Information
Landmark: Motu TapuCity: Bora Bora
Country: French Polynesia
Continent: Australia
Motu Tapu, Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Australia
Overview
Motu Tapu is a tiny, deserted island just off Bora Bora’s shore, where pale sand meets the clear, turquoise water of French Polynesia.People often call it one of the most iconic motus in the Bora Bora lagoon, prized for its clear turquoise waters, lush palms swaying in the breeze, and a secluded atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.In Tahitian, “Motu Tapu” translates to “sacred islet,” a name that echoes its deep roots in local history and tradition, like the hush of waves against its untouched shore.Take a closer look at Motu Tapu-its key features stand out like white sand against the blue lagoon.Motu Tapu is a tiny slice of tropical paradise, where white sand meets turquoise water, capturing the untouched beauty of French Polynesia.Motu Tapu is a tiny island with powdery white beaches where the sand feels soft between your toes, a turquoise lagoon so clear you can see fish gliding below, and dense palms swaying over lush tropical growth; coral reefs ring its shores, alive with bright marine life for snorkelers and divers, and it holds a sacred place in Polynesian tradition.In the past, only the island’s royalty could set foot there, while commoners were barred from even crossing its weathered stone gates.People believe the island once served as a sacred place, where drums echoed and fires lit the night during important ceremonies.Because of its deep history, people treated Motu Tapu as tapu-sacred and off-limits-adding to its air of mystery, like a shell left untouched on the shore.Even now, the name Motu Tapu carries its sacred past, standing as a living emblem of Bora Bora’s untouched shores and rich cultural heritage.Three.Because no one lives there and the island is protected, Motu Tapu feels utterly secluded-just you, the soft hiss of waves, and endless quiet.It hasn’t been built up for commercial tourism, so its beauty feels raw and unspoiled, like a quiet beach with no footprints in the sand.Getting to the island is usually off-limits, so most people arrive on small, exclusive tours or through private trips arranged by a resort or a local guide.Tucked far from the bustle, it’s the perfect hideaway for anyone craving quiet-just the wind in the trees and no one else around.Activities to enjoy at Motu Tapu, from strolling its soft white sands to diving into the clear, turquoise shallows.The crystal-clear waters around Motu Tapu sparkle in the sun, making them perfect for snorkeling or a refreshing swim.You’ll see a dazzling mix of tropical fish-clownfish darting between anemones, bright parrotfish, graceful butterflyfish-along with stingrays gliding through the lagoon and the occasional small reef shark, all framed by coral reefs that rank among the most stunning in Bora Bora’s waters.Step two comes next-keep things moving and don’t lose your place.Some luxury resorts and private boat tours whisk guests to Motu Tapu, where they can linger over a quiet picnic or a beachside lunch with their toes in the sand.With its calm waters and palm-fringed shore, the island is ideal for romantic picnics, drawing honeymooners and couples seeking a private escape, while some resorts host intimate gatherings like weddings or anniversary dinners here, and most visitors arrive on exclusive boat tours departing from Bora Bora’s main island.Most private boat trips take you across Bora Bora’s lagoon, stopping at a few hidden motus and scenic spots before you pull up to the white-sand shore of Motu Tapu.These tours might have you snorkeling in clear blue water, feeding reef sharks, or brushing past stingrays.For something even more exclusive, you can charter a luxury yacht and sail to Motu Tapu.These tours pamper guests with luxury touches and personal service, from private chefs who plate fresh-caught fish to guides who know every hidden trail.On Motu Tapu’s quiet, untouched shore, it’s easy to sink into the sand and let the world slip away.Stretch out on soft, white sand, lose yourself in a good book or the sweeping views, then slip into the calm, clear water.It’s the perfect spot to leave the noise of everyday life behind and soak in Bora Bora’s beauty in total seclusion.Getting to Motu Tapu isn’t simple-you won’t find a regular ferry or public bus heading that way.Most visitors get to the island on private tours, often by boat-sleek white hulls cutting across the turquoise water from Bora Bora’s main island to Motu Tapu.Most of these tours are booked ahead of time and can include extras like snorkeling, sightseeing, or feeding sleek sharks and gentle stingrays in the lagoon.Many luxury resorts-especially those on nearby motus-also run their own trips to Motu Tapu for guests.You might share a candlelit dinner, spread a blanket for a quiet picnic on the sand, or set out on a trip planned just for you.The ideal time to enjoy Motu Tapu is the dry season in Bora Bora, from May through October.This time of year brings bright, sunny days and little rain, perfect for paddling through clear lagoons or soaking in the island’s lush scenery.From November to April, the wet season brings warmer days but frequent rain, and a sudden downpour can blur the view and change the feel of the whole trip.Why visit Motu Tapu?It’s your chance to step onto a quiet strip of sand where turquoise water laps at the shore, and to experience one of Bora Bora’s most breathtaking, untouched places.With untouched beaches, water so clear you can see shells on the seabed, and deep cultural roots, the island offers a rare escape for anyone wanting to leave the crowds behind and sink into its quiet beauty.Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, drifting over coral on a private snorkel, or just craving the hush of your own stretch of sand, Motu Tapu leaves a lasting mark.
