Village Temanuata

Hotel prices are high in Bora Bora and the Village Temanuata stands out for its affordable rates, particularly given it occupies the end of the famously beautiful Matira Beach near the tip of the island. Aside from the beach, however, there's not a lot that wows travelers. Past the small thatched-roof reception desk is a winding sand path with lush flora and the hotel's 11 bungalows on either side. The path leads all the way to the beach, which two bungalows overlook, but there are no other facilities on-site. Rustic rooms are spacious and have furnished patios where visitors can often see French couples, solo travelers, or groups of friends chatting or reading (given the lack of Wi-Fi). A black cat or two are also occasionally spotted lounging in the terrace's shade. The atmosphere is quiet, with most guests spending their days exploring the island and lagoon.

Village Temanuata occupies a spot at the eastern end of Matira Beach, a well-known, stunning beach with bright-white sand and crystal-clear waters. Guests are about a seven-minute walk to Matira Point, which is the southernmost point of Bora Bora and a popular spot for taking in sunsets. Next door is the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, and its overwater bungalows are visible from the hotel's private beach. There are a couple grocery stores within a 10-minute walk for those that want to utilize their kitchenettes or buy ready-made food, plus multiple restaurants and shops within walking distance. A car rental agency is also under 10 minutes on foot. To reach the hotel, most guests will arrive via a domestic flight from the main international airport on Tahiti to Bora Bora Airport. From there, travelers can take a free ferry to the island's main city of Vaitape. The Ferry and Boat Point in Vaitape is about a 10- to 15-minute drive from the hotel.

The 11 spacious bungalows are all outfitted in the same low-frills style, consisting of beige tile floors, white concrete or woven mat walls, basic mismatched wooden furniture, and simple linens in either solid earth tones or Polynesian prints. Locally inspired artwork adds a pleasant touch. Rooms are spacious and mostly well-maintained, though expect wear and tear and occasional ants or geckos. While all units have furnished patios with tables and chairs, the best views are from the two Beach Bungalows that directly overlook the ocean. The two bungalows behind those, Sea View Bungalows, offer partial views that are also attractive; the rest face the gardens. Amenities across the board include dining tables, fans, drawers and hanging racks, umbrellas, and kitchenette areas with mini-fridges, microwaves, kettles, hot plates, dishes, and cookware. Dish soap and sponges are also provided. On the downside, there are no air-conditioning, TVs, or Wi-Fi; Wi-Fi can be purchased for a pricey fee, but it's only accessible right next to reception. All rooms have double beds, and some add single beds. The Family Bungalows can sleep five people with two double beds and a single bed. Bathrooms have walk-in showers and basic toiletries.

The highlight here is the small private section of the beautiful Matira Beach. The soft sand is lined with a handful of wooden and plastic loungers, and flanked by wooden fences. There are no umbrellas, but a big tree offers some shade. No pool or wellness facilities are offered here. Additionally, there's no restaurant, but guests can order a continental breakfast to be delivered to their rooms the next morning. Breakfast baskets are filled with fresh fruits, pastries and bread, jam, fruit juice, tea, or coffee, milk, and sugar, but it was a pricey $17 during our stay.The front desk can organize a plethora of island or lagoon excursions, from scuba diving to hiking, as well as rent water sports and bicycles. Wi-Fi requires a hefty fee and it can only be accessed by reception.