Motu Tapu - Image 1
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Motu Tapu

4.8
·36 reviews·, French Polynesia

A private paradise in Bora Bora's lagoon, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

For magical sunset views

CrowdMedium
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Motu Tapu - Image 1

Motu Tapu

Best Time

Late afternoon

For magical sunset views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A private paradise in Bora Bora's lagoon, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunset views.

4.8
(36 reviews)

"This delightful sandy islet in the Bora Bora lagoon felt like being in a dream."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tours in Advance

Motu Tapu is private; book excursions early to guarantee access and enjoy the full experience. :ticket:

Pack for Sun & Swim

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for a day of sun, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Beach Paradise

Pristine Beach Paradise

Motu Tapu shores

Laze on soft sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the serene beauty of this private island.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Western-facing shores

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Bora Bora lagoon.

Snorkeling Adventures

Snorkeling Adventures

Lagoon surrounding Motu Tapu

Explore the vibrant underwater world with excellent snorkeling opportunities in the calm lagoon waters.

Cultural Beach BBQ

Cultural Beach BBQ

Motu Tapu beach

Enjoy a delicious beach barbecue accompanied by traditional Tahitian hula and fire shows.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Motu Tapu

Motu Tapu is a private islet, typically accessed via organized tours or private boat charters. Many Bora Bora excursions include a stop here for activities and dining. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on a tour.

Best Experience on Motu Tapu

To truly soak in the paradise of Motu Tapu, consider visiting during a tour that offers a beach barbecue and cultural performances. These events often coincide with sunset, providing a magical end to your day on the islet.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
For magical sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
During a tour
Why
Includes BBQ & cultural shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cloudy day or no, who wouldn't want to spend the day on a private motu (a small reef islet, surrounded by an atoll) in French Polynesia? This is Motu Tapu off Bora Bora, where @windstarcruises' stops for a day of snorkelling, SUPing, and kayaking before an epic beach barbeque with a Tahitian hula and fire show to close out the night.
traveleaterjohanna
32 likes • 393 views

Book Tours in Advance

Motu Tapu is private; book excursions early to guarantee access and enjoy the full experience. :ticket:

Pack for Sun & Swim

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for a day of sun, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Incroyable ce motu et sa vue 🩵 Comme la plupart des motus, le Motu Tapu est privé, nous y avons été lors du défi aquatique de Bora Bora, un événement organisé par une association dont les fonds récoltés reviennent aux personnes en situation de handicap de Bora. L’évènement a normalement lieu chaque année vers avril si vous souhaitez y participer, le programme : 🏁 Départ de la plage Matira po...
couplenvoyage
0 likes • 3.6K views
💙I Whisper💙 🏝️Paradise found! Beautiful Bora Bora lagoon looking out from private Motu Tapu. If you look closely, you can see the Wind Spirit close to the majestic Mt Otemanu. Beyond beautiful! The islands of French Polynesia are breathtaking! Sailing to them on the Wind Spirit was an adventure never to be forgotten! Follow👉 @reneelovesart2 for more content 😀💜🌵🌺 💜Double tap and share the lov...
reneelovesart2
28 likes • 233 views

Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera! The scenery from Motu Tapu, with Mt. Otemanu in the background, is stunning. :camerawithflash:

Enjoy the Lagoon

Take advantage of the calm lagoon for SUPing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the turquoise waters. :kayak:

reddit.com

Bora Bora - kayak to motus

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tours in Advance

Motu Tapu is private; book excursions early to guarantee access and enjoy the full experience. :ticket:

Pack for Sun & Swim

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for a day of sun, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera! The scenery from Motu Tapu, with Mt. Otemanu in the background, is stunning. :camerawithflash:

Enjoy the Lagoon

Take advantage of the calm lagoon for SUPing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the turquoise waters. :kayak:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(36 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Motu Tapu is consistently praised as a breathtakingly beautiful private islet in the Bora Bora lagoon, offering a dream-like experience. Visitors rave about the stunning scenery, excellent snorkeling, and the unforgettable beach barbecues with cultural shows. While access is typically via organized tours, the exclusivity and natural beauty make it a highly recommended destination.

"One of my favourite places in the world. Despite the rain we got in the evening, the sunset was still as breathtaking as ever, the views were surreal and being here felt like I was in a dream."

IEatTravelWrite

"Delightful sandy islet in the Bora Bora lagoon, enjoy a picnic in the shade or laze on the beach after your swim."

alex passmore

"Stunning place and the view incredible. The Windstar had a BBQ on the beach for us, along with fire dancers. Simply amazing!!!!"

Sandi DesFosses

What People Like

Breathtaking views
Pristine beaches
Beach BBQ & shows

What People Dislike

Limited independent access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Motu Tapu is a private islet and is typically accessed via organized boat tours or private charters from Bora Bora. Many cruise lines and local tour operators include a stop at Motu Tapu as part of their itinerary, often featuring a beach barbecue and cultural performances. TikTokInstagram

As Motu Tapu is a private island, independent visits are generally not possible unless you arrange a private boat charter. Most visitors experience it through pre-booked excursions. Instagram

Excursions usually depart from the main island of Bora Bora or the airport motu. Options include catamarans, yachts, and smaller speedboats, depending on the tour operator. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Motu Tapu is typically included as part of a tour package. You won't buy separate tickets for the motu itself, but rather for the excursion that visits it. Booking your tour in advance is highly recommended. Instagram

Costs vary widely depending on the tour operator, duration, and inclusions (like a barbecue or water sports). Expect prices to range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars for private charters. TikTok

While not a public venue, Motu Tapu is sometimes used for special events like the 'Défi Aquatique de Bora Bora,' a charity event. Otherwise, it's primarily part of tourist itineraries. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding (SUPing), kayaking, and simply relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches. Many tours include a beach barbecue and cultural entertainment. TikTokReddit

Yes, the lagoon surrounding Motu Tapu offers good snorkeling opportunities with clear waters and marine life. It's a pleasant spot for a casual snorkel. Reddit

Late afternoon is often preferred for the stunning sunset views. However, daytime visits offer excellent opportunities for water activities and enjoying the beach. Reddit

Essential items include swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera or phone case. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Many tours to Motu Tapu include a beach barbecue, often featuring fresh local seafood and Polynesian specialties. TikTokReddit

If you are on a private charter or a tour that doesn't include a meal, you might be able to arrange a picnic. However, most visitors enjoy the catered barbecues. Reddit

Motu Tapu is a natural islet and does not have permanent restaurants. Dining is typically provided by tour operators as part of their package. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the turquoise lagoon, the white sandy beaches, and the iconic Mount Otemanu in the background. The sunset is also a prime photography subject. Instagram

Yes, Motu Tapu offers excellent vantage points to photograph Mount Otemanu, especially when sailing towards or away from the islet. Instagram

Landscape photography, beach scenes, and shots capturing the vibrant colors of the lagoon and sunset are very popular. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Motu Tapu offers a fantastic, safe environment for families. The calm, shallow lagoon waters are perfect for children to splash and play in, and the soft sandy beaches are ideal for building sandcastles. Many tours include activities like kayaking and SUPing, which can be enjoyed by older children with adult supervision. TikTok

Consider booking a tour that specifically caters to families or includes a beach barbecue. This ensures that meals are handled, and the entertainment, like hula and fire shows, can captivate younger audiences. The overall experience is one of relaxed enjoyment in a beautiful, natural setting, making it a memorable outing for all ages. Reddit

💍 Couples & Honeymooners

For couples seeking a romantic escape, Motu Tapu provides an idyllic setting. Imagine a private picnic on the beach or simply relaxing together while watching a breathtaking sunset over the Bora Bora lagoon. The sense of seclusion and natural beauty makes it a perfect spot for creating lasting memories. Instagram

Many tours offer a more intimate experience, and the beach barbecue with cultural entertainment can be a wonderfully romantic evening. The stunning scenery, combined with the tranquil atmosphere, makes Motu Tapu a quintessential Bora Bora destination for honeymooners and couples looking for a touch of paradise. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Motu Tapu is a photographer's dream, offering a plethora of stunning visual opportunities. The iconic silhouette of Mount Otemanu against the vibrant blue of the lagoon provides a dramatic backdrop for any shot. Capture the pristine white-sand beaches, the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the lush tropical vegetation. Instagram

The golden hour and sunset are particularly magical times for photography here, with skies often erupting in a spectacular display of colors. Whether you're capturing landscapes, portraits, or the details of marine life while snorkeling, Motu Tapu promises breathtaking images. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for those sweeping lagoon views! Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Private Motus

Motu Tapu is a prime example of the allure of private motus in French Polynesia. These small, often uninhabited islets, typically surrounded by coral reefs, offer an exclusive slice of paradise. Unlike the main islands, motus provide a sense of seclusion and pristine natural beauty, making them highly sought after for unique travel experiences. Many are privately owned and are only accessible through specific tour operators or luxury resorts, enhancing their exclusivity. TikTokInstagram

Visiting a motu like Motu Tapu allows travelers to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the Bora Bora lagoon. The experience often includes activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding in calm, clear waters, as well as simply relaxing on the soft, white sand beaches. The feeling of having such a beautiful place almost to yourself, even if shared with a tour group, is a significant part of its charm. Reddit

Many visitors describe the experience as 'paradise found' or feeling like they are in a dream. The combination of stunning natural scenery, the gentle lapping of waves, and the vibrant colors of the lagoon creates an unforgettable atmosphere. It's a chance to disconnect and appreciate the simple, breathtaking beauty of the South Pacific. InstagramReddit

Experiencing a Bora Bora Beach BBQ

A highlight for many visitors to Motu Tapu is the beach barbecue experience. Organized by tour operators, these events transform the idyllic islet into a festive dining venue. Imagine enjoying freshly grilled seafood, local Polynesian dishes, and tropical fruits with your feet in the sand, all under the open sky. This culinary experience is often cited as a memorable part of the trip, adding a delicious dimension to the natural beauty. TikTokReddit

Beyond the food, these barbecues are often accompanied by cultural performances, such as traditional Tahitian hula dancing and mesmerizing fire shows. These performances add a vibrant cultural layer to the experience, offering a glimpse into Polynesian traditions and artistry. The combination of a delicious meal, captivating entertainment, and a stunning sunset backdrop creates a truly magical evening. TikTokReddit

Travelers consistently praise the quality of the food and the entertainment, describing it as 'simply amazing' and 'excellent.' It's more than just a meal; it's an immersive cultural event that complements the breathtaking natural setting of Motu Tapu, making it a well-rounded and highly enjoyable experience. Reddit

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