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Beaches: Bora Bora, French Polynesia vs. Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos, Greece

Quick Verdict

Bora Bora is a luxury destination with diverse activities and accommodations, while Navagio Beach offers stunning natural beauty but with limited accessibility and facilities. The choice depends on budget, desired activities, and tolerance for crowds.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeBora Bora, French PolynesiaNavagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos, Greece
NameBora Bora, French PolynesiaNavagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos, Greece
Sand colorWhiteWhite. The beach is covered with white sand or tiny white pebbles.
Water clarityCrystal-clearCrystal-clear turquoise waters. The water has beautiful shades of blue.
AccessibilityBora Bora is increasingly accommodating to travelers with disabilities, offering accessible accommodations, activities, and dining options.Only accessible by boat. Boat tours depart from Porto Vromi and Agios Nikolaos.
Crowd levelCan get crowded during peak season (July and August).Gets overcrowded during peak season. It is best to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Natural beautyKnown for its beautiful waters, white sand beaches, and verdant surroundings. It is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world.Stunning scenery with towering cliffs surrounding the beach. It is considered one of the most picturesque beaches in the world.
Available activitiesSwimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, picnicking on motu (islets), sunset cruises, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and exploring the island by 4x4.Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving and photography. Boat tours to the Blue Caves are also popular.
Nearby accommodationsOverwater bungalows, beach bungalows, garden bungalows, hotels, resorts, pensions, and guesthouses.Hotels and villas are available in nearby towns such as Volimes, Alikanas, and Kipseli.
Food and drink optionsRestaurants offer French cuisine with Polynesian flavors, seafood, American cuisine, and local cafes with reasonable prices.The beach itself has no facilities. There is a taverna near the viewpoint. Restaurants are located within an eight-minute drive of Navagio Shipwreck Beach. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Cost of visitA budget experience can cost $3,500-$5,000 per person for a week. Mid-range vacations cost $5,500-$8,000, and luxury getaways can cost $10,000-$20,000+.Boat trips are required to access the beach.
Weather conditionsThe dry season (May to October) is warm and mostly clear. The wet season (November to April) is hot and overcast.Summers are hot and dry. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October).
Marine lifeDiverse marine life, including parrotfish, clownfish, angelfish, sharks, rays, turtles, and eels.Divers and snorkelers may spot diverse marine life. Sea turtles can be found in the area.
Shade availabilityMany resorts offer beach umbrellas or shaded areas.There is limited to no shade on the beach.
PriceNot availableNot available
RatingsNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

Bora Bora: Budget week $3,500-$5,000 per person, Overwater bungalows $850-$3,300+ per night. Navagio Beach: Boat trips required for access.

Pros and Cons

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Pros:
  • Beautiful waters
  • White sand beaches
  • Verdant surroundings
  • Diverse marine life
  • Variety of activities
  • Accessible accommodations
Cons:
  • Can get crowded during peak season
  • Wet season can be hot and overcast
  • Limited public bus service
  • Sharks present in the reefs

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos, Greece

Pros:
  • Stunning scenery with towering cliffs
  • Crystal-clear turquoise waters
  • White sand beach
  • Popular for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving
  • Boat tours to the Blue Caves are available
Cons:
  • Only accessible by boat
  • Gets overcrowded during peak season
  • Limited to no shade on the beach
  • No facilities on the beach itself
  • Access to the beach itself was restricted as of 2024 due to safety concerns regarding landslides

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