Bora Bora, a gem of French Polynesia, is a compact island spanning just 6 miles long and a little over 2 miles wide. It boasts a dormant volcano at its center, surrounded by lush jungles that cascade into a mesmerizing aquamarine lagoon.

Why Bora Bora is a Must-Visit Destination

Whether you’re relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring underwater worlds, or indulging in luxury experiences, Bora Bora offers something for everyone. Its unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty guarantees memories that last a lifetime.

11 Best Things to Do in Bora Bora

1. Discover the Wonders of Bora Bora Lagoonarium

Why Visit the Lagoonarium?

The Bora Bora Lagoonarium is a natural aquarium on a private motu. Unlike artificial enclosures, this unique attraction allows you to interact with marine life in their natural habitat.

Activities to Enjoy

Snorkel alongside blacktip reef sharks, lemon sharks, and manta rays.
Participate in cultural activities like opening coconuts and preparing poisson cru.
Enjoy a guided canoe tour and a barbecue picnic accompanied by traditional ukulele music.

Insider Tips

Book a half-day tour to start your day or opt for a full-day package for a complete experience.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and maximize your time with the marine life.

2. Relax at Matira Beach

What Makes Matira Beach Special?

Matira Beach is Bora Bora’s largest public beach and a favorite among both locals and tourists. Its calm waters and soft sands are ideal for families and relaxation.

How to Spend Your Time

Swim in the crystal-clear lagoon or bask in the sun under the shade of palm trees.
Visit nearby restaurants for fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
Rent a Jet Ski or kayak for an adventurous twist.

Getting There

Located 5 miles south of Vaitape, Matira Beach is easily accessible by taxi, bicycle, or car. It is open 24/7, making it a perfect spot for a sunrise or sunset visit.

3. Embark on a Thrilling 4×4 Excursion

Explore Bora Bora’s Interior

For those seeking adventure, 4×4 tours offer a fantastic way to uncover the island’s hidden gems. Guides provide insights into local history, culture, and legends.

Popular Options

Cultural Expeditions: Learn about Polynesian traditions.
Romantic Sunset Tours: Perfect for couples.
Adventure Rides: Navigate steep, muddy trails for spectacular views.

Pro Tip

Bring a GoPro to capture the stunning vistas and thrilling moments on your journey.

4. Cruise Bora Bora’s Waters

Endless Options for Boat Tours

From serene sunset cruises to adrenaline-pumping Jet Ski rides, Bora Bora offers a plethora of boating experiences.

Highlights of Boat Tours

Snorkel with sharks and rays in the lagoon.
Visit secluded motus for a private beach experience.
Enjoy onboard meals featuring local delicacies.

Best Operators

Popular providers like Lagoon Service and Moana Adventure Tours ensure high-quality experiences tailored to your preferences.

5. Snorkel at Coral Gardens

Dive into a Natural Aquarium

The Coral Gardens, located near the InterContinental Le Moana Resort, are a snorkeler’s paradise. The vibrant coral and diverse marine life make it an unforgettable spot.

What to Look For

Blacktip reef sharks and stingrays gliding gracefully.
Clownfish, parrotfish, and even moray eels hiding in coral crevices.

Best Time to Visit

Arrive early in the morning for the best visibility and to beat the crowds.

6. Stroll Through Vaitape

Discover Bora Bora’s Main Town

Although small, Vaitape is a hub of activity with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Must-See Attractions

Browse Tahitian black pearl jewelry at local boutiques.
Visit the gallery of Alain Despert for vibrant artwork.
Sample Polynesian and French cuisine at local eateries.

7. Join an Eco Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari

An Unforgettable Marine Adventure

This 2.5-hour tour takes you to three stunning lagoon locations. Swim alongside blacktip sharks, rays, and a variety of colorful fish.

What’s Included

Knowledgeable guides who share insights about marine life.
Options to upgrade with a barbecue lunch on a private motu.

Essential Gear

Pack your own snorkel and fins for a more comfortable experience.

8. Dive at Anau Site

Meet the Majestic Manta Rays

The Anau Dive Site is home to reef manta rays with wingspans up to 14 feet. This serene spot is ideal for beginner scuba divers.

Tips for Divers

Early morning dives offer the best visibility.
Certified divers can explore deeper areas for an immersive experience.

9. Faanui: A Glimpse into Bora Bora’s History

A Relaxing, Historical Destination

Faanui offers a serene atmosphere where time seems to slow down. The bay is lined with casual restaurants and lodges, making it a peaceful place to relax. However, the real allure lies in its historical significance. At Tereia Point, you’ll find two abandoned naval cannons, remnants from World War II. These cannons were strategically placed throughout Bora Bora by American forces, although they were never used in battle.

Historical Significance and Accessibility

During WWII, these cannons were installed for lookout purposes. While many other cannons are located on private property or are inaccessible, Faanui’s cannons are easily accessible via a short hike. A local guide can offer insights into the history of the site, enriching your visit.

Tips for Visiting Faanui

Best Time to Visit: The early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid the midday heat.
What to Bring: Don’t forget your camera to capture the lagoon’s vibrant colors and the scenic views of the outer motu.
Accessibility: The hike to the cannons is short, but some visitors find the final steep hill challenging. Ensure you wear appropriate footwear.
How to Get There: Faanui is located on Bora Bora’s northern end and can be reached by bike, taxi, or a 4×4 excursion. The site is open 24 hours, and there is no admission fee.

10. Mount Pahia: Hike to the Summit for Breathtaking Views

Why Hike Mount Pahia?

Rising 2,100 feet above sea level, Mount Pahia offers some of the most spectacular views of Bora Bora. This iconic mountain, with its dual peaks, contributes to the island’s gem-like silhouette. While you can admire Mount Pahia from below, reaching its summit promises an even more magnificent panorama, including the famed blue lagoon.

Hiking the Trail

The hike to the summit begins in Vaitape, covering roughly 4 miles. With a leisurely pace, the hike takes about four hours to complete. While some sections of the trail are steep and slippery, they are manageable with proper footwear and the use of ropes in some areas. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, consider taking a lagoon boat tour around the island for views of the mountain from the water.

Tips for Hiking Mount Pahia

Start Early: Begin your hike in the early morning to avoid the midday heat.
Pack in Advance: Stock up on snacks and drinks the day before, as the market may be closed during your departure.
Trail Markers: Look for red ribbons marking the trailhead. Be cautious of slippery conditions if it has rained recently.
Guided Tours: Although you can hike without a guide, many prefer to book a guided tour with Polynesia Island Tours. Prices for guided tours start at 14,000 CFP (approximately $130) per person and include transportation.

11. Mount Otemanu: A Volcanic Adventure

Discover the Majesty of Mount Otemanu

Mount Otemanu is the highest peak in Bora Bora, rising to an impressive 2,400 feet. As the remnant of an extinct volcano, the mountain offers dramatic scenery and a range of adventure options. Although the summit is generally off-limits for most visitors due to trail closures, you can still enjoy the mountain’s grandeur from its foothills or by taking part in a thrilling four-wheel-drive excursion through tropical forests.

Exploring Mount Otemanu

Admire the volcanic beauty of Mount Otemanu from almost every corner of Bora Bora. Whether you’re relaxing in an overwater bungalow or cruising along the circle island road, the mountain’s emerald glow is visible throughout the island. For those seeking a more active experience, a four-wheel-drive tour allows you to explore the foothills and gain panoramic views of the lagoon.

Hiking Mount Otemanu

While hiking Mount Otemanu is possible, it’s best suited for experienced adventurers. The trails are poorly marked, often cross private property, and require sturdy footwear. If you choose to hike, it’s highly recommended to go with a local guide for safety and navigation.

Tips for Hiking Mount Otemanu

Guided Hikes: Due to the trail’s difficulty and danger, it’s advisable to hike with a guide. Ask your hotel for recommendations.
4×4 Excursions: A 4×4 vehicle tour of the slopes of Mount Otemanu is a safer, equally exciting option for those not wishing to hike.
Best Time to Visit: To ensure the best views and avoid crowds, plan your visit early in the day.

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