This French Polynesian Beach Is A Great Spot For A Relaxing Tropical Vacation
The island of Bora Bora is a traveler's dream and this turquoise sea and white sand experience can be elevated to the next level by staying at Matira Beach on the island's southern peninsula. The understated beauty of Matira has won it multiple fans and accolades. This beach was described as one of the "25 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World," and in the top "55 of the World's Most Beautiful Destinations" by Travel + Leisure. It also came in at number 5 in the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice "Best of the Best Beaches" for 2023 in the South Pacific.
Matira is the biggest public beach in Bora Bora, which means that there is much fun to be had here and it is suitable for all the family. As the peninsula is so slim, visitors who stay here are getting two beaches for the price of one! There is a reason that Bora Bora is so famous around the world as a tropical paradise and Matira Beach is the perfect place to experience it.
What to do at Matira Beach
Aside from peacefully lounging on the beach, there are some wonderful opportunities to see marine life here without getting on a boat. Two prime spots where you can snorkel from the shore are the Northern part of the beach near the Hotel Bora Bora bungalows and the barrier reef on the southernmost point of the eastern side. Rays, sharks, turtles, and shoals of tropical fish are regularly seen here. Adventure lovers can explore the water on a jet ski and the land with an ATV. To get a bird's eye view of the Bora Bora landscapes, take the trail from Eastern Matira to a lookout point where you can see Mount Otemanu.
The beaches are known for their boutique shops where you can buy the island's famous black pearls so a stroll up and down the peninsula will bring joy to those who love to browse. If you want to explore more of French Polynesia's incredible marine life then head to the island of Moorea to swim with sharks and stingrays. The archipelago's remote island of Rangiroa is considered a top spot for scuba diving too. When you're staying in Matira Beach, it is a good area to find a peaceful resort where you can relax and take in the views during this once-in-a-lifetime visit.
Where to stay on Matira Beach
The InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is the top-ranked accommodation in the Matira area, located on the Eastern side. It even earned a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice "Best of the Best" award for hotels in the South Pacific. The reason for its popularity is that it has beach bungalows that extend into the ocean, so you can wake up in the morning and look for any marine wildlife that may be passing by underneath you.
If you prefer to stay on land, the Chez Nono Bora Bora Lodge has earned 4.5 out of 5 stars according to its Google reviews. Travelers love it because it has beautiful bungalows and villas set in a garden that opens straight out onto Matira Beach. For those on a budget, there is Matira House, which has a 4.8-star rating on Google and offers simpler accommodations in a garden setting with sea views. Whether it is relaxation, adventure or a wildlife experience that you're looking for, Matira Beach is bound to provide it for you wherever you stay.