10 Luxury Islands Like Bora Bora Worth Visiting in 2024

Image credit: Ryan Galler

1. Moorea, French Polynesia

   Located a short boat ride away from Tahiti, the island of Moorea offers similarly stunning views and a much less crowded atmosphere. Moorea is home to a variety of luxury resorts, including a Hilton, and Sofitel, among others. Additionally, the island is known for its deep blue lagoons, crystal clear waters, and white sand beaches.

   It is surrounded by a coral reef, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. There is also plenty of wildlife to view and discover in and around the lagoon. Ultimately, Moorea is a bit more laid back than its high-end sister island of Bora Bora but still boasts jaw-dropping scenery.

   Here you’ll find day trips, food, and accommodation slightly more reasonable than Bora Bora too, an added perk.

Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa

Where To Stay: For couples, we recommend staying at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea resort in their overwater bungalows or the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa.

Image credit: Xavier Coiffic

2. Mauritius

Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean, has been described as one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

The island is famous for its volcanic mountains, coral reefs, rainforest, and beaches. Some of the beaches are on the island's northeast coast, with a few others tucked away in coves along the island's southern coast. While Mauritius has months of sun, it’s not quite as sunny as Bora Bora year round, so plan your holiday during the dry season that runs from May to December.

The island's capital, Port Louis, is located on the island's western coast. It is lively and busy, with many shops and restaurants lining the streets. The culture in Mauritius is rich in diversity, and the island is filled with a mix of religious temples and churches. There are many luxury hotels to choose from, and the nightly rate is more reasonably priced than the overwater villas in the Maldives, Seychelles, or Bora Bora.

Where To Stay: JW Marriot Mauritius Resort (previously the St Regis Mauritius) is an expansive beachside luxury hotel with a large pool, day spa, fitness center, and high-end villas located near Mauritius’ famous underwater waterfall.

Four Seasons Resort at Anahita has been built to offer the ultimate luxury experience in Mauritius. From the calming infinity pool to the exquisite spa and dining options, everything has been thoughtfully designed.

Soneva Jani Hotel in Maldives, image courtesy of Expedia

3. The Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago, comprised of 26 atolls. It is located in the Indian Ocean and is one of the closer island getaways for travelers from India, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and incredible marine life. With more than 1,000 islands, it is famous for its unparalleled luxury and beauty. The best part is that the islands come in all shapes and sizes, so you can pick one that suits your travel needs. The Maldives has something for every taste from quaint overwater bungalows to lavish five-star resorts.

St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Where To Stay: A stay at Soneva Jani is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and a bucket list item that simply must be experienced. This eco-friendly resort has become renowned around the globe for its awe-inspiring, architecturally designed overwater villas. The villas netted balconies and two-story waterslides are regularly featured in magazines and across social media.

The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is also visually spectacular, a breathtaking paradise, with elegant interior furnishings. Set on a private island in the Dhaalu Atoll, the resort offers luxurious accommodation and lavish amenities.

Image credit: Roman Ry

4. Taha’a, French Polynesia

From the vibrant culture to the stunning landscapes, Taha’a island is a place of wonder and beauty that captures the hearts of all who visit. The air is filled with a delightful and refreshing scent of tropical flowers, while the stars shine brightly above, creating a tranquil atmosphere. This oasis of serenity and beauty is surrounded by lush vegetation with a turquoise lagoon that boasts waters just as crystal clear as Bora Bora.

Due to the unique fertile terrain, warm waters, and tropical climate, Tahitian vanilla, and Tahitian pearls are farmed on the island.

Nestled in the stunning island paradise of Taha’a, French Polynesia is the secluded Le Taha’a resort. This tropical retreat offers guests a tranquil escape in the Society Islands. The resort features exquisite amenities and activities, including overwater bungalows, fine dining, and various outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. The white sand beaches, sparkling coral reefs, and blue waters provide a stunning backdrop for these unforgettable experiences. Guests can also indulge in spa treatments and soak up the views from the comfort of their private bungalows.

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts hotel on the Island of Taha’a

Where To Stay:

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts is a boutique island resort with only 58 rooms. It’s part of the Relais & Chateaux group, located on a small islet with views of Bora Bora in the distance.

Image Credit: Genevieve Brown

4. Tahiti, French Polynesia

An upscale oasis of beauty and relaxation, Tahiti is the main island of French Polynesia. You can direct to Faa’a International Airport from Paris, Los Angeles, San Fransico, and Auckland.

Tahiti offers a wealth of stunning natural wonders for visitors to explore with reefs, vast mountain ranges, and gorgeous black sand beaches. In addition to exploring the island's natural beauty, visitors can relax in the world-class spas and resorts, participate in a variety of water sports, and learn about local Polynesian history. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Tahiti is an ideal destination for any traveler. With its incredible scenery, great location, and its relaxed vibe, Tahiti is worth seeing. You can also combine a stay here with a quick trip to Moorea, which is only 30 minutes away by boat.

Where To Stay:

Hilton Hotel Tahiti recently opened in 2022, and is conveniently located just 15 minutes from the airport. It has a premium fitness center, spa, and pool club. It also boasts several gourmet restaurants including San Sushi Tahiti, which is one of our favorite places to dine in Tahiti.

Yasawa Islands Fiji

5. Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Of the 110 islands in Fiji, the Yasawa island chain is pristine and sparsely populated, with colorful coral reefs, sandy beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty.

The Yasawa Islands are the perfect place for those who want to vacation in peace. The islands are 90 miles southeast of Nadi, Fiji's second-largest city, and can be reached via commercial flight, boat, or seaplane. They are renowned for their unparalleled beauty and seclusion, diving, and snorkeling.

You’ll see the same aquamarine waters as Bora Bora, and the soft white powdery sand on the beaches. However, most of the Yasawa islands are undeveloped apart from a few remote luxury resorts and local island villages.

Yasawa Islands Resort, Fiji

Where To Stay:

Yasawa Island Resort in Fiji is the epitome of remote luxury. With just 18 bungalows dotted around a 22km long private island that has 11 private beaches. Offering a high-end all inclusive experience that includes day trips to the blue lagoon caves, village visits and private beach picnics. If you’re looking for an exceptional honeymoon destination you can’t go past this romantic island escape.

For a barefoot luxury private island escape that families will love, we recommend Paradise Cove resort.

Image Credit: Aleh Varanishcha

6. Seychelles

Seychelles is a picture-perfect getaway for those looking to relax and unwind in a tropical paradise. With its postcard-worthy waters and stunning beaches lined with limestone boulders, the archipelago is a coveted destination for honeymoons and weddings. If your planning a romantic vacation and want somewhere similar to Bora Bora. Seychelles is a must-see.

The archipelago consists of 115 islands, each with its own unique beauty and offering something special for visitors. Offering complete seclusion and serenity, many of Seychelles' upscale resorts are located on their own private islands, including the famous Six Senses Zil Payson of Félicité Island.

Snorkel and dive in the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean or explore the wild jungles. Hike up to the breathtaking viewpoints in La Digue to see its unique limestone formations that line the shore from above.

Where To Stay:

One of Seychelles’ most awarded resorts, a favorite of royals and celebrities, is North Island. It offers unparalleled luxury and privacy.

Image: North Island Resort - Courtesy of Expedia

Another highlight of the Seychelles is the visually spectacular Six Senses Zil Payson, located in Félicité Island has idyllic temperature year round, great for those looking to visit La Digue.

Six Senses Zil Payson Resort in Seychelles

Image Credit: Joeri Mombers

7. New Caledonia

New Caledonia, a charming French territory located in the vast and beautiful Pacific Ocean, is often compared to the renowned island of Bora Bora. Both are revered for their majestic landscapes, aquamarine waters, and laidback culture. New Caledonia is the perfect getaway for travelers looking for beachside days of rest and relaxation, with luxury resorts, and overwater bungalows at a more affordable price point than the islands of French Polynesia.

Beyond New Caledonia’s stunning visuals, is a culture that is just as vibrant and unique as Bora Bora. From its colorful architecture, delightful cuisine, and vibrant music and dance, it is easy to see why this is such a beloved destination. Here you’ll find endless days of sun and untouched thriving reefs, New Caledonia is just as wonderful as its Polynesian neighbor, and just as deserving of a visit.

Le Meridien Resort in Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia

Where To Stay:

Le Méridien Ile des Pins is a high-end island resort located on the remote island of Iles De Pines. Here you’ll find beautiful scenery for hikes, diving and snorkeling as well as powdery white sands and unique interior lagoons.

Images Courtesy of Cauayan Island Resort

8. Cauayan Island, Philippines

Nestled away amongst the islands of the Philippines lies a hidden gem, one that is renowned for its serene beauty and breathtaking landscapes - Cauayan Island Resort. This majestic destination offers travelers a chance to experience nature in its purest form, with lush forests and sparkling oceans that encase the island. Visitors can explore the clear waters and discover its hidden secrets, or relax on the powder-soft beaches and soak up the sunshine. With its expansive coral reef, Cauayan Island Resort is a haven for nature lovers and divers alike, filled with an array of colorful fish and diverse marine life. For those looking to make their holiday a relaxing one, the resort has fitness and yoga facilities as well as a spa.

Where To Stay:

Cauayan is a private island that boasts the famed Cauayan Island Resort. An eco-friendly luxury dive resort with that offers complete tranquility with only 29 villas, spread out across the island. Choose from villas over the private lagoon, overwater, or cliffside.

Image Credit: Dan Maisey

9. Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Benguerra Island is a stunningly beautiful tropical paradise located off the coast of Mozambique in the Bazaruto Archipelago.  With long white sand banks, pristine azure waters, and lush tropical vegetation, it is a paradise for those who seek a tranquil getaway. The island is known for its unique culture and incredible dive sites, as well as its large population of dolphins and whales. For the adventurous, there is plenty here to do in the Bazaruto Archipelago from deep sea fishing, horse riding, and tours to view crocodiles or the rare dugong.

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Where To Stay:

The breathtaking &Beyond Benguerra Island, which is frequently listed as one of the best hotels in Africa, alternatively located on its own a neighboring island in the Bazaruto Archipelago is the luxury resort - Anantara Bazaruto Island. This 5-star resort boasts dive trips and guided boat tours around the waters surrounding Benguerra Island, among a plethora of other high-end activities.

Pacific Resort, Aitutaki

10. The Cook Islands

The Cook Islands offer a unique blend of laidback luxury and relaxation in the Pacific. The islands are teeming with marine life, sun-kissed beaches, calm lagoons, and swaying palm trees.

With quiet villages full of friendly locals and plenty of water activities, you can experience an unparalleled level of relaxation in The Cook Islands. Whether you choose to spend your time soaking up the sun on the beach, exploring the local culture and history, or reading a book while listening to the birds, The Cook Islands offer a slower pace of life that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Where To Stay:

Aitutaki is the jewel of The Cook Islands, an absolute must-see. We recommend flying here from Rarotonga Airport and staying at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki.

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