15 Best Places Like Bora Bora To Add To Your Bucket List
Dreaming of Places Like Bora Bora? Here Are Stunning Alternatives
Bora Bora is often the ultimate dream destination with its stunning beaches, green mountains, and luxurious overwater bungalows. But did you know there are other incredible places around the world that offer a similar paradise-like experience?
This list includes all kinds of alternatives: think more budget-friendly, easier to reach, or a spot with its own unique charm, these destinations bring the same wow-factor in their own way.
From hidden tropical islands to serene beach escapes, here are the best places like Bora Bora to add to your travel bucket list!
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15 Places Like Bora Bora
Seychelles
If you’re dreaming of Bora Bora but looking for something a little different, Seychelles might be the perfect choice for you. This cluster of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean is just as beautiful and one of the best alternatives to Bora Bora on this list.
Both destinations have clear blue water and white sand beaches that look straight out of a postcard. Seychelles is also home to luxury resorts and private island retreats, making it perfect for honeymoons, bucket-list getaways, or just unwinding in paradise.
What makes Seychelles unique is its wild, untamed beauty. Unlike Bora Bora, which is known for its resort vibe, Seychelles has a raw, natural charm.
You’ll find towering granite boulders framing beaches like Anse Source d’Argent, exotic wildlife like the giant Aldabra tortoises, and rainforests to explore. It’s also more diverse!
The best time to visit Seychelles: is from April to May or October to November.
💡 INSIDER TIP: My favorite island in Seychelles is La Digue. It is STUNNING and I really love the laid-back vibe here—it’s the perfect escape within an escape.
Curious about the Seychelles? Read about everything I know!
- Curieuse Island, Seychelles
- Best Hotels in Seychelles
- 12 Most Beautiful Beaches in Seychelles
- 15 Best Things to Do in Mahe Island, Seychelles
- 8 Most Beautiful Islands in Seychelles
- 10 Best Things to do in Praslin Island
- 15 Best Things to Do in La Digue
- 25 Amazing Things to Do in Seychelles
Fiji
If Bora Bora is on your radar, Fiji is another destination worth considering. With over 300 islands scattered across the South Pacific, it offers the same mix of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and luxurious overwater bungalows.
Fiji and Bora Bora both have that “paradise found” feeling. The beautiful waters and secluded resorts make them perfect for honeymooners and those seeking total relaxation. Like Bora Bora, Fiji also offers stunning overwater bungalows, particularly in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.
Fiji is more affordable than Bora Bora, with options ranging from high-end luxury stays to budget-friendly boutique hotels. For that Bora Bora vibe, head to Likuliku Lagoon Resort in the Mamanuca Islands.
The best time to visit Bora Bora: is from May to October.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss a day trip to the Yasawa Islands. The lagoons here are some of the bluest you’ll ever see, and the coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling.
Hawaii
When thinking of places like Bora Bora, Hawaii often comes to mind. This tropical paradise has a character all its own, with a blend of natural wonders and rich culture that makes it a destination worth exploring.
Both destinations are known for their stunning beaches and luxury resorts. For those craving a Bora Bora vibe, head to Kaua’i. Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kaua’i’s unspoiled beauty and luxurious resorts feel closest to Bora Bora’s serene atmosphere.
Hawaii is far more diverse than Bora Bora. Beyond the beaches, you can hike up volcanoes, explore rainforests, and swim beneath waterfalls.
The best time to visit Hawaii: is April, May, September, and October.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Book a stay at The Four Seasons Resort on Lanai. It’s a secluded oasis that gives you the privacy and luxury of Bora Bora but with Hawaii’s unique charm.
Read about Hawaii here:
The Azores
When searching for places like Bora Bora, the Azores might not be the first destination that comes to mind, but this hidden gem in the Atlantic has its own version of tropical beauty.
Like Bora Bora, the Azores feature jaw-dropping natural beauty, clear waters, and opportunities for total relaxation. If you’re looking for a serene escape surrounded by water and untouched landscapes, the Azores deliver that tranquil vibe.
The Azores are more about dramatic volcanic landscapes and outdoor exploration than tropical lagoons and overwater bungalows. Instead of sipping cocktails on white-sand beaches, you’ll hike through green mountains, discover crater lakes, and soak in geothermal hot springs.
The Best Time to Visit the Azores: is from May to October, when the weather is warm and the islands are in full bloom.
💡 For a Bora Bora-like experience, visit São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores. The coastal town of Vila Franca do Campo offers calm turquoise waters that rival Bora Bora’s lagoons.
South Thailand
If you’re dreaming of places like Bora Bora but need something more affordable and closer to Southeast Asia, South Thailand is an excellent option.
South Thailand’s islands are known for their turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and luxury resorts. This region offers a tropical escape that checks all the boxes while delivering its own unique vibe.
For that Bora Bora feel, visit Koh Lipe, often called the “Maldives of Thailand.” This tiny island is known for its turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and luxurious beachfront resorts.
South Thailand offers a livelier and more accessible experience than Bora Bora. While Bora Bora is known for exclusivity, South Thailand is more diverse—ranging from remote luxury resorts to backpacker-friendly spots.
The best time to visit Thailand: is from November to April.
💡 INSIDER TIP: I also really love Koh Phi Phi and Phuket in South Thailand!
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean with a unique charm that can rival the beauty of Bora Bora in surprising ways. From turquoise waters to luxurious stays, Sri Lanka offers a mix of relaxation and adventure in one stunning destination.
While Bora Bora is all about luxury and exclusivity, Sri Lanka adds a cultural and adventurous twist. Along with beaches, you’ll find ancient temples, wildlife safaris, and tea plantations.
For a Bora Bora-like escape, head to Tangalle on the southern coast. This area is home to luxury resorts like Amanwella and Anantara Peace Haven, which offer beachfront villas with private pools.
The best time to visit Sri Lanka: depends on the region, but for the southern coast, the dry season runs from December to March.
💡 INSIDER TIP: If you’re visiting Tangalle, make time for a trip to Rekawa Beach at night to witness sea turtles nesting. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s unique to Sri Lanka’s coastline.
Mauritius
Mauritius is an incredible alternative to Bora Bora. This island nation in the Indian Ocean is often referred to as a tropical paradise, and for good reason.
With turquoise water, luxury resorts, and breathtaking beaches, Mauritius offers the same dreamy escape while adding its own unique charm.
While Bora Bora focuses on secluded luxury, Mauritius blends tropical relaxation with a lively culture and diverse landscapes. Beyond the beaches, you’ll find beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and towns.
For the ultimate Bora Bora feel, head to Le Morne Peninsula. This area is home to some of the most luxurious beachfront resorts with incredible views of the lagoon and the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain.
The best time to visit Mauritius: is from May to December.
Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is a fantastic option if you’re on the hunt for places like Bora Bora. Located in the Caribbean, this island offers the same tropical luxury and breathtaking beauty but with its own distinctive features.
Saint Lucia shares Bora Bora’s reputation for luxury and incredible scenery. The island is surrounded by blue waters and offers plenty of private, overwater-style accommodations. For the closest Bora Bora experience, head to Marigot Bay.
While Bora Bora’s focus is primarily on lagoons and luxury, Saint Lucia is equally known for its dramatic landscapes. The towering Pitons, rainforests, and volcanic beaches give it a more rugged and adventurous edge.
The best time to visit Saint Lucia: is from December to May.
The Maldives
The Maldives is one of the best places like Bora Bora for anyone craving overwater bungalows, turquoise waters, and endless luxury. The Maldives is a collection of nearly 1,200 islands, each surrounded by bright blue water and sandy beaches.
Just like Bora Bora, the Maldives is synonymous with luxury. The overwater villas, private island resorts, and endless ocean views are incredibly similar. It’s a perfect spot for honeymooners, couples, or anyone looking for total relaxation.
The best time to visit The Maldives: is from November to April.
💡 INSIDER TIP: For the ultimate experience stay at:
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
One&Only Reethi Rah
Turks & Caicos
If you’re looking for places like Bora Bora but want something a little closer to home (especially if you’re in the U.S.), Turks and Caicos is a fantastic alternative.
Turks and Caicos offer the same dreamy mix of clear water, white-sand beaches, and high-end accommodations that make Bora Bora so famous. The most Bora Bora-like spot in Turks and Caicos is Providenciales (Provo).
💡 The best places to stay in Turks and Caicos are:
The Shore Club Turks & Caicos
Wymara Resort & Villas
The best time to visit Turks and Caicos: is from December to April.
The Philippines
Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning islands, the Philippines is a tropical haven that gives you that same feeling of paradise you’d find in Bora Bora—but with a unique twist.
Similar to Bora Bora, the Philippines is home to some of the clearest water in the world, with beaches that seem straight out of a dream. The most similar destination to Bora Bora is Palawan, on the island of El Nido, where you will find overwater bungalows and a similar landscape.
What sets the Philippines apart from Bora Bora is its sheer size and diversity. The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, each with its own unique charm. You’ll experience a broader range of activities and landscapes here—think jungles, hidden caves, and untouched islands.
The best time to visit The Philippines: is during the dry season from November to April.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss Kayangan Lake in Coron, one of the clearest lakes in the world.
Antigua
Antigua is a Caribbean gem that deserves your attention. Known for its powdery white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this island offers that luxurious tropical vibe you’re looking for, while also giving you a taste of its own unique charm.
Unlike Bora Bora, Antigua is located in the heart of the Caribbean and is easier to access, especially for travelers from North America and Europe. Antigua also has 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, giving you endless options to explore.
💡 For those looking for a Bora Bora-style experience, Jumby Bay Island is the place to go. This private island resort is surrounded by clear waters and has luxurious beachfront accommodations.
The best time to visit Antigua: is during the dry season from December to April.
Esperance
If you’re searching for places like Bora Bora but want something unique, Esperance in Western Australia is the place for you. With its world-famous beaches, and remote, untouched beauty, it’s an under-the-radar paradise that feels worlds away from everyday life.
While Bora Bora is all about tropical luxury, Esperance is a lot more rugged with a natural beauty that feels untouched. Instead of overwater bungalows, you’ll find beachside campsites, cozy accommodations, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
💡 INSIDER TIP: I absolutely LOVE Esperance and think it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. I rented a van and drove from Perth along the coast to Esperance and its one of my favorite travel experiences.
The best time to Visit Esperance: is during the Australian summer, from November to March.
Sumba
Sumba is known for its untouched beauty and breathtaking beaches. It has all the dreamy appeal of Bora Bora with an entirely different cultural experience.
Sumba shares the same level of exclusivity and tranquility that Bora Bora is famous for. With pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and luxurious accommodations it’s a perfect pick for those who love the idea of a tropical escape that feels far from the rest of the world.
💡 The best place to stay is:
NIHI Sumba – member Leading Hotels of the World
What makes Sumba stand apart is its raw, natural beauty combined with a rich cultural heritage. While Bora Bora leans into luxury tourism, Sumba offers a more low-key, rugged experience with jungles, dramatic cliffs, and traditional villages.
The best time to visit Sumba: is during the dry season, from May to September.
Aruba
Aruba is a Caribbean gem that is perfect for a tropical getaway with a unique flavor of its own. The white sandy beaches make it a dream destination for anyone seeking a paradise-like escape.
💡 The best place to stay in Aruba is:
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba
Unlike Bora Bora, Aruba offers a more accessible and lively atmosphere. While Bora Bora feels like a secluded retreat, Aruba is buzzing with culture, nightlife, and exciting activities like windsurfing and snorkeling around shipwrecks.
The best Time to Visit Aruba: is from April to August.
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SSW
