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18 Best Places Like Bora Bora to Visit

Bora Bora is a volcanic island in the Society Islands of French Polynesia. It lies in the Central South Pacific, just a few miles northwest of Tahiti. Bora Bora is a well-known vacation spot for its incredible overwater bungalows and luxurious resorts.

Whether you want a getaway weekend, honeymoon, or a night out with your special partner, Bora Bora is the perfect spot for you. Its sand-fringed islets and turquoise lagoon give it a wonderfully romantic vibe.

Bora Bora is always in high demand and receives classy guests all year round for the unforgettable experiences it gives visitors in return. However, this demand and the high bungalow accommodation costs mean Bora Bora Island is not for everyone.

So, are there cost-effective places like Bora Bora to visit? The answer is yes, tons, actually. You don’t have to spend a fortune for your vacation either because many places will give the same vibe as Bora Bora for a fraction of the cost. Here is the breakdown of sites similar to Bora Bora but cheaper.

Places Like Bora Bora in the Maldives

The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is an archipelagic country. It is located in the Indian subcontinent of Asia. Specifically, Maldives is an island in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives has many cheap places like Bora Bora you can consider, such as:

Gangehi Island Resort

Gangehi Island Resort

If Bora Bora would be on your travel itinerary, you can substitute with the Gangehi Island Resort in the Maldives if it weren’t for the price. This is one of the best places to vacation, like Bora Bora which will give you the same vibes at a much lower cost.

This particular resort is located on a private island in the Indian Ocean. The resort is in the middle of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Getting there is also pretty cool; after your reservation, you can get there by seaplane from Malé. Gangehi Island Resort is a favorite spot for romantic getaways.

Okay, so how else is it a close competitor to Bora Bora? The resort has some cozy overwater villas. Some are located off the island, while others are spread further on the pier. At the resort, you will have the best treatment as you watch the beautiful blue clear ocean water waves.

Gangehi resort also offers visitors a spa, yoga, snorkeling, and loaner canoes to complete their stay!

Reethi Beach Resort

Reethi Beach Resort

Reethi Beach Resort is the best vacation spot if you are looking for destinations similar to Bora Bora. Without robbing your bank account, you will enjoy the amenities and activities at the resort as much as you would at Bora Bora.

Reethi Beach Resort comprises luxurious overwater villas where your privacy is guaranteed. Your comfort while at the resort is the priority. Room service is top-notch, and rooms are very spacious. You will be surprised at what you pay for an entire villa for yourself.

Reethi Beach Resort features five 5-star restaurants and five bars to serve guests 24/7. You can choose from many menu items and favorite drinks to keep your stay at the island worth the time and every penny you get.

Reethi Beach Resort’s location gives it an edge over competitors on the island. It also faces the Indian Ocean for an edge-of-the-earth feel.

Thulhagiri Island Resort

Thulhagiri Island Resort

Thulhagiri Island Resort is located on one of the minor islands in the Maldives. If you dream of a honeymoon on an island with an overwater bungalow, put Thulhagiri resort on your travel list. It will cost you much less compared to Bora Bora.

Thulhagiri Island Resort has 34 overwater bungalows and additional 54 island rooms. Unlike other resorts, this particular one offers you more than just breakfast. Dinner is also included in the room rate. And believe us; you can never get a better deal than this one elsewhere on the island or in Bora Bora.

Another benefit of choosing Thulhagiri Island Resort over other overwater resorts is its accessibility. It is very close to the Malé International Airport. Once you get off the plane, it is just a few minutes away by boat.  

This resort is a perfect choice if you want an overwater private villa on a quiet island near an airport. The bungalows have spacious rooms, outdoor showers, and unobstructed ocean views. You will have a unique experience watching the crystal-clear waters reflecting the blue skies.  

Thulhagiri offers the best experience to snorkelers and divers because there is no better place in the Maldives to do it than here.

See Related: Bora Bora vs. The Maldives: What’s the Difference?

Embudu Village Resort

Embudu Village Resort

Embudu Village Resort is a perfect getaway resort for couples who want to celebrate their love. It may not offer you the same privacy as others on this list, but you will still have excellent services and amenities.

The Embudu Village Resort consists of 16 water villas in four different buildings. A spa and breakfast and dinner are included in the room fee, but the resort is still much cheaper than Bora Bora.

Like the previous overwater Thulhagiri resort, Embudu Village is accessible from Malé International Airport. It offers the most affordable option of the other four destinations, similar to Bora Bora in the Maldives. You can still get the best even if you are low on budget.

See Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives

Places Like Bora Bora in The Caribbean

Many people like the Caribbean as their summer and winter beach holiday destination. If that is you too, we will highlight the best cheap places like Bora Bora in the Caribbean. Look no further for an exotic island escape because the following resorts are excellent:

Azul Paradise Resort

Azul Paradise Resort

Azul Paradise Resort is on an island in the Bocas Del Toro area of Caribbean Panama. It is a recently certified eco-friendly resort with overwater bungalows to attract visitors. It is the best of its kind here and the most affordable.

Azul Paradise Resort boasts ten overwater bungalows for couples on honeymoon. If you ever want to get the best for your wedding night, choose this resort for its incredible overwater villas.

The resort gives you a full water view for the best experience. If you are looking for a perfect spot for a romantic date or something like that, consider making your reservation at the Azul Paradise Resort.

Azul Paradise is more fun than other overwater resorts, such as Bora Bora. There are many activities and things to do here. You can tour Starfish beach and bird island. You can also snorkel, sip on cocktails at the Blue Coconut on Isla Solarte, or watch turtles.

Azul Paradise Resort connects you with nature and nightlife!

See Related:  Places Similar to the Maldives to Visit

Anthony’s Key Resort

Anthony’s Key Resort

Anthony’s Key Resort is located on the northwestern coast of Roatan Island and overlooks the Caribbean Sea. It offers a perfect alternative to travelers who cannot just afford the high cost of Bora Bora. This should be on your travel list if you prefer an all-inclusive resort with overwater bungalows.

Anthony’s Key Resort is renowned for its overwater bungalows overlooking the turquoise water and beautiful beaches. It is the perfect getaway spot for lovers. We are sure you will like the view this resort offers you.

Anthony’s Key Resort is accessible through sailboats, and welcomes families, couples, and honeymooners with unbeatable rates. Besides top-notch treatment, you can access outdoor activities such as ziplining, snorkeling, and dolphin experiences as a package.

The resort is for you if you want a peaceful vacation where you relax and enjoy adventures at sea. It is hugged by the most significant barrier reef in the northern hemisphere, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. And if you are new to the undersea adventure, on-site training will get you started. Every time you spend at Anthony’s Key Resort is a memorable experience.

Sandals Royal Caribbean

Sandals Royal Caribbean

The Caribbean islands never disappoint when treating their visitors, and here is an all-inclusive option for you. After visiting Sandals Royal Caribbean, you will say that Bora Bora is overrated.

Sandals Royal Caribbean proves that there are places like Bora Bora in the Caribbean. This place offers overwater villas and also world-class restaurants, and boat transfers. If you like, you can also use the BMW luxury transfers. This land service caters to round-trip to and from Sangster International Airport and Norman Manley International Airport.

Sandals Royal Caribbean has the Caribbean’s first overwater bungalows. They hover above the turquoise water of the Caribbean Sea

The luxurious villas feature see-through glass floors, a tranquility soaking tub, and over-the-water for two. Some overwater bungalows also have private pools and personal butler service.

Other reasons for choosing Sandals Royal Caribbean include premium in-house wine at no extra cost, 24/7 liquors, water sports, and many others.

Places Like Bora Bora in the US (and close by!)

Do you have to leave the US to find underwater bungalows like Bora Bora?

No! There is one place like Bora Bora in the US, but many nearby resorts with overwater villas are just a few hours’ flight outside the country. The following are some of them:

Disney’s Polynesian Bungalows

Disney’s Polynesian Bungalows

Disney’s Polynesian Bungalows is in Orlando, Florida. It has 20 overwater bungalows you can reserve for your vacation at a much more affordable price than Bora Bora. These Polynesian-inspired overwater bungalows are located on Lake Buena Vista.

What makes Disney’s Polynesian a worthy place to visit? The resort is located just a few minutes from the Magic Kingdom!

This place offers a quick escape to an enchanting oasis of swaying palms with tropical surroundings, and every overwater villa has a spacious outdoor deck to sun yourselves. You will also enjoy relaxing with an island ambiance that brings the languid spirit of the South Pacific.   

Disney’s Polynesian will give the same, if not better, vibe as Bora Bora at an affordable rate.

El Dorado Maroma All-Inclusive Resort

El Dorado Maroma All-Inclusive Resort

This resort is not within US borders, but it takes just a few hours to get there. In other places like Bora, Bora seem too far or over your budget; this can be the best alternative. El Dorado Maroma All-Inclusive Resort is located in Playa del Carmen Mexico.

El Dorado Maroma All-Inclusive Resort features a full-service spa, infinity pool, and luxury restaurants. There are also many swim-up bars, classic lounge bars, and room service 24 hours every day of the week.

The resort is one of the best places like Bora Bora because of the design of its overwater bungalows. They are private villas perfect for any romantic getaway. The floor has transparent glass that gives you the best underwater view. And if you feel like you want to dive into the ocean, there are ladders to help you get into the water.

You will get an unobstructed ocean view from the villa. It is the best place for people who value private life!

Thatch Caye Resort

Thatch Caye Resort

If you want cheap places like Bora Bora in the US or near the US, Thatch Caye Resort offers you the best option in English-speaking Belize.

This budget-friendly resort provides the best ocean view for a few bucks. You will still have the same feeling of an overwater bungalow but at a much lower price.

Due to its affordability, Thatch Caye Resort does not have the luxurious amenities and facilities other resorts on this list have. But don’t let that deter you. Make your reservations because there is a surprise for you when you get there.

Thatch Caye Resort is on a private island that invests everything in environmental conservation. If you want a quick escape to an eco-friendly resort, choose Thatch Caye.

Its structures are all constructed from reclaimed material from the island, giving it a traditional charm that many other places won’t give you.

Inside your private villa, you have an overhanging patio with a hammock, a broad view of the ocean, a bathroom, a ceiling fan, and a king-size bed for your supreme comfort.

Aruba Ocean Villas

Aruba Ocean Villas

Aruba Ocean Villas is Aruba’s only overwater villas and beach villas. It is located in the small town of Savaneta and is surrounded by the crystal-clear water of the Caribbean Sea.        

Aruba Ocean Villas has spectacular overwater bungalows and many on-the-beach bungalows. That means you can choose what your budget allows. But since you are looking for places like Bora Bora, go for an overwater villa. The villa sizes differ, but each sea bungalow has luxurious amenities, ensuring your stay at the resort is memorable.

Aruba Ocean Villas does not offer accommodations for minors. That means you will have a perfect time to express your love with your partner or spouse. It is one of the top places to vacation, like Bora Bora for lovebirds.

Your overwater bungalow is a complete villa with everything you need. You will access a private overwater deck, hammock, lounge chairs, plunge pool, and video ocean views. You will have a king-size bed, soaking tubs, a seating area, and an indoor hammock.

The resort emphasizes on quality of services and the comfort of its visitors. And what’s more? The place is just a few hours of flight from the US.

See Related: Where to Stay in Aruba

Places Like Bora Bora in Malaysia

Malaysia also has some of the best places, like Bora Bora but way cheaper. That, however, does not mean they are less cozy or luxurious.

The resorts with overwater bungalows have furnished their structures to ensure the comfort of the visitors. Let’s look at a few overwater villas in Malaysia to consider.

AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort

AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort

AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort is one of the most accessible places like Bora Bora on this list and the most breathtaking. It is located just a few miles south of Kuala Lumpur Airport. AVANI is the pride of Malaysia and has been serving worldwide visitors.

AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort is one of the desirable and affordable places that first opened in 2011. Since then, it has served couples and adventurous groups who want to thank themselves in style. Its villas are designed to give you the best comfort to make you relax without draining your account.  

AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort is constructed in a spectacular location. The view from the villas is breathtaking. But unlike other places, the overwater bungalows are high above the ocean water. As a result, visitors don’t get the swimming opportunity on the lagoon below.

Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson Villa

Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson Villa

Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson has the highest number of overwater villas than any other place on this list. With 522 villas and 117 luxury suites, it is the largest overwater resort worldwide. The resort is located south of AVANI Sepang Resort but also very close to the airport.  

Each bungalow is freestanding on water and features private pools. That is an add-on since no visitors can swim in the open ocean waters. The interior features are cozy, and the luxurious amenities reflect total class. 

Your comfort is guaranteed. The rooms are spacious and also have a steam pool.

Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson is one of the newest overwater resorts on this list but is already a record-breaker. It is in the Guinness Book of Records for the most swimming pools and the highest number of overwater villas in one resort!

Best of all, the rooms are very affordable, making this one of the best cheap places like Bora Bora.

Pangkor Laut Resort

Pangkor Laut Resort

Pangkor Laut Resort is on a private island about 3 miles west of Malaysia. It has some of the most spectacular sea villas on the planet. The villas stand conspicuously on the green island surrounded by lush jungle. The island consists of around 80% tropical jungle!

Each sea villa has a balcony, deck chairs, and oversized tubs that stretch out into the water. However, the resort is best for couples and visitors who want to explore the rainforest and local landmarks. The management arranges tours to the renovated Dutch Fort and the Fu Lin Kong Temple. There is also a Spa Village where you can relax after a long day of exploring.

The Spa is the main highlight of Pangkor Laut Resort. It offers romance, detoxification, rejuvenation, relaxation, and longevity treatments. Couples are given a private spa experience in a private pavilion with an outdoor whirlpool, steam room, nap gazebo, and more.

Pangkor Laut Resort is the best resort to connect with nature or hold events and celebrations, such as weddings, birthdays, and meetings of all kinds, in the unique surroundings imaginable.

Your safety is also guaranteed when you are at the resort!

Berjaya Langkawi Resort

Berjaya Langkawi Resort

Berjaya Langkawi Resort is the last overwater resort in Malaysia on our list. The resort features 47 sea chalets. When you get here, you will notice how the villas are close to each other and look smaller than other sea villas in other places. However, that should not deceive you.

The Berjaya Langkawi Resort has 350 well-furnished rooms. They are spacious and quite big, contrary to your first impression when you see the outside—the Traditional Malay exterior and contemporary interior wrap up the chalet decors.  

The resort borders lush tropical rainforest, just a few steps from the azure waters and a beautiful beachfront. It is decorated splendidly by mother nature, giving it magic you can’t find quite anywhere else.

Berjaya Langkawi Resort also offers many recreational activities. Sunset cruises, island tours, and seaport visits are on the list. 

Accessing the resort may be the only problem that many people face. The Berjaya Langkawi Resort is located on Langkawi Island in northern Malaysia. You need connecting flights to get there.

See Related: Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Jamaica

Other Places Like Bora Bora Around the World

Koro Sun Resort, Fiji

Koro Sun Resort, Fiji

If Bora Bora is too expensive, you can consider Koro Sun Resort as a cost-effective alternative. It offers a splendid beachfront retreat to visitors and a comfortable stay in non-traditional-style rooms.

They are designed with a romantic vibe for honeymooners and couples looking to ignite the spark in their relationships.

The resort offers fancy accommodations and the best experience. And the villas themselves are attractive as heck! They stretch into the waters for a full view of the sea. When you finally get there, you will have time to relax, dine, and swim in the outdoor pools. There are also spa treatments, sports, and activities for adventurous guests.

Pulo Cinta Eco Resort, Indonesia

Pulo Cinta Eco Resort, Indonesia

Pulo Cinta Eco Resort, Indonesia, sits on a private island in the Gulf of Tomini. This is another cheap place you can choose for your wedding night or a romantic weekend getaway on an Indonesian adventure. The locals refer to it as Indonesia’s romantic heaven—and true to that name, many couples and honeymooner flocks to the heart-shaped resort every year.

Pulo Cinta Eco Resort is a high-end all-inclusive resort with beautiful sea villas. The wooden perched villas stilt strikingly over the sea. Their design gives the entire resort a Nordic vibe. They arguably look more luxurious and inviting than the bungalows at Bora Bora.

Pulo Cinta Eco Resort is affordable from the word go. The rate charged includes the airport transfers, meals, and drinks you will be treated to in the open-air restaurant. You will like everything about this restaurant because it does not drain your pocket.

See Related: Best Islands to Visit

CoCo View Resort, Honduras

CoCo View Resort, Honduras

CoCo View Resort is one of the world’s most respected dive operations and returned-to-dive resorts. It is located on the Rotan’s south shore, where it stilts in the ocean with luxurious villas. If you are looking for a tropical dive, you cannot get it anywhere except here.

CoCo View Resort offers world divers an unforgettable experience. For example, you can have a close view of a 140-foot wreck. That means the resort offers more than accommodation.

Its overwater bungalows are best suited for couples that want privacy. They also have private porches for relaxing in the refreshing sea breeze after swimming in the lagoons beneath.

Though the overwater bungalows are limited, there are other great alternatives for guests, including luxurious beach houses.

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