Tahiti is a small island with stunningly blue waters and a diverse landscape. You can enjoy views of the mountains or go for a tour of the lush foliage and tropical plants. One of the most popular places to visit in Tahiti is the Mount Aoraki volcano.
Bora Bora is one of the most luxurious islands in the world. It’s a popular tourist destination because of its crystal clear water, white-sand beach, and luxurious resorts. The lagoon of Bora Bora is a turquoise color due to the high amount of minerals in the water.
Both Tahiti and Bora Bora offer a perfect setting for a romantic getaway or vacation with family and friends. So, how would you know which island you should visit? It depends on what you’re looking for in a tropical destination. Both islands have stunning beaches and scenic landscapes. However, there are differences between the two.
With that in mind, here are the islands with their best features. You would be able to see what makes these destinations a dream getaway. Read on and you are guaranteed to have a place or two lined up for your itinerary by the end.
Tahiti
As the gateway to French Polynesia, Tahiti is the ultimate island paradise. Offering a variety of both land- and water-based activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. There are stunning beaches where you can enjoy surfing, swimming, and snorkeling.
The main port on the island is Papeete. This is where you’ll find shops and restaurants as well as museums and markets to explore. It’s also a great spot from which to start any excursions you may want to take around the island.
Tahiti is also known for its unique culture. Some of the highlights that visitors love here are their black pearls and the vanilla pods you can buy to take with you as a souvenir. The island has a rich history and is filled with friendly locals who will greet you warmly and invite you to join them in their daily activities.
Tahiti is considered the most colorful and elaborate island in the archipelago. It boasts exquisite cuisine and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet in your life. Whether you choose to go the luxury resort route or explore the island on your own, you are sure to have a great time here!
What Makes Tahiti Unique?
The Bustling City of Papeete
The first thing that comes to one’s mind when thinking about Tahiti is its gorgeous landscape and lush vegetation as an astounding island. However, one of its best features is actually the bustling city of Papeete, known as the capital city of French Polynesia. Papeete is a city characterized by its busy atmosphere and mixed cultures.
Papeete is the main gateway into French Polynesia and is home to the main port of the islands. Although small, it offers a surprisingly wide variety of shops and restaurants for both locals and tourists alike. There are also numerous bars and nightclubs where one can catch the latest live music performances.
Papeete is the cultural and economic capital of French Polynesia as it is where most of the local businesses are located. However, it is also home to a diverse community of people from around the world who have made the city their home.
The mixture of different cultures has allowed for the city’s cuisine to be one of the most diverse in the world. They have numerous restaurants serving Thai, Mexican, and Chinese dishes to local food like Poulet Fafa and Chevreffes.
The people of Papeete are all very welcoming and friendly and are always willing to help out a visitor. They are always willing to take the time to explain things to the tourist and even teach them a few of their customs. They are very laid-back and often enjoy taking time out to just enjoy life. You are guaranteed to feel like you are part of the community here!
World-Class Unique Beaches
If you’re looking for a beach getaway with plenty of luxury and all the amenities, Tahiti is definitely the place for you. With dozens of world-class beaches to choose from, there’s sure to be one that fits your taste. No visitor has ever gone to a beach in Tahiti and left disappointed.
This tropical paradise is home to many beautiful beaches, each with its own distinct personality. From tranquil lagoons to rocky cliffs, you’ll find a beach that is perfect for you! Beaches on this island are known for their natural beauty as well as the serene atmosphere. The white-sand beaches and white coral sands are just the beginning of the beauty you’ll find there.
Beaches in Tahiti are as diverse as their culture. You’d be able to see unique colors of sand including black and pink. Some beaches have white sands or golden sands while others feature rugged cliffs or breathtaking coral reefs. You’ll never run out of things to do at these stunning locations. Swimming, snorkeling, surfing, sunbathing – the possibilities are endless!
Tahiti is home to over 100 islands, many of which have their own beautiful beaches where you can enjoy all sorts of fun activities. With that in mind, the next step is identifying which beach is best for you to visit. Luckily, there are dozens to choose from and you’ll definitely find at least one that you’ll fall in love with. Here are some that you might want to check out!
Lafayette Beach
Lafayette Beach is located on the southeastern coast of Tahiti and is one of the most popular beaches in the area. Tahiti is known for its gorgeous black-sand beaches, and Lafayette happens to be the most famous one. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation which makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view.
Papenoo Beach
Papenoo Beach is located on the northern coast of Tahiti and it is famous for its beautiful surroundings. The black sand of this amazing beach makes for a stunning picture. In addition, near it is a fascinating blowhole and even an exhilarating waterfall view!
Toaroto Beach
Despite Tahiti being known for its black-sand beaches, Toaroto Beach is actually one of its best. This gorgeous white-sand beach is perfect for swimming and relaxing in. The warm temperature and inviting water make the experience even more delightful. It is located in the northwestern part of the island, so it should be relatively easy to find.
Bain Lot Beach
The Bain Lot Beach is located in downtown Papeete. It has a unique break that allows surfers to catch great waves in both directions. This unique spot is quite popular among locals and tourists alike, as it offers a great way to spend a relaxing day in the sun.
Most Astounding Sceneries Just a Hike Away
There are many beautiful hiking spots in Tahiti that offer stunning views and plenty of nature to explore. From waterfalls to rainforests, these hikes are perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway. You would be treated to stunning sights while trekking through the gorgeous landscape of Tahiti.
The island of Tahiti is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, boasting lush jungles, breathtaking views, and a vibrant atmosphere. It is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet of a tropical paradise. If you’re looking to get outdoors and enjoy all the beauty the island has to offer, then you should definitely try one of its great hikes.
You can expect to see plenty of unique wildlife on your hike, as well as beautiful scenery that will take your breath away. You’ll also get to enjoy refreshing air and admire the vibrant colors of the tropical flowers around you. Hiking is one of the best things to do in Tahiti, as it allows you to see some of the most beautiful views on the island from a unique vantage point.
Getting to hike in Tahiti is a privilege you shouldn’t miss out on. Whether you’re exploring the lush jungles or wandering along the coastline, you’re bound to have an amazing time. So check these hiking spots out and start planning your next adventure!
Ma’raa Caves
The Ma’raa Caves is known for its deceptive yet gorgeous features. It is actually considered to be a grotto, and appears to be much smaller than its actual size. The entrance of the cave is filled with ferns hanging all over, hiding much of its opening. The rock formations inside are breathtakingly beautiful, making it an ideal location for pictures!
Its black water also has a certain allure that would make you want to dive right in. However, you should remember to be careful. There is a sign that prohibits visitors from swimming, but there are some that still do. The dark color of the water makes it hard to determine the depth, so swim at your own risk.
It takes 10 minutes maximum to hike to the caves. It is a mildly challenging trek that anyone can manage. Just make sure that it is not raining to avoid going through a slippery path.
Circuit des Ananas
The Circuit des Ananas is a scenic hike that will take you through the lush rainforests of Tahiti. It is relatively easy to navigate and offers plenty of beautiful landscapes. This trail offers stunning views and is a great place for bird-watching.
It is a looping trek that goes for about 3.7 miles (5.85 km) long. The trail is relatively easy, and dogs are even allowed! This is the perfect trek for those of you who want to take it easy and enjoy the scenery around you. It would take about 1 hour and 45 minutes for an average hiker to go through this trail.
Thrilling Aquatic Encounters
Fun on the island of Tahiti doesn’t just happen aboveground, there are so many interesting things to do underwater too! The island has crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. This makes diving and snorkeling excellent ways to explore their true beauty. Here, you can swim with corals and fishes, discover shipwrecks, and take in amazing scenery.
Tahiti is surrounded by beautiful beaches with dazzling coral reefs waiting to be explored. This includes famed dive sites such as the White Valley and The Aquarium. The island boasts numerous dive sites with amazing sea life including humpback whales, manta rays, and sea turtles. An encounter with any of these majestic creatures is sure to be an unforgettable experience for you.
Your vacation in Tahiti is not complete unless you’ve explored its waters. That’s why you should definitely add a dive or a snorkel trip to your itinerary. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, you’ll be able to choose a great spot that matches your skill level and preferences.
Ride Through the Island on a 4×4 Tour
One of the best ways to enjoy the beauties of Tahiti is by going on a 4×4 tour. Tours depart from the main island and can take you to many different spots. This includes picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and rainforests. The areas visited vary due to the size and difficulty of the tracks so it is best to choose your tour based on what you are interested in.
With an adventurous 4×4 tour, you would be able to see areas of Tahiti that tourists rarely visit. You’d get to learn about the island’s history and culture while driving through its beautiful landscape. You will also be taken to places where you can swim in beautiful turquoise waters and enjoy the delicious local cuisine.
You can choose from one-day or multiday tours. You will be taken to different parts of the island in the most exciting way. Most of these tours have tour guides who speak English. You can also choose from various packages, including lunch and dinner.
4×4 tours in Tahiti would bring you to parts of the island that would take you hours to travel and hike to. You could go deep into the greeneries of the beautiful French Polynesian countryside and enjoy a picnic in the forest. You could also choose to go on a safari to take in the sights of lush rainforests and go swimming in the rivers that flow through the forest. It is also possible to see waterfalls and lagoons and even spot some of the native wildlife!
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is an incredible destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean. The clear blue waters and white-sand beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. You can also simply relax under the palm trees with a cocktail in hand. You definitely wouldn’t want to leave!
The island is made up of three main villages, each with its own beach area and restaurants. Vaitape is the main town where you can find most of the restaurants and shops. It’s also where the airport is located. The main strip of restaurants in Vaitape is along the water so it’s perfect for watching the sunset with a drink in hand!
Bora Bora is also famous for its beautiful lagoon where a number of luxury resorts are located. These resorts offer world-class amenities including pools, spas, and fine dining experiences. They also host activities like snorkeling and kayaking so you can get the most out of your vacation!
No matter where you want to go in Bora Bora, you’re sure to find something fun to do. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or explore the island by land or sea, you won’t regret your visit! With that in mind, check out its best features so you would know what else to expect.
What Makes Bora Bora Unique?
Rural Atmosphere With a Mix of Local Village Life and Luxury Resorts
Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful and renowned islands in the world. It is a humble island with a serene atmosphere you are sure to love. Its spectacular scenery, rich culture, and heavenly resorts make it the perfect place to unwind and relax. To top it all off, there are quaint villages that would add a bit of local charm to your trip.
The island of Bora Bora is visited by travelers all around the world for a revitalizing getaway. Its natural beauty, exotic landscape, and its luxurious accommodations have made it a top choice amongst tourists. However, this small island also has a lot to offer outside the resort zone.
The magic of the island is truly evident when you visit its villages and witness the everyday life of the locals. The local villagers are very friendly and willing to show visitors around the island and help them experience everything it has to offer. This is a great way to learn more about the island’s history and its people.
The exotic beauty of Bora Bora is easily one of the most well-known sights on the planet. Whether you would spend your time with the locals, or in a resort, you are guaranteed a once-in-a-lifetime vacation you will never forget.
Delicious Restaurants of Wonderful Seafood and Local Cuisine
One of the best ways to explore Bora Bora is through its dishes. The island is well known for its seafood, so visitors will find excellent options at restaurants. You can expect to see dishes made with the freshest island ingredients.
The food in Bora Bora is authentic and delicious! It’s perfect for tourists who appreciate good food and want to experience the local culture. From the restaurants to the local markets, there are plenty of amazing places to eat and drink. Whether you visit the island for a romantic getaway or a fun family holiday, be sure to sample some of the delicious local cuisines while you’re there.
Some of the local favorites are rotisserie pork, sushi, and freshly caught seafood. If you want to taste something different, you can also try curry chicken or French crepes for breakfast. No matter what you decide to eat, it will definitely be one of the best meals you’ve ever had!
With that in mind, the next step is knowing where on this wonderful island you’d enjoy eating in. Lucky for you, Bora Bora is made up of numerous restaurants you can dine in, with a number of different cuisines available for you to choose from. Here are some of the best that you should definitely check out.
Bloody Mary’s
Bloody Mary’s is a great place to enjoy some of the best food in Bora Bora. The menu has a variety of options, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or lunch with friends. It has a sand floor, a thatched roof, and wooden decor that creates a warm and relaxing ambiance.
This restaurant has been established so far back, with numerous celebrities visiting it. Today, it has two walls of fame and a souvenir shop for you to enjoy. Of course, their food is also second to none. You can enjoy steak or seafood that is sure to make your mouth water.
The Lagoon at St. Regis
The Lagoon restaurant is located at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. They offer a glamorous fine dining experience overlooking the lagoon. The restaurant offers a fresh menu of Polynesian and international cuisine. For an unforgettable meal, order their 5-course tasting menu!
La Villa Mahana
La Villa Mahana is the ultimate luxury when it comes to dining out while staying at Bora Bora. Their menu features a wide variety of gourmet dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and exotic flavors that will blow your mind. They specialize in Polynesian dishes that are prepared with the best French techniques.
This restaurant takes only 6 tables per night for a special and romantic evening. So, if you are planning on having a special dinner here, make sure to book months earlier!
Beaches That Would Make You Feel Like You’re in Paradise
If you’re looking for a place to escape the rat race and relax, Bora Bora is definitely worth a visit. The island has many stunning white-sand beaches with crystal clear waters and palm-fringed coves. Because the island is relatively small, you can get from one coast to another in minutes.
Bora Bora’s beaches are world-class. They are pristine and unspoiled, so visitors can bask in the sun without worrying about pollution or overcrowding. Some beaches have coral gardens where you can snorkel and explore their colorful marine life. Meanwhile, others are perfect for simply relaxing on a warm sunny day.
Your trip to Bora Bora is not complete without visiting one of its amazing beaches. Their sceneries and tranquil atmospheres are the ideal settings for a revitalizing vacation. You can dine in beachside restaurants or enjoy many activities. The astounding environment provides the perfect setting for enjoying various activities like snorkeling!
Now, you have to find out next which beach to go to! With its many gorgeous beaches, surely there’s one out there that would be perfect for you. Here are some of its best beaches that might just be what you’re looking for.
Matira Beach
Matira Beach is arguably the best beach in Bora Bora. With crystal clear waters and white sand, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding lagoon and mountains. To top it all off, there are numerous food establishments scattered around for refreshments!
This beach also allows for numerous beach and underwater activities. You wouldn’t run out of things to do. There are also some great spots for you and your partner to enjoy a simple walk or a view of the sunset.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui Beach
The Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort is your best bet for a luxurious day at the beach! This amazing place has many features, but the best is its beach. The sand is powdery white and the crystal blue waters are breathtaking.
The Conrad also has infinity pools and overwater bungalows where you can enjoy the scenery. It also offers various activities, but it is most regarded for snorkeling. You can do it right from the beach, making it easy even for a beginner.
Blue Heaven Island Beach
The beach at Blue Heaven Island is a great choice if you want to explore Bora Bora’s marine life! Here, you would be treated to astounding pearly-white sand and crystal clear waters. These make for the best backdrop for a photo shoot or a romantic stroll with your partner.
Although the sand of Blue Heaven’s beach is gorgeous, it is a bit narrow. Despite that, it remains to be a fairly famous destination. This is mainly because of its fascinating underwater adventures. Here, you can see sharks, stingrays, and eels!
Stunning Scenery With Captivating Lagoon and Ocean Views
If you’re looking for a tranquil vacation spot, Bora Bora’s lagoon and ocean are some of the best places to visit. The clear waters and stunning scenery are a perfect backdrop for a relaxing vacation. There are also plenty of activities for those that prefer to be active during their trip.
The crystal clear waters in the lagoon are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can also see beautiful tropical fish under the water’s surface. There are various options for swimming, from beginner to advanced levels. You can swim with trained instructors if you’re a beginner or go it alone if you prefer.
There are plenty of ways to explore the ocean. You can go on a boat ride around the islands to see the beautiful coral reefs. It is also possible to go out on a boat charter to go deep-sea fishing or experience a sunset cruise on the ocean. For those that are feeling adventurous, there are also jet ski tours and parasailing adventures available!
There are many things you can do while you are in Bora Bora, but one of the favorite things to do for visitors is to swim in the clear waters of the lagoon. Visitors often spend several hours playing in the water or relaxing on the beach. It’s also a great place for families to enjoy some quality time together.
The ocean views are also regarded as some of the best sights you could ever see. The views are stunning, and the warm breeze blowing on your face will leave you feeling relaxed. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two swimming by.
Which is Better — Tahiti or Bora Bora?
When it comes to choosing a paradise for your vacation, many people might say that Tahiti or Bora Bora is the best option. But is one island really better than the other? This is up to you to decide! However, to help you make a better choice, here are the aspects of the islands you should remember.
Tahiti is more urbanized than Bora Bora. You will find more hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls on this island. There are also more modern buildings, whereas most of the buildings in Bora Bora are made of wood. These two aspects make Tahiti a more convenient place for tourists to visit and explore.
On the other hand, Bora Bora is known for its unspoiled beauty. Here you will not only find pristine beaches but also beautiful waterfalls, mountains, and coral reefs. If you are looking for a relaxing and tranquil vacation, then Bora Bora is definitely the best option for you.
Many people consider Bora Bora to be a more romantic location compared to Tahiti. This is mainly due to the fact that there is no light pollution here and most of the hotels and restaurants are located in remote areas of the island. There are no skyscrapers blocking the view of the sunset as well. As a result, you can enjoy a beautiful view every time you take a walk on the beach or go snorkeling.
With that in mind, Tahiti is a great place for those who want an island vacation with modern activities. It has a lot of fascinating tropical features that you are guaranteed to love. It is also cheaper than Bora Bora and easier to travel through.
Meanwhile, Bora Bora is a more premium choice. The cost of your travel here would be much more, but it also offers a more luxurious experience. It is not as accessible as Tahiti and does not offer as many tourist attractions but you will definitely get value for your money. If you are looking for an exotic getaway, then this is the place to go.
FAQs
Is Tahiti Cheaper Than Bora Bora?
Although it is more developed than Bora Bora, Tahiti is actually a cheaper destination. The average cost for an individual traveler in Tahiti goes up to $1,932. In Bora Bora, on the other hand, you can expect to spend up to $3,184. This is due to the hotels and activities being more luxurious in Bora Bora.
Best Time to Visit Tahiti and Bora Bora
The best time to visit Tahiti and Bora Bora is through the months of April to November. These are the winter season for both islands, giving them less humidity. This makes it more comfortable and a bit cooler.
Is It Better to Stay in Bora Bora or Tahiti?
Deciding which island is better for you to stay on largely depends on your own preferences. Bora Bora is a more rural island, so you can expect food and drinks to cost less. Yet, its accommodations would cost more. Tahiti on the other hand is urbanized. It has more establishments, but its basic commodities might cost you more.
Tahiti or Bora Bora for Diving
Bora Bora is a more popular destination for divers. It has better diving spots that range from shallow to deep waters. Its marine life is also livelier, making your diving experience better.
Tahiti or Bora Bora for Nightlife
Tahiti is the best island in French Polynesia for night outs. In fact, it is the only island in the region that actually has a thriving nightlife.
Is Tahiti and Bora Bora the Same?
Tahiti and Bora Bora are different islands that are both located in the country of French Polynesia. They are also very different as Tahiti is known for its modernity while Bora Bora is regarded for its island life.
Where Is Tahiti in Relation to Bora Bora?
Tahiti is in the southeastern direction of Bora Bora. They are both parts of the Society Islands of French Polynesia.
How Far Is Tahiti From Bora Bora?
Tahiti is 143 miles (230 kilometers) away from Bora Bora. This is about the same distance between the west of New York to Delaware.
How to Get From Tahiti to Bora Bora
The easiest way to get from Tahiti to Bora Bora is through a plane. Luckily, Tahiti has the Fa’a’ā International Airport a few miles from Papeete. It is also possible to ride a ferry from Papeete straight to Bora Bora’s Vaitape. Other options include going on a cruise or chartering a vehicle.
How Far Is Bora Bora From Tahiti by Plane?
The flight distance between Bora Bora and Tahiti is 172 miles (277 kilometers). This is the same distance from New York to Maryland.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
Flight costs from Tahiti to Bora Bora go from $150 to $200 for a one-way flight. It would take upwards of $300 for a roundtrip flight.
Can You Take a Ferry to Bora Bora From Tahiti?
Yes, you can take a ferry to Bora Bora from Tahiti. It is through the Apetahi Express, which operates thrice a week.
How Long Is the Ferry From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
The ferry from Tahiti to Bora Bora has a distance of about 180 miles (290 kilometers). This distance is traveled by ferry for about 8 hours and 40 minutes.
How Much Is the Ferry From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
The ferry from Tahiti to Bora Bora only costs about $91. It is a much cheaper option than going by plane. However, it also takes a lot more time. If you enjoy going on boats, then this might be a better choice for you.
Can You Take a Boat From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
Yes, you can actually take a boat from Tahiti to Bora Bora. Aside from the usual ferry ride, you can also use a yacht or charter other vehicles.
How Far Is Tahiti From Bora Bora by Boat?
The distance between Tahiti from Bora Bora through a boat is about 180 miles (290 kilometers).
How Long Does It Take to Sail From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
The time it takes for a boat to sail from Tahiti to Bora Bora largely depends on its speed. If it goes for about 20mph (32 kph), then it would take about 8 hours and 40 minutes for this route.
How Long Does It Take From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
Flight time from Tahiti to Bora Bora is about 50 minutes. Boat rides on the other hand may go for as long as 8 hours and 40 minutes.
How Much Does It Cost to Get From Tahiti to Bora Bora?
The cost to get to Bora Bora from Tahiti depends largely on your mode of transportation. The cheapest, which is through a ferry, costs $91. A plane ride, on the other hand, may go for as much as $200. A cruise ship and chartered vehicle may cost much more.
