may arrive daily. You’re afforded high privacy on land.
Motu Piti Aau: Although smaller than Motu Tane, this location offers similar private island accommodation experiences as well. Finding a villa here usually involves a private boat transfer from Vaitape (the main town). Ensure your villa rental includes this service, or arrange a separate transfer in advance. A round trip transfer generally costs around $100 to $300 per person depending on the boat type and distance. Activities here often revolve around water sports. Confirm if your villa provides equipment like kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkeling gear, or whether you’ll need to rent them. Many villa rentals will also handle the provisioning of food and drinks. Discuss your dietary needs and preferences with the villa management team in advance.
Yachting Adventures: Floating Luxury
A unique alternative to traditional land-based accommodations is renting a yacht. Several companies offer yacht charters in Bora Bora, ranging from smaller sailboats to luxurious motor yachts. Think of waking up to a different view every day, exploring hidden lagoons, and diving into pristine coral reefs. Yacht charters offer unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to experience Bora Bora from a unique perspective. Prices vary dramatically based on the size and type of yacht, the duration of the charter, and whether you opt for a crewed or bareboat charter. A small sailboat might cost around $500 per day, while a luxury motor yacht could cost several thousand dollars per day. Be sure to factor in additional costs, such as fuel, docking fees, food, and beverages. When comparing yacht charters, pay close attention to the included amenities and services. Does the charter include snorkeling gear, kayaks, or paddle boards? Is a chef included? Also, check the cancellation policy and insurance coverage.
Consider these locations for yacht mooring: Vaitape is home to Bora Bora’s main port and is where larger catamarans arrive. You can also find mooring spots near Matira Beach if you seek a more secluded feel.
Budget-Friendly and Immersive: Polynesian Pensions
For travelers seeking a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, consider staying in a Polynesian pension. These are family-run guesthouses that offer a glimpse into local life. Pensions are often located in residential areas, providing a more immersive cultural experience than a resort stay. You’ll find some around Vaitape, and others scattered around the main island. Pensions are significantly more affordable than resorts or villas, with prices ranging from $100 to $300 per night. Many pensions offer meals, providing an opportunity to sample traditional Polynesian cuisine. Don’t expect the same level of luxury or amenities as a resort, but do expect warm hospitality and a personal touch. When booking a pension, read reviews carefully and choose one that is well-regarded for its cleanliness, hospitality, and location. It’s also a good idea to communicate with the pension owner in advance to discuss your needs and preferences. For a more immersive cultural experience, consider participating in local activities, such as learning to cook Polynesian dishes or attending a traditional dance performance.
Pension Location Recommendations:
Vaitape: Provides easy access to shops, restaurants, and transportation.
Anau: Quieter location, known for its manta ray snorkeling spots.
Faanui: Close to historical sites and offers stunning lagoon views.
Location Deep Dive: Leveraging SPOTS for Accommodation
Let’s break down Bora Bora into specific spots, and how these areas influence your choice of accommodation:
Vaitape: The main town of Bora Bora. It’s practical, but not necessarily glamorous. Staying here offers access to the municipal market, shops, banks, and the ferry to other islands. Accommodation options in Vaitape are primarily focused on smaller hotels and pensions, catering to budget-conscious travelers who value convenience over luxury. Expect to pay around $100 – $300 per night. While you won’t find overwater bungalows in Vaitape itself, its central location makes it a good base for exploring the rest of the island, especially if you’re relying on public transport. In the main street, you’ll find car rental services that are more affordable, and you’ll find options like e-bikes.
Matira Point: As mentioned previously, Matira Point and its famous Matira Beach are home to some of the most luxurious villas on Bora Bora. The stunning white-sand beach and calm, shallow water make it ideal for families. Prices for beachfront villas here can range from $800 to $5,000+ per night. Expect great sunsets. You’ll find a range of dining options, too but many are more casual than those in the resorts.
Faanui Bay: Over on the north side of the island, Faanui Bay holds historical significance (it was a key location during World War II). It offers a more secluded vibe than Matira. You can find a handful of smaller hotels and guesthouses offering great views of the bay. Prices are generally lower than on the southern end of the island. Consider this location if you are interested history and like to explore independently. The area is not as well-developed as Matira, so renting a car or scooter can be advantageous. Public transportation options may be limited.
Anau: On the eastern side of Bora Bora, Anau is a quieter residential area known for its manta ray cleaning station. You can often spot manta rays while snorkeling or diving in the area. Accommodation options include pensions and small hotels, offering a more local and authentic experience. Staying in Anau gives you a glimpse into everyday life on Bora Bora, away from the tourist hotspots. Prices are generally in the mid-range. Since Anau is relatively secluded, consider renting a car or scooter to explore other parts of the island.
The Motus (Toopua, Tapu, etc.): Staying on a motu – particularly one not dominated by a major resort – is a very exclusive experience. Motus offer the ultimate privacy and seclusion, surrounded by pristine beaches and crystal-clear water. Accommodation options are limited to either extremely lavish villas (rented entirely to a single party). Expect to pay at the very top end of the range. Getting to and from the main island will require a boat transfer, which can add to the cost and logistical complexity. These are amazing locations, but require considerable planning.
Practical Tips for Choosing (and Securing) your Bora Bora Accommodation
Book in Advance: Regardless of the type of accommodation you choose, booking well in advance is crucial, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Many properties get booked up months in advance.
Read Reviews: Take the time to read reviews from other travelers before making a decision. This can provide valuable insights into the property’s cleanliness, service, amenities, and location.
Consider Transportation: Think about how you’ll get around Bora Bora. Renting a car or scooter can give you more flexibility to explore the island, but public transportation is also available. If you’re staying on a motu, factor in the cost and logistics of boat transfers.
Factor in Meal Costs: Eating out in Bora Bora can be expensive, so consider whether your accommodation includes meals or if you’ll need to budget for dining. Many villas and pensions offer meal plans or have kitchens where you can prepare your own food.
Check for Hidden Fees: Be sure to inquire about any hidden fees, such as resort fees, taxes, or service charges. These can add significantly to the overall cost of your stay.
Communicate With The Property: Don’t hesitate to contact the property directly with any questions or concerns you may have. This can help ensure that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. For example, if you are hoping to organize a surprise birthday party, or a wedding proposal in your villa, communicate details clearly to the owners and staff.
FAQ Section
Q: Is it cheaper to stay on the main island vs. a motu?
A: Generally, yes. Accommodation on the main island, particularly in areas like Vaitape or Anau, tends to be more affordable than staying on a private motu or in an overwater bungalow. Motu accommodations offer exclusivity and privacy, but come at a premium.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Bora Bora if I’m not staying at a resort?
A: Renting a car or scooter provides the most flexibility. If you are staying in Vaitape and plan to visit Matira Beach, then driving the full island loop allows you to stop along the way at viewpoints, beaches, and local shops. Public transport is also available, but with limited routes or service hours. Boat transfers are essential for motu access. Consider taxis, especially at night because they can be booked ahead.
Q: Are there any all-inclusive options outside of the major resorts?
A: It’s less common, but some smaller hotels, pensions, and villas may offer meal plans or packages that include some or all meals. Check directly with the property to see what options are available. In most cases, expect to cover the cost of your drinks, so consider a meal with drinks included to save some money when dining out.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Bora Bora for good weather and lower prices?
A: The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) generally offer a good balance of pleasant weather and slightly lower prices compared to the peak seasons. The dry season (May-October) is ideal for sunshine, but expect higher prices and more crowds. The wet season (November-April) brings higher humidity and occasional rain, but also lower prices and fewer tourists.
Q: Is it safe to drink the tap water in Bora Bora?
A: It’s generally recommended to drink bottled water or filtered water. Check with your accommodation about the quality of the tap water.
Q: Do I need to speak French to visit Bora Bora?
A: While French is the official language of French Polynesia, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic French phrases will be appreciated by locals. Locals in Bora Bora appreciate politeness and respect for their culture even if most converse in English.
References
Bora Bora Tourism Authority
TripAdvisor Bora Bora Forums
Booking.com
Ready to trade the predictable for the unforgettable? Bora Bora is waiting to surprise you with its diverse accommodations. Skip the search for the same old overwater bungalow and step into a world of private villas, secluded motus, and immersive Polynesian experiences. Your unique adventure starts here – start planning your escape today and discover the magic that lies beyond the typical tourist trail.
