Bora Bora isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Imagine yourself hopping from the iconic Mount Otemanu, piercing the sky, to the pristine sands of Matira Point, feeling the soft, white sand between your toes. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a curated journey through some of the most breathtaking spots on Earth. So, grab your virtual passport and let’s dive into a Bora Bora bucket list that will leave you dreaming of turquoise waters and Polynesian sunsets.
Climbing (Figuratively!) Mount Otemanu
Okay, let’s be clear – actually climbing Mount Otemanu is generally off-limits to casual tourists. The volcanic rock is incredibly steep and unstable, and there aren’t established trails. However, admiring it from every conceivable angle is an absolute must. Think of it as the majestic backdrop to your entire Bora Bora experience.
Best Views: You’ll get stunning perspectives from almost anywhere on the main island or the motus (small, surrounding islands). But for picture-perfect shots, consider these spots:
- From the Water: Boat tours, especially sunset cruises or snorkeling trips, provide incredible panoramic views of Mount Otemanu rising majestically from the lagoon. The reflection on the water adds a magical touch.
- Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort: This resort offers exceptional views of the mountain. Even if you’re not staying there, consider booking a meal at their restaurant for a breathtaking dining experience.
- Helicopter Tour: For the ultimate splurge, a helicopter tour offers unparalleled aerial views of Mount Otemanu and the entire island. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime perspective. Expect to pay around $300-$500 per person for a 20-30 minute tour.
Insider Tip: The light is especially gorgeous during the “golden hours” – the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. Plan your activities accordingly to capture the best photos.
Matira Point: Where Paradise Meets Reality
Matira Point is often touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it lives up to the hype. This public beach at the southern tip of the main island offers soft, white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and shallow depths perfect for wading and swimming. It’s truly a postcard-perfect scene.
What to do at Matira Point:
- Sunbathing and Swimming: Obviously! The calm, shallow water is ideal for a relaxing swim, even for families with young children.
- Sunset Watching: Matira Point faces west, making it the perfect spot to witness spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Bring a beach blanket, a bottle of wine (or fresh fruit juice!), and enjoy the show.
- Snorkeling: While the snorkeling directly off the beach isn’t the most vibrant, there are some coral formations near the Sofitel end of the beach. Consider bringing your own snorkeling gear or renting it nearby.
- Beachside Dining: Several restaurants and snack bars are located near Matira Point, offering everything from casual beach fare to more upscale dining experiences.
Getting to Matira Point: Matira Point is easily accessible by taxi, rental car, or the local bus (Le Truck). Le Truck is the most affordable option, costing just a few dollars per ride. If you’re staying at a resort on the main island, they often provide shuttle service to Matira Point.
Important Note: Matira Point is a public beach, so it can get crowded, especially during peak season (May-October) and on weekends. Arrive early to snag a good spot. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
Tasting Paradise: A Culinary Journey Through Bora Bora
Bora Bora isn’t just about stunning scenery; it’s also a culinary paradise. From fresh seafood grilled on the beach to authentic Polynesian dishes, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Must-Try Restaurants:
- Bloody Mary’s: This legendary restaurant is a Bora Bora institution. Known for its sand floor, celebrity clientele (photos of whom line the walls), and fresh seafood, it’s a fun and unique dining experience. You get to choose your fish or seafood from a display case, and they grill it to perfection. Expect to pay a premium. A main course can range from $40-$80. Booking is essential: Bloody Mary’s Official Website
- St. James Restaurant: Overwater dining with breathtaking views combined with exquisite French cuisine. They specialize in seafood and offer a sophisticated atmosphere. It’s on the pricier side, but the experience is worth it for a special occasion. Main courses typically start around $50.
- Roulettes (Food Trucks): For a more affordable and authentic experience, check out the Roulettes (food trucks) that set up in Vaitape in the evenings. They offer a variety of dishes, including poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice), grilled meats, and Chinese food. Expect to pay around $15-$30 for a meal.
- Snack Matira: Located right on Matira Beach, this casual eatery offers delicious and affordable Polynesian dishes, sandwiches, and salads. It’s perfect for a relaxed lunch after a swim. Prices for meals are reasonable, generally under $25.
Don’t Miss:
- Poisson Cru: The national dish of French Polynesia. Try it everywhere you go – each restaurant has its own unique twist.
- Fresh Coconut: Vendors sell fresh coconuts all over the island. It’s a refreshing and hydrating treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Bora Bora is known for its high-quality vanilla. Indulge in some vanilla ice cream – it’s heavenly!
Dive Deep: Exploring Bora Bora’s Underwater World
Bora Bora’s lagoon is a playground for marine life, teeming with colorful fish, coral gardens, and even manta rays and sharks (don’t worry, they’re generally harmless!). Exploring this underwater world is an absolute must.
Snorkeling Hotspots:
- Coral Gardens: Located near the Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island, the Coral Gardens are a protected area with vibrant coral formations and abundant fish life. Many boat tours include a stop here.
- Tupuna Safari: This spot known for its calm, clear water and colorful coral formations is an amazing snorkeling spot to visit, often included in group tours.
- Matira Point: While not as spectacular as the Coral Gardens, there are some decent snorkeling spots near the Sofitel end of Matira Beach.
Scuba Diving:
- Tapu: Known as the “White Valley,” this dive site offers incredible visibility and the chance to see manta rays, sharks, and a variety of other marine life.
- To’opua: This dive site features a stunning drop-off and is home to numerous sharks, rays, and barracudas. It’s best suited for experienced divers.
Shark and Ray Snorkel Safari:
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a shark and ray snorkel safari. Several tour operators offer these excursions, which typically involve snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in a shallow, protected area. It’s a thrilling and safe way to interact with these magnificent creatures. It’s a very popular activity so expect a lot of other people! Prices typically fall in the $80-$150 range per person. Research tours through reputable operators to ensure ethical and sustainable practices.
Important Considerations:
- Sun Protection: Wear a rash guard, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. The sun is intense in Bora Bora.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose a reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can damage coral.
- Respect Marine Life: Do not touch or disturb the marine life. Observe from a distance and avoid feeding the fish.
Island Hopping: Discovering Bora Bora’s Motus
Bora Bora is surrounded by several small, idyllic islands called motus. Many of these motus are home to luxury resorts, but some are accessible to the public and offer a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Popular Motus to Visit:
- Motu Tapu: Often called the “most photographed island in the South Pacific,” Motu Tapu is a tiny, privately owned island that’s often included in full-day lagoon excursions. It’s known for its pristine beach and crystal-clear water.
- Motu Picnic: Several tour operators offer “Motu Picnic” excursions, which involve a boat trip to a secluded motu, where you can snorkel, swim, and enjoy a traditional Polynesian lunch prepared on the beach.
- Private Motu Experience: For the ultimate luxury experience, consider renting a private motu for a day or even overnight. Several companies offer this service, providing you with your own private paradise.
Getting to the Motus:
The easiest way to visit the motus is by boat. Many tour operators offer lagoon excursions that include stops at several motus. You can also hire a private boat for a more personalized experience. Some resorts also offer shuttle service to their private motus for their guests.
Luxury and Relaxation: Indulging in Bora Bora’s Resorts and Spas
Bora Bora is renowned for its luxurious resorts, many of which feature overwater bungalows, private beaches, and world-class spas. Indulging in some relaxation and pampering is an essential part of the Bora Bora experience.
Top Resort Experiences:
- Overwater Bungalow Stay: Staying in an overwater bungalow is the quintessential Bora Bora experience. These luxurious accommodations offer direct access to the lagoon, stunning views, and unparalleled privacy. Some of the most popular resorts with overwater bungalows include the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, and the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. Expect to pay a hefty premium! Rates often start at $1,000 per night and can easily exceed $2,000 or more, depending on the season and level of luxury.
- Spa Treatments: Bora Bora’s spas offer a range of treatments inspired by Polynesian traditions, using local ingredients like monoi oil, vanilla, and coconut. Many resorts have overwater spa bungalows, allowing you to enjoy your treatment while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
- Private Beach Dinners: Many resorts offer private beach dinner experiences, where you can enjoy a romantic meal under the stars, with your own personal chef and waiter.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Even if you’re not staying at a luxury resort, you can still indulge in some pampering by booking a spa treatment or a day pass to a resort’s beach and pool facilities.
Beyond the Beach: Exploring Bora Bora’s Mainland
While Bora Bora is famous for its lagoon and motus, the main island also has plenty to offer. Take some time to explore Vaitape, the main town, and discover some hidden gems.
Things to do on the Mainland:
- Vaitape Shopping: Vaitape is home to several shops selling souvenirs, local crafts, and black pearls. It’s a good place to pick up some gifts to take home.
- Visit a Pearl Farm: Learn about the process of cultivating black pearls at a local pearl farm. Many farms offer tours and demonstrations. Robert Wan Pearl Farm is a popular place to visit to see how the legendary Tahitian black pearls are cultivated and harvested.
- 4×4 Adventure Tour: Explore the interior of the island on a 4×4 adventure tour. These tours take you off the beaten path, to hidden waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and ancient ruins. They typically cost around $80-$120 per person.
- Hike to Mount Popoti: For panoramic views of the island and lagoon, hike to the summit of Mount Popoti. The trail is steep and challenging, but the views are worth the effort. It’s best to go with a guide.
- Bora Bora Lagoonarium: A natural aquarium where you can swim with turtles, rays, and other marine life. It’s a great option for families with children.
Getting Around the Mainland:
You can get around the main island by taxi, rental car, or Le Truck (the local bus). Le Truck is the most affordable option, but it can be crowded and infrequent. Renting a car gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Capturing Memories: Bora Bora Photography Tips
Bora Bora is a photographer’s dream, with endless opportunities to capture stunning images. Here are some tips for taking breathtaking photos:
Best Times for Photography:
- Golden Hours: As mentioned earlier, the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset offer the best light for photography. The soft, warm light creates a magical atmosphere.
- Blue Hour: The hour after sunset, known as the “blue hour,” offers a different kind of magic. The sky turns a deep blue, and the lights of the resorts twinkle along the shoreline.
- Overcast Days: Don’t despair if it’s cloudy. Overcast days can actually be great for photography, as the clouds diffuse the light and create a soft, even illumination.
Essential Gear:
- Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the expansive landscapes and turquoise waters.
- Telephoto Lens: A telephoto lens is useful for zooming in on Mount Otemanu and other distant subjects.
- Waterproof Camera or Housing: If you plan on snorkeling or scuba diving, a waterproof camera or housing is a must for capturing the underwater world.
- Polarizing Filter: A polarizing filter reduces glare and enhances the colors of the sky and water.
- Drone: If you have a drone, Bora Bora is an incredible place to capture aerial footage. Be sure to check local regulations regarding drone use.
Composition Tips:
- Use the Rule of Thirds: Divide your frame into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and place your subject at one of the intersections. This creates a more balanced and visually appealing composition.
- Look for Leading Lines: Use natural lines, such as the shoreline or a pathway, to lead the viewer’s eye into the scene.
- Experiment with Different Angles: Don’t be afraid to get low or climb to a higher vantage point to find a unique perspective.
- Capture the Details: Pay attention to the small details that make Bora Bora special, such as the hibiscus flowers, the colorful fish, and the intricate patterns of the coral.
Bora Bora on a Budget: Making Paradise More Affordable
Bora Bora is often perceived as an ultra-expensive destination, but it is possible to experience its beauty without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for traveling to Bora Bora on a budget:
Accommodation:
- Consider Guesthouses or Airbnb: Instead of staying at a luxury resort, consider staying at a guesthouse or Airbnb. These options are often much more affordable and offer a more local experience.
- Travel During the Off-Season: The off-season (November-April) offers lower rates on accommodation and flights. However, be aware that the weather can be less predictable during this time.
Food:
- Eat at the Roulettes (Food Trucks): As mentioned earlier, the Roulettes in Vaitape offer delicious and affordable meals.
- Shop at the Local Market: Buy groceries at the local market and prepare your own meals.
- Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Activities:
- Take the Local Bus (Le Truck): Le Truck is the most affordable way to get around the island.
- Snorkel on Your Own: Bring your own snorkeling gear and explore the reefs off Matira Point.
- Hike to Public Viewpoints: Several hiking trails offer stunning views of the island and lagoon without costing a penny.
- Look for Package Deals: Many tour operators offer package deals that combine several activities at a discounted price.
By making a few smart choices, you can experience the magic of Bora Bora without emptying your wallet.
Respecting the Culture: Responsible Tourism in Bora Bora
As a visitor to Bora Bora, it’s important to be a responsible tourist and respect the local culture and environment. Here are some tips for practicing responsible tourism:
- Learn a Few Basic French Phrases: While many people in Bora Bora speak English, learning a few basic French phrases, such as “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you), will be appreciated by the locals.
- Dress Respectfully: When visiting villages or religious sites, dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees.
- Support Local Businesses: Shop at local markets and businesses instead of large international chains. This helps support the local economy.
- Conserve Water and Energy: Be mindful of your water and energy consumption, especially in a place where resources are limited.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Avoid littering and dispose of your waste properly in designated bins.
- Choose Eco-Friendly Tour Operators: Support tour operators who are committed to sustainable tourism practices.
- Respect Marine Life: As mentioned earlier, do not touch or disturb the marine life, and choose reef-safe sunscreen.
By practicing responsible tourism, you can help preserve the beauty and culture of Bora Bora for future generations.
FAQ Section: Your Bora Bora Questions Answered
What is the best time to visit Bora Bora?
The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak season (June-August and December-January).
How much does it cost to go to Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is an expensive destination, but the cost can vary depending on your travel style and time of year. A budget trip can cost around $3,000-$5,000 per person for a week, while a luxury trip can easily cost $10,000 or more per person.
Do I need a visa to visit Bora Bora?
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not need a visa to visit Bora Bora for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements with your embassy or consulate.
What language is spoken in Bora Bora?
The official languages of French Polynesia are French and Tahitian. However, many people in Bora Bora also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
What currency is used in Bora Bora?
The currency used in Bora Bora is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and for tipping.
Is Bora Bora safe?
Bora Bora is generally a very safe destination. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
What should I pack for Bora Bora?
Here’s a packing list for Bora Bora:
- Swimsuits (at least two)
- Rash guard for sun protection
- Lightweight clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses)
- Beach cover-up
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water shoes
- Snorkeling gear (optional)
- Camera and accessories
- Adapter for French outlets (if needed)
References
Lonely Planet. French Polynesia. Lonely Planet Publications.
Michelin. French Polynesia. Michelin Travel Publications.
Frommer’s. Bora Bora. Frommer’s.
Ready to turn this bucket list into reality? Bora Bora is calling, and adventure awaits! Don’t just dream about paradise; plan your trip today. Research flights, browse accommodations, and start mapping out your own unforgettable journey. The turquoise waters, the stunning landscapes, and the unforgettable experiences are waiting for you. Let the planning begin – your slice of paradise is closer than you think!
