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Bora Bora
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Bora Bora combines a turquoise lagoon, volcanic peaks, Polynesian culture and world-famous water activities in French Polynesia's Leeward Islands.

Island and Lagoon

Bora Bora lies in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia, surrounded by a broad turquoise lagoon and a protective coral reef. The island's central peaks, Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, rise from the remnants of an ancient volcano, while smaller motu, or islets, form a low green fringe around the water. Most visitors arrive by air on the motu of Bora Bora Airport before crossing the lagoon by boat to Vaitape, the island's principal settlement.
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Village Life and Tradition

Vaitape provides a practical centre for shops, services and transport, while the coastal road links smaller communities, churches, family-run businesses and beaches around the island. Polynesian culture remains visible in the language, dance, outrigger canoes, fishing traditions and locally made crafts. Marae, the stone ceremonial sites of pre-Christian Polynesia, offer a reminder that the island's history extends well beyond its modern resort reputation.

Life on the Water

The lagoon shapes nearly every visitor experience, from swimming and snorkelling among coral gardens to travelling by boat between the main island and the motu. Matira Beach is the best-known public beach, with shallow water and memorable sunsets, while the reef creates sheltered conditions for paddleboarding and lagoon excursions. Bora Bora's accommodation ranges from locally oriented pensions and guesthouses to internationally marketed resorts, but its defining character remains the close relationship between mountain, reef and ocean.

When is the best time to visit Bora Bora?

Best: June–August · 28–29°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January30314
February30319
March30263
April30193
May29140
June (best)2998
July (best)2890
August (best)2987
September2993
October30133
November31182
December31274

Getting to and around Bora Bora

How to get there

Most international visitors reach Bora Bora through Tahiti, arriving at Faa'a International Airport near Papeete before taking a domestic flight operated within French Polynesia to Bora Bora Airport. The airport is on Motu Mute, a separate islet in the lagoon, so onward boat transfer is essential; accommodation providers and local services commonly coordinate this stage, although arrangements vary. There are also maritime connections from other islands, but schedules and availability are subject to change. Bora Bora has no direct international airport, and flight or boat connections should be planned as part of the complete journey rather than treated as separate informal transfers.

Transportation

Bora Bora's main island is linked by a coastal road, with Vaitape serving as the principal settlement and transport hub. Walking and cycling are practical for some stretches, although heat, limited shade and the island's dispersed communities make bicycles, taxis, hotel transfers or rented vehicles useful for longer distances. Boats are indispensable for reaching the airport, motu accommodation and many lagoon activities. Public transport is more limited than in a large urban destination, and resort transfers may follow their own arrangements. Roads are generally more useful for exploring the main island than for reaching every beach or waterfront property.

Best attractions in Bora Bora

Bora Bora's principal attractions are shaped by its lagoon and volcanic landscape. Mount Otemanu dominates views from almost every direction, while Mount Pahia provides a contrasting ridgeline above the main island; hiking in these mountains should be undertaken only with suitable local guidance, as routes can be steep and conditions change. Matira Beach offers accessible swimming, shallow lagoon water and sunset views, while coral gardens around the reef reveal colourful fish in clear, sheltered conditions. Vaitape is useful for seeing local shops, churches, everyday services and the rhythm of island life beyond the resorts. Boat excursions connect visitors with the surrounding motu and marine habitats, often combining snorkelling with an explanation of Polynesian traditions. Along the coast, wartime relics such as American guns and other remnants of the 1942 base add historical depth to an otherwise intensely natural setting, while marae provide a quieter introduction to pre-Christian Polynesian heritage.

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Best landmarks in Bora Bora

Mount Otemanu is Bora Bora's defining natural landmark, a jagged volcanic remnant whose dark slopes rise above the lagoon and appear in views from the main island and surrounding motu. Mount Pahia forms another prominent summit, although both mountains demand caution and should not be treated as casual hiking terrain. The stone marae around the island, including Fare Opu, represent the religious and social organisation of pre-Christian Polynesian communities; their age and condition vary, so visitors should follow local guidance and avoid climbing on the stones. Vaitape's churches and civic buildings reflect the island's later Christian and colonial history, while coastal American gun emplacements and other wartime remains recall the United States base established in 1942. Together these sites demonstrate Bora Bora's passage from Polynesian chiefly society through colonial administration and military occupation to its present island economy.

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Explore Bora Bora on the map

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Best restaurants in Bora Bora

Dining in Bora Bora ranges from Polynesian home-style cooking and casual snacks to polished resort restaurants overlooking the lagoon. Local menus commonly draw on fresh fish, tuna, mahi-mahi, coconut, taro, breadfruit and tropical fruit, with poisson cru—raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime—among the best-known Tahitian specialities. Visitors may also encounter grilled reef or lagoon fish, sashimi influenced by Pacific and Asian connections, and French techniques adapted to island ingredients. Vaitape and the main island provide access to local restaurants, food trucks and small shops, while resort dining on the motu often places greater emphasis on French, international and seafood cuisine. Meals can be shaped by boat logistics and island supply chains, so the range is less metropolitan than in Papeete. Market-style purchases and locally prepared snacks offer a useful counterpoint to formal dining.

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Best bars in Bora Bora

Bora Bora's evenings are generally relaxed rather than club-centred. Resort bars provide the largest concentration of cocktails, wine, beer and sunset seating, often with views across the lagoon and Mount Otemanu, while restaurants and smaller venues on the main island offer a more local setting. Traditional Polynesian dance and music performances are an important part of organised evening entertainment, particularly in resort programmes and cultural presentations, though schedules vary. Vaitape becomes quieter after ordinary business hours, and the island does not have the dense late-night bar districts associated with major cities. Visitors should arrange return transport when staying on a motu or travelling after dark, since boats and vehicles may operate according to accommodation or activity schedules. The atmosphere suits conversation, music, stargazing and lagoon sunsets more than all-night nightlife.

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Best nightclubs in Bora Bora

Bora Bora's evenings are generally relaxed rather than club-centred. Resort bars provide the largest concentration of cocktails, wine, beer and sunset seating, often with views across the lagoon and Mount Otemanu, while restaurants and smaller venues on the main island offer a more local setting. Traditional Polynesian dance and music performances are an important part of organised evening entertainment, particularly in resort programmes and cultural presentations, though schedules vary. Vaitape becomes quieter after ordinary business hours, and the island does not have the dense late-night bar districts associated with major cities. Visitors should arrange return transport when staying on a motu or travelling after dark, since boats and vehicles may operate according to accommodation or activity schedules. The atmosphere suits conversation, music, stargazing and lagoon sunsets more than all-night nightlife.

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Best shops in Bora Bora

Shopping in Bora Bora is concentrated around Vaitape and the commercial areas serving the main island, with additional boutiques attached to larger accommodation properties. Visitors can find Polynesian pareu, woven goods, wood carvings, shell jewellery, black-pearl products and locally made art, although quality, provenance and pricing vary and should be considered carefully. Small food shops and market-style stalls offer practical supplies as well as tropical produce and snacks, while specialist pearl retailers explain the grading and origin of French Polynesian cultured pearls. The shopping scene is smaller and more dispersed than that of Papeete, with many businesses operating on island time and some accepting cash more readily than cards. Buying directly from local makers, where possible, gives greater context to crafts and avoids treating culturally significant designs as anonymous souvenirs.

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Bora Bora essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the French Pacific franc, written as XPF or CFP franc. Resorts, larger shops and established activity providers commonly accept major cards, while smaller businesses, local food stalls and some transport services may prefer cash. ATMs are available in the main settlement area, but visitors should not rely on finding one immediately when staying on a motu or travelling outside Vaitape. Visa and Mastercard are generally more useful than assuming every international card or contactless service will work. Keep some cash for small purchases, and check overseas transaction charges with the card provider before travelling.
Safety
Bora Bora is a relatively quiet island, but ordinary precautions remain appropriate: secure valuables, avoid leaving belongings unattended on beaches or in vehicles, and take care around isolated areas after dark. Lagoon activities require attention to weather, currents, coral, boats and operator safety instructions. Heat, sun exposure and dehydration can become serious, particularly on open water, so sun protection and drinking water are important. Roads may have limited lighting, and bicycles or scooters require care around traffic. Strongly changing weather can affect excursions, swimming conditions and boat transfers, even when the lagoon appears calm.
Emergency Situations
In French Polynesia, 112 can be called from a mobile phone for urgent emergency assistance; 15 is used for medical emergencies, 17 for police and 18 for the fire service. Explain the location clearly, especially when staying on a motu or at sea, and contact accommodation staff or the excursion provider if help with local directions is needed. Medical facilities on the island are more limited than those in Tahiti, so serious cases may require transfer. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is prudent, particularly for visitors planning diving, boating or other water-based activities.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress modestly away from beaches and resorts, and wear suitable clothing when entering churches or visiting village communities. Ask permission before photographing people, private homes or community events, and treat marae, cemeteries and other culturally significant places with respect. Do not stand on coral, collect shells or disturb marine life, and follow local guidance when swimming near rays, sharks or other wildlife. Tipping is not traditionally obligatory in the same way as in some countries, though thoughtful service gestures may be appreciated. Keep voices and behaviour considerate in villages and avoid assuming that every shoreline is publicly accessible.
Local Tips
Vaitape is the most useful place for practical errands, whereas the outer motu are primarily associated with accommodation, beaches and lagoon activities. A coastal-road outing gives a better sense of everyday Bora Bora than remaining solely at a resort, but access to viewpoints, beaches and waterfronts varies. Early starts are valuable for calmer water and clearer mountain views, while weather can change quickly in the afternoon. Learn a few Polynesian greetings, support local craft and food businesses where possible, and ask before entering or photographing historic sites. Reservations and transfers are especially important for activities dependent on boats.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloIa ora na[Yah oh-rah nah]
GoodbyeNana[Nah-nah]
YesE[Ay]
NoAita[Eye-tah]
Please/You're welcomeManava[Mah-nah-vah]
Thank youMauruuru[Mah-oo-roo-roo]
Excuse me/SorryFaaitoito[Fah-eye-toy-toh]
How are you?Aita pea pea?[Eye-tah pay-ah pay-ah]
Fine. And you?Maita'i. O oe?[My-tah-ee. Oh oy]
Do you speak English?Ua haere atu oe i te reo anglais?[Oo-ah ha-ay-ray ah-too oy ee tay ray-oh ang-lay]
I don't understandAita au maita'i[Eye-tah ow my-tah-ee]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE haere atu au i te meniu, maruru[Ay ha-ay-ray ah-too ow ee tay may-nee-oo, mah-roo-roo]
I don't eat meatAita au haere i te kai[Eye-tah ow ha-ay-ray ee tay kai]
Cheers!Manuia![Mah-noo-ee-ah]
I would like to pay, pleaseE haere atu au i te moni, maruru[Ay ha-ay-ray ah-too ow ee tay moh-nee, mah-roo-roo]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Aide![Eye-day]
Go away!Haere atu![High-ray ah-too]
Call the Police!Tapura i te farerei![Tah-poo-rah ee tay fah-ray-ray]
Call a doctor!Tapura i te taata here![Tah-poo-rah ee tay tah-ah-tah hay-ray]
I'm lostUa haere atu au i te hau[Oo-ah ha-ay-ray ah-too ow ee tay how]
I'm illUa piti ahau[Oo-ah pee-tee ah-how]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...E haere atu au i te hana...[Ay ha-ay-ray ah-too ow ee tay hah-nah]
I'm just lookingE haere atu au i te titau[Ay ha-ay-ray ah-too ow ee tay tee-tow]
How much is it?E hia moni te moni?[Ay hee-ah moh-nee tay moh-nee]
That's too expensiveHe moni roa te moni[Hay moh-nee roh-ah tay moh-nee]
Can you lower the price?E haamata i te moni?[Ay ha-ah-mah-tah ee tay moh-nee]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?He aha te taime?[Hay ah-hah tay tah-ee-may]
It's one o'clockE tahi te haora[Ay tah-hee tay how-rah]
Half past (10)E toru i te ora toru[Ay tore-oo ee tay oh-rah tore-oo]
MorningPoipoi[Poy-poy]
AfternoonApono[Ah-poh-noh]
EveningAhiahi[Ah-hee-ah-hee]
YesterdayAro[Ah-roh]
TodayAtea[Ah-tay-ah]
TomorrowApa[Ah-pah]
1Tahi[Tah-hee]
2Rua[Roo-ah]
3Toru[Toh-roo]
4Maha[Mah-hah]
5Rima[Ree-mah]
6Ono[Oh-noh]
7Fitu[Fee-too]
8Varu[Vah-roo]
9Iva[Ee-vah]
10Ahuru[Ah-hoo-roo]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?I te haere i te...[Ee tay ha-ay-ray ee tay]
What's the address?He aha te tuhinga?[Hay ah-hah tay too-hee-ngah]
Can you show me (on the map)?E haere i te faaahaere i au (i te mahere)?[Ay ha-ay-ray ee tay fah-ah-ha-ay-ray ee ow (ee tay mah-hay-ray)]
When's the next (bus)?He aha te haere i te tere apopo?[Hay ah-hah tay ha-ay-ray ee tay tay-ray ah-poh-poh]
A ticket (to ....)Hevea (ki ...)[Hay-vay-ah (kee)]

History of Bora Bora

Early Polynesian Settlement

Bora Bora was settled by Polynesian navigators who travelled across the Pacific in ocean-going canoes and developed a society shaped by the lagoon, reef and volcanic interior. Oral traditions preserve the island's name and ancestral lineages, while archaeological remains, including marae and other stone structures, indicate organised religious and chiefly communities before European contact. The island's steep mountains and fertile coastal areas supported cultivation, fishing and inter-island exchange. Although much of the visible built environment is modern, the relationship between land, sea and community still reflects this Polynesian foundation.

European Contact and Missionaries

European knowledge of Bora Bora expanded during the voyages of the eighteenth century, including the visits and observations associated with James Cook in the Pacific. Contact introduced new trade networks, weapons, diseases and religious influences, altering the balance between island communities and chiefly powers. Protestant missionaries arrived in the early nineteenth century, and conversion brought major changes to religious practice, social organisation and architecture. Christian churches and the decline of traditional temple worship became part of a wider transformation experienced across the Society Islands.

French Political Incorporation

During the nineteenth century, French influence grew throughout the Society Islands. Bora Bora retained local chiefly authority for a period, but France formally annexed the island in 1888, bringing it into the colonial structure that later developed into French Polynesia. French administration changed systems of government, education, commerce and land use, while local Polynesian identity and community life continued. The island's contemporary political status as part of French Polynesia descends from these nineteenth-century developments, although cultural and administrative relationships have evolved considerably since then.

The American Wartime Base

In 1942, during the Second World War, the United States established a military supply base on Bora Bora under Operation Bobcat. The strategically located island served as a logistics and refuelling station rather than a major battlefield, and thousands of American personnel passed through during the base's operation. Roads, fuel facilities, a seaplane base and other infrastructure altered the island's physical landscape. The base closed in 1946, but remnants such as coastal guns and military structures survive as tangible evidence of Bora Bora's wartime chapter.

Tourism and Contemporary Bora Bora

After the war, Bora Bora gradually became connected to the expanding international tourism economy of the South Pacific. Air links and improved maritime transport made the island more accessible, while lagoon-based accommodation, including overwater bungalows, helped define its modern image from the late twentieth century onwards. Tourism brought employment and infrastructure but also intensified pressure on freshwater, waste management, reefs and coastal land. Contemporary Bora Bora therefore combines a globally recognised resort economy with continuing Polynesian community life, local environmental concerns and a strong sense of island identity.

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Discover the paradise of Bora Bora with Evendo, your ultimate travel guide app. Evendo offers detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences in Bora Bora. Imagine exploring the stunning Matira Beach, taking a tour of the iconic Mount Otemanu, or dining at the renowned Bloody Mary's restaurant—all with the rich set of information provided by Evendo. From beautiful images and descriptions to local tips, maps, and contact details, Evendo makes it easy to plan and organize your trip.

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