Information
Landmark: Motu AnauCity: Bora Bora
Country: French Polynesia
Continent: Australia
Motu Anau, Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Australia
Overview
Motu Anau is a tiny, hidden islet tucked into Bora Bora’s calm turquoise lagoon in French Polynesia.It’s one of the motu-small islets strung like beads-lying just off the main island’s eastern shore.Motu Anau, with its unspoiled shoreline and quiet waters, draws visitors into a calm retreat at the heart of Bora Bora’s lush tropical paradise.Motu Anau sits in the calm blue lagoon near Vaitape, Bora Bora’s main town, and you can reach it by hopping on a boat.The islet sits only a short boat ride from the main island, perfect for a quick day trip.Though small, this motu delivers sweeping views of Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon and the jagged green peaks beyond.Motu Anau’s landscape bursts with lush greenery, soft arcs of golden sand, and shallow, glass-clear waters perfect for paddling or snorkeling.Visitors can dive into a range of outdoor adventures while soaking in the island’s calm, sunlit charm.The waters around Motu Anau are so clear you can see sunlight dancing on the sand below, making them perfect for snorkeling.Bright coral gardens spill across the lagoon floor, sheltering flashes of tropical fish and, now and then, the slow glide of a ray or the shadow of a shark.Snorkelers can glide over vibrant coral reefs, spotting everything from darting clownfish to slow-moving sea turtles, and the shallow waters around the motu are just right for a lazy, sun-warmed swim.Warm turquoise waves lap gently at the shore, creating the perfect spot for a lazy swim or a burst of water sports.On Motu Anau’s secluded beaches, you can spread out a picnic blanket, savor fresh fruit, and sink your toes into soft white sand.Visitors often pack snacks and cold drinks to savor on the sand, basking in the warmth as soft waves lap the shore.Tucked away among Bora Bora’s lesser-known motus, Motu Anau promises a quieter, more secluded retreat.If you want something more private, you can rent the motu for a wedding, a quiet escape, or even a honeymoon, with nothing but the sound of waves in the background.A few high-end tours and resorts whisk guests to the motu for a quiet, romantic escape far from the bustle, where you can hear nothing but the water lapping at the shore.You can reach Motu Anau by boat from Vaitape or from nearby resorts around Bora Bora.You can book a boat tour or a private trip to the motu, and local operators will take you there and back.The ride from the main island to Motu Anau usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes, depending on where you leave from.For the best experience, go between May and October, when the dry season brings clear skies, warm sun, and perfect water for swimming.From November to April, the wet season brings warmer days but a greater chance of rain.Tucked away from the usual tourist flow, Motu Anau stays quiet-visit at sunrise or late afternoon and you might hear nothing but the water lapping at the shore.Just offshore, the Coral Gardens teem with bright fish darting between vivid coral heads, and in the distance, Mount Otemanu rises sharply, the island’s tallest peak and a favorite for hikers.You can join a guided tour to wander through the island’s lush interior, then hop over to nearby motus like Motu Tapu and Motu Tane, where soft white sand meets turquoise water.In the end, Motu Anau stands out as a peaceful little gem, offering a one-of-a-kind slice of Bora Bora.Whether you’re drawn to snorkeling, a lazy swim, or just stretching out under the warm sun, this spot is perfect for unwinding and discovering what’s around you.Motu Anau, with its clear, still water and untouched shoreline, offers a peaceful hideaway for anyone wanting to experience Bora Bora’s quieter, more intimate side.