Fiji vs Bora Bora: Which Island Paradise Is The Best Destination?

Are you planning a tropical island vacation and trying to decide between Bora Bora and Fiji? Then you’re in luck. I’ve been to both places and will give you my genuine opinion. 

Here, we’ll discuss the key differences, top activities in both islands, flight times, and which island is best for honeymooners and families. By the end of this blog, you will surely be able to decide on your next travel destination!

Main Differences Between Fiji and Bora Bora

Bora Bora and Fiji: Geographical Location

Fiji and Bora Bora are dream island destinations that are 3,206 kilometers apart from each other. 

Fiji Location

Fiji is a beautiful country in the South Pacific Ocean located 1,100 miles north of New Zealand. It’s known as “300 islands in the sun” because it’s made up of over 300 islands, but only 150 of them are permanently inhabited.

The main islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. These two islands are mostly visited by travelers. Viti Levu is where you’ll find the capital city, Suva and anoter small Yasawa Islands is also popular among travelers which is in the West of Fiji. 

You can experience everything you’d want for a perfect tropical vacation in Fiji. Beautiful beaches with palm trees, luxury private islands, spas, and resorts, and crystal clear water as far as you can see. 

Bora Bora Location

The island of Bora Bora is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It’s 160 miles northwest of Tahiti and about 2,600 miles south of Hawaii. It’s part of French Polynesia’s Society Islands.

The island is unique cause of its volcanic formation. Bora Bora is surrounded by a stunning blue lagoon and barrier reef.

With lush green mountains and black volcanic rock, and white sandy beaches, Bora Bora is an excellet location for a relaxing trip. The twin peaks of Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu can be seen from everywhere in the island and creates a wonderful backdrop.  

Bora Bora vs Fiji : Activities & Adventure 

Things to Do While Visiting Fiji

1. Go Island Hopping: The most popular Fijian Islands to visit are usually a mix of the big islands and small remote islands. Visit the private islands Robinson Crusoe Island, Kadavu for the Great Astrolabe Reef, or may be Ovalau for its colonial history.

2. Soak up Some Sun on the Beach: The beaches in Fiji are undoubtedly one of the best parts of a Fiji vacation! Fiji is a dream destination for beach lovers. It has endless coastlines and soft sandy beaches. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

3. Kayaking and Rafting: Not many people know that, but Fiji has many sick options for kayaking and rafting. If you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, try white water rafting on the Upper Navua Gorge on Viti Levu. 

4. Join a Kava Ceremony: It’s a great way to connect with the locals, immerse in Fijian culture. The drink Kava itself is quite unique. It is a powdery liquid made from crushed kava roots. Many resorts also arrange a Kava Ceremony, so you can enjoy it for free. 

5. Zip through Rainforests: If you’re up for a massive adrenaline rush, don’t miss the zipline tour at Zip Fiji in Nadi. Soar over lush rainforests, It’s one of the most fun things to do in Fiji!

6. Witness a Firewalking Ceremony: Another amazing Fijian culture experience is the breathtaking firewalking ceremony. It is loved by both first-time and repeat visitors. Men from Beqa Island still practice this tradition. If you’re on Viti Levu, the largest island, you have a good chance of witnessing this unique event.

7. Go Fishing in Abundant Waters: Fiji is famous for its vibrant and untouched underwater world.  Fiji is also one of the world’s best game fishing spots. Whether you’re after Mackerel, Marlin, Giant Trevally, or Yellowfin, you’ll have an incredible time exploring the crystal blue waters and reefs.

Things to Do in Bora Bora

1. Take a lagoon tour: When in Bora Bora, you must see the amazing Mt Otemanu from all angles with the stunning lagoon in the front. Hop on a boat and do a island lagoon tour to experience this. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Bora Bora.

2. Snorkel at the Coral Gardens: The warm, clear water and stunning coral gardens in Bora Bora’s lagoon is perfect for snorkeling.  My favorite spot for snorkel is called the ‘aquarium’ because it has crystal blue water and lots of fish.

3. Swim with Humpback Whales: You can’t miss out on whale watching in Bora Bora! From July to November the whales migrate in Bora Bora. You can even hear their songs using special underwater microphones. Some tours even let you swim with them with your snorkeling gear! Popular spots for this are Coral Gardens and the Bora Bora Lagoonarium.

4. Rent a Bicycle – The main island of Bora Bora is small enough to explore in just one day. You can rent regular bikes and electric ones too for less than $40 a day. It’s super fun exploring the island while riding bike. 

5. Sail into the Sunset on a Catamaran: One of the most romantic things to do in Bora Bora is going on a catamaran cruise and sail away while enjoying the beautiful sunset. The tours include tasty snacks, sparkling wine, and music to make dreamy.

6. Nightlife in Bora Bora: Nights in Bora Bora are peaceful and quiet. You can go on a stargazing tour and learn about how Polynesians used stars for navigation. The resorts also arrange romantic evenings with Polynesian dance performances, jazz music, and great cocktails. If you’re up for some drinks, go to the Bora Bora Yacht Club Bar- my personal favorite spot. You might bump into celebrities here! 

To read about more things to do here’s 20 Best Things To Do In Bora Bora

Fiji and Bora Bora : Flights and Getting Around

The only way to get to Fiji and Bora Bora is by flying. But after raching there getting around on each island is different. Since Fiji and Bora Bora are both in the South Pacific, the flights are typically long!

If you’re coming from North America, the flight duration is usually 8-11 hours. If you’r flying from  from Australia or New Zealand to Fiji or Bora Bora, it’ll take about 4-7 hours of flying.

Getting to Fiji

Fiji is the easiest to get to compared to Bora Bora as ypu’ll find more direct flights from international airports. Fiji Airways and Air Tahiti Nui have direct flights from Sydney, Auckland, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Singapore.

Once you reach Nadi International Airport on Viti Levu (the main island of Fiji), You will find the yellow taxis outside Nadi Airport. They’re perfect for getting around Nadi, Denarau, and Lautoka .

The fares typically starts at FJ$7. If you’re traveling with family, there are also seven-seater vans available. 

If you’re not staying on the main islands, you can take a boat, seaplane or helicopter ride to head out to of the smaller islands nearby.

Another cheapest way to get around Fiji is by bus. The express services run every half hour along Queens Highway and the main road of Viti Levu – it’s cheap and offers beautiful scenic views!

Getting Around- Visit Bora Bora

Getting to Bora Bora is a bit of a hassle as the island doesn’t have any direct international flights. First, you have to take a flight to Tahiti, but options for flights to Tahiti are limited as well.

Then, you need to catch a 50-minute domestic flight to Bora Bora. These domestic flights only operate during the day.

And the main problem is they don’t align  with the international flights. So it’s best if you choose an international flight that arrives in Tahiti early in the morning.  

Bora Bora or Fiji: Which Is The Best Honeymoon Destination

Although Fiji and Bora Bora looks similar on photos, but they have completely different vibe. Choosing between bora bora or fiji for honeymoon destination depends on personal preferences.

If you want a fun filled adventurous honeymoon, then Fiji is for you. If you just want to have a ultimate relaxing honeymoon, then go to bora bora. 

Honeymoon in Fiji

If you’re thinking about having your honeymoon in Fiji, you probably have your heart set on fun adventure with dreamy experiences, and luxurious resorts. Fiji runs on island time, which means things move a bit slower there.

I love Fiji for honeymoon as the resorts here offer an adults-only experience or the chance to rent out your very own island. Newlyweds can have intimate time all day without any botheration from other tourists. 

Fiji has way more islands than Bora Bora. You have options to pick from secluded small island and fancy glamorous resorts.

Renowned for hospitality, Turtle Island in Fiji takes that to the next level. As soon as you arrive there for your romantic getaway,  you’ll get your very own Bure Mama who is a dedicated personal concierge to cater to your every need.

Apart from relaxing beach time Honeymooners in Fiji can also swim, snorkel, and dive in the vibrant reefs, go for zipline adventure and skydiving. You can also immersing yourself in Fijian culture with your partner and even partake in fire walking ceremonies.

Honeymoon in Bora Bora

Bora Bora is one of the most popular destinations  in the world for couples on their honeymoon who just want private time. Celebs like Jennifer Anniston and Justin Theroux,  Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, chose Bora Bora for their honeymoon  too. 

Most of over water bungalows here are adults only and often just for couples. Many of them even have glass floor so that you can enjoy the marine life from the comfort of your room.

It’s crazy fancy without being all stuck up about it. You don’t have to get all dressed up for dinner. You can totally go in casual clothes like a swimsuit coverup and flip-flops. Away from shops and restaurants you will have ultimate privacy in the lap of sublime luxury.

Apart from relaxing in the resorts couples can also experience some French Polynesia heritage on Bora Bora and cruise along lagoons in banana-style boats called pirogues where you can snorkel at secret spots or take a skinny dip where nobody else goes.

Fiji vs Bora Bora : Which Is Costly?

When it comes to cost, let’s be real here- Vacations in South Pacific islands are not cheap. However, among all the islands, Fiji is relatively cheaper than Bora Bora. Bora Bora is just one small luxurious heaven.

Everything is expensive in Bora Bora. And by everything I meant, daily necessities like toothbrush or a flip-flop from road side stalls.

Cost of Fiji Trip

Fiji has of islands to choose from. So, you can find some budget options for accommodations. 

Approximately, a trip to Fiji for seven days with two people will cost you $8,500.  Let me break it down to you:

– You’ll spend around $270 per night on accommodation.
– The flight tickets will cost around $2,000 each.
– You”ll spend about $180 per person per day on food, drinks, and activities.
– Transportation cost within Fiji is  around $150.

Fiji can be pretty expensive. But most travelers (including me) agree that it’s totally worth the money. The again, your travel expenses could vary depending on what you choose to do.

If you want a budget-friendly trip to Fiji, I’d suggest stick to just one island. And make that island Viti Levu. 

Cost of Bora Bora Trip

If you want to go all out and have a luxurious vacation, Bora Bora is the place. It’s the most chosen vacation destination by celebrities for honeymoon.

As I mentioned before, there are private resorts that has sublime luxury…if you’re willing to pay for it.

Approximately, a trip to Bora Bora for seven days with two people will cost you $4,616-$8,720, this is only if you avoid the extreme luxurious things to do. A luxury trip in Bora Bora  will cost you around $8,316-$23,012.

Let me break it down to you:

 – Average hotels in Bora Bora range from $136 to $684 per night on average at around $334. Semi luxury Bora Bora resorts are 5 to 4 per night for and or 0 to ,600 per night for a preferred vacation rental.

-Flights to Nadi International Airport (NAN) usually cost between $1,303 and$2,103 per person on economy flights and between $4,089 – $6 ,599for first class tickets.

– For activities and food at local restaurants there, we suggest budgeting around $84-$229 per person each day including transportation.

Fiji vs Bora Bora: Best Time To Visit

Anytime is the best time to visit the islands in French polynesia. Bora Bora, Fiji has similar optimal travel seasons as they are in the same region of the world.

Wet Season

Both Bora Bora and Fiji have dry and wet seasons. And personally I think both the seasons can be great for traveling but totally depends on your travel itinerary and the activities you want to do.

October through April and May are the rainy seasons in Fiji and  November to April is the wet season in Bora Bora. During monsoon, it rains more during day time and it gets hotter and more humid compared to the rest of the year in both of these islands. Temperatures can go as low as 70⁰ F and raise up to  90⁰F.

I love traveling during rainy season in these islands as everything becomes lush with vibrant greenery all around you. Also both  Bora Bora island and Fiji don’t have hurricane risk and it doesn’t rain all day so it won’t affect your trip.

Dry Season

The dry season in these islands are from Mid May to October.  So it’s the best time to visit bora Bora and Fiji for a tropical vacation.

During this time he temperatures are cooler with plenty  of sunshine. And The scenery will be like those perfect backgrounds we use in Zoom meetings!

South Pacific Island Visa Requirement 

Visa Requirements in Fiji Island

For a vacation in Fiji, here are the things you’ll need for your visa application:

– Fill out the visa application form completely.
– Get a certified copy of your passport’s main page with personal information.
– Provide two recent color passport-sized photos.
– Show confirmation of booking at a hotel if that’s where you’re staying.
– Include a copy of your travel itinerary or ticket.
– Show proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your whole stay. You can use bank statements or visa cards as proof.
– If you plan to travel to another country after Fiji and need a visa, include proof of your approved visa and onward ticket.
– If you’re traveling alone, get a consent letter from your spouse. And if you’re under 18 and traveling alone, get one from both parents too.
– If you work or go to school, provide an approved leave letter stating the dates of absence. Make sure it is signed and stamped by your employer or school principal.

If you’ll be staying with friends or family instead of at a hotel: 
  – Ask them for a sponsoring letter explaining their invitation
  – Include a copy of their valid ID/passport/residence permit.

Visa Requirements in Bora Bora

U.S. citizens do not need a visa if entering on a regular tourist passport and staying no more than 90 days out of every six months.

While visa is not required for Bora Bora, You must: 

– Have a passport that’s valid for at least six months after your plan to leave the country and has an empty page for a visa.
– Show proof of both onward and return flights.
– Carry all the necessary documents needed for your next destination.
– Bring along any documents proving the purpose of your travel (like a letter from work or conference registrations).
– Make sure you have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay.

It’s wise to check with your airline beforehand if they’ll allow you on board without a visa.

Fiji or Bora Bora: The verdict- Which one is for you?

It’s hard to decide between Bora bora and Fiji as they both offers beautiful beaches on deserted islands, and top-notch activities.

Comparing the cost from Fiji to Bora Bora, I’d say Fiji is your best bet and the vacation is more worth it. Fiji is the perfect place for a family-friendly vacation.

There are even specific resorts designed with families in mind. I had absolute blast with my family in Turtle Island Resort in Fiji. 

On the other hand, Bora Bora is renowned for a private exclusive destination. This is why many families consider Fiji vacation instead. It allows them to travel with their children without breaking the bank.

However, if overwater bungalows on an island appeal to you most, then Bora Bora would be a great choice. We’ve stayed in four seasons resort Bora Bora and it felt like a vacation of a lifetime till today.

If you still can’t choose then we also have listed difference between other south pacific islands Tahiti vs Fiji vs Bora bora vs Maldives.