Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows
Are They Worth the Expense?
Bora Bora overwater bungalows are on many bucket lists … but are they worth the expense? Keep reading to find out!
We were fortunate enough to stay at the Sofitel Private Island on Bora Bora. When you fork out this much for accommodation, expect to be treated as a VIP.
Free drinks were handed out on arrival, the manager came over with a cake and sang me an enthusiastic happy birthday, and a lady knocked on our door every evening and give us macaroons and juice.
There is no denying it was amazing!
Up until this point, our travel style had been budget to mid-range, usually staying at guest houses, eating off the streets and refusing to travel in peak times.
For this particular trip, I went all out and booked into a Sofitel in Bora Bora, Tahiti and Moorea.
The Sofitel Bora Bora overwater bungalows are in a fantastic location for snorkelling. In fact, a snorkelling tour would stop right next to the private island every day. There is also the huge bonus of being able to jump right off your balcony into the water.
But ….are Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows Worth the Expense?
In conclusion, the simple answer is YES, a Bora Bora overwater bungalow is totally worth the expense …. but only if you can afford it.
At the end of the day, no accommodation is worth getting yourself in debt for. If you can afford it for your next trip, I say GO FOR IT!
You will make fantastic memories in Bora Bora. But don’t forget, you can also make fantastic memories in Bora Bora in cheaper accommodation.
Like these options …
Would I Stay in an Overwater Bungalow Again?
No, I don’t think I would. I have great memories of our stay in a Bora Bora and I don’t regret it … but this kind of expense was a bucket list item checked for me.
If I was to spend this much on accommodation every time we travelled, I would only be able to afford to travel once every two years. Travelling cheaper means that I can travel more often, and at the end of the day, this is what’s important to me.
Essential information for your French Polynesia family holiday
Best time to visit French Polynesia
The dry period from May to October is a great time to visit due to less rainfall and cooler weather.
Peak season is July and August and Christmas and Easter are also busier. The cost of flights rise considerably over this period.
Getting to French Polynesia
Getting to French Polynesia pretty straightforward. All international flights land in Tahiti. Search for a great deal on flights on Trip.com.
To visit one of the beautiful outlying islands, a flight will need to be booked with Air Tahiti. If you’re planning on visiting a few islands, it’s worth clicking on the Multi-Islands button for a cheaper deal.
Moorea can also be reached by Ferry.
Where to stay in French Polynesia
French Polynesia is not cheap so this will depend on your budget. Luxury accommodation is catered for but cheaper options can be found in family-run guesthouses or pensions. These can be absolutely wonderful!
Search for your accommodation here or check out where we have stayed below:
- TAHITI – We have stayed at Villa BO (our favourite) in Teahupoo and in Papeete at both Hotel Sarah Nui and the Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort.
- MOOREA – We have stayed at the Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort.
- HUAHINE – We have stayed at the Royal Huahine.
- RAIATEA – We have stayed at the Pension Les Trois Cascades.
- BORA BORA – We have stayed at the Sofitel Private Island and the Sofitel Marara Beach Resort.
Getting around the islands
This really depends on what you want to do and the age of your kids!
- We loved hiring a car for a day or two in Tahiti, Huahine, and Raiatea. Search car hire across major brands here.
- In Bora-Bora, Moorea, and Raiatea we loved getting around by pushbike and on foot.
- Taxis, water taxis and private transfers are available and your accommodation can help you out with this.
- There is a public bus on Tahiti which is an enjoyable experience but be warned that it sometimes (especially on the weekend) isn’t reliable. During weekdays and day-time hours should be fine.
Attractions and tours
There is plenty of things to do and see around French Polynesia. I found booking through our accommodation was the best option and we had no problems booking the night before.
WiFi
WiFi is usually available at hotels but the connection can be a bit hit and miss on the lesser-visited islands. Purchasing data is expensive so don’t plan on being able to watch YouTube.
French Polynesia holiday travel guides
Check out the official Tahiti Tourism site here!
Looking for more awesome family holiday inspiration?
For more information on visiting French Polynesia, head on over to our French Polynesia page. Alternatively, head back to the home page for other destinations and activities.
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