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Bora Bora Travel Guide: Lagoon Dreams & Island Adventures

Intro to Bora Bora Travel Guide

Bora Bora is the ultimate South Pacific escape—an island where turquoise lagoons shimmer, volcanic peaks rise dramatically, and overwater bungalows float like dreamscapes on clear waters. Tucked in French Polynesia’s Society Islands, Bora Bora is celebrated as one of the most beautiful islands on Earth, blending luxury with raw natural wonder.

Whether you’re coming for a honeymoon, water sports, or cultural immersion, Bora Bora invites travelers to slow down, soak in island rhythms, and savor life surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Start planning your journey with our Bora Bora Travel Guide—and discover how guided tours can bring the island’s lagoons, traditions, and hidden gems to life.

Islands to Explore in Bora Bora

💡Quick Facts:
Destination: Bora Bora
Continent: Oceania
Country: France (Overseas Collectivity)
Region: French Polynesia, Leeward Islands (Society Islands)
Nearest City: Vaitape (main village)
Area: 11.3 mi² (29.3 km²)
Population: ~10,600
Capital: N/A (Vaitape is the largest settlement)
Official Language: French
Regional Languages: Tahitian, English widely spoken in tourism
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF, ₣)
Time Zone: Tahiti Time (UTC -10)
Climate: Tropical, warm and humid year-round with wet and dry seasons
Known For: Blue lagoons, overwater bungalows, Mount Otemanu, coral reefs, luxury resorts, honeymoons

🛂Arrival Info:
Entry Requirements: Part of France; follows French Polynesia entry rules. Most EU citizens, U.S., UK, Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand travelers may enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
Visa Information: French Government Visa Portal provides full details by nationality.
Nearest Airport: Bora Bora Airport (BOB, Motu Mute) with domestic flights from Tahiti. International arrivals connect via Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport (PPT).
Access Points: Reached by domestic flight from Tahiti (~50 minutes). From Bora Bora Airport, boat transfers connect to Vaitape or resorts.
Required Documents: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond stay; proof of onward or return travel may be required.

🏥Health Info:
Vaccines: No special vaccines required; routine immunizations recommended. Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from endemic areas.
Healthcare Access: Clinics available in Vaitape; major hospitals in Papeete, Tahiti.
Emergency Care: Basic emergency services on Bora Bora; serious cases evacuated to Tahiti.
Risks: Dengue fever and mosquito-borne illnesses possible; sunburn and dehydration common. Reef-safe sunscreen required by law.
🚑 Check travel insurance options for travel emergencies, delays, and medical needs abroad — Get coverage here
💉 Stay Informed with Official Updates: WHO – International Travel & Health | CDC – Travel health updates

🚨Travel Advisory:
Safety Level: Very safe for travelers; low crime rates.
Crime Risks: Petty theft can occur; violent crime extremely rare.
Natural Risks: Tropical storms possible November–April; tsunamis rare but possible. Strong currents outside lagoon areas.
Local Rules: Environmental protections enforced; fines for damaging coral or littering.
🌍Track Real-Time Official Updates: US Travel Advisory | UK Foreign Travel Advice | Government of Canada | NZ SafeTravel

🥳Holidays:
New Year’s Day: January 1
Good Friday & Easter Monday: Dates vary
Victory in Europe Day: May 8
Bastille Day: July 14 (celebrated with parades and festivals)
Assumption of Mary: August 15
All Saints’ Day: November 1
Christmas Day: December 25

💰Visitor Info:
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF, ₣)
Payments: Credit cards widely accepted in resorts; small shops may prefer cash.
Average Costs: Budget $150–200/day; mid-range $300–500/day; luxury resorts $800+/night.
Tipping Customs: Not customary; service charges included, but small tips appreciated.
Tourist Taxes: Daily hotel tax applied; often included in booking price.

🛫Airports:
Bora Bora Airport (BOB): Located on Motu Mute; only domestic connections, mainly via Tahiti.
Faa’a International Airport (PPT, Tahiti): Main international gateway to French Polynesia.
🧳 Delayed or canceled flight? Check if you’re eligible for compensation

🚍Transport:
Local Transport: Boats are the main mode of transport; resorts provide shuttle services.
Car Rentals: Limited; scooters and bicycles available for rent in Vaitape.
Public Transport: Few public buses; most travel arranged via hotels and operators.
Inter-Island Travel: Domestic flights connect Bora Bora to Tahiti and other Society Islands.
🚗 Book reliable airport transfers and in-city rides in advance. Reserve your ride here

🛰️Connectivity:
Mobile Coverage: Good around Vaitape and resorts; weaker on remote motus.
Wi-Fi Access: Available at most hotels and resorts; speed varies.
Local Carriers: Vini, Vodafone French Polynesia.
eSIM/SIM: Tourist SIMs available at Tahiti airport and major islands.
🛜 Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data packs. Get your eSIM here

📜Laws & Etiquette:
Dress Code: Casual beachwear acceptable; cover up when away from beaches and resorts.
Alcohol Laws: Legal drinking age is 18; alcohol widely available.
Smoking Laws: Prohibited in enclosed public spaces.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect Polynesian customs; greetings with a smile and polite “Ia ora na” are appreciated.

👮Emergency Info:
Emergency Number: 112 (EU-wide equivalent), or 15 (medical), 17 (police), 18 (fire) in French Polynesia.
Local Hospital: Bora Bora has a small medical clinic; larger facilities in Tahiti.
Consulates: Most international embassies and consulates located in Papeete, Tahiti.
🏛️ Use embassy locator tools: Embassies Worldwide

🌞Weather:
Climate: Tropical with two main seasons.
Best Season: May–October (dry season, less humidity, cooler temperatures).
Wet Season: November–April, higher humidity, occasional cyclones, heavy rain.
Average Temperatures: 75–86°F (24–30°C) year-round.
Water Temperatures: 79–84°F (26–29°C), ideal for swimming and diving.
Daylight: Consistent year-round, ~11–13 hours per day.
🌦️ Stay prepared—check the weather forecast for your destination — Weather Forecast

Cities and Major Destinations in Bora Bora

Though small in size, Bora Bora has several villages and key areas that shape the island’s character.

Vaitape – The island’s main town, home to shops, local eateries, a bustling harbor, and easy access to excursions.
Matira Point & Matira Beach – Famous for Bora Bora’s most accessible stretch of white sand and lagoon swimming.
Anau Village – Known for manta ray spotting tours and coral garden snorkeling.
Faanui Bay – A traditional district with temples, petroglyphs, and colorful churches.
Motu Toopua & Motu Piti Aau – Private islets where luxury resorts and secluded beaches are located.

How to Choose Where to Go in Bora Bora

Luxury Seekers gravitate toward overwater bungalows on motus, where privacy, lagoon access, and luxury dining define the stay.
Adventure Travelers prefer the main island for hikes up Mount Pahia or boat tours exploring reef passes and shark encounters.
Cultural Explorers head to Vaitape and Faanui to visit markets, meet artisans, and see Polynesian dance shows.
Families enjoy Matira Beach for its calm waters and easy access to activities.

Natural Escapes and Scenic Highlights

Bora Bora’s lagoon and volcanic peaks set the stage for its natural splendor.

Mount Otemanu – The jagged remains of an ancient volcano, a striking backdrop visible from anywhere on the island. Hiking and boat tours showcase its scale.
The Lagoon & Coral Gardens – The centerpiece of Bora Bora, offering snorkeling among colorful fish, manta rays, and vibrant coral.
Matira Beach – Rare in Bora Bora for being public and expansive, perfect for sunset walks and family swims.
Lagoonarium – A natural aquarium where visitors can swim alongside reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish under safe guidance.
Motu Picnic Excursions – Boat tours often include secluded islet picnics, grilled Polynesian seafood, and snorkeling stops.

Cultural and Historic Landmarks

Marae Temples – Ancient Polynesian open-air temples where ceremonies and rituals once took place.
World War II Relics – American bunkers and cannons remain from the island’s role as a U.S. base in the Pacific.
Paroisse Saint Pierre-Célestin Church – A colorful Catholic church in Vaitape reflecting Bora Bora’s missionary history.
Local Craft Markets – Selling pareos (wraps), black pearls, and wood carvings that reflect island traditions.

Local Food, Arts, and Regional Experiences

Polynesian flavors shine in Bora Bora, blending French influence with island ingredients.

Poisson Cru – Raw tuna marinated in lime and coconut milk, often considered French Polynesia’s national dish.
Tahitian Vanilla Desserts – Cakes, ice creams, and sauces infused with local vanilla.
Uru (Breadfruit) & Taro – Staple starches prepared in stews and roasts.
Dance Shows – Traditional ’ōte’a and hura dances performed at hotels and cultural centers.
Artisan Pearl Farms – Guided visits reveal how black pearls are cultivated, polished, and graded.

Must-See Experiences in Bora Bora

Snorkeling with Manta Rays in Anau Lagoon.
Shark & Ray Feeding Tours at the reef edge.
Lagoon Cruises by Outrigger Canoe with music and storytelling.
Mount Otemanu Helicopter Flightseeing for aerial views.
Sunset Catamaran Sailing along the lagoon.
Jet Ski Adventures circling motus.
Cultural Dinner Shows with fire dancing and Tahitian music.

Book immersive Bora Bora tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Bora Bora — from manta ray snorkeling and lagoon cruises to jet ski adventures and sunset catamaran sails.

Getting Around Bora Bora

Boats & Water Taxis – Essential for traveling between the main island and outer motus.
Bicycles & Scooters – Popular for circling the main island road (~32 km).
Resort Shuttles – Connect luxury motus with Vaitape town.
Taxis – Limited and expensive; pre-arranged tours are often better value.
Air Travel – Bora Bora Airport (BOB) on Motu Mute, with boat transfers to resorts.

Best Time to Visit Bora Bora

May–October (Dry Season) – Cooler, sunny, and ideal for snorkeling, diving, and lagoon tours. Peak tourist season.
November & April (Shoulder Months) – Fewer crowds, warm waters, and discounted stays.
December–March (Wet Season) – Hot, humid, and rainy with occasional cyclones, but still beautiful for relaxation and spa retreats.
Festivals – Heiva i Bora Bora in July brings dance, sports, and cultural pride.

Best Travel Itineraries in Bora Bora

3-Day Lagoon Getaway

Day 1: Arrival, lagoon cruise, sunset dinner.
Day 2: Shark and ray tour + beach picnic.
Day 3: Mount Otemanu flightseeing + pearl shop visit.

5-Day Adventure & Relaxation

Day 1: Vaitape town and craft shopping.
Day 2: Jet ski tour around the island.
Day 3: Manta ray snorkeling at Anau.
Day 4: Motu picnic + traditional Polynesian feast.
Day 5: Morning paddleboard, farewell dinner.

7-Day Honeymoon Escape

Day 1: Overwater bungalow check-in.
Day 2: Private lagoon snorkeling.
Day 3: Spa treatment + sunset sail.
Day 4: Island hike + WWII relics tour.
Day 5: Helicopter ride over Mount Otemanu.
Day 6: Motu Toopua private day tour.
Day 7: Cultural show and pearl shopping.

10-Day Immersive Journey

Day 1–3: Lagoon tours, snorkeling, and beach days.
Day 4–6: Island hikes, cultural sites, and jet ski adventures.
Day 7–8: Motu stays with private dining.
Day 9: Heiva festival (if July) or traditional dance evening.
Day 10: Leisure day and departure.

Travel Safety and Cultural Etiquette

Bora Bora is very safe, with tourism as its main economy.
Always respect lagoon life—don’t touch coral or chase wildlife.
Modesty is appreciated outside resorts; cover up in villages and churches.
Learn basic Tahitian greetings (Ia orana means hello).
Mosquito repellent is essential, especially in wet months.

Nearby Islands to Explore

Tahiti – The capital island, gateway to French Polynesia, and cultural hub.
Moorea – Known for dramatic mountains, pineapple plantations, and lagoon excursions.
Taha’a – Vanilla island, accessible by boat, with coral gardens and pearl farms.
Huahine – A quieter island with lush forests, sacred marae, and village life.

Final Planning Checklist for Bora Bora

Book flights via Tahiti (PPT) to Bora Bora (BOB).
Confirm resort transfers from Motu Mute Airport.
Reserve lagoon tours and motu picnics in advance.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and insect repellent.
Pack light, casual clothing plus a wrap for evenings.
Credit cards widely accepted, but some cash needed in local shops.

Plan Smarter, Travel Better

Bora Bora blends natural wonders with refined hospitality. Booking tours not only simplifies logistics but also ensures safe, sustainable encounters with the lagoon’s fragile ecosystems.

Choose Your Next Adventure

Moorea – Mountain peaks, dolphin tours, and island culture.
Tahiti – French Polynesia’s capital with markets, museums, and nightlife.
Cook Islands – A South Pacific neighbor with relaxed beaches and lagoons.
Fiji – Island-hopping, diving, and rich cultural traditions.

It’s Time to Experience Bora Bora

Bora Bora is not just a honeymoon cliché—it’s an island where volcanic landscapes meet luminous lagoons, where cultural pride coexists with luxury, and where every day feels like paradise renewed. Book your Bora Bora adventure today and experience the South Pacific’s crown jewel in unforgettable ways.