Dreaming of Bora Bora? Discover This Hawai’i Hidden Gem Instead

For those who dream of waking up steps away from turquoise waters, dipping their toes in the sand, and watching the sunrise light up the sky in pastel hues, all while sipping a Mai Tai, without having to pay international airfare and that Bora Bora price tag, let me introduce you to you to the gem of Hawai’i:  Lava Lava Beach Club.

Right on the sun-drenched Kohala Coast of the Big Island, Lava Lava Beach Club is far more than a beachfront bar and restaurant. It’s a magical slice of luxury that offers tropical vibes and private cottage accommodations that feel like they’re right out of a South Pacific fantasy.

A Slice of Paradise on the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawai’i is often overshadowed by more tourist-heavy spots like Maui or Oahu, but that’s part of its charm. With Lava Lava Beach Club located right on Anaehoʻomalu Bay (also known as A-Bay), it’s far enough from the crowds to feel like a private retreat, yet still close enough to offer access to nearby island adventures, shopping, and golf courses.  

The instant you step foot onto the property, you are greeted by swaying palm trees, warm winds, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels miles away from reality. Keep an eye open for sea turtles that like to drift by in the shallows or pull up onto the soft, golden sand.  

Beachfront Cottages: Your Affordable Overwater Bungalow

While sleeping directly over the water, as they do in Bora Bora, may not be an option, the four on-site beachfront cottages are the next best thing. These island chic hideaways sit right on the sand, steps from the ocean. Each features a private lanai, outdoor shower, and breezy linens and rattan furniture that perfectly capture the essence of aloha luxury.  

With only a few options available, the experience feels intimate, exactly the feeling people chase in French Polynesia. Unlike Bora Bora, you don’t need to mortgage your home to afford a night or two, although you will need plenty of notice, as these four tend to rent quickly.

Dining + Drinks = Tropical Perfection

The biggest draw of Lava Lava Beach Club is the laid-back restaurant and bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu features island flavors with options such as fresh poke bowls, locally caught fish tacos, and coconut shrimp. The cocktails are as Instagrammable as they are delicious: tall, colorful, and garnished with flowers or fruit.

Live music fills the air almost every night, adding to the magical Hawaiian atmosphere. Grab a drink at golden hour, settle into an Adirondack chair on the beach, and you’ll understand why this place is often described as “Bora Bora vibes on a beer budget.”

Island Adventures Await

If you’re craving a bit more action, the Big Island delivers. From snorkeling with manta rays to exploring volcanoes, black sand beaches, and lush waterfalls, the diversity of landscapes is unmatched. Unlike Bora Bora, which is mainly known for its tranquil lagoon, there is adventure around every corner on the Big Island.

Yes, Bora Bora is iconic, but so is Hawai’i, and Lava Lava Beach Club proves that you don’t have to fly halfway across the world to find paradise. With its stunning beachfront location, intimate cottages, delicious dining, and chill tropical vibes, it offers the same essence of escape and barefoot luxury. For couples, honeymooners, or even solo travelers seeking that island dream without the logistical gymnastics, Lava Lava Beach Club is well worth discovering.