20 Places Similar to Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a small tropical island in South Pacific in French Polynesia. According to Tahiti, it is the most famous island in the south Pacific and the most famous tourist destination well known for its incredible turquoise lagoon, volcanic views, luxurious overwater resorts, and pristine white sandy beaches. There are more islands similar to Bora Bora that can be a substitute for this fantastic place. In this article, we will unveil these places that are worth the visit, just like Bora Bora.
Why These Places?
The destinations that we will tackle are similar to Bora Bora in the following ways; They are all island- lands surrounded by water, they have outstanding sandy beaches and rugged mountains, have incredible lagoons and coral reefs, locals are friendly, and, features luxurious overwater bungalows or restaurants. Apart from being similar, some islands are cheaper than Bora Bora and easily accessible. Without delay, let’s get started. Shall we?
20. Moorea, French Polynesia
The South Pacific Island is known for its sandy beaches and jagged volcano mountains. Moorea is relatively cheaper than Bora Bora, and it’s only 234 km away from it. Moorea is a peaceful Island to relax, and it has incredible weather. It is famed for its sandy beaches, aquamarine lagoons, and panoramic views. Once you’re in French Polynesia, You can choose Moorea, apart from Bora Bora. It is quite an accessible island one can fall in love with quickly.
19. Seychelles
Seychelles is an archipelago in the Western Indian Ocean consisting of 115 islands. It homes numerous spectacular beaches and rare flora and fauna species. Seychelles is one of the safest places to visit, and the locals are warm and friendly. It has one of the most photographed beaches with pink sand. It also has the sixth-best beach, Anse Lazio, situated in Praslin, and it is praised for its cobalt water and ivory sand. Besides all these magnificent sites, Seychelles also homes Aldabra, the second largest coral atoll in the world.
18. The Maldives
The archipelagic country is located in Southern Asia. It lies South West of Sri Lanka and India. It is a chain of about 1200 small coral islands and sand banks. The Maldives is a dreamy and classy place that you should consider on your bucket list apart from Bora Bora. Did you know that the world’s first underwater cabinet meeting was held on this island? What stunned many visitors who toured The Maldives is that the island is too flat, with the highest point only 7 feet 7 inches above sea level.
It was rated as the flattest country in the world, having an average ground level of four feet and eleven inches across the country. It has white beaches covered in lagoons, palm trees, and turquoise. Before visiting the Maldives, note that it is one of the places with strict laws that you should adhere to, lest you face severe penalties.
17. Cook Island
The nation is located in the South Pacific Ocean and has political links to New Zealand. It has fifteen Islands, with Rarotonga Island home to the national capital Avarua. In addition to its kaleidoscopic array of hard and soft corals, turtles, and tropical fish, Cook Island is famous for its crystal clear water, snorkeling, and diving sites. Also, it is the second largest producer of black pearls around the globe. One fun fact about this nation is that you can get anywhere in Rarotonga within twenty minutes. This place is quite similar to Bora Bora when it comes to swimming in crystal clear water and relaxing on the white sand beaches.
16. Fiji
Fiji is an archipelago in the South Pacific known for having palm-lined beaches, rugged landscapes, and coral reefs (over 4000 sq. miles) with clear Lagoons, just like Bora Bora. It is famed as the soft coral capital of the world. It homes magnificent beaches and has over a thousand species of fish, making the aquatic life in Fiji supernatural. By visiting Fiji, you’ll know about 800 species of plant, scarce and can only be found there; I mean nowhere else in the world apart from here. Consider visiting overwater bungalows such as Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, and Koro Sun Resort and Rainforest Spa to save you from a dull day.
15. Palawan Philippines
The Philippines is a country in South Eastern Asia situated in the western Pacific Ocean. Palawan is an archipelago province located in the region of Mimaropa. It is the fifth largest island in the Philippines and has untouched white sandy beaches surrounding crystal clear blue waters. Palawan is best for activities like swimming, diving, and island hopping. It homes iconic steep limestone cliffs and gorgeous coves. Also, it has a big lagoon (El Nido) that is famous for its colored waters. The place, just like Bora Bora, is a perfect destination for adventurers searching for authentic experiences of nature.
14. Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Perhentian Island is located in Besut District, Terengganu in Malaysia- a country in South Asia that lies between Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. Malaysia is both Mainland and insular. It is comprised of 878 islands, and among them all, Perhentian islands are famed for homing green turtles and Hawksbill. In addition, the island is surrounded by pristine beaches and coral reefs. It is an excellent place for diving and snorkeling.
13. Koh Rong, Cambodia
Cambodia is a country located in the Indochinese Mainland of Southeast Asia. Koh Rong is an island that lies in the Sihanoukville province of Cambodia. It is famous for its iconic sandy coves and coral reefs. It is the second largest Island of Cambodia and offers 23 amazing white sand beaches bordering the Azure seas. The tourists describe the place as an island paradise. Apart from having scenic views, it also offers Song Saa Private Island, rated among the best overwater bungalows worldwide. If you’ve taken Koh Rong as a Substitute for Bora Bora and are planning to visit, remember to carry enough cash with you because credit cards are not used on this island.
12. Bali, Indonesia
Did you know that Indonesia is the largest archipelago worldwide? It lies off the coast of mainland Southeast Asia in the Indian and Pacific oceans. Bali is a relatively small island but the fifth largest in Indonesia. According to Welcome Vietnam Tours, Bali is also known as the land of gods and has an appealing natural beauty of volcanic mountains, coral reefs, and iconic beaches. Also, the scenic lakes, fantastic waterfall, and beautiful rice fields make the place a paradise. It is a haven for water sports connoisseurs and attracts a lot of divers and suffers.
11. Taboga Island, Panama
It is a volcanic island in the Gulf of Panama. It is known as the island of flowers and was first discovered by Vasco Nunez de Balboa. Later, it was founded by Father Hernando de Luque on June 29, 1524. The island is about fifty minutes away by boat and from Panama City. Apart from its breathtaking flowers, the island is characterized by beautiful beaches and soft sand. There are only two main accessible beaches on Taboga- Restinga, and Honda. This Bora Bora Substitute is an excellent destination for hiking and relaxing on spectacular beaches.
10. Jamaica
It is a Caribbean Island nation that lies south of Cuba, west of Haiti, and South of Miami, Florida. It is the third largest island in the Caribbean Sea. This mountainous island is part of the chain of Caribbean Islands named the Greater Antilles. Jamaica is known as the birthplace of reggae music. The English-speaking Island is vibrant and endowed with beautiful beach destinations. Seven-mile beach in Negril is one of the world’s best beaches. It has incredible natural water sites like waterfalls, white sand, iconic cliffs, aqua sea, and blue lagoons.
9. Santorini, Greece
It is one of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea and among Greece’s most exclusive destinations. The island is about 200km southeast of the Greek Mainland. It has clear blue waters surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches and among them is the famous Red Beach. Santorini is the world’s famous volcanic island. However, the volcanic nature allows one to enjoy spending time on the multicolored beaches and the stunning turquoise water.
8. Mallorca, Spain
The largest island in the Balearic Islands is located in the Mediterranean. It is famed for incredible limestone mountains, a beautiful coastline, secluded coves, and stunning sandy beaches. This dreamy island that attracts visitors across the globe is about 125 miles off the coast of the Mainland. Fortunately, just like Bora Bora, the island offers azure views. Mallorca has a low crime rate hence a safe environment for families and children.
7. Isle of Skye, Scotland
It is an island in Scotland connected to Scotland’s northwest coast by a bridge. This is the largest of the Inner Hebrides archipelago. It is famous for its rugged landscapes, and to amaze you, Isle Of Skye Island hosted the movie “The Game of Thrones,” which was filmed on this island. Furthermore, its rugged landscapes, indented coastline, and seven impressive castles with a great history are famous. Apart from these iconic sites, the island has pretty amazing dinosaur footprints.
6. Lofoten Island, Norway
The island is located in Nordland County, Norway. It is well known for the northern lights and midnight sun. The island is undeniably beautiful, surrounded by white sandy beaches, steep mountains, and beautiful fjords. According to Forbes, Lofoten Island is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. Additionally, it has winding roads through the mountains and thrilling hiking trails. Just like Bora Bora, Lofoten Island is a delight to explore.
5. Koh Samui, Thailand
It is located in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of Kra Isthmus. Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand and is famed for its palm-fringed beaches, mountainous rainforests, and posh spas. It has crystal blue waters surrounded by Sandy beaches in addition to it, and there is also a big Buddha temple that attracts many travelers. However, the island is best for snorkeling and scuba diving.
4. Capri, Italy
Capri is an island located on Italy’s bay of Naples and lies in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrento Peninsula. The island is a jewel of southern Italy and is famous for its untended gardens. It has the best natural sites like Blue Grotto, underwater caves, and cove-studded coastlines. However, the island allows visitors to skirt the cliffs above the Mediterranean, dive into crystalline waters, and walk on the fantastic trails.
3. Mauritius Island
It is located off the Southeast coast of the African continent in the Indian Ocean. According to the locals, Mauritius is heaven on earth because of its breathtaking views and iconic sites such as sandy beaches and rugged mountains. Finally, the island is very famous for owning an extinct flightless bird called Dodo.
2. Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama is the Northern Island of the Bahama archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. It is famed for reef-lined coves, sun-soaked beaches, and crystal clear water. The place is best for bonfires on the beach, dolphin experiences, and reef tours. You can do a thousand activities in Bahama, including snorkeling, swimming, relaxing, scuba diving, and exploring the island.
1. St Lucia Caribbean
An Eastern Caribbean island nation located about 39km south of Martinique and 34km northeast of Saint Vincent. It is the second largest windward group in the Lesser Antilles. The island homes dreamy turquoise water beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts, and trails that lead to waterfalls. It is famed for owning majestic Piton Mountains and exclusive restaurants. St Lucia Caribbean can give a vibe similar to Bora Bora. However, it would be best if you visited this place.
Final Word
Although Bora Bora is considered the prettiest and the best island you can go to for adventures, parties, holidays, honeymoons, or weddings, there are more similar islands that offer what Bora Bora gives. Some are way affordable and easily accessible. However, you can consider these other outstanding places whenever you want quality time for a lifetime experience. Finally, all the mentioned destinations are superb and worth your visit.
