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French Polynesia

Bora Bora

LagoonResortsSlow

About Bora Bora

Known as the Pearl of the Pacific, Bora Bora is a quiet volcanic island in French Polynesia famous for its lush rainforest peaks, clear lagoon, and luxurious overwater bungalows. Travelers can browse local crafts in the main city of Vaitape, unwind on the white sands of Matira Beach, or snorkel alongside blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. Active visitors can trek up Mount Otemanu for panoramic views, while those visiting in July can join in the traditional singing and dancing of the Heiva i Bora Bora festival.

When to go

Bora Bora is at its best in the dry season for lagoon stays and slow days.

The best time to visit Bora Bora for sunshine and dry weather is during the dry season from May to October, when daytime highs average around 28°C (82°F) and humpback whales visit the surrounding waters. However, this peak period brings higher resort prices and larger crowds, especially during July when the vibrant Heiva i Bora Bora festival takes place. For a balance of fair prices, fewer crowds, and clear waters for scuba diving, consider the shoulder months of April and November, which feature events like the Hawaiki Nui Va’a canoe races. Travelers on a budget can visit during the low season from December to March, when rain and humidity increase but top resorts like the Four Seasons Bora Bora drop their room rates significantly.

Where to stay

Pick a neighbourhood.

Bora Bora features distinct stay areas ranging from its central main island districts to secluded coral islets.

Vaitape

Vaitape is the main city and capital of Bora Bora where about 5,000 residents live, featuring craft workshops, local food shops, and quick access to regional culture.

Matira Beach area

Located at the southern end of the main island, this area borders Bora Bora's only public beach with white sand, calm water, and nearby cafes.

Motu To'opua

This private offshore islet hosts luxury resorts like Conrad Bora Bora Nui with 500 meters of lagoon-facing sand and immediate beach snorkeling.

Motu Tapu

A tiny, highly private lagoon islet once owned by Queen Pomare IV that is popular for private dining with personal chefs.

Tevairoa Island

Home to Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resort, this islet offers views of Mount Otemanu and quick boat transfers to the airport and Vaitape.

Motu Paahi

A private island setting for rustic family pensions like Blue Heaven Island Resort, offering exceptional offshore kayaking and snorkeling.

Northeastern Motu (Four Seasons area)

Located northeast beyond Mute Island, this area features luxurious resorts with inner turquoise channels and stunning Mount Otemanu vistas.

Motu Piti Aau

An outer islet strip offering options for both upscale accommodations and modestly priced hotels close to the beach.

Things to do

The things worth planning around.

Bora Bora features world-class water activities, mountain treks, cultural sights, and local island specialties for first-time travelers.

Coral Garden

A popular sandbank in the lagoon reachable by boat where visitors can snorkel safely alongside stingrays and blacktip reef sharks.

Anau Manta Ray Cleaning Station

A prime morning scuba diving spot where divers can quietly observe a dozen or more majestic giant manta rays.

Mount Otemanu

The highest peak on the main island reaching 727m, accessible via a strenuous 4 to 6 hour trek guided by locals.

Matira Beach

The only public beach on the island, ideal for sunbathing, catching sunsets, and grabbing food from local roulottes.

Overwater Bungalow Stay

An iconic luxury accommodation experience featuring direct room-service breakfast and private ladders straight into the lagoon.

Heiva i Bora Bora

Bora Bora's premier July festival held at Place Tu Vavau in Vaitape featuring singing, dancing, and sporting events.

Valley of the Kings Hike

A less strenuous 3-hour guided hike passing old villages and historical cultural sites.

Bora Ocean Adventures Mini-Submarine

An underwater scooter experience featuring clear air-pocket helmets that let non-divers explore underwater life effortlessly.

Where to eat

Come hungry.

Bora Bora offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual quayside food trucks to upscale lagoon-front fine dining.

Vaitape Quay Roulottes

Located on the quayside of Vaitape, these casual food trucks serve simple and convivial meals like poisson cru, chow mein, and steak with fries for 1,500 to 2,500 XPF.

Poisson Cru au Lait de Coco

Considered the national dish of Tahiti, this refreshing starter or main consists of fresh raw fish marinated in coconut milk and a zest of lime juice.

Bloody Mary's Restaurant

Famous for its nightly fish display on ice where host takes your order directly for the day's catch, along with daytime burgers and sandwiches.

Restaurant St James

A local dining venue in Bora Bora that offers lagoon-view seating for romantic meals.

Bora Bora Yacht Club

A dining spot in Bora Bora situated along the water for visitors dining out after a day on the lagoon.

La Villa Mahana

A gourmet restaurant choice in Bora Bora offering fine dining options.

Restaurant Otemanu

Located at Le Bora Bora By Pearl Resorts, this resort restaurant serves high-end meals with scenic surroundings.

Restaurant Poerava

Situated inside Le Bora Bora By Pearl Resorts, offering resort dining opening for dinner at 6:30 pm.

Climate

Average daily high / low (°C)
26°
24°
Jan
26°
24°
Feb
27°
25°
Mar
27°
24°
Apr
26°
25°
May
26°
24°
Jun
25°
23°
Jul
25°
23°
Aug
25°
23°
Sep
25°
23°
Oct
25°
23°
Nov
26°
24°
Dec

Climate data: Open-Meteo (CC BY 4.0).

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