Bora Bora vs Tahiti… Which Polynesian paradise is nicer? Which is more affordable?
When planning your dream vacation, it’s important to choose the right destination — especially when the destination involves flying all the way across the Pacific Ocean. A lot of money, time and energy go into planning vacations, and you certainly don’t want to feel regretful.
The following comprehensive comparison of Bora Bora vs Tahiti will answer all your pending questions and help you choose the best location for your tropical trip.
Plus, if you still have questions after, feel free to ask by leaving a reply below or sending me a direct message on Instagram. I’m happy to help!
What Is The Difference Between Bora Bora And Tahiti?
The main difference between Bora Bora and Tahiti is that they are separate islands in the country of French Polynesia.
Bora Bora (bottom left photo) is a smaller French Polynesian island, filled with dreamy overwater bungalows and luxury resorts. Whereas, Tahiti (bottom right photo) is the largest island of French Polynesia, as well as the economic and political center of the country.
Some people refer to French Polynesia simply as “Tahiti” even though, today, Tahiti technically refers to the largest main island. They are actually referring to all of the culturally Tahitian islands that collectively make up French Polynesia.
Is Bora Bora Considered Tahiti?
Because some people refer to French Polynesia as Tahiti, you find that Bora Bora is considered Tahiti to some people. However, geographically, Bora Bora and Tahiti are two separate islands in the country of French Polynesia.
Bora Bora Vs Tahiti Beaches
Because you’re interested in taking a trip to Bora Bora or Tahiti, it’s safe to say you’re interested in pristine beaches with crystal clear water.
So, which island has better beaches, Bora Bora or Tahiti?
The short answer is both. It depends on what type of beaches you’re looking for.
If you’re expecting perfectly white sand, calm waves and bright aquamarine-colored water, Bora Bora has better beaches (bottom left photo). If you enjoy public beaches, surfing, whale watching and dolphin sightings, Tahiti has better beaches (bottom right photo).
Also, note that both Bora Bora and Tahiti have incredibly clear water. But, in Tahiti, you’ll have to swim, kayak or paddle board to the reef break for the iconic aqua-colored water.
Basically, if you book a trip to Tahiti expecting Bora Bora quality water, you’ll be disappointed.
Is It Cheaper To Go To Bora Bora Or Tahiti?
Overall, it is usually much cheaper to go to Tahiti than Bora Bora. This is mainly because of Bora Bora’s secluded luxury resorts and gorgeous waters.
In addition, Tahiti’s easy accessibility also plays a large role in it’s cheaper price tags. We’ll discuss this in a moment.
Regardless, there are still numerous ways to do Bora Bora on a budget (and even find cheap overwater bungalows in Bora Bora). So, if you would rather go to Bora Bora, don’t let the sticker price completely turn you away.
Which is Easier To Get To, Bora Bora or Tahiti?
Unless you’re flying on a private jet, Tahiti is much easier to get to than Bora Bora.
If you’re flying on a commercial airline, which you likely are, you will have to fly through Tahiti before arriving in Bora Bora. Unfortunately, there are no commercial nonstop flights to Bora Bora.
The flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora is an easy, short flight with amazing views (sit on the left side of the plane for the best views), but it is another flight that you have to ride and pay for, nonetheless.
Furthermore, the airline baggage policies for the flight to Bora Bora from Tahiti are much stricter than to Tahiti, so it’s important to be aware of them. You can find a complete explanation of these policies in my Bora Bora honeymoon packing guide.
As you can see, Tahiti is easier to get to than Bora Bora.
Is The Food Better In Tahiti Or Bora Bora?
You may find higher-end restaurants in the Bora Bora resorts. Otherwise, the food is neither better nor worse in Tahiti or Bora Bora. The foods in Bora Bora vs Tahiti are basically the same: plenty of French pastries, seafood, Asian-influenced dishes, tropical smoothies and local fruits such as mango.
Because of French socioeconomic influence in French Polynesia, you will find a multitude of croissants, pain au chocolat and parfaits in both Tahiti and Bora Bora. Because of the geographical closeness to Asia, you will also find rice and stir fries as staple meal options too.
Additionally, at the resorts, you can find typical American/English style foods, particularly at the breakfast buffets, that cater toward tourists.
Where Should You Stay In Bora Bora Vs Tahiti?
In Bora Bora, you should definitely splurge on an overwater bungalow if you can. Although, you don’t necessarily need to stay in these five-star accommodations to bask in the blue paradise.
To find overwater bungalows that are affordable for the average-income individual, check out this guide to scoring cheap overwater bungalows in Bora Bora.
We stayed at the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, a more affordable resort that is connected to the main island, and we have few complaints.
In Tahiti, you don’t really need an overwater bungalow. Because there is more island space, the resorts in Tahiti are bigger and usually have more amenities like pools and private lagoons.
You probably won’t be spending much time in your Tahiti hotel room, as you’ll be busy swimming, snorkeling, going on an island excursion or relaxing poolside.
We stayed at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa, and the property was absolutely stunning. Complete with infinity pools (plural), a private lagoonarium, cultural presentations and a swim-up bar, I could not recommend this resort enough. You can find a full review of the InterContinental Tahiti here.
Is Tahiti Or Bora Bora Better?
Despite Tahiti’s accessibility and affordability, there is no doubt that Bora Bora is better than Tahiti.
The resorts, overwater bungalow accommodations, seclusion, luxurious atmosphere and, of course, brilliant waters of Bora Bora are truly unbeatable.
The calm, clear, shallow waves mimic the immersive relaxation you’ll experience from your bungalow deck, and even if you get bored of relaxing (which you won’t), there are plenty of beach activities for you to enjoy, from paddle boarding and snorkeling to kayaking and outrigger canoeing.
There is a reason that Bora Bora remains one of the most envied vacation and honeymoon destinations. If you have ever have the opportunity to visit Bora Bora, seize it!
More On Bora Bora And Tahiti
Bora Bora Travel Guides
What To Pack For Your Bora Bora Honeymoon
How To Score Cheap Overwater Bungalows In Bora Bora
How To Do Bora Bora On A Budget
Is Bora Bora Worth It? A Place Better Than Bora Bora
Tahiti Travel Guides
The Ultimate Tahiti Packing List
Why The InterContinental Is One Of The Best Tahiti Hotels On Water
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I’ve been to Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea. There is more to do in Tahiti but the other 2 are better for water sports, snorkeling, and a relaxed atmosphere. They are all absolutely beautiful.
I still have to visit Moorea! And I agree!