20 Must-Visit Places Like Bora Bora (Incl. Overwater Bungalows)
Are you looking for Bora Bora alternatives? Bora Bora in French Polynesia is one of the world’s prettiest destinations. It has gorgeous accommodation and paradise scenery… It’s an amazing place for a luxury, tropical escape.
BUT, you’re not alone if you’re looking for alternative places like Bora Bora to visit instead. Even though Bora Bora is a bucket list destination with iconic hotels and overwater bungalows, it’s not for everyone.
Bora Bora is known for being expensive. So even if you have the money, it might not be what you want to spend your well-earned cash on. It also isn’t the easiest destination to reach (especially if you’re travelling from somewhere like the UK).
Luckily, there are lots of destinations that are similar to Bora Bora with crystal clear waters, colourful coral and the dreamiest tropical accommodation. So if you want to find the best alternatives – I’ve got you! Keep reading for my top places like Bora Bora to add to your list!
Places like Bora Bora with overwater bungalows
1 Maldives
If there’s one place that’s most compared with Bora Bora, it has to be the Maldives! Like Bora Bora, the Maldives is one of the very best places for a honeymoon – it’s a paradise destination with private island resorts and sugar sand beaches.
Because it’s a popular honeymoon destination with a ton of luxury resorts, the Maldives is notoriously expensive.
However, flights are usually cheaper to the Maldives than Bora Bora (at least if you’re travelling from the UK). If you’re travelling from Europe, it’s also much easier to reach than Bora Bora.
RELATED: 20 Best Maldives Alternatives (Honeymoon Edit)
The Maldives is known for its incredible overwater bungalows and villas, so it’s an amazing Bora Bora alternative. The Maldives also has some of the world’s best snorkelling and diving.
The Maldives is one of the best Bora Bora alternatives if all you want to do is relax. Each resort is usually set on a private island so there’s not a ton to see and do, but it’s a paradise location for a once-in-a-lifetime getaway.
Best time to visit: December to March
Overwater bungalows in the Maldives: Joali Maldives, Soneva Jani, COMO Cocoa Island
2 Jamaica
Over in the Caribbean, Jamaica is one of the very best islands for couples. Not only does it have beautiful beaches, but it also has lush rural scenery with waterfalls and mountainous jungles.
If you’re dreaming of Bora Bora but fancy somewhere a little more lively, Jamaica is a good bet.
It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere so you’ll find beach parties and lots to see and do. You’ll be able to do everything from catamaran cruising, sailing and snorkelling to rafting and horse riding.
You’ll also find iconic overwater villas and the most luxurious accommodation in Jamaica. Sandals Resorts currently have the only overwater bungalows in Jamaica. These resorts are all-inclusive and come with butler service so it’s a bucket list option, especially if you’re heading on your honeymoon!
If you’re travelling from the UK or the US, Jamaica is also easy to reach with regular, direct flights.
Best time to visit: December to April
Overwater bungalows in Jamaica: Sandals Royal Caribbean, Sandals South Coast
3 Fiji
Fiji is one of my favourite destinations. It has the most incredible palm-fringed beaches and coral reefs so it’s a dream destination for a tropical break.
Fiji is in the South Pacific so there are lots of similarities between Fiji and Bora Bora. However, Fiji is typically cheaper.
There are 300+ islands in Fiji, so there are loads of places to stay and visit. If it’s your first time in Fiji, I recommend island hopping in Fiji to experience the best of the best!
But if all you want to do is relax, you could choose one island resort instead. There are loads of romantic hotels in Fiji with overwater bungalows, so it’s one of the best alternatives to Bora Bora.
READ MORE: Fiji Weather by Month: When’s the Best Time to Visit Fiji?
Because Fiji is in the same region as Bora Bora, it will still be a long journey if you’re travelling from Europe. However, there are more international flights into Fiji so it can feel easier to get there.
From the UK to Fiji, you can connect in Los Angeles or Singapore. To reach Bora Bora, you’ll typically have extra stops.
Best time to visit: May to October
Overwater bungalows in Fiji: Likuliku Lagoon Resort, COMO Laucala Island
4 Mauritius
Mauritius is a destination that’s often described as heaven. It has tropical, mountainous landscapes, beautiful beaches and clear waters so it’s easily comparable to Bora Bora.
Unlike Bora Bora, Mauritius is bigger and more developed, but this is great if you get itchy feet and want more to see and do.
As well as water activities, you’ll be able to go hiking, visit botanical gardens and immerse yourself in cultural experiences in Mauritius. It’s also a perfect place for wildlife thanks to its jungles and nature reserves.
There’s currently only one resort in Mauritius with overwater bungalows, but you’ll find a choice of incredible hotels across the island, with options to suit every style.
Mauritius is relatively easy to reach, too, especially if you’re headed from Europe. There are direct flights from London.
Best time to visit: September to December
Overwater bungalows in Mauritius: Constance Le Prince Maurice
5 Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is one of the most amazing places like Bora Bora in Africa. This island is a little more under the radar than other Indian Ocean islands so it’s perfect if you want an authentic paradise vacation.
Thanks to its jaw-dropping beaches and the experiences that it offers, it’s a good contender as one of the best places like Bora Bora.
Zanzibar has some of the most picture-perfect beaches with palm trees and shallow water. It’s a paradise destination that’s easily just as pretty as Bora Bora!
There aren’t as many overwater bungalows in Zanzibar as there are in Bora Bora but the scenery more than makes up for it.
Zanzibar island is also part of Tanzania, so it’s a brilliant option if you want to combine a beach break with a safari.
Best time to visit: June to October
Overwater bungalows in Zanzibar: Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas
6 Turks & Caicos
If you’re dreaming of the most beautiful beaches, you can’t go wrong with Turks & Caicos. This is a destination that’s known for its beaches – Grace Bay Beach has been named the world’s best beach on multiple occasions!
Turks & Caicos is also home to one of the world’s largest barrier reefs and is made up of 40 islands, so it’s fab for island hopping.
As one of the best places like Bora Bora in the Caribbean, Turks & Caicos is perfect for US and UK travellers who want direct flights.
Like Bora Bora, Turks & Caicos has incredible accommodation that’s ideal for honeymooners and those getting away to celebrate. You’ll find villas on private islands, beach resorts and luxury water pavilions.
Turks & Caicos is also slightly quieter than other Caribbean destinations so it’s ideal if you want privacy and relaxation.
Best time to visit: December to April
Overwater bungalows in Turks & Caicos: Amanyara
7 Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea is another island in French Polynesia so it has obvious similarities to Bora Bora.
Moorea is the closest major island to Tahiti (which is where international flights land), so it’s slightly easier and cheaper to reach than Bora Bora.
It’s also bigger than Bora Bora, so there’s a greater choice of accommodation to suit different styles.
Moorea has a more local and authentic feel compared to Bora Bora which is mostly focused on exclusive resorts.
But just like Bora Bora, Moorea has amazing coral reefs so you can expect the best snorkelling. There’s also lush scenery, turquoise lagoons and gorgeous sunsets that make it a dream romantic destination.
There’s a little more to see and do in Moorea so it’s perfect if you get bored simply lounging on the beach. Some of the things you can do in Moorea include hiking, renting a car to explore remote areas and taking in the most breathtaking panoramic views.
Even though Moorea is a great alternative to Bora Bora, if you’re travelling to this part of the world, I’d really recommend going to Bora Bora during your trip anyway.
Island hopping around French Polynesia will be an unforgettable experience and it makes sense to experience the bucket list accommodation in Bora Bora while you’re so close 😉
Best time to visit: May to October
Overwater bungalows in Moorea: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort, Manava Beach Resort & Spa
8 Indonesia
If you’ve been planning a trip to Indonesia, you’ve probably thought about Bali. Bali is a great little island and has so much to offer, but it’s not the destination I’d recommend if you’re looking for places like Bora Bora.
If you want an alternative to Bora Bora in Indonesia, my recommendation is Bawah Reserve. This resort is a super secluded option near the coast of Singapore and everything about it epitomises luxury.
Bawah Reserve is surrounded by crystal waters, blue lagoons and coral reefs, so it’s the ideal spot for water lovers. It’s also a tropical resort that has romantic overwater bungalows.
You should also check out NIHI Sumba in Indonesia. This remote resort is on the island of Sumba which is about an hour’s flight from Bali. It doesn’t have overwater bungalows, but it does have gorgeous villas with breathtaking tropical views.
Best time to visit: April to October
Overwater bungalows in Indonesia: Bawah Reserve
9 Palawan, Philippines
Palawan in the Philippines is one of the world’s most photogenic places so it’s an incredible alternative to Bora Bora.
I’d even say this is one of the best places like Bora Bora thanks to its dramatic coastal scenery and incredible turquoise waters!
Palawan is known for being one of the best honeymoon destinations in Asia because it’s so pretty. Its secluded beaches, sparkling waters and craggy limestone cliffs are unbelievably scenic and absolutely amazing for beach lovers.
Island hopping is one of the best things to do in Palawan. The most famous spots are El Nido and Coron, but some of the less-known islands and beaches are perfect if you want a little more privacy.
You’ll be able to float on clear waters, snorkel among colourful reefs, as well as trek through jungles.
Palawan is also a much cheaper alternative to Bora Bora but it still has romantic accommodation. It’s one of the best honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia so you’ll get gorgeously rustic charm!
There are lots of options for beachside villas and hideaways, as well as plenty of overwater bungalows.
Best time to visit: November to May
Overwater bungalows in Palawan: Cauayan Island Resort and Spa, El Nido Resorts Lagen Island, Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort
10 Malaysia
Another place like Bora Bora with overwater bungalows is Malaysia. Most people think of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, but the country has lots of exotic islands that are perfect for a tropical vacation.
Langkawi is one of my favourite destinations like Bora Bora in Malaysia. Langkawi is an archipelago made up of 99 islands so it has a lot of beautiful palm-fringed beaches. It also has lush mountainous jungles, mangrove forests and waterfalls.
Because it’s a great honeymoon destination, there are really dreamy accommodation options in Langkawi – including the St. Regis and Berjaya Langkawi Resort, which both have overwater villas.
Elsewhere in Malaysia, private island resorts like Pangkor Laut Resort would also be amazing for a dream Bora Bora-style vacation.
Best time to visit: November to March
Overwater bungalows in Malaysia: The St. Regis Langkawi, Berjaya Langkawi Resort, Pangkor Laut Resort
11 St Lucia
St Lucia is one of the most romantic islands in the Caribbean so it’s an obvious alternative to Bora Bora.
Not only does St Lucia have gorgeous beaches, but it’s also known for its rainforests, jungle reserves and iconic Piton mountains. It’s a breathtaking island with views that rival Bora Bora’s!
If you’re planning your honeymoon, St Lucia is an amazing choice. This island has so much to offer couples – from horse riding on the beach to sunset cruises and romantic private dining.
St Lucia is also a great destination for luxury with loads of secluded, bucket list hotels. If you’re after an overwater bungalow, the only option is at Sandals – it’s totally worth the splurge for a dream tropical getaway!
Best time to visit: December to April
Overwater bungalows in St Lucia: Sandals Grande St. Lucian
12 Bocas del Toro, Panama
If you’re dreaming of Bora Bora but want a more budget-friendly and livelier alternative, Bocas del Toro in Panama is a stunning option.
Located on Panama’s Caribbean coast, this archipelago has overwater charm and a laid-back tropical setting with turquoise waters and swaying palms.
One of Bocas del Toro’s biggest draws is its diversity. You’ll find unspoiled beaches, rainforests teeming with wildlife, and a blend of Afro-Caribbean culture that gives the islands a unique rhythm. It’s a great choice if you’re after barefoot vibes with a boho energy!
Bocas del Toro is known for being popular with backpackers. However, you’ll also find Bora Bora-style accommodation with overwater bungalows. They don’t all have the ultra-luxury feel of Bora Bora but they’re just as dreamy and make the most of the paradise surroundings.
Best time to visit: December to March
Overwater bungalows in Bocas del Toro: Sol Bungalows Bocas del Toro, Nayara Bocas del Toro
13 Belize
I love Belize as a Bora Bora alternative on the Caribbean coast of Central America. This is a destination that’s rich in both natural beauty and culture, and also has the turquoise waters and marine life that Bora Bora is known for.
Belize has over 400 small islands as well as the world’s second-largest barrier reef so it’s an amazing spot for water lovers. You’ll also find gorgeous accommodation across Belize.
The laid-back island of Ambergris Caye and the more secluded Placencia are top picks if you want to unwind in tropical luxury. There aren’t as many classic overwater bungalows, but you’ll still find lovely accommodation at places like Cayo Espanto, St. George’s Caye Resort and Gladden Private Island.
Best time to visit: December to April
Overwater bungalows in Belize: St. George’s Caye Resort
14 Saudi Arabia
Image: St. Regis Red Sea Resort, ExpediaSaudi Arabia probably isn’t the first place you think of for turquoise waters and overwater villas, but the Red Sea coast is quickly emerging as a new luxury beach destination.
This is a region that has crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and untouched islands so it’s an amazing alternative to Bora Bora – especially if you want exclusivity and something that not a lot of people know about yet.
The area is up and coming for ultra-luxury resorts set across several pristine islands. St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve are among the first resorts to open and they have the most beautiful overwater villas.
These hotel brands are known for being super luxurious and 6-star so they absolutely rival what you can expect in Bora Bora!
Best time to visit: October to April
Overwater bungalows in Saudi Arabia: St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Shebara Resort
15 Mexico
Mexico is a surprisingly great alternative to Bora Bora. I loved it when I visited – it has a mix of tropical beauty, luxury accommodations and rich cultural experiences.
One of the most unique places like Bora Bora in Mexico is Bacalar. It’s not a beach destination, but it is set on a freshwater lagoon and is often called the “Maldives of Mexico” so you can bet it also has Bora Bora vibes. It’s a super pretty destination with shallow turquoise waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
If you want overwater luxury instead, you should check out Palafitos Overwater Bungalows in the Riviera Maya. This resort offered Mexico’s first overwater bungalows and they’re absolutely perfect!
Best time to visit: November to April
Overwater bungalows in Mexico: Palafitos Overwater Bungalows
16 Cook Islands
If you’re dreaming of Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoons and laid-back Polynesian vibe, the Cook Islands offer a stunning and more authentic alternative.
The Cook Islands are made up of 15 idyllic islands in the South Pacific between New Zealand and Hawaii. It’s a destination that has a deep connection to Polynesian culture and a super relaxed pace so it’s fab if you want a true sense of island time!
Rarotonga and Aitutaki are the most visited of the Cook Islands. Aitutaki, in particular, is often compared directly to Bora Bora thanks to its breathtaking lagoon and paradise scenery.
The Cook Islands don’t have the same number of overwater bungalows as Bora Bora. Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort is the only option in the Cook Islands with overwater bungalows, but there’s lots of choice of beachfront villas and boutique stays with a secluded feel.
Best time to visit: May to October
Overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands: Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Other places like Bora Bora
The following destinations don’t have overwater bungalows but they still have incredible accommodation, gorgeous scenery and tropical Bora Bora vibes. They’re 1000% worthy of being on your list too!
17 Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its insanely beautiful scenery so it has to be included as one of the best places like Bora Bora. Hawaii is exceptionally picturesque with impressive landscapes and gorgeous beaches.
Kauai and Oahu are usually considered the most scenic islands. Oahu is home to the iconic Kualoa Ranch.
Kauai has a wild beauty and is the perfect island if you want a bit more seclusion. It has hidden beaches, tropical rainforests and dramatic cliffs.
It’s one of the world’s most beautiful places so naturally, it’s a good contender if you’re after somewhere similar to Bora Bora.
Unfortunately there are no overwater bungalows in Hawaii, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t loads of incredible hotels to add to your list.
Hawaii is a dream destination so you’ll find so many amazing beachfront resorts and paradise accommodations.
Best time to visit: April to September
Where to stay in Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Oahu, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
18 Whitsundays, Australia
If you’re like me and you’re obsessed with beaches, Australia’s Whitsunday Islands could be your dream destination! I was blown away by the Whitsundays when I visited Australia.
Whitehaven Beach is the most famous in the Whitsundays and is one of the world’s prettiest – it has the softest sugar white sands and some of the clearest waters.
The Whitsunday Islands sit on the Great Barrier Reef, just off the coast of Queensland, so it’s an exceptional place for snorkelling and diving.
The area also has rainforests and hiking trails. It feels like a true paradise destination so it’s a must-visit if you want a tropical getaway with similarities to Bora Bora.
Even though this is a spot that’s visited a lot by backpackers, there are incredible resorts for couples in the Whitsundays, too. It’s the perfect place to relax, kick back and experience a slice of paradise.
Best time to visit: September to December
Where to stay in the Whitsundays: Qualia Resort, Elysian Luxury Eco Island Retreat
19 Seychelles
The Seychelles is made up of 115 scattered islands and is beyond idyllic. This is a destination that has a big focus on wildlife and getting back to nature.
The Seychelles is a super remote vacation spot so it’s perfect if you’re dreaming of privacy and somewhere tropical and secluded like Bora Bora.
The country’s Anse Source d’Argent beach is one of the world’s most photographed and it’s easy to see why – it is breathtaking and gives Bora Bora’s beaches a run for their money.
As an isolated option like Bora Bora, you won’t find a million things to see and do in the Seychelles but that’s probably not a problem when you’re surrounded by the most incredible scenery!
Unfortunately, there aren’t currently overwater bungalows in the Seychelles but, as one of Africa’s best honeymoon destinations, you’ll still find so many amazing accommodation options.
Best time to visit: April to May & October to November
Where to stay in the Seychelles: North Island, Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Denis Private Island Seychelles
20 Havelock Island, Andaman, India
Want white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and barefoot luxury without visiting Bora Bora? Havelock Island (known as Swaraj Dweep) is an absolute gem in India’s Andaman Islands.
Located in the Bay of Bengal, this remote island offers a tropical paradise with a serene and untouched feel. Radhanagar Beach is often ranked as one of Asia’s best. It has powder-soft sand, clear blue waters and a lush jungle backdrop.
Havelock Island is surrounded by coral reefs so it’s a hotspot for snorkelling and scuba diving. It’s also a destination with a laid-back atmosphere so it’s perfect if you’re dreaming of a remote-island feel.
There aren’t traditional overwater bungalows here and you won’t get as much ultra luxury as Bora Bora. However, you could stay somewhere like Taj Exotica Resort & Spa which is a five-star option with beautiful villas surrounded by tropical scenery.
Best time to visit: October to April
Where to stay in Swaraj Dweep: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans
There’s no denying that Bora Bora is an incredible vacation spot. If you’re planning a honeymoon, Bora Bora will always be a good choice.
But, if it’s not for you because of the cost or the distance, there are loads of alternatives!
I hope this list of places like Bora Bora has inspired you (and even if you’re still going to Bora Bora – these should be on your list anyway!) These destinations epitomise paradise, have the most breathtaking beaches and are heavenly in every way.
Join our FREE community!
Want more expert advice, inspiration and ideas for planning your dream honeymoon?
Join our FREE Facebook Group: Bucket List Honeymoon Hotels + Resorts!
You’ll be able to chat with other couples who are planning their honeymoon, ask for advice and get all the details on the very best places to stay 😍
Save for later!
