21 Places Like Bora Bora Around The World
Love the look of Bora Bora but need to choose somewhere different? We’ve got the top places like Bora Bora around the globe…
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The overwater bungalows, the stretches of dazzling white sand and tranquil azure lagoons with the backdrop of mountains and Polynesian vibes, Bora Bora ia a honeymoon dream.
If you have the chance to visit this remote island paradise, grab it with both hands!
But, we understand that for some couples, there might be reasons you need to look at other places like Bora Bora (or at least meet some of the same criteria!)
Bora Bora might not tick every box for your honeymoon plans.
Perhaps the thought of long-haul flights and the ensuing jet lag isn’t very appealing, or maybe you’re trying to weave the magic of a luxury honeymoon on a tighter budget and Bora Bora may break the bank.
Maybe the timing isn’t right, and you don’t want to travel during Bora Bora’s rainy season, or perhaps you’ve been lucky enough to visit Bora Bora before and want to try somewhere new.
If you’re on a journey to find destinations that echo the serene beauty of Bora Bora, one might stumble upon locales that, at first glance, seem to share little with this iconic island paradise!
Yet, the allure of pristine beaches and the charm of overwater villas can be found in other places.
From the Caribbean to Africa, Europe to Asia to the Pacific, there are some stunning places like Bora Bora around the globe (well maybe not exactly like but have some similarities!)
Whether you’re seeking cheaper places like Bora Bora, or places like Bora Bora that are closer to home, these destinations have that perfect blend of beautiful beaches, romance, luxury, and even a dose of adventure.
Read on to discover the best places like Bora Bora around the globe!
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Places like Bora Bora in the Pacific
1. Fiji
Fiji is one of our top places like Bora Bora and, along with the Maldives, is the closest to its fellow South Pacific retreat.
It has overwater bungalows, set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
Fiji’s culture is infused with a warm and welcoming spirit. You can explore the lush rainforests with river tubing, waterfall hikes, zip lining, quad bike adventures and horse riding along with snorkelling and diving.
Why Fiji is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving and all-inclusive resorts, overwater accommodation and honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: April to November
How to get there: fly to Nadi (airport code: NAN) from LA, San Francisco, Honolulu, Vancouver, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland, Christchurch
Where to stay: Six Senses Fiji | Likuliku Lagoon Resort
2. Moorea
Did you know French Polynesia has other islands besides Bora Bora?
Moorea is close to the main administrative island of Tahiti. When it comes to places like Bora Bora, this is the top one!
The overwater bungalow concept started in French Polynesia and Moorea was one of the first islands to have them.
Surrounded by mountain peaks and vibrant coral reefs, this is a snorkeller’s paradise and a beautiful, albeit less famous, sister island of Bora Bora.
Why Moorea is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts and overwater accommodation.
Best time to visit: May to October
How to get there: fly to Papeete (airport code: PPT) and take ferry to Moorea or fly to Moorea (MOZ)
Where to stay: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort | Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Get planning with our French Polynesia Honeymoon Guide
3. Cook Islands
One of our top picks for places like Bora Bora in the South Pacific, is the Cook Islands. This is a paradise with a tranquil vibe that only somewhere so remote can provide.
Pristine beaches and clear lagoons, the islands’ unspoiled beauty is ideal for couples looking for paradise beaches off the beaten track.
Why Cook Islands is a great alternative to Bora Bora: Beautiful beaches, overwater bungalows
Best time to visit: May to November
How to get there: Fly to Rarotonga (RAR) via Sydney, Auckland and Papeete in French Polynesia.
Where to stay: Pacific Resort Aitutaki | Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
4. Hawaii
Hawaii is a Polynesian paradise with multiple islands featuring everything from volcanic landscapes to idyllic beaches.
Each island has its own character, whether it’s the famous cliffs of the Napali Coast on Kauai to the surfing vibes of North Shore’s beaches on Oahu.
Hawaii’s mix of natural beauty and native culture, plus its convenience, makes it an ideal consideration if you’re looking for places like Bora Bora.
Our top pick for a honeymoon is Maui. With activities like snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, hiking through lush rainforests, epic road trips and experiencing traditional luaus awaiting, Hawaii is a honeymoon dream.
Why Hawaii is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: March to November
How to get there: Fly to Maui (airport code: OGG) via most major US & Canadian cities
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Get planning with our Hawaii Planning Guide
5. Vanuatu
Vanuatu, a South Pacific paradise, lies off the east coast of Australia. Just 3.5 hours from Sydney, it’s a relatively off-the-beaten-track alternative to Bora Bora.
There are 80 islands in the archipelago and you’ll find volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, white sand beaches, and fascinating Melanesian culture.
Discover the archipelago’s underwater world, including the famous SS President Coolidge wreck. With its rainforest interior, there is plenty of exploring for adventure lovers.
Why Vanuatu is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: June to November
How to get there: fly to Vanuatu (airport code: VLI) from Brisbane, Sydney, Auckland or Fiji
Where to stay: The Havannah Vanuatu
Places like Bora Bora in Asia
6. The Philippines
Seeking dazzling beaches and overwater bungalows? Look no further than The Philippines!
Palawan, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters and El Nido and Coron with their secluded beaches and world-class diving spots, teeming with marine life, is perfect for a romantic island hopping honeymoon.
The overwater bungalows may be a bit more rustic, but the scenery is just as magical. The Philippines is one of our top picks for places like Bora Bora that are relatively affordable.
Why The Philippines is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, overwater style accommodation
Best time to visit: December to May
How to get there: fly via Manila (airport code: MNL) or Cebu (CEB)
Where to stay: Cauayan Island Resort & Spa
7. Maldives
The Maldives is touted as the Indian Ocean’s answer to Bora Bora (or the Bora Bora is the Pacific Ocean’s answer to the Maldives!).
What French Polynesia started with the overwater bungalow, the Maldives perfected, making the Maldives our number one pick for places like Bora Bora.
The Maldives, an archipelago of over 1,000 coral islands, is a true Indian Ocean gem. With crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and an abundance of marine life, it’s a paradise.
But the Maldives is different from Bora Bora. There’s an abundance of all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives (all-inclusive is not really a thing in Bora Bora), the Maldives has no mountains or rivers. And, the Maldives may be less remote depending on where you are in the world.
Why the Maldives is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving, all-inclusive resorts, overwater accommodation and honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: fly to Velana International Airport (airport code: MLE)
Where to stay: Patina Maldives Fari Island | Kuramathi Island Resort
Get planning with our Maldives Honeymoon Planning Guide
8. Indonesia
Indonesia might be known for the beautiful island of Bali, but there is so much going on in this 17-000 island archipelago nation.
If you’re seeking some places like Bora Bora that might be cheaper, then you’re in the right place.
Although Bali is a lot of fun with an array of things to do and is super affordable, Indonesia has many islands with private island resorts that would give Bora Bora a run for its money!
On off the beaten track gems like Raja Ampats and Riau Islands, you’ll find some incredibly scenic spots.
If you’re seeking something closer to Bali that has a castaway island feel, then check out Gili Air in the Gili Islands with its laid-back atmosphere and stunning coral reefs, are perfect for couples seeking a serene and picturesque white sandy beach vibe.
Indonesia is one of our top picks for a honeymoon and particularly for an affordable honeymoon!
Why Indonesia is a great alternative to Bora Bora:: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts, overwater style accommodation.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Bali (airport code: DPS) or via Jakarta (CGK) or Singapore (SIN) to other islands.
Where to stay: Bawah Reserve
9. Thailand
Thailand is a tropical paradise and although the emerald limestone karst scenery differs from the South Pacific island scenery, it’s no less stunning.
Thailand is more accessible so it may not seem quite as wow.
Yet, if you’re seeking places like Bora Bora that are cheaper and have palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, delicious dining and a superabundance of luxury resorts, Thailand is the place!
You can just go islands hopping and enjoy the beaches, but if you have time, opt for a few days exploring the country.
Bangkok and in the north of the country around Chiang Mai are wonderful. Take a Thai cooking glass, go hiking, swim in waterfalls and visit sacred temples.
The only thing Thailand doesn’t have is luxury overwater villa hotels, but despite this, Thailand is one of our top picks for a honeymoon.
Why Thailand is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with pools.
Best time to visit: West Coast (Phuket) — December to April | East Coast (Samui) — January to September
How to get there: fly to Bangkok (airport code: BKK) or Phuket (HKT) or Koh Samui (USM)
Where to stay: Six Senses Yao Noi | Banyan Tree Samui
Get planning with our Thailand Honeymoon Guide
Places like Bora Bora in the Caribbean
10. Belize
Belize is one of the most unique destinations in the Caribbean.
Its coastline is dotted with cayes (small sandy islands) and it’s ideal for a trip to paradisiacal beaches. Plus, you have ancient Mayan archaeology sites and plenty of adventure activities like zip lining, caving and tubing.
Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, for extraordinary snorkelling and diving adventures that mean it had to make it on to our list of places like Bora Bora.
Why Belize is a great alternative to Bora Bora:: beautiful beaches, overwater style accommodation
Best time to visit: January to May
How to get there: fly to Belize (airport code: BZE)
Where to stay: Cayo Espanto
11. Jamaica
Unique culture, rainforest interior, and overwater villas? Jamaica is one of our favourite recommendations in the Caribbean!
The beaches are heavenly and while the scenery may not be as unique as Bora Bora, the all-inclusive overwater bungalows in Sandals might just be ideal for a romantic honeymoon getaway!
Why Jamaica is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, all-inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools and overwater style accommodation.
Best time to visit: November to July
How to get there: fly to Montego Bay (airport code: MBJ) or Kingston (KIN)
Where to stay: Sandals Royal Caribbean
12. St. Lucia
If you’re seeking places like Bora Bora in the Caribbean, then look no further than heavenly St. Lucia.
This volcanic dream with lush, dramatic landscapes may be the perfect spot.
While there may not be quite as many dazzling white sand beaches, the island is beautiful with a mix of beaches with white sands, golden sands, and volcanic sands.
St. Lucia is an ideal for a mix of adventure and relaxation with rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
You can take part in activities from zip lining, chocolate making, hiking, rum tasting. There’s some stunning St. Lucia honeymoon hotels, too.
Overall, it’s one of the best islands in the Caribbean for a honeymoon.
Why St. Lucia is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly to St. Lucia (airport code: UVF)
Where to stay: Jade Mountain Resort
Get planning with our St. Lucia Honeymoon Guide
13. Turks and Caicos
Turks & Caicos is home to some of the most pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters and is one of our top picks for places like Bora Bora that might be perfect for your honeymoon.
This archipelago’s luxury resorts cater to every whim. Swim amongst the coral reefs surrounding the islands and kick back on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Why Turks and Caicos is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: Fly to Providenciales International Airport (airport code: PLS) via most major east coast North American cities
Where to stay: Como Parrot Cay
14. Mexico
Bora Bora may feel more exotic than Mexico, but if you’re seeking cheaper destinations, then the coastline of Mexico is ideal for a honeymoon on a leaner budget!
The beautiful beaches of the Riviera Maya are worth exploring, as are the luxury resorts of Cabo. Plus, the array of things to do, from swimming in cenotes and visiting ancient ruins.
If you’re on a very tight budget, try a Cancun honeymoon. If you prefer a more boutique vibe, try Tulum. Want beautiful white sand and a car free vibe? Then try Isla Holbox.
You’ll even find some overwater villa style accommodation at Rosewood Mayakoba, too.
Or opt for the Mexico honeymoon destinations on the Pacific Coast!
Why Mexico is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, delicious dining and all-inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: December to August
How to get there: fly to Cancun (airport code: CUN)
Where to stay: Le Blanc Cancun | La Valise Tulum | Ser Casasandra Holbox Island
Places like Bora Bora in Europe & Middle East
15. United Arab Emirates
Ok so you might be surprised to see this desert nation on the list of places like Bora Bora!
But the United Arab Emirates (or UAE) has some beautiful new resorts popping up and some even have overwater accommodation.
Just a short hop from the futuristic skyscrapers of Dubai, you’ll find a beautiful coastline with private beaches and even offshore islands and other emirates of the UAE to explore, too!
Stay in a luxurious beach honeymoon resort where the city’s array of fun things to do are never too far away. The hotels are lavish in the best possible way, perfect for a honeymoon treat.
With its busy airport, Dubai is a great stopover, on the way to or from other destinations.
Why United Arab Emirates is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: September to May
How to get there: fly to Dubai (airport code: DXB)
Where to stay: Anantara World Islands Resort | Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort | Six Senses Zighy Bay
Get planning with our Dubai Honeymoon Guide
16. Greece
So while Greece, with its iconic islands, may not spring to mind when it comes to places like Bora Bora, yet, for couples seeking something truly special, then this delightful alternative has to be on your list!
Why? Because the Cyclades islands are something special.
Imagine your own cave pool suite in Santorini overlooking the caldera with the most magical views?
While the scenery might not be the same, the extraordinariness is!
The islands’ dramatic cliffs with whitewashed buildings and azure seas more than make up for the lack of tropical beaches.
Add on Greek cuisine, ancient ruins, and a city stopover in Athens and you’ve got one special honeymoon.
Why Greece is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, honeymoon suites with private pools, all inclusive resorts.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Athens (airport code: ATH), Santorini (JTR), Mykonos (JMK) or Crete (CHQ or HER)
Where to stay: Canaves Ena
Places like Bora Bora in Africa
17. Madagascar
Madagascar is one of the planet’s truly unique honeymoon destinations. The biodiversity and stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches are 100% worth exploring for intrepid couples.
Madagascar’s luxury island lodges are even more secluded and intimate than found elsewhere.
The island’s unique wildlife, including lemurs and chameleons, and diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to baobab avenues, make it a fascinating destination for couples who want to get off the beaten track.
Why Madagascar is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, private islands
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Nosy Be-Fascene (airport code: NOS) via the capital Antananarivo (TNR)
Where to stay: Constance Tsarabanjina | Miavana by Time & Tide
18. Mozambique
Want to get off the beaten track in Africa? Then magical Mozambique has to be on your list!
With its pristine beaches and unspoiled coral reefs, the Indian Ocean coastline with offshore islands is more than worthy to be considered amongst places like Bora Bora.
The Quirimbas and Bazaruto archipelagos have secluded luxury resorts, stunning white sand and turquoise lagoons plus rich marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays, mean incredible snorkelling and diving opportunities.
Discover the unique blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences of this hidden gem!
Why Mozambique is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving.
Best time to visit: June to October
How to get there: fly via Johannesburg to Vilanculos (airport code: VNX)
Where to stay: Azura Benguerra Island
19. Seychelles
One of our top picks for places like Bora Bora is the stunning Indian Ocean archipelago, Seychelles.
Seychelles has stunning hilly rainforest landscapes and the most beautiful powdery white beaches, such as Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio – two of the best in the world.
The unique granite boulders, turquoise lagoons and underwater world are like nowhere else on earth.
While there may not be overwater bungalows, the hilltop villas with stunning sea views more than make up for it!
Why Seychelles is a great alternative to Bora Bora : beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Seychelles’ Mahe island (airport code: SEZ)
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Seychelles | Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Get planning with our Seychelles Honeymoon Guide
20. Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an island of safari gem, Tanzania and is known for its fascinating history and stunning coastline.
If you’re looking for places like Bora Bora in Africa that have beautiful beaches, then Zanzibar is one of the best options.
The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an absolute must. The blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences is evident in Zanzibar’s unique culture and cuisine.
Many couples will tag Zanzibar to a safari honeymoon in Kenya or Tanzania, but you could easily book a Zanzibar honeymoon in its own right! There are plenty of honeymoon resorts to choose from.
Why Zanzibar is a great alternative to Bora Bora: beautiful beaches, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: February to March and June to October
How to get there: Fly to Zanzibar Airport (airport code: ZNZ)
Where to stay: Baraza Resort and Spa Zanzibar
Get planning with our Zanzibar Honeymoon Guide
20. Mauritius
In the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, you’ll find white sandy beaches and heavenly lagoons and even stunning mountain landscapes, Mauritius is an underrated gem.
When it comes to scenery and places like Bora Bora, Mauritius is up there. Le Morne Brabant is just as stunning as Bora Bora’s Mt. Otemanu.
There’s an array of stunning luxury resorts with everything from ultra luxury jewels to more affordable gems and it’s ideal for couples who want a touch of adventure with hiking, waterfalls and ATV tours.
While there are no overwater villas, you can find stunning beachfront accommodation.
Why Mauritius is a great alternative to Bora Bora : beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November
How to get there: fly to Mauritius (airport code: MRU)
Where to stay: LUX* Grand Baie
Get planning with our Mauritius Honeymoon Guide
We hope you’ve got lots of inspiration from our favourite places like Bora Bora (or almost like Bora Bora!). Let us know in the comments which one you pick.
Happy Planning x
Related Bora Bora Honeymoon articles:
French Polynesia – Ultimate Honeymoon Guide
Bora Bora Weather – The Best Time To Visit
Bora Bora – Ultimate Packing List
Bora Bora – Ultimate Honeymoon Guide
Bora Bora All Inclusives – Do they exist?
Bora Bora vs Maldives – Which is the best for honeymoon
