11 Best Things To Do In Bora Bora
The dreamy isle of Bora Bora is the most-visited island in French Polynesia and is firmly etched into many a traveler’s bucket list. Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, this breathtakingly beautiful island is renowned for its mesmerizing blue water, luxurious overwater bungalows, and postcard-perfect beaches.
Whether you’re docking on Bora Bora as part of a cruise ship tour or visiting the island for the ultimate honeymoon, Bora Bora is one destination that I can guarantee you will never forget.
As someone who has felt the magic of this South Pacific paradise firsthand, I wanted to share some of the experiences I was lucky enough to have. From sun-soaked beaches to exhilarating underwater adventures, here are the 11 best things to do in Bora Bora!
1. Soak in the Sun on Matira Beach
When you think of Bora Bora, the image that likely comes to mind is that of pristine, white sand beaches stretching endlessly against the backdrop of azure waters. Matira Beach stands as a testament to that imagery. Matira Beach is Bora Bora’s only public beach, but that doesn’t stop it from being widely recognized as one of the best beaches anywhere in French Polynesia – and arguably, the world.
Its gently sloping sands and crystal-clear waters make Matira Beach perfect for both sunbathing and taking a dip and there is a colorful coral reef just a hundred yards from the shoreline which is teeming with colorful fish and other marine life.
There are also some excellent restaurants and bars behind Matira Beach serving freshly caught seafood and cocktails.
2. Explore Bora Bora’s Lagoon
Bora Bora’s lagoon is a true tropical treasure trove that is home to a whole world of colorful coral and vibrant sea life.
Snorkeling in the coral gardens of the lagoon is an absolute must for anyone visiting Bora Bora. I have never seen so many species in my life with tropical fish, sea turtles, black tipped reef sharks (don’t worry, they are safe!), and eagle rays all abundant in the glistening lagoon.
The lagoon is also a fantastic place to try out some watersports. If you’re in for a little more adventure, a jet ski ride around the lagoon lets you enjoy the panoramic beauty of the island. On the other hand, if you prefer something a more laid-back exploration (like me!), hiring a kayak or paddleboard is the best way to experience the sights and sounds at your own pace.
3. Watch the Sun Set with a Cocktail
The sunsets on Bora Bora are nothing short of breathtaking, and as the sky transforms into a vivid palette of oranges, purples, and reds, there’s no better way to appreciate this daily spectacle than by getting a bit tipsy! Two of the Bora Bora’s best places to watch the sunset, cocktail in hand, are Bloody Mary’s and the Bora Bora Yacht Club.
Bloody Mary’s
Bloody Mary’s is an iconic beachside establishment that has been a hit among tourists and celebrities alike since 1979. Located on the western side of Bora Bora’s main island, Bloody Mary’s has a thatched roof, traditional Polynesian décor, and a sandy floor that gives you a true island feel.
While the cocktail list boasts an array of tropical concoctions, their signature Bloody Mary is an absolute must-try. Bloody Mary’s also has amazing food and one of its most unique features is the daily seafood display, where you can choose your fresh catch of the day to be grilled to perfection. As the evening progresses, the warm glow of tiki torches and the fantastic live music provide the perfect atmosphere to dance the night away (especially after a few cocktails!)
Bora Bora Yacht Club
Also established in the 1970s, Bora Bora Yacht Club has been a favorite mooring spot for sailors and yacht enthusiasts for decades. However, it’s not just a place to dock but a dining haven with its open-air restaurant and bar, offering panoramic views of the sunset. The wooden deck, draped in fairy lights, provides a perfect setting to unwind and their drink menu offers a diverse range of local beer, wines, and cocktails.
Again, the fresh seafood dishes at Bora Bora Yacht Club, especially the ceviche and grilled mahi-mahi (a Bora Bora staple), are crowd favorites. The club often hosts sailing events, making it a vibrant spot to mingle with locals and international visitors. Just make sure you get there early to grab one of their cozy sea-facing lounges and watch the sun go down.
4. Take a Private Bora Bora Tour
One of the best ways to truly appreciate the magic of Bora Bora is by signing up for one of the many private tours on offer. Bora Bora may seem small, but there’s a lot to explore, and a guided tour around the island ensures you won’t miss out on any of its hidden gems.
Here are four tours that I really enjoyed:
A Jet Ski Tour Around the Island
Nothing says adventure like riding your own jet ski around Bora Bora’s crystalline waters and jet skis are available to hire at all the resorts. The best thing about a guided jet ski ride is that they will take you to some of the island’s most scenic spots, so you can take a dip, snap some photos, or just soak in the beauty.
Guided Snorkeling Excursion
As well as Bora Bora’s lagoon, the waters that surround the island are a true snorkeler’s paradise, with stunning coral reefs and rich ocean life.
Regular readers know that I am a bit of a snorkeling fanatic, but snorkeling in Bora Bora takes some beating! There are hundreds of types of tropical fish, native blacktip reef sharks, lemon sharks, sting rays, sea turtles, and countless other sea creatures.
In addition to snorkeling, Bora Bora also has a number of scuba diving tours for both beginners and advanced divers alike where local guides will take you to all of the best spots.
Boat Tour
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to explore the island. From the comfort of the boat, you can admire the stunning coastline, secluded bays, and the dramatic silhouette of Mount Otemanu in the distance. You can choose between a half day tour or a full day tour with a fantastic lunch provided on the full day.
Bora Bora Jeep Tour
For an overland adventure, there are a number of jeep tours that traverse the island’s rugged central terrains, offering unique viewpoints and a chance to learn about the history, culture, and natural wonders of Bora Bora. You can book a jeep tour from your Bora Bora resort or online.
5. Stay on a Private Motu
The majority of visitors stay in a Bora Bora resort away from the main island’s hustle and bustle with most resorts having their own private motus. These include the Intercontinental Bora Bora, the Regis Resort, and the Marriot all of which have a number of luxurious overwater bungalows beautifully crafted from local wood.
Staying in an overwater bungalow is undoubtedly expensive (in fact, Bora Bora in general is one of the most expensive destinations on the planet) but the stunning views are unparalleled and you can slip right into the crystal clear waters right from your doorstep.
6. Go Deep Sea Fishing
If you’re someone who gets thrilled with the idea of catching a big one, Bora Bora’s waters are teeming with prized catches like marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo.
Whether you’re an amateur or an experienced angler, there are numerous charters available, complete with all the necessary gear and expert guides to ensure you have a fruitful day out at sea.
After a long day, you can head back to shore and have a local chef prepare your fresh catch, allowing you to taste the very essence of the Pacific Ocean. It doesn’t get fresher than that!
7. Check out the Turtle Sanctuary at Le Meridien
A visit to Bora Bora is incomplete without spending time with its incredible marine creatures. Le Meridien’s Turtle Sanctuary is a must-visit, dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of the endangered green and hawksbill sea turtles. Not only do they rescue and care for injured turtles, but they also focus on educating visitors about these beautiful creatures and the importance of conserving their natural habitats.
The turtle sanctuary is located at the Le Meridien resort and you can observe the sea turtles in their natural environment, and learn about their life cycle, feeding habits, and the challenges they face in the wild.
The passionate staff at the sanctuary are always eager to share their knowledge and answer questions, and the sanctuary plays a significant role in the protection of the island’s marine life.
8. Go for a Hike
Bora Bora isn’t just about its warm waters and golden beaches; its mountains and trails offer an equally mesmerizing experience.
The most challenging yet rewarding hike is the climb up Mt Pahia and Mt Otemanu, the two surviving peaks from an extinct volcano. Those who undertake the challenge will be rewarded with incredible views of the island and the vast ocean.
The climbs usually take around 6 hours or more, depending on your pace, and make sure you slap on the sunscreen. Along the way, you will stop for 1 hour for lunch, giving you the chance to catch your breath, and absorb the beauty around you. For those interested in the island’s history, you can also visit Otemanu’s ancient cave on the trail. These caves are believed to be remnants of the island’s early Polynesian settlers and offer a peek into the past.
Another path worth exploring is The Valley of the King’s Trail. These ancient paths wind through old Polynesian villages, offering a blend of history and nature. As you traverse these trails, you’re walking on paths that have been trodden upon for centuries, making the experience deeply evocative.
9. Take a Stroll Around Vaitape
Located on the main island, Vaitape is Bora Bora’s main town and offers a delightful blend of local life and tourist-friendly spots. Away from the secluded resorts, it is the perfect place to get a real taste of the island’s daily rhythm, experience its culture, and shop for local crafts.
Apart from shopping, Vaitape is also a great place to indulge in the local culinary scene. From fresh fish and seafood served in local eateries to the flavors of the local beer, Vaitape is a gastronomic delight with prices that are lower than in the big resorts and restaurants. The town is also lined with art galleries, while the Tahiti Pearl Market located just outside the town is renowned for the local black pearls and exquisite jewelry.
Venturing deeper into Vaitape, you’ll find charming boutiques, local grocery store options, and friendly locals always ready to stop for a chat.
10. Take a Helicopter Tour of French Polynesia
To truly grasp the sheer magnificence of not just Bora Bora, but the entirety of French Polynesia, taking to the skies is definitely the best way to experience it. You can charter a helicopter tour from any of the major resorts and the view gives you a unique perspective, allowing you to see the intricate dance of land, water, and coral formations. It’s a panorama of vibrant lagoons, towering volcanic peaks, and coral atolls, all woven together in a tapestry of natural beauty.
11. Explore the American WWII Ruins
Delving into Bora Bora’s history is essential to appreciate the depth and significance of this tropical paradise. During World War II, Bora Bora became a crucial refueling point and military supply base for the United States and the American forces.
Many of the guided jeep tours will take you to the ruins of these bases and as you navigate the island’s rugged terrains, you’ll encounter massive coastal guns still pointing out to sea, abandoned bunkers hidden amidst the foliage, and old airstrips, now taken over by nature.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Bora Bora
So there you have it! My (humble!) opinion on the 11 best things to do in Bora Bora.
Seriously, whether you’re looking to bask in the tranquility of the azure waters, get up close and personal with the island’s ocean life, or just relax on the deck of your very own overwater bungalow, Bora Bora is an unbeatable destination.
There is no doubt that Bora Bora is expensive, but if you get the opportunity to go, it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
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“How boring would the world be if everywhere and everyone were the same. Safe travels and good adventures.” Scuba Jay
