Bora Bora vs Moorea
Can’t decide between Bora Bora vs Moorea?
Both Bora Bora and Moorea fall into the category of “tropical island that dreams are made of”. However, both have a different feel about them and different things to offer.
The French Polynesian Islands are not what you would consider a budget destination. If your wallet or time are forcing you to choose between the two, have a read of the following comparisons.
Accommodation in Bora Bora vs Moorea
Both islands have the well-known overwater bungalows with Bora Bora being more expensive at the top end of luxury. If budget wasn’t an issue, I would choose Bora Bora because there seems to be more secluded options when it comes to overwater bungalows.
If comparing the Sofitel’s on both islands, there was more marine life under the overwater bungalows in Bora Bora.
Both islands have cheaper accommodation options in the way of pensions or family-run houses or bungalows. I found Moorea to have more options.
Check out accommodation options for Moorea here and Bora Bora here.
Snorkelling in Bora Bora vs Moorea
The snorkelling visibility was fantastic on both islands! However, I enjoyed the snorkelling more at Bora Bora as the water was virtually flat and the marine life was more colourful.
It was easier to access deeper spots without forking out for a tour and there was more variety of coral and fish.
The Beaches
Moorea has more white sandy stretches than Bora Bora. Some resorts have shipped it in for their guests to make it more appealing on both islands.
If you want to lie on a sun-chair more than snorkel, I would choose Moorea.
Getting to Bora Bora vs Moorea
All of the international flights land in Tahiti and you will travel to either Bora Bora or Moorea from there. Getting to Moorea is cheaper!
Moorea is closer to Tahiti so you have the option of a ferry, taking 30 – 45 minutes. This is usually more cost-effective than flying the whole family over.
Air Tahiti flies to Bora Bora in under an hour but the only boat option to Bora Bora is a cargo ship that takes 13 hours.
Bora Bora’s airport is on its own motu! If your accommodation doesn’t pick you up by boat from the airport, a water taxi is required which costs extra. It’s a really unique experience!
Things to do in Bora Bora vs Moorea
Bora Bora is tiny and there are more land-based activities in Moorea. We explored the mainland by pushbike in Bora Bora which we loved. In Moorea, we took an organised tour and headed inland, which was also fun.
If you think you might get sick of the ocean or would like to visit a vanilla plantation or 4WD into the jungle interior, I would choose Moorea.
Overall Cost of Bora Bora vs Moorea
Bora Bora generally ends up being more expensive overall due to the accommodation and air transport. I found the food was around the same on both islands as were the activities.
Although, this is highly dependent on where you eat and who you book through.
So … Which Island do I Choose?
If money wasn’t an issue, I would choose Bora Bora over Moorea. They are both incredibly beautiful but Bora Bora is just that tiny little bit more.
In saying that, If I had not visited Bora Bora first, I would think that Moorea is one of the most beautiful island in the world and wouldn’t know any better.
Bora Bora will ruin any other holiday destination for you. Don’t say I didn’t warn you !!
(I even wrote a blog post about why its a curse which you can read here).
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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