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Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Destination Guide

Bora Bora

French Polynesia

Best things to do in Bora Bora

28 curated attractions in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

May - October

Average temp

26°C/79°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Very safe

About Bora Bora

Bora Bora is a small island in French Polynesia known for its overwater bungalows and turquoise lagoons. The central lagoon is actually a caldera, which means it’s surrounded by jagged peaks and a reef, creating ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving. The island's economy revolves around tourism, catering mostly to honeymooners and those seeking luxury getaways. Many visitors flock to Matira Beach for its soft sand, while the Bora Bora Lagoonarium offers an opportunity to swim with colorful marine life. However, don't expect much in the way of public transport; you'll find yourself relying on boats or rented scooters to navigate this paradise. The main attraction, of course, is simply the experience of being on a remote island that's visually and designed for relaxation.

Who it's for

Ideal for couples looking for a romantic escape and anyone who enjoys sun, sea, and luxury accommodations. Not suitable for those seeking nightlife or budget travel options, as the costs can pile up quickly, and the island's small size means limited activities.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The island is small enough to explore in a few hours by scooter or bicycle
  • Regular boat transfers connect main attractions, but schedules can be erratic
  • The airport is just a short boat ride from the main resorts
  • Expect to arrange most transport in advance if you want to avoid sitting around
Bora Bora Lagoonarium

Bora Bora Lagoonarium

Aquariums
Motu Roa

Motu Roa

Islands
Vaitape

Vaitape

Streets & neighbourhoods
Toopua Iti

Toopua Iti

Islands
Leopard Rays Trench

Leopard Rays Trench

Snorkelling & diving spots
Anau Lookout

Anau Lookout

Scenic viewpoints
Faanui Valley

Faanui Valley

Forests & jungles
Anau

Anau

Traditional villages
Teavanui Pass

Teavanui Pass

Snorkelling & diving spots
Bora Bora Parasail

Bora Bora Parasail

Paragliding, ziplines & air adventures
Faanui Bay

Faanui Bay

Beaches
Pofai Bay

Pofai Bay

Lakes
Bora Bora Pearl Farm

Bora Bora Pearl Farm

Specialty & quirky museums
Motu Piti A'au

Motu Piti A'au

Islands
Bora Bora Lagoon

Bora Bora Lagoon

Lakes
Matira Beach

Matira Beach

Beaches
Motu Tapu

Motu Tapu

Islands
Bora Bora Public Beach

Bora Bora Public Beach

Beaches
Mount Pahia

Mount Pahia

Mountains & volcanoes
Motu Toopua

Motu Toopua

Islands
Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens

Snorkelling & diving spots
Aquatic Gardens

Aquatic Gardens

Snorkelling & diving spots
Bora Bora

Bora Bora

Islands
Amanahune Bay

Amanahune Bay

Beaches
Bora Bora Museum

Bora Bora Museum

History museums
Mount Otemanu

Mount Otemanu

Mountains & volcanoes
Bora Bora Ecological Centre

Bora Bora Ecological Centre

Science & natural history museums
Marae Fare Opu

Marae Fare Opu

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites

Where to eat in Bora Bora

The places worth planning a meal around.

Bloody Mary's

Bloody Mary's

Seafood · $$$

★ 4.1 · 719 reviews

Bloody Mary's Restaurant

Bloody Mary's Restaurant

French, Polynesian

★ 4.0 · 546 reviews

La Villa Mahana

La Villa Mahana

French · $$$$

★ 4.6 · 206 reviews

Fare Manuia

Fare Manuia

French-Polynesian · $$

Blue Nui Restaurant

Blue Nui Restaurant

Polynesian, Seafood · $$

★ 4.8

Restaurant Matira

Restaurant Matira

Polynesian · $$

★ 4.7

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