Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Which Overwater Bungalow Destination Is Better?
Few travel experiences compare to waking up in an overwater bungalow surrounded by crystal-clear waters. If you’re dreaming of a luxury escape in a tropical paradise, chances are you’re torn between the Maldives and Bora Bora—two of the most stunning island destinations on Earth. Both offer turquoise lagoons, soft white sands, and world-class resorts, but each has its own unique charm.
As someone who has had the privilege of visiting both, I can tell you that while they share similarities, the experiences are different. Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a relaxing getaway, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, here’s how these two dreamy destinations compare.
Maldives: Remote Luxury in a Thousand Islands
The Maldives is an archipelago of 1,200 islands, scattered across the Indian Ocean, with each resort located on its own private island. This destination is all about seclusion, barefoot luxury, and breathtaking marine life.
Overwater Bungalows & Luxury Resorts
Private Island Resorts
Unlike Bora Bora, where resorts share a larger island, the Maldives takes privacy to another level—each resort sits on its own island. Whether you stay at Soneva Jani, Gili Lankanfushi, or The St. Regis Maldives, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a dream.
Glass Floors & Infinity Pools
Maldivian overwater villas often feature glass floors, so you can watch fish swim beneath you. Many also come with private infinity pools, direct lagoon access, and even waterslides! Some of the most luxurious options are at One&Only Reethi Rah and Joali Maldives.
Secluded, Personalized Service
Resorts in the Maldives take service to another level, offering personal butlers, private chefs, and exclusive excursions. If you’re looking for true VIP treatment, this is the place to be.
Beaches, Snorkeling & Diving
Pristine White-Sand Beaches
The Maldives has some of the whitest, softest sand in the world, with postcard-perfect beaches on nearly every resort island. Baros Maldives and Cocoa Island are known for their stunning shores.
Incredible Marine Life & House Reefs
If you love snorkeling or diving, the Maldives is hard to beat. Many resorts have house reefs right off their bungalows, meaning you can swim with manta rays, sea turtles, and even reef sharks just steps from your villa. The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit for wildlife lovers.
Underwater Restaurants & Experiences
Where else can you dine in an underwater restaurant? The Maldives is home to unique dining experiences like Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and SEA at Anantara Kihavah.
Romance, Dining & Activities
Private Dining Under the Stars
Many resorts offer candlelit dinners on a sandbank, where it’s just you, your partner, and the sound of the waves. The Maldives is a top honeymoon destination for a reason.
Water Activities Beyond Snorkeling
Aside from diving, you can kayak, paddleboard, go dolphin watching, or try an exciting seaplane excursion over the atolls. The Maldives is perfect for couples who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Spa Retreats Over the Ocean
The Maldives takes luxury spa experiences to the next level, with treatments offered in overwater spa bungalows. The ones at Six Senses Laamu and Velaa Private Island are among the best in the world.
Who Is the Maldives Best For?
The Maldives is perfect for honeymooners, couples, and travelers looking for absolute privacy, luxury, and stunning marine life. If you want to feel like you’re on your own island paradise, this is the place for you.
Bora Bora: The Jewel of the South Pacific
Bora Bora, part of French Polynesia, is known for its breathtaking lagoon, dramatic Mount Otemanu, and iconic overwater bungalows. Unlike the Maldives, which is made up of countless tiny islands, Bora Bora is a single island surrounded by motus (islets).
Overwater Bungalows & Luxury Resorts
Iconic Overwater Villas with a View
Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows are legendary. Many offer direct views of Mount Otemanu, creating one of the most recognizable landscapes in the world. The Four Seasons, St. Regis, and InterContinental Bora Bora are top choices.
Traditional Polynesian Design
While the Maldives has a sleek, modern aesthetic, Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows often feature thatched roofs, wooden decor, and a strong Polynesian influence. They blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Romantic Lagoon Sunsets
Many resorts are located on private motus, offering incredible sunset views over the lagoon. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts and Conrad Bora Bora Nui are known for their magical settings.
Beaches, Snorkeling & Marine Life
Matira Beach: Bora Bora’s Best Public Beach
While most resorts in Bora Bora have their own private beaches, Matira Beach is a gorgeous stretch of public white sand, perfect for a laid-back beach day.
Shark & Ray Snorkeling Tours
One of Bora Bora’s most famous excursions is swimming with reef sharks and stingrays in the shallow lagoon. It’s a thrilling, yet completely safe, experience that you won’t forget.
Crystal-Clear Lagoon & Coral Gardens
Bora Bora’s lagoon is one of the clearest in the world, making it perfect for snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. The Coral Gardens is one of the best spots for seeing vibrant marine life.
Culture, Dining & Activities
Traditional Polynesian Culture
Unlike the Maldives, which is mostly resort-based, Bora Bora allows you to experience French Polynesian culture, from local dance performances to traditional tattoo art.
Fresh Seafood & Island Flavors
Bora Bora is known for its delicious seafood, tropical fruits, and French-influenced cuisine. Try Poisson Cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk), a local favorite. The best fine dining spots include Le Corail at InterContinental and Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges.
Hiking & Land-Based Adventures
While the Maldives is mostly about water-based activities, Bora Bora offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. If you’re up for an adventure, a guided hike up Mount Otemanu is a must.
Who Is Bora Bora Best For?
Bora Bora is ideal for romantic getaways, honeymooners, and travelers who want a mix of relaxation and adventure. If you love stunning lagoon views, cultural experiences, and unique excursions, this is the place for you.
