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.
On This Page
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.
Neighborhood Overview
Explore different areas by price range. Click a neighborhood to learn more.
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
Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora
Matira Beach Area
Affordable beachfront resort with lagoon views, comfortable bungalows and rooms, restaurant, and beach access - one of the more budget-friendly options on the island.
Hotel Matira
Matira Beach
Iconic beachfront hotel on beautiful Matira Beach featuring traditional Polynesian bungalows with private balconies and direct lagoon access for a relaxed, authentic stay.
$$ Best Mid-Range Hotels
Sunset Hill Lodge
Vaitape
Hillside pension with lagoon views and free kayaks in the heart of Vaitape. Excellent value for Bora Bora.
Hotel Royal Bora Bora
Main Island
Charming garden hotel with a private beach, swimming pool, and spacious rooms, offering excellent value and a tranquil setting near Matira Beach and local amenities.
$$$ Best Luxury Hotels
Rohotu Fare Lodge
Vaitape / Povai Bay
An intimate luxury retreat set in a lush botanical garden on a hillside overlooking Povai Bay. Features individually designed exotic bungalows with unique Polynesian artwork and outdoor marble showers.
InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana
Matira
More affordable InterContinental option on Matira Point with overwater and beach bungalows.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Motu To'opua
Stunning hillside and overwater resort with infinity pool, spa, and iconic views. Note: closed 5 Jan–30 Apr 2026 for reimagination project—check renovation/closure windows for your dates.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Motu Tehotu
Ultimate luxury with largest overwater bungalows, exceptional service, and lagoon sanctuary.
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
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.
Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Motu Tevairoa
Excellent value motu resort with overwater bungalows and more accessible luxury.
✦ Unique & Boutique Stays
Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort
Matira Beach
Picturesque beach resort with overwater bungalows and beach villas, stunning lagoon views, and relaxed Polynesian hospitality.
Manava Beach Resort & Spa Bora Bora
Matira
Intimate eco-friendly resort with beautiful overwater and beach bungalows, superb snorkeling from the beach, and genuine warm service.
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
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- All neighborhoods verified by walking them
- Curated locations based on walkability & safety
- Real-time availability via live partner maps
- Prices based on Booking.com & Numbeo averages
Methodology: This guide combines on-the-ground neighborhood research, current hotel pricing data, and real traveler feedback to provide honest, actionable accommodation recommendations for Bora Bora.
Updated: February 25, 2026
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Overview
Complete travel guide for Bora Bora: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.