Explore Bora Bora

Bora Bora is one of those places in the Pacific Islands that makes you wonder how such a place could possibly exist. Photos of its dreamlike lagoon, azure Pacific waters, and glamorous resorts seem to pop up all over the Internet. But what do we really know about the mystical Bora Bora?

For one, it’s considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Honeymooners love it here! And who doesn’t want to spend some time in one of the water bungalows dangling over the lagoon? How lovely would it be to wake up in the morning and slide into the water? Then there’s beautiful Mount Otemanu, reaching into the sky.

Bora Bora is incredibly tiny. Take advantage of the remoteness to enjoy some quality rest time while soaking up your stunning natural surroundings – and no, you don’t have to be a honeymooner to do that. You’ll find white-sand beaches, tropical jungles covered in colourful hibiscus, and plenty of opportunities for diving and snorkelling.

Places to Visit in Bora Bora

• Mount Otemanu
• Coral Garden
• Point Matira
• White Valley
• Bora Bora Lagoonarium
• Matira Beach

Unique Things to See and Do in Bora Bora

• Swim and snorkel in Bora Bora’s lagoon
• Find the abandoned hidden US cannons
• Snorkel in the Coral Garden
• Feed Manta Rays at Point Matira
• See the sharks and barracudas at White Valley
• Sail around Bora Bora

Bora Bora History

Bora Bora is part of the Pacific Islands in French Polynesia. Its name roughly means “first born,” which likely means its natives held the island in high regard. Legend says that King Ra’iatea gave the island to his son to rule. He built up a surprisingly powerful group of warriors for such a small island. The locals hold many traditional Polynesian values from Bora Bora’s past, including dance.

James Cook was the first visitor from Europe, in 1820. Of course, not long after, London set up a missionary. Bora Bora strongly resisted the French protectorate that had taken over Tahiti, and this lasted until Bora Bora was annexed in 1888.

The United States played a role here in WWII. After Pearl Harbor was bombed, over 6000 men were sent to set up a US supply base in Bora Bora. The current airport is leftover from this time, and you can still see the eight giant naval cannons installed around the island during that time.

Bora Bora has undergone some environmental damage over the past few decades, largely due to its boost in tourism. Thankfully, the island is doing much to take care of the situation, and you’ll definitely find that paradise you’re looking for.

Getting Around Bora Bora

Once you’ve arrived, a ferry will take you from the airport to Vaitape, the main town. From there, many resorts and hotels will have transfers available. Taxis are available, as well as one bus that goes around the island, but most resorts are only accessible by boat. You can also rent a bike to get around (there isn’t much area to cover), but the roads are in pretty rough shape.

You can do some island hopping from Bora Bora as well. Various ferries and boats serve Ra’iatea, Taha’a, Pape’ete, and Huahine.

Best Time of Year to Travel to Bora Bora

The months of November and April make for the best times to visit Bora Bora. These are the shoulder seasons, with lovely temperatures and less tourism craziness. Low season is from December to March when things are a bit wetter and the mosquitos are out in full force. The rest of the year, tourism is booming.

Ultimately, there’s no real terrible time to visit Bora Bora. It’s basically perfection all year round.