If you’ve been thinking about booking a holiday to Bora Bora, chances are you’ve been enticed by its pristine beaches, spectacular overwater bungalows and crystal-clear waters. For many, particularly honeymooners, it’s a dream destination – but one that comes with a hefty price tag.
Thankfully, if it’s a tropical paradise you’re after, our travel experts have got plenty of recommendations for similar destinations that won’t break the bank. Read on to discover our list of top places like Bora Bora – from the Cook Islands to Madagascar and beyond – and you too could be experiencing that little slice of holiday heaven.
Places like Bora Bora in The Pacific
Cook Islands
Over in beautiful Polynesia, first on our list of places like Bora Bora takes us slightly off the beaten path to the Cook Islands. A breathtakingly beautiful collection of islands with a unique charm and authentic feel, the Cook Islands offer a similar experience to Bora Bora, but at a far more palatable price point.
At this far-flung destination, expect pristine beaches, clear lagoons and a sense of tranquillity and serenity that is hard to find anywhere else. While you can stay in luxurious accommodation, there are also charming villages worth exploring where you can get to know the friendly locals and learn about the local culture. While there’s plenty to do here, the magical Cook Islands are the best choice for those seeking a relaxing, off-the-grid holiday.
Fiji
If you’re asking yourself ‘is Fiji or Bora Bora nicer’, then we’d argue it’s a close call, since you’ll be treated to equally as picture-perfect scenery at this South Pacific archipelago. As far as places like Bora Bora goes, you’ll find that Fiji is more affordable too and offers a taste of authentic local culture in leaps and bounds.
When you’re not soaking up the sunshine on one of its many white sand beaches, you could partake in a traditional firewalking ceremony, a Kava ceremony or a ‘Lovo’ food feast, sampling the delicious local cuisine. And since the archipelago comprises over 150 islands, we’d be remiss not to recommend taking yourself on a magical island-hopping adventure if you have the time.
Maldives
Ok, so it may not be the most affordable option in the world, but if you book flights at the right time (with us, of course!) you’d be surprised at what you can get for your money on a Maldivian getaway - and, it's probably one of the closest matches in terms of places like Bora Bora.
The Maldives is home to some of the world’s most exclusive private island resorts, renowned for their glorious white sand beaches, jaw-droppingly impressive overwater villas and beautiful bright blue lagoons – making it extremely popular for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. If you love swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving too, the Maldives is the place to go, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs teeming with an array of marine life just waiting to be discovered. It’s undoubtedly one for your travel bucket list.
Moorea, French Polynesia
When it comes to similarly beautiful places that are close to Bora Bora, the picturesque Moorea in French Polynesia should be high on your list to consider – offering breathtaking scenery, stunning beaches and overwater villas sure to give Bora Bora a run for its money. What’s more, it’s close to the major island of Tahiti, so it’s slightly easier to reach than Bora Bora, and as such, more affordable.
Moorea also offers a more local and authentic vibe to Bora Bora, with a wider range of accommodation available, and there’s plenty to do besides lounging on the beautiful beaches, such as hiking, snorkelling, or exploring the archipelago by boat.
Places like Bora Bora in Asia
Langkawi, Indonesia
Keen to explore some of the beautiful beaches and places like Bora Bora over on the other side of the world? You may be surprised to find out that Malaysia has many tropical hidden gems with beaches almost just as beautiful as Bora Bora’s.
Langkawi offers plenty of gorgeous yet rustic overwater villas where you can snorkel straight into the ocean and explore the coral reefs, as well as sandy beaches set against a backdrop of lush, tropical jungle. As well as the plentiful marine life here, you’re likely to spot some of the island’s other wildlife residents such as long-tailed macaque, water buffalo, the great hornbill and an array of reptiles, making it a brilliant choice for nature lovers.
Palawan, The Philippines
The Philippines is a fantastic destination in its own right, with numerous places to explore across some 7000+ islands. But if its pristine beaches, private island resorts and palm tree-lined beaches you’re after, Palawan is where you’ll want to head. Palawan is arguably one of the world’s most photogenic places, thanks to its natural beauty comprising dramatic coastal scenery, sparkling turquoise waters and lush jungle, so it’s definitely one of the places like Bora Bora that really wows on every front.
There’s plenty to do here, both for the outdoor adventurer and the laidback beach goer – from snorkelling its stunning coral reefs and shipwrecks, to jungle trekking, zip lining and much more. What’s more, accommodation here is a fraction of the price in Bora Bora. What more could you ask for?!
Thailand
While it might not be the cheapest place to get to (although with some of our deals it can be!), Thailand itself is actually pretty affordable for the budget traveller, and once you’re there, its paradisical, white sandy beaches are more than worth it. After all, it was the setting for Danny Boyle’s movie The Beach.
On a trip to Thailand, you can expect beautiful palm-fringed beaches, private islands, crystal-clear waters resplendent with colourful marine life, incredible dining options and an abundance of luxury resorts (and for a fraction of Bora Bora’s price!). Head to Koh Samui for high-end resorts and cuisine with beautifully unspoilt private beaches, or Koh Lipe for relaxed, rustic vibes and world class snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities.
Places like Bora Bora in The Caribbean
Jamaica
For those in search of honeymoon destinations or perhaps a romantic getaway for two, the Caribbean Island of Jamaica is one of the best places like Bora Bora for couples. Here, you can immerse yourself in breathtaking surroundings featuring beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear waters and explore the mountainous jungles with spectacular waterfalls.
If you’re looking for something a little livelier, Jamaica boasts a vibrant atmosphere with beach parties, live music and plenty of nighttime entertainment. When it comes to accommodation, this honeymoon favourite has numerous luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, making it a dreamy destination on all fronts.
Mexico
Undoubtedly one of our all-time favourite destinations, Mexico has it all – glorious food, sunshine, pristine beaches and swaying palm trees, not to mention a wealth of things to do to suit every kind of traveller. What’s more, depending on where you go, you’re more likely to be able to book yourself a real bargain.
Some of the most beautiful spots to visit include Tulum – for boutique beach bar vibes and private pools; the beaches along the Riviera Maya for family-friendly options and plenty of day excursions such as visiting ancient ruins and swimming in cenotes; or, for something a little off the beaten track and untouched, the charming Isla Holbox. And if it’s a private resort you’re after, there are hundreds, many with the luxury of a private infinity pool and views of the stunning coastline.
Image Credit: Vitor Gordo
Places like Bora Bora in Africa
Zanzibar
A true African gem that often flies under the radar, Zanzibar, known as the Spice Island (for its production of nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon), has some of the most picturesque beaches we’ve ever seen, and is far less touristy than some of the other options on this list, making for a tranquil escape.
While there might not be as many overwater villas here, there are an array of incredible white sand beaches framed by palm trees and lapped by mesmerising azure waters. What’s more, it’s part of Tanzania, so you could even combine your beach holiday with a safari adventure for a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Our friendly travel experts are always happy to help tailor-make it for you.
Madagascar
Nature lovers simply won’t want to miss the chance to visit the jaw-droppingly beautiful African paradise of Madagascar – known for its incredible biodiversity, lush scenery and tropical landscape.
Here you can escape to stunning secluded beaches, swim in azure waters and stay in luxury island lodges or overwater bungalows, and when you tire of blissful days spent on the beach, there’s the island’s unique wildlife to discover – from lemurs and chameleons to all sorts of monkey and other rainforest creatures. Madagascar offers a beautiful balance of relaxed, romantic beach days with intrepid island adventures, perfect for couples looking to explore.
So there you have it, our list of the top beach destinations like Bora Bora. Let us know over on social if you have any others to add to the list!
And if you’re ready to book your holiday to one of our top beach destinations, check out some of our favourites here, or chat with a Travel Expert to tailor-make your next getaway.