Choosing between Moorea and Bora Bora can feel overwhelming. Both French Polynesian islands offer stunning beauty, but they serve completely different travel styles and budgets.
Moorea offers green mountains, authentic culture, and wallet-friendly adventures, all just a ferry ride from Tahiti.
Bora Bora offers iconic overwater luxury, serene lagoons, and honeymoon-perfect seclusion, all at a premium price.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about scenery, costs, activities, accommodations, and travel logistics.
We’ll help you match your dream vacation with the right island based on your budget, travel style, and expectations.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which paradise fits your perfect getaway.
Moorea vs Bora Bora vs Tahiti: What’s Best?
Compare Moorea, Bora Bora, and Tahiti across cost, scenery, activities, and travel style to find out which island fits your perfect French Polynesian getaway.
| Feature | Moorea | Bora Bora | Tahiti |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Adventurous, laid-back | Luxurious, romantic | Local, practical |
| Scenery | Mountains + lagoons | Iconic lagoon + motus | Volcanic peaks + black sand beaches |
| Best For | Families, explorers, and culture seekers | Honeymooners, luxury travelers | Budget travelers, short stays |
| Cost/Day | $200–$450 | $600–$1500+ | $120–$350 |
| Stay/Night | $100–$400 (mix of options) | $500–$2000+ (mainly high-end) | $80–$300 (affordable to mid-range) |
| Access | Ferry (30 min from Tahiti) | Flight (45 min from Tahiti) | Direct international flights |
| Top Activities | Hiking, snorkeling, and 4×4 tours | Lagoon cruises, spa, overwater bungalows | Surfing, markets, museums |
Where Is Moorea?
Source: tahiti.com
Moorea stands out with its green mountains, pineapple farms, and sharp volcanic peaks. Located just a quick ferry ride from Tahiti, this island combines outdoor activities, rich culture, and wallet-friendly options.
The island features dramatic lookout points, clear swimming beaches, and thick jungle paths. Moorea attracts active travelers who want real Polynesian culture without the tourist crowds.
Both families and solo visitors love Moorea for its authentic local feel and flexible pricing.
Top features:
- Easy ferry access from Tahiti
- Perfect for hiking and cultural experiences
- Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses
- Vibrant local markets and authentic dining spots
Where Is Bora Bora?
Source: tahititourisme.com
Bora Bora earns its nickname “Pearl of the Pacific” with good reason. This island sits around a brilliant turquoise lagoon, wrapped by coral islands and barrier reefs.
Known for its famous overwater bungalows, Bora Bora focuses on luxury travelers and honeymooners.
The island prioritizes relaxation over exploration, offering pure comfort in beautiful settings.
Here you’ll find breathtaking lagoon tours, couples’ spa treatments over water, and views that belong on every travel wish list.
Top features:
- Remote luxury location with exclusive resorts
- Perfect for couples and romantic getaways
- World-famous overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons
- High-end experience with premium pricing
Moorea vs Bora Bora: Quick Travel Showdown
Source: freedomtravel.se
Compare two of French Polynesia’s most iconic islands, Moorea and Bora Bora, across scenery, cost, activities, and vibe to find out which tropical paradise is right for your next escape.
1. Accessibility
Moorea: Take a relaxing 30-minute ferry ride from Tahiti’s main port. The scenic boat trip costs less than flying and lets you enjoy ocean views. You can also choose quick 10-minute flights if time matters more. Ferry schedules run multiple times daily, giving you flexible departure options.
Bora Bora: Reach this remote paradise only by short flights from Tahiti. Air Tahiti operates the only regular service to the island. Once you land, you’ll need a boat transfer to reach your resort. The extra travel steps add cost but increase the exclusive feel.
2. Cost
Moorea: Offers something for every budget level, from simple guesthouses to luxury resorts. Local restaurants serve great meals at reasonable prices. You can rent scooters or cars at a low cost to explore independently. Many activities, such as hiking and beach visits, cost nothing extra.
Bora Bora: Targets luxury travelers with premium pricing across all services. Even basic accommodations here cost more than high-end options in Moorea. Meals, drinks, and activities carry resort-style markups. Budget at least double what you’d spend in Moorea for similar experiences.
3. Scenery
Moorea: Features dramatic mountain peaks, lush green valleys, and varied landscapes. Volcanic ridges create perfect photo opportunities from multiple viewpoints. The island combines jungle trails, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. You’ll find diverse scenery that changes as you explore different areas.
Bora Bora: Centers around one incredible turquoise lagoon with flat coral islands. The scenery focuses on water views and beach settings. Mount Otemanu rises from the center, but most attractions involve the lagoon. The consistent tropical paradise look defines every view.
4. Accommodations
Moorea: Choose from budget guesthouses, family hotels, and boutique resorts. Many properties offer garden or mountain views at affordable rates. Some luxury options include overwater bungalows without extreme costs. You’ll find accommodations that match your travel style and spending limits.
Bora Bora: Features primarily high-end resorts with world-class amenities. Most properties offer overwater bungalows as signature accommodations. Luxury brands like Four Seasons and St. Regis dominate the market. Budget travelers have very few affordable options available.
5. Activities
Moorea: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore and learn. Hiking trails lead to waterfalls and mountain viewpoints. ATV tours take you through pineapple plantations and local villages. Snorkeling, cultural shows, and market visits add authentic experiences.
Bora Bora: Focuses on water-based relaxation and luxury experiences. Lagoon cruises offer swimming with rays and sharks in safe environments. Spa treatments, sunset cocktails, and private dining create romantic moments. Most activities center around the resort or lagoon setting.
6. Ideal For
Moorea: Active travelers and families seeking authentic Polynesian culture. Solo visitors appreciate the safe, friendly local atmosphere. Budget-conscious couples can enjoy romance without overspending. Anyone wanting to combine relaxation with exploration and learning.
Bora Bora: Couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or special occasions. Luxury travelers who want pampered, exclusive experiences. Those seeking Instagram-worthy overwater bungalow stays. Visitors who prefer relaxation over active sightseeing and cultural immersion.
Top Things to Do in Moorea
Source: tahititourisme.com
- Snorkel with sharks and rays in shallow lagoons – Safe, guided eco-tours let you swim alongside friendly marine wildlife in crystal-clear waters.
- Hike the Three Coconut Trees Pass – This moderate trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of the island’s lush green mountains and valleys.
- Drive through Opunohu Valley by 4×4 or ATV – Explore pineapple farms, hidden waterfalls, and traditional villages on exciting off-road tours.
- Visit a vanilla or pineapple plantation – Learn about traditional Polynesian farming methods and taste fresh tropical crops during guided farm tours.
- Relax at Temae Beach – Enjoy one of the island’s most beautiful public beaches with calm waters and excellent snorkeling spots right offshore.
Top Things to Do in Bora Bora
Source: tahiti-excursions.com
- Stay in an overwater bungalow – Wake up to sunrise views through glass floors while enjoying direct access to the turquoise lagoon below.
- Take a lagoon tour around Mount Otemanu – Circle the island’s dramatic volcanic peak while visiting coral gardens and swimming with gentle stingrays.
- Dine at a floating restaurant – Experience gourmet cuisine served over the water as the sun sets behind Mount Otemanu.
- Snorkel or dive with manta rays – Encounter these graceful giants in some of the Pacific’s clearest waters with exceptional underwater visibility.
- Indulge in a couple’s spa day at your resort – Enjoy side-by-side massages in overwater treatment rooms with panoramic reef views.
Who Should Visit Each Island?
Choose Moorea if you: Moorea suits active travelers who want outdoor activities, authentic culture, and budget-friendly options.
Families love the safe environment and affordable dining, while solo visitors appreciate the local atmosphere.
If you prefer hiking and cultural tours over spa treatments, and plan to visit multiple islands, Moorea offers real Polynesian experiences without premium costs.
Choose Bora Bora if you: Bora Bora targets luxury travelers seeking peace, privacy, and world-class service.
Couples celebrating honeymoons or anniversaries find the romantic overwater bungalows perfect for special memories.
If you want bucket-list experiences like glass-floor accommodations and are willing to pay premium prices, Bora Bora delivers the ultimate luxury escape.
Final Verdict
Both Moorea and Bora Bora offer incredible French Polynesian experiences, but your choice comes down to travel style and budget.
Moorea wins for active families and budget-conscious travelers who want authentic culture, outdoor activities, and flexible pricing.
Bora Bora excels for luxury seekers and couples celebrating special occasions who prioritize overwater bungalows and world-class service.
Can’t decide? Start your trip in Moorea for active exploration and cultural immersion, then finish in Bora Bora for luxury relaxation and romantic moments. This combination gives you the best of both worlds.
Ready to book your French Polynesia getaway? Share your choice in the comments below and tell us which island matches your dream vacation style!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Prettiest Island in Polynesia?
Bora Bora often takes the title for its iconic turquoise lagoon and overwater bungalows, but Moorea offers equally beautiful mountain and valley scenery for different tastes.
How Far Is Moorea from Bora Bora?
Moorea and Bora Bora are about 160 miles apart, requiring a flight connection through Tahiti since no direct transportation exists between the islands.
Is It Worth Going to Moorea?
Yes, Moorea offers excellent value with authentic culture, outdoor activities, and budget-friendly options while still providing beautiful beaches and luxury experiences.
What Is More Expensive, Bora Bora or Tahiti?
Bora Bora costs significantly more than Tahiti, with luxury resort pricing and limited budget options compared to Tahiti’s wider range of accommodations.
