Oa Oa Lodge

The compact Oa Oa Lodge stands out for its affordable rates in the famously pricey island of Bora Bora. Although lacking a beach, the hotel is along the water, and close to the drop-off point for the free ferry from Bora Bora Airport. The eight rooms are on the rustic side and showing wear, but they're set amid lush gardens with wooden tables and some have lovely views of the lagoon and anchored boats. Couples primarily frequent this hotel and generally spend their days diving or out exploring the island, making for a quiet atmosphere. During our stay, we saw most guests return at night to have a beer on the pool terrace while watching the pretty sunset. Features are limited here, which most guests don't seem to mind, though some have complained of the next-door restaurant and bar causing late-night noise. 

This property offers one of the best values in the area, though it's worth considering the similarly priced Village Temanuata, along the sensational Matira Beach. 

The Oa Oa Lodge is conveniently located along the coast in Vaitape, the main city on the island of Bora Bora. The property is a quick four-minute drive from the town's center, where there are cafes, supermarkets, and shops. Guests can walk here in under 15 minutes, but need to take caution as there are no sidewalks. Also here is the Ferry and Boat Point, which is the drop-off point for travelers that come in through Bora Bora Airport and take the free ferry to the mainland. The hotel provides free transport from the ferry dock if travelers arrange for it in advance. Unfortunately, there's no beach in the immediate area, but the stunning Matira Beach is a 15-minute drive away. 

The eight rustic rooms at the property are divided between Standard and Deluxe Rooms, and Overwater Bungalows. Standard Rooms have garden views, while Deluxe Rooms are supposed to have partial lagoon views, though they're largely obstructed by greenery and other units. These spacious units have a similar, cheerful design consisting of vaulted wood ceilings, beige tile floors, minimal slatted wood furniture, and pops of lime green, pink, blue, and/or purple in the bed linens and wall paint. A piece of artwork decorates each space, but otherwise, decor is minimal. Bedrooms have flat-screen TVs, closets, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and ceiling fans. Sliding glass doors partition these areas from narrow kitchens with full fridges, two-burner stoves, sinks, and limited cookware and dishes. On one side of each kitchen is the toilet stall, while the other houses a mostly well-maintained open shower with basic toiletries and an adjacent sink. Furnished patios have table and chair sets. Unfortunately, air-conditioning is not provided (despite old units being in the rooms) and wear and tear is found throughout, particularly in old appliances and showerheads. 

The three Overwater Bungalows have slightly nicer-looking decor, though the overall feel is similar. Polynesian bed runners add some local flair. These rooms also have desks, single beds in addition to the main king bed, and bathrooms with both showers and shower/tub combos. Vistas from their furnished terraces are lovely, though not the most private due to the adjacent dock.

This tiny property has little in the way of amenities, lacking its own restaurant, bar, and fitness center. However, next to reception is a lovely deck facing the ocean. It houses a small, mosaic-tiled pool with cascading water, as well as modern cushioned wicker chairs and couches. A few tables and chairs are also set up here. A Top Dive center is on-site, and travelers are likely to see guests heading out with their gear (if not participating themselves). On the opposite side of the pool as the rooms is a restaurant and bar that's independently own, called Maikai Marina Yatch Club. This makes for convenient meals and pleasant boat views, but occasionally noise can be an issue at night. 

Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property. The front desk staff can arrange massages for visitors.