Where to Stay in Bora Bora 2026 | Best Areas + Hotel Map
Bora Bora is the ultimate bucket-list destination - a volcanic island surrounded by a turquoise lagoon that inspired the invention of overwater bungalows. While famous for ultra-luxury resorts, budget options exist on the main island and in local pensions. Most visitors come for once-in-a-lifetime honeymoons or special celebrations.
Editor's Pick for First-Timers
Motu Resorts (for the splurge)
If you're going to Bora Bora, the iconic overwater bungalow experience is why. These bucket-list stays offer glass floor panels to watch fish, direct lagoon access, and Mount Otemanu views. For budget travelers, Matira Point offers beach access with pension stays.
Matira Point
Motu Toopua
Vaitape
Eastern Motus
Anau / Faanui
Quick Guide: Best Areas
Things to Know
- • Don't expect budget travel - Bora Bora is expensive by design
- • Some pensions are far from beaches and need transport
- • Resort transfers add significant cost - factor into budget
- • Meal plans often better value than à la carte given isolation
Understanding Bora Bora Geography
Bora Bora is a central volcanic island surrounded by a lagoon and barrier reef with small islands (motus). The main island has Vaitape (town), Matira Point (beach), and villages. Luxury resorts sit on motus around the lagoon. The airport is on a motu; boat transfers are required.
Accommodation Map
Check availability and prices across Booking.com, Vrbo, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in Bora Bora
Matira Point
Best for: Best public beach, swimming, budget pensions, accessible lagoon
"Bora Bora's most beautiful public beach with accessible lagoon"
Pros
- Best beach
- Budget options exist
- Swimmable lagoon
Cons
- Not private resort
- Limited luxury
- Tourist crowds
Motu Toopua
Best for: Overwater bungalows, luxury resorts, Mount Otemanu views
"Private motu islands with world-famous overwater bungalow resorts"
Pros
- Iconic overwater villas
- Best views
- Privacy
Cons
- Extremely expensive
- Resort-bound
- Limited exploration
Vaitape (Main Town)
Best for: Ferry port, shops, local restaurants, practical services
"Main town with services, ferries, and glimpse of local life"
Pros
- Ferry access
- Local services
- More affordable food
Cons
- No beach
- Not scenic
- Functional only
Motu Tehotu / Eastern Motus
Best for: Exclusive resorts, pristine lagoon, ultimate privacy
"Most exclusive motu islands with ultimate privacy and pristine waters"
Pros
- Most exclusive
- Pristine environment
- Ultimate privacy
Cons
- Most expensive
- Very isolated
- Limited to resort
Anau / Faanui
Best for: Local villages, authentic Polynesia, budget pensions, quieter stays
"Local Polynesian villages with authentic island life"
Pros
- Authentic experience
- Budget options
- Local culture
Cons
- Far from beaches
- Limited amenities
- Need transport
Accommodation Budget in Bora Bora
Budget
Hostels, budget hotels, shared facilities
Mid-Range
3-star hotels, boutique stays, great locations
Luxury
5-star hotels, suites, premium amenities
💡 Prices vary by season. Book 2-3 months ahead for best rates.
Our Top Hotel Picks
€ Best Budget Hotels
Rohotu Fare Lodge
Matira
Beachfront pension with garden bungalows and direct access to Matira Beach. Best budget option.
Sunset Hill Lodge
Main Island
Hillside pension with lagoon views and free kayaks. Excellent value for Bora Bora.
€€ Best Mid-Range Hotels
InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana
Matira
More affordable InterContinental option on Matira Point with overwater and beach bungalows.
Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Motu Tevairoa
Excellent value motu resort with overwater bungalows and more accessible luxury.
€€€ Best Luxury Hotels
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Motu To'opua
Stunning hillside and overwater resort with infinity pool, spa, and iconic views.
Four Seasons Bora Bora
Motu Tehotu
Ultimate luxury with largest overwater bungalows, exceptional service, and lagoon sanctuary.
St. Regis Bora Bora
Motu Ome'e
Iconic luxury resort with Royal Estate (world's most expensive suite), butler service, and Jean-Georges restaurant.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Motu Piti Aau
Deep ocean spa resort using seawater therapies, stunning overwater villas, and excellent dining.
Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island
Motu Piti Uuuta
Intimate private island resort with overwater bungalows and romantic atmosphere.
Smart Booking Tips for Bora Bora
- 1 Book 6-12 months ahead for peak season (June-October) and honeymoons
- 2 Shoulder seasons (April-May, November) offer better rates
- 3 Wet season (December-March) has deals but expect rain
- 4 Honeymoon packages often include upgrades - mention occasion
- 5 All-inclusive packages usually better value than room-only
- 6 Airport is on a motu - all resorts require boat transfer
Why you can trust this guide
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
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Best Time to Visit
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Things to Do
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Itineraries
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Overview
Complete travel guide for Bora Bora: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.