Which Tropical Island is Calling Your Name?
Published Monday, March 22nd 2021Fiji, Bora Bora, Moorea, Seychelles, Maldives…
Tropical islands are a peaceful escape where time slows down, the days drift by, and the world’s problems melt away. The overwater bungalows whisper relaxation while calling your name.
Time and time again, clients ask me, "Which tropical island should I visit?"
The short answer is, "It depends." The long answer? Read on to learn the island differences and what to keep in mind when choosing which tropical island to visit.
Travel Time
How much time you have is crucial in planning your tropical island vacation. You don't want to spend more time in the air than on vacation.
Tahiti, the central hub in French Polynesia, is a direct 8-hour flight from Los Angeles. From Tahiti, Moorea is only a ferry ride away, and Bora Bora is a sea-plane flight from there. Fiji is slightly farther with about a 12-hour direct flight. While getting to the Maldives or Seychelles can easily take at least double that time.
Overwater Bungalows
The Maldives is made up of over 1000 coral islands. Around two-thirds of the world’s overwater bungalows are located in these islands of the Maldives. With the resorts spread apart on private islands, the Maldives is the place to be if you are looking for privacy and luxury.
French Polynesian islands are synonymous with overwater bungalows. For privacy, visit Bora Bora which oozes romance. Moorea is slightly less private and more laid back.
Although limited, Fiji does offer overwater bungalow options. The Seychelles is not home to any overwater bungalows, but the spectacular resorts overlook the water.
Tropical Activities
All these tropical islands are wonderful choices for water activities, with spectacular snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating.
In the Maldives, the islands are barely above sea level. Enjoy a private picnic on a sandbank, go parasailing, or surfing. In Bora Bora, the most popular activities are in the water, where you can dive for pearls, snorkel with stingrays, and even venture on shark-feeding dives.
If you want more than water activities, consider Moorea, the Seychelles, or Fiji. Moorea has eight summits featuring a magnificent ancient volcanic crater, which became a lush valley. It is perfect for horseback riding or four-wheeling to explore waterfalls. On the Seychelles, you will find a mix of spectacular gold-sand beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls. For an adrenaline rush, raft the white waters of the Navua River in Fiji or even enjoy a day on the golf course.
Tropical Wildlife
These islands are all home to diverse marine life from manta rays, sea turtles, sharks, and many tropical fish.
The Maldives is home to mainly marine wildlife. What makes the Maldives unique is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks. Bora Bora and Moorea are excellent for spotting humpback whales that come to the South Pacific’s warm waters.
The islands of Fiji are home to several bird species unique to Fiji, along with many reptiles. The Seychelles are home to the world’s largest population of giant Aldabra tortoises and nearly 220 bird species, some of which are among the most unusual zoological rarities in the world.
So, which tropical island is calling your name for an escape?