Bora Bora is a volcanic island in the Society Islands archipelago of French Polynesia. The Polynesian island in the South Pacific is ranked at the top of the list when it comes to most remarkably beautiful in the world. The best time to travel is in May.
It is perfectly possible to spoil oneself in one of the incredibly luxurious high-class resorts and spend the savings of a lifetime in a few days. Nonetheless, a bit of planning ahead can allow enjoyment of the majestic scenery with a tighter budget. Bora Bora is a tremendously pricey destination. Everything (catering and activities) ranges from "expensive" to "indescribably expensive".
Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia. The island, which is about 230 km (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 metres (2,385 ft). The original name of the island in the Tahitian language might be better rendered as Pora Pora, meaning "First Born"; an early transcription found in 18th- and 19th century accounts, is Bolabolla or Bollabolla.
The major settlement, Vaitape is on the western side of the island, opposite the main channel into the lagoon. The products of the island are mostly limited to what can be obtained from the sea and coconut trees, which were historically of economic importance for copra. During the 2017 census, the population on the island was about 10,600 people, up from 8,880 in 2007.
The history of Bora Bora shows that the island’s first settlers back in the 4th century were Tongan people. The first European explorers who visited the island were led by James Cook. However, prior to this island of Bora Bora was already sighted by other explorers. In 1842 the island became a French colony under the governance of Admiral Abel Aubert Dupetit Thouars.
During World War II, the United States made Bora Bora a base for military supply, oil depot, air strip and seaplane base. They constructed defensive fortifications around the island. Luckily though, no combat took place here and the presence of American troops seemed to be accepted by the opposition forces.
The United States Military Base closed on June 2, 1946, following the end of the war. However, many Americans decided to stay on the island as it had become close to their hearts. Some Americans were even forcibly asked to leave following complaints from their families on the mainland. The abandoned base became French Polynesia’s only international airport until Faa'a International Airport opened in the 1962 in Papeete, Tahiti.
The island of Bora Bora nowadays relies largely on tourism and because of this seven luxurious resorts were built over the past few years. Hotel Bora Bora was the first to build bungalows that stand over the water using stilts. These are now a given of every resort on the island as these bungalows provide spectacular sights of lagoons and mountains.
The climate in Bora Bora and the surrounding Islands is considered to be tropical. Unlike most places the seasons can be divided into two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season (Polynesian summers) runs from November till April with an average rainfall off 3/4ths of the yearly precipitation. During these times the humidity levels can be at an all time high. The storms during these months are frequent and unpredictable. The rainfall is about 1800 mm or 71 inches! And the weather is 30 °C or 86 °F. the dry season running from May to October this is when tourism is at its peak on the Island. During these months the temperature is a few degrees lower and rain is rare. The best time weather-wise with the least risk of storms is in the Winter months. The very best part about the weather in Bora Bora is that the water temperature hovers around 30 °C (in the mid-80s F) on average. However during this high tourist season (May - October) tourist prices skyrocket and there are many more people around.
The main languages that are spoken by people in Bora Bora Island are French and Tahitian although most inhabitants that inter-act with visitors have good comprehension of the English language. Most tourists that visit the island are Americans, Japanese and Europeans.
Some key words for in the local language in Bora Bora include:
- Hello - Ia Ora na (yo-rah-nah)
- Goodbye - Nana (nah-nah)
- Yes - E (ay)
- No - Aita (eye-tah)
- Man - Tane (tah-nay)
- Woman - Vahine (vah-he-nay)
- Child - Tamarii (tah-ma-ree-ee)
- Friend - Hoa (ho-ah)
- Polynesian - Ma' ohi (mah-o-hee)
- Big - Nui (new-ee)
- Small - Iti (ee-tee)
- Morning - Poipoi (poy-poy)
- Small island formed by coral and sand - Motu
There are about 10,600 people living in Bora Bora, these people have a firm grip on the culture, myths and traditions that have been handed down from the Polynesian gods. They have traditional songs and dances for the island. They love to share their culture with the visitors. The pace is laid-back with a relaxing atmosphere. They live by a philosophy ‘aita pea pea’ which means ‘not to worry’. The main languages that are spoken in Bora Bora are French and Tahitian. English is also spoken in many hotels, resorts, markets, and tourist locations.
The island of Bora Bora is a volcanic caldera. This geography has produced a lagoon, well protected from waters by the surrounding motus (islets). The lagoon, and the tropical underwater life, including sharks and rays, provide fantastic opportunities for many forms of water-based recreation, ranging from swimming, through snorkelling and to scuba and other options if you truly want to immerse yourself in this unique environment.
In addition to the sights under the surface of the lagoon, the dominating and unusually shaped peak of Mount Otemanu which reaches 728 m above sea level, and its smaller neighbour Mount Pahia are also worthy attractions. The combination of the beautiful lagoon and these impressive peaks provide an almost endless supply of opportunities to take travel photos which will leave your friend back home cursing you for sharing them.
Very few go to Bora Bora for the historic relics. However, if you have seen enough of the lagoon, you might want to take a peek at the few World War II remains and the archeological Polynesian relics in one of the tours of the island.
- Bora Bora Lagoonarium. A certified diver acts as underwater guide as you swim and come face to face with the turtles, sharks, sting rays and numerous other fish which call the lagoonarium their home. As the "...rium" name implies, this commercial aquarium is a captive, enclosed zoo-like environment, preventing free movement beyond the confines of the establishment. For those that are not into diving, there is a little submarine. Numerous travelers that have voted this as an all-time favorite.
Bora Bora Lagoonarium. A certified diver acts as underwater guide as you swim and come face to face with the turtles, sharks, sting rays and numerous other fish which call the lagoonarium their home. As the "...rium" name implies, this commercial aquarium is a captive, enclosed zoo-like environment, preventing free movement beyond the confines of the establishment. For those that are not into diving, there is a little submarine. Numerous travelers that have voted this as an all-time favorite.
There are comparatively more activities in Bora Bora to keep you occupied than in other islands of French Polynesia. Being practical while lazing under the sun in a white sand beach, a good book will be in every case a very useful item to bring. It sometimes rains in Bora Bora (and sometimes even a lot). The vast majority of the activities take place outdoor, and there are no cinemas, libraries or museums to visit, so even if large resorts do lend books and games, bring some good reading with you.
There are many activities that are cost-free, like swimming in the lagoons, swimming with dolphins, shark and ray feeding, and enjoying the famous sunset. Most destinations are aquatic oriented, that may also include scuba diving and snorkeling. Besides the water activities there are many other activities like parasailing, deep sea fishing which is one of its kind in the world since Bora Bora is home of over 500 species of marine wildlife. There is also family hiking and climbing trails. On the relaxation part the island is filled with natives specializing in ritual massage services. There are also private lagoon cruises, bus tours, and many Motu hangouts. The island also offers flight seeing, along with helicopter tours.
The tropical sea sometimes reaches 30 °C (86 °F), making it perfect for various water activities. Swimming in the lagoon in perfectly clear warm water has the advantage of being free and can be very enjoyable. The beaches of Bora Bora are not huge by any standards, nor are they crammed with people. The most famous beach, Matira Beach is at the southern tip of the main island.
Like swimming, snorkeling is possible in many areas close to the shore, and even in Matira Beach you will be surrounded by multicolor tropical fish in seconds and in shallow waters. Remember to get out and put on sunscreen from time to time as the sun is strong and you will get burned badly if you stay in the water for an extended period of time.
Several companies operate snorkeling tours in the lagoon, bringing you by boat farther off the coast:
- Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari. Shark and ray feeding is typically done in shallow waters inside the lagoon. Approximately 10-20 sharks as well as 10-15 rays will approach the boat and swim nearby, largely avoiding any snorkelers courageous enough to swim near.
- Shark Boy.
- Jourdain Tetuanui, +689 677 934. Offering many and varied services from water taxi to tours, fishing to feeding.
- Windward Islands Yacht Charter. One of the world's largest yacht charter companies, it provides charters from bareboat to luxury yachts.
- TopDive Scuba, Vaitape.
- Nemo World Scuba, Matira.
- Aquasafari. If you do not have a diving license, but still want to enjoy the underwater scenery, this is an option. You do not need to know how to swim in order to wear the breathing undersea apparatus, and children from 8 are accepted.
- Jet ski tours around the interior island are well worth the effort as they allow to appreciate the scenery from various viewpoints, although they do inflict noise and pollution.
- Kiteboarding is becoming popular at the southern tip of Matira.
Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari. Shark and ray feeding is typically done in shallow waters inside the lagoon. Approximately 10-20 sharks as well as 10-15 rays will approach the boat and swim nearby, largely avoiding any snorkelers courageous enough to swim near.
Shark Boy.
Jourdain Tetuanui, +689 677 934. Offering many and varied services from water taxi to tours, fishing to feeding.
Windward Islands Yacht Charter. One of the world's largest yacht charter companies, it provides charters from bareboat to luxury yachts.
TopDive Scuba, Vaitape.
Nemo World Scuba, Matira.
Aquasafari. If you do not have a diving license, but still want to enjoy the underwater scenery, this is an option. You do not need to know how to swim in order to wear the breathing undersea apparatus, and children from 8 are accepted.
Jet ski tours around the interior island are well worth the effort as they allow to appreciate the scenery from various viewpoints, although they do inflict noise and pollution.
Kiteboarding is becoming popular at the southern tip of Matira.
The island is about 32 km (20 miles) around, and bikes and small cars are available for rent at various sites. It is well worth the investment to ride the perimeter of the island.
The Jeep tours are well worth a trip. You'll have a good time climbing through some rough trails on the island, and you'll get some breathtaking views. In addition, you'll tour the American World War II ruins, such as gun emplacements and bunkers.
It is possible to access the summit of Mt. Pahia by foot, although neither the staff at City Hall nor the Gendarmerie will tell you how if you do not have a guide, as even adept hikers have gotten lost or been injured. To access the trailhead, head 100 m (330 ft) north of the cross-street into Vaitape harbor. There will be an arcade of shops to your right. Look for a dirt road between the antique dealer and snack toward the north end of the arcade. Head up the dirt road about 150 m (465 ft) and look for a small grass field on your left that is just before the last house on the drive. It is wise to ask the owner for passage, as you must traverse privately-owned property to access the trail, which will initially appear faint but become more defined after the first 10 m (33 ft). Continue along the trail until you reach a fork, which will have two other trails heading north and south (through a plantation and an open field, respectively), and the main trail up to the top due east. Make sure you are well-provisioned, as the 600 m elevation gain takes place over a relatively short distance, and be sure to identify the trees or rocks with white-red-white striping that will show you the way. Some of the latter sections can be precarious, so make sure you keep your grip and be courteous to those who may be downstream of falling rocks unintentionally loosed by your foothold. The rope climb at the end is exciting! If you want more, head south along the uncommonly-traveled trail for spectacular views.
The rich culture has influenced the shopping market greatly. Travelers have their choices of art galleries, studios, shops that are set up in traditional and modern settings. They also have an abundance of jewelry and black pearls.
The specialty of Bora Bora is Black Pearls. Commonly known around the world as Tahitian Black Pearls, the pearls of Bora Bora are indigenous to the remote lagoons of French Polynesia in the South Pacific. Today, the Tahitian Black Pearl has become an exotic gem sought after by celebrities and pearl aficionados alike. The most popular place to buy and make your own Black Pearl Jewellery is The Farm at the Bora Bora Pearl Company.
Self-catering is a way of dealing with the high cost of restaurants in Bora Bora, but groceries are more expensive than on Tahiti. In Vaitape, you can find a medium-sized general groceries store (called Chin Lee) near the center of town, and a Super U supermarket on the road heading north out of town. A smaller grocery store near Matira beach can be helpful if you stay in the area and you do not want to get back to Vaitape, but the choice is more limited.
The island of Bora Bora is heavily influenced by the French culture hence the rich local and French cuisines. They also have a wide selection of international restaurants.
- The roulottes (food trucks) in the carpark in the center of town from 17:00 onward offer a variety of meals in generous servings, e.g. 700 F for a hamburger, or 1400 F for grilled Mahi Mahi with fries (Jan 2019).
- Le panda d'or. M-Sa 11:00-13:00 and 18:00-21:00. Chinese restaurant and take-away.
The roulottes (food trucks) in the carpark in the center of town from 17:00 onward offer a variety of meals in generous servings, e.g. 700 F for a hamburger, or 1400 F for grilled Mahi Mahi with fries (Jan 2019).
Le panda d'or. M-Sa 11:00-13:00 and 18:00-21:00. Chinese restaurant and take-away.
- Matira Pizza. 11:00-14:00; 16:00-19:30. A small pizza shack that provides a multitude of different pizzas at reasonable prices. They are on the main road between the Sofitel Marara and Matira Beach. Place the order for pizza, then walk south to Tiara Market for beverages. 1,300-1,900 F.
- Bounty Snack. Very reasonably priced but excellent Tahitian restaurant.
Matira Pizza. 11:00-14:00; 16:00-19:30. A small pizza shack that provides a multitude of different pizzas at reasonable prices. They are on the main road between the Sofitel Marara and Matira Beach. Place the order for pizza, then walk south to Tiara Market for beverages. 1,300-1,900 F.
Bounty Snack. Very reasonably priced but excellent Tahitian restaurant.
- Bloody Mary's, on the western shore of the main island, at the southern tip of Pofai Bay, roughly half way between Nunue and Maitra Beach. One of the most famous of restaurants in Bora Bora, it is known for its American flavor. As with most restaurants on Bora Bora, expect to spend US$60-80 per person. Some visitors might be a little surprised by the service (speed over quality....) Outside they have a pair of big boards with the names on all of the famous people who have eaten there, e.g. Pamela Anderson, Pierce Brosnan, Carlos Delgado, Marlon Brando, and Janet Jackson. Service general begins with arrival from a "shuttle service" from your hotel's drop off point. Patrons then decide their meal while looking directly at the current "meat" selections. After selecting your meal, you are seated at a table lodged in the sand with a stool. Service will come asking for your drink choice at this point. Food will be served later. As everyone arrives/leaves at the same time, plan on being there for at least 1.5 hours. US$60-80 per person.
- La Villa Mahana, Pofai Bay. A small French restaurant with only 5 tables. Serves the best French food on the island, by an amazing chef. Make reservations. Complete meal with wine pairs under US$200 per person.
Bloody Mary's, on the western shore of the main island, at the southern tip of Pofai Bay, roughly half way between Nunue and Maitra Beach. One of the most famous of restaurants in Bora Bora, it is known for its American flavor. As with most restaurants on Bora Bora, expect to spend US$60-80 per person. Some visitors might be a little surprised by the service (speed over quality....) Outside they have a pair of big boards with the names on all of the famous people who have eaten there, e.g. Pamela Anderson, Pierce Brosnan, Carlos Delgado, Marlon Brando, and Janet Jackson. Service general begins with arrival from a "shuttle service" from your hotel's drop off point. Patrons then decide their meal while looking directly at the current "meat" selections. After selecting your meal, you are seated at a table lodged in the sand with a stool. Service will come asking for your drink choice at this point. Food will be served later. As everyone arrives/leaves at the same time, plan on being there for at least 1.5 hours. US$60-80 per person.
La Villa Mahana, Pofai Bay. A small French restaurant with only 5 tables. Serves the best French food on the island, by an amazing chef. Make reservations. Complete meal with wine pairs under US$200 per person.
- If you're looking for nightlife and drinking, one of the most popular drinking venues on Bora Bora is Bloody Mary's. Bloody Mary's is essentially an American-barbecue fish and steak restaurant. Besides drinking Bloody Mary's, the chef will chargrill steak and fish to order.
- The island's sole nightclub is Le Récife Discothèque, about 1 km (1/2 mile) north of Vaitape (tel. 67 73 87), which opens only on Fridays and Saturdays at 23:00 and closes at 03:00.
If you're looking for nightlife and drinking, one of the most popular drinking venues on Bora Bora is Bloody Mary's. Bloody Mary's is essentially an American-barbecue fish and steak restaurant. Besides drinking Bloody Mary's, the chef will chargrill steak and fish to order.
The island's sole nightclub is Le Récife Discothèque, about 1 km (1/2 mile) north of Vaitape (tel. 67 73 87), which opens only on Fridays and Saturdays at 23:00 and closes at 03:00.
See #Get in
Maupiti, located 40 km from Bora Bora, is a smaller and less touristic but equally charming volcanic island. This island isn't for partying. Only fishermen will be doing this trip by boat.