Things To Do
in Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a stunning island located in the South Pacific Ocean, part of French Polynesia, and is famous for its breathtaking turquoise lagoon surrounded by a coral reef. The island features dramatic volcanic mountains, with Mount Otemanu rising majestically in the center, providing a picturesque backdrop. Renowned for its luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, Bora Bora offers guests a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing.
Its idyllic landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich culture make Bora Bora a sought-after destination for honeymooners and travelers seeking paradise.
- "Ia ora na" - Hello
- "Mauruuru" - Thank you
- "O vai?" - How are you?
- "E naʻo" - Goodbye
- "Aita pea pea" - No worries
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $200 - $1,500
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $30 - $150
- ☕ Coffee: $5 - $10
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $300
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $150
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Explore the coral gardens and colorful marine life surrounding the island.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a seaside restaurant with stunning views of Mount Otemanu. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or take a kayak out to explore the lagoon.
Savor a traditional Polynesian dinner at a local eatery. Cap off your night by watching the sunset from your beachfront bungalow.
Wake up early to hike the famous Mount Otemanu for breathtaking panoramic views. Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
After your hike, head to a local market for some Polynesian souvenirs and taste local street food. Relax by the water with a good book before the evening sets in.
Join a sunset cruise that includes dinner and entertainment. Experience the beauty of Bora Bora as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes
- Luxurious overwater bungalows and high-end resorts
- Rich marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving
- Exclusive and romantic destination, ideal for honeymooners
- Mild tropical climate year-round
- High cost of travel and accommodation
- Limited accessibility, often requiring multiple flights
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons can detract from the experience
- Limited options for budget travelers
- Remote location may result in higher prices for food and goods
Best Activities in Bora Bora
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in the clear blue waters of Bora Bora. Popular sites include the Coral Garden and the Barrier Reef.
Experience the underwater world of Bora Bora with guided scuba diving tours. Dive sites feature colorful coral formations, sharks, and rays.
Join an adventure to swim with stingrays and blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat while learning about these fascinating creatures.
Take a boat tour around the lagoon, visiting small islands and enjoying activities like swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing on secluded beaches.
Embark on a guided hike to the summit of Mount Otemanu for breathtaking views of Bora Bora's lush landscape and pristine waters.
Rent a jet ski and explore the stunning waters of Bora Bora at your own pace, with the option to visit various points of interest around the lagoon.
Enjoy the tranquility of the lagoon while paddleboarding. This activity is suitable for all skill levels and provides a unique perspective of the island.
Relax on a sunset cruise, taking in the picturesque views as the sun sets over the horizon while enjoying refreshments and snacks.
Learn about Bora Bora's rich culture and history through guided tours that include visits to traditional villages, ancient temples, and local markets.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bora Bora with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bora Bora
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic volcanic peak offering stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding lagoon. Hiking to the viewpoint provides incredible photo opportunities.
Known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Matira Beach is the perfect spot for sunset photography and capturing the beauty of Bora Bora's landscape.
A natural aquarium that allows visitors to snorkel with vibrant marine life. The colorful coral and fish make it a great location for underwater photography.
A popular lookout point along the road to Matira Beach, offering unobstructed views of the lagoon, the four Seasons Resort, and the majestic Mount Otemanu.
A snorkeling hotspot where you can capture beautiful underwater scenes with colorful corals and diverse aquatic life, ideal for both swimming and photography.
A viewpoint atop the island that provides a sweeping view of the entire lagoon and the surrounding motus, especially breathtaking at sunrise.
The main town on Bora Bora, where the colorful local shops and the beautiful backdrop of the lagoon offer excellent street photography opportunities.
Food in Bora Bora
Bora Bora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Polynesian dish of marinated raw fish in lime juice, coconut milk, and vegetables. It's a refreshing must-try that perfectly captures the flavors of the islands.
Must-Try!
This dish consists of slow-cooked pork or fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven, imparting a distinct flavor that is rich and savory.
A sweet dessert made from tahitian vanilla and coconut milk, typically served with fresh fruit.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bora Bora better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively local market offering a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample street food such as skewered meats, fresh fruits, and traditional pastries.
Various food trucks serving affordable local street food, including grilled fish, crepes, and Polynesian-inspired dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Bora Bora, it is customary to greet them with a warm smile and a friendly 'Ia Orana', which means 'hello' in Tahitian. This shows respect and friendliness.
While Bora Bora is a tropical paradise, it is important to dress modestly, especially in public places and during visits to local villages. Swimwear is acceptable at the beach, but cover-ups should be worn when leaving.
Participate in local customs and traditions with respect. Be mindful of sacred areas, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property to avoid offending local sentiments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bora Bora with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bora Bora
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not mandatory in Bora Bora, as many services include a service charge in the bill. However, it is customary to leave small tips for exceptional service, particularly in restaurants and for tour guides. A tip of around 10% of the total bill is considered generous.
Most establishments in Bora Bora accept credit and debit cards, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets. The local currency is the CFP franc (XPF), and while US dollars are accepted at some locations, it's best to use the local currency for transactions to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bora Bora.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the most popular time to visit Bora Bora due to cooler, drier weather and the best visibility for diving and snorkeling. Expect vibrant sunsets and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. However, prices are higher, and the island can be more crowded.
These months offer a balance between good weather and fewer tourists. Expect lower prices while still enjoying pleasant conditions. The water can be warmer, and some rain may occur, but not enough to disrupt your vacation.
This is the wet season, characterized by rainfall and humidity. Travel costs are usually lower during this period, but expect occasional tropical storms. It's still possible to enjoy the island’s beauty, but be prepared for rain and warm temperatures.
Bora Bora at Night
Hiking in Bora Bora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Bora Bora, offering challenging hikes with stunning views of the lagoon and surrounding islands.
A scenic hiking trail that takes you through lush vegetation and offers panoramic views of Bora Bora's landscapes.
A well-known hiking destination with steep trails leading to breathtaking vistas, suitable for experienced hikers.
While primarily a snorkeling spot, there are trails around the area that offer beautiful views and light hiking opportunities.
Easy walking trails along the lagoon that provide a chance to explore local flora and fauna, as well as stunning water views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bora Bora through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bora Bora by plane.
Located in Papeete, Tahiti, this is the main international airport serving French Polynesia and is the nearest major airport to Bora Bora.
A small airport located on the nearby island of Moorea, it offers limited flights and is a short ferry ride away from Tahiti.
Located on the island of Raiatea, this airport serves as another access point to Bora Bora with regional flights available.
This is the main hub for international flights in and out of French Polynesia, serving as the primary gateway for travelers heading to Bora Bora.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of French Polynesia, including Bora Bora, primarily of Austronesian and Polynesian descent.
Residents from France living in Bora Bora, often involved in government, business, and tourism sectors.
People from Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, who may reside in Bora Bora for work or tourism.
A small but notable demographic group involved in local commerce and businesses.
A diverse group of visitors from around the world, significantly impacting the economy and cultural exchange.
The Soul of Bora Bora
Discover the essence of Bora Bora through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bora Bora is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding extremely popular among both tourists and locals.
The islands surrounding Bora Bora provide great surfing spots, attracting surfers looking for ideal waves and beautiful scenery.
Sailing is a popular activity in Bora Bora, with many charter services available for those looking to explore the lagoon and neighboring islands.
Sport fishing is a favorite pastime, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including marlin and mahi-mahi, in the rich waters of the region.
For those who prefer land activities, hiking to the island's scenic viewpoints is popular, offering stunning panoramic views of the lagoon and landscape.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bora Bora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants, with dishes commonly including fresh salads, coconut-based dishes, and vegetable sides. However, the availability of fully vegetarian restaurants may be limited.
While options are more limited, some eateries may offer plant-based dishes or customizable meals. It's advisable to inform the staff of dietary preferences.
Gluten-free options depend largely on menu selections. Fresh seafood and salads are typically safe choices. Always communicate dietary needs at restaurants.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bora Bora with these cultural adventures.
