Bora Bora isn’t just a honeymoon destination; it’s a photographer’s dream come true. This guide dives into the most Instagrammable spots, giving you the inside scoop on capturing postcard-perfect shots, from iconic overwater bungalows to hidden beaches and breathtaking viewpoints. Get ready to fill your feed with stunning images that will make your followers green with envy!
Matira Beach: Sunset Serenity
Matira Beach, often hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, is a must-visit for any Instagram enthusiast. Its soft, white sand and shallow, turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting, especially at sunset. The way the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, is simply magical.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, obviously! But even during the day, the clarity of the water and the bright white sand make for stunning photos.
What to Shoot: Focus on capturing the colors of the sunset reflecting on the water. Get creative with silhouettes of palm trees or couples walking along the shore. Try using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the beach and the dramatic sky. Filters can enhance the colors, but try to keep it natural for a more authentic feel. Want to capture some beach action? Consider renting a paddleboard or kayak for some added fun and motion in your shots.
Getting There: Matira Beach is located at the southern tip of Bora Bora. You can reach it by rental car, scooter, taxi, or even a bicycle. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to the beach.
Cost: Visiting Matira Beach is free! However, you may need to pay for transportation to get there.
Mount Otemanu: Majestic Views
Mount Otemanu is the iconic volcanic peak that dominates Bora Bora’s skyline. While climbing to the very top isn’t possible (it’s quite steep and dangerous), you can still get incredible views from various vantage points around the island.
Best Time to Visit: The early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photos. Midday sun can be harsh and create unwanted shadows. On clear days, the view is unobstructed; however, even with some cloud cover, the dramatic effect can be breathtaking.
What to Shoot: A panoramic shot capturing Mount Otemanu towering over the lagoon is a must. Use a telephoto lens to zoom in on the mountain’s rugged texture and details. Hike to a higher location for a more elevated perspective. Consider taking a helicopter tour for truly breathtaking aerial shots of the mountain and the surrounding islands. This allows you to capture the true scale and beauty of this volcanic masterpiece.
Getting There: Accessing the best viewpoints of Mount Otemanu often requires a guided tour or renting a 4×4 vehicle. Some hiking trails also offer stunning views, but be sure to check the difficulty level and conditions beforehand.
Cost: Rental car costs around $100-$150 per day. Helicopter tours can range from $200-$500 per person, depending on the duration and route.
Overwater Bungalows: Ultimate Luxury
Bora Bora is synonymous with luxurious overwater bungalows. These iconic accommodations offer unparalleled views of the turquoise lagoon and provide the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. Staying in one of these bungalows is an experience in itself, and it offers countless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Many resorts, such as Four Seasons Bora Bora or St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, boast exquisitely designed bungalows.
Best Time to Visit: All day! The lighting is beautiful throughout the day. Capture the bungalows at sunrise for a soft, golden glow, or at sunset for a more dramatic, fiery effect.
What to Shoot: Photograph the bungalows from different angles: from the beach, from a boat, or even from the air (if you take a helicopter tour). Capture the details of the bungalow’s interior and exterior, such as the thatched roofs, private plunge pools, and glass-bottom floors. Take photos of yourself enjoying the amenities, whether it’s lounging on the deck, swimming in the lagoon, or indulging in a floating breakfast.
Getting There: You can reach your overwater bungalow by boat transfer arranged by your resort. These transfers are typically included in the price of your stay.
Cost: Staying in an overwater bungalow can range from $800 to $3000+ per night, depending on the resort, the season, and the type of bungalow.
Tupuna Safari: Adventure and Views
For a truly immersive experience, consider taking a Tupuna Safari. These tours take you off the beaten path, exploring the island’s interior and offering stunning views from hidden viewpoints. You’ll learn about the local culture and history while capturing some incredible photos.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or late afternoon offer the best lighting for capturing the island’s lush landscape. Check the weather forecast before you go and choose a day with clear skies for optimal visibility.
What to Shoot: Capture the lush vegetation, dramatic landscapes, and hidden waterfalls along the way. Focus on capturing the local culture and the stories of the people you meet. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the scenery and a telephoto lens to zoom in on the details. Don’t forget to take photos of yourself enjoying the adventure!
Getting There: Book a Tupuna Safari tour with a reputable local operator. Most tours include transportation to and from your hotel.
Cost: Tupuna Safari tours typically range from $100-$200 per person, depending on the duration and itinerary.
Lagoonarium: Underwater Wonders
The Lagoonarium is a natural aquarium where you can swim and snorkel with a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. It’s a fantastic opportunity to capture some unique underwater photos and videos.
Best Time to Visit: The water is typically clearest in the morning, before the wind picks up. Choose a sunny day for the best visibility underwater.
What to Shoot: Capture the colorful fish and other marine life up close. Use an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case to protect your equipment. Try to capture the interactions between the animals and the people in the water. A GoPro or similar action camera is ideal for underwater photography due to its durability and wide-angle lens. Be mindful of the animals and avoid disturbing them or their habitat.
Getting There: Several tour operators offer excursions to the Lagoonarium. Most tours include transportation to and from your hotel, as well as snorkeling equipment.
Cost: Excursions to the Lagoonarium typically range from $100-$150 per person, including transportation and equipment.
Bloody Mary’s: Island Vibes
Bloody Mary’s is a legendary beach bar and restaurant in Bora Bora. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious food, and celebrity clientele. It’s a great place to relax, soak up the island vibes, and capture some fun Instagram photos. It’s named after Mary, a real character who worked there back in the day, not the cocktail.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime! Bloody Mary’s is open for lunch and dinner. The atmosphere is livelier in the evening, but the lighting is better for photos during the day.
What to Shoot: Capture the unique décor and atmosphere of the bar, including the sand floor, the thatched roof, and the handwritten menus. Take photos of yourself enjoying the food and drinks. Try to capture the energy and excitement of the place. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff to take a photo of you with the iconic Bloody Mary’s sign.
Getting There: Bloody Mary’s is located on the main island of Bora Bora. You can reach it by taxi, rental car, or scooter. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to the bar.
Cost: Food and drinks at Bloody Mary’s are reasonably priced for Bora Bora standards. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a meal and $10-$15 for a cocktail.
Private Motu Picnic: Secluded Paradise
For a truly unforgettable experience, arrange a private picnic on a secluded motu (islet). This is the ultimate way to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of Bora Bora in peace and quiet. Many resorts and tour operators offer this service. A popular option for this experience includes Viator Tours.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon offer the best lighting for capturing the turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Check the weather forecast beforehand and choose a day with clear skies.
What to Shoot: Capture the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation of the motu. Take photos of yourself enjoying the picnic, whether it’s lounging on the beach, swimming in the lagoon, or savoring the delicious food and drinks. Use a drone to capture aerial shots of the motu and the surrounding islands. The contrast between the turquoise water and the white sand is truly breathtaking.
Getting There: Your resort or tour operator will arrange transportation to the motu by boat.
Cost: A private motu picnic can range from $300-$500 per person, depending on the location, the menu, and the inclusions.
Vaitape: Local Culture
Vaitape is the main town on Bora Bora. It’s not as glamorous as the resorts, but it offers a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to capture some authentic island life. The town is vibrant, offers unique shopping experiences, and showcases the daily lives of the residents.
Best Time to Visit: During the day, when the shops and markets are open and the town is bustling with activity.
What to Shoot: Capture the colorful buildings, the local markets, and the bustling street scenes. Focus on capturing the faces of the people you meet and the stories they have to tell. Look for unique details that represent the island’s culture, such as traditional crafts, local artwork, and vibrant textiles. Visit the local church for a glimpse into the island’s religious traditions.
Getting There: You can reach Vaitape by taxi, rental car, scooter, or bicycle. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to the town.
Cost: Visiting Vaitape is free. However, you may need to pay for transportation to get there and for any souvenirs you purchase.
Coral Gardens: Snorkeling Heaven
The Coral Gardens are a popular snorkeling spot in Bora Bora. The crystal clear water teems with colorful fish and vibrant coral. It’s amazing to get up close with marine life.
Best Time to Visit: Morning is best when the sun is directly overhead for the best visibility. The water is calmer and the marine life is more active.
What to Shoot: Use an underwater camera to capture photos and videos of the coral and fish. Get close-up shots of the marine life for stunning detail. Capture the interaction between snorkelers and the environment. A wide-angle lens captures schools of fish and sprawling coral formations.
Getting There: Many boat tours include a stop at the Coral Gardens for snorkeling. You can also rent a boat and go on your own.
Cost: Snorkeling tours typically range from $80 to $150 per person.
Sunset From a Boat Cruise
Watching the sunset from a boat cruise in Bora Bora is an unforgettable experience. The unobstructed view of the horizon, combined with the gentle rocking of the boat, creates a magical atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset (of course!). Arrive early to secure a good spot on the boat.
What to Shoot: Capture the sun as it dips below the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant colors. Take silhouette shots of the boat, passengers, and surrounding islands. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the ocean and a telephoto lens to zoom in on the details of the sunset. Consider using a drone for aerial shots of the boat against the backdrop of the sunset.
Getting There: Book a sunset boat cruise with a reputable local operator or your resort.
Cost: Sunset boat cruises range from $100 to $200 per person, depending on the type of boat, the inclusions, and the duration.
Leopard Rays Trench
One of the most unforgettable snorkelling or diving experiences you can have in Bora Bora is at the Leopard Rays Trench. You’ll be able to swim alongside these graceful creatures in a safe and controlled environment, with knowledgeable guides.
Best Time to Visit: Mornings are typically better when visibility is higher and the rays are more active. The currents can sometimes be stronger in the afternoon.
What to Shoot: Focus on capturing the elegance and beauty of the Leopard Rays as they glide through the water. Use an underwater camera with a wide-angle lens to get the entire ray and surrounding scenery in the shot. Patience is key; wait for the rays to swim close to you for the best shots. Capture the sunlight shimmering on the rays’ backs – it creates a stunning effect.
Getting There: The Leopard Rays Trench is accessible by boat tour. Enquire with your resort or a local tour operator about guided trips.
Cost: Expect to pay around $100-$200 per person for a guided tour, including equipment.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to visit Bora Bora for photography?
The dry season, from May to October, offers the best weather for photography, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine. However, the shoulder seasons (April and November) can also be good, with slightly fewer crowds and lower prices.
What kind of camera equipment should I bring to Bora Bora?
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a variety of lenses is ideal for capturing the diverse landscapes and scenes in Bora Bora. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing panoramic views, while a telephoto lens is useful for zooming in on distant details. An underwater camera or a waterproof phone case is necessary for capturing photos and videos underwater.
Are drones allowed in Bora Bora?
Drone regulations in French Polynesia are subject to change. It’s important to check the latest regulations before you travel and to obtain any necessary permits. Respect local privacy and avoid flying near populated areas.
What are some tips for taking better photos in Bora Bora?
Shoot during the golden hours (sunrise and sunset) for the best lighting. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors. Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Capture the local culture and the stories of the people you meet. Be patient and wait for the perfect moment.
How can I protect my camera equipment from the elements in Bora Bora?
Use a waterproof bag or case to protect your camera equipment from rain and splashes. Avoid leaving your equipment in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Clean your equipment regularly to remove salt and sand.
What is the best way to get around Bora Bora to reach all these spots?
Renting a car or scooter gives you the most freedom to explore the island. Taxis are readily available, but can be expensive. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to popular attractions.
Are there any photography tours available in Bora Bora?
Yes, several local tour operators offer photography tours that will take you to the best spots on the island and provide you with expert guidance. These tours can be a great way to improve your photography skills and capture some truly stunning images.
Should I be concerned about theft of camera equipment in Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is generally a safe destination, but it’s always important to take precautions to protect your belongings. Keep your camera equipment in a secure bag and never leave it unattended in public places. Use a camera strap to keep your camera attached to your body.
What are the rules about photographing local people in Bora Bora?
Always ask for permission before photographing local people, especially in villages or at cultural events. Be respectful of their privacy and avoid taking photos that could be considered offensive.
How important is having travel insurance that covers camera gear?
Extremely important. Travel insurance should cover theft, damage, or loss of your equipment. Review the policy carefully to understand the coverage limits and exclusions before purchasing.
References
Lonely Planet. French Polynesia.
TripAdvisor. Bora Bora.
Viator. Bora Bora Tours.
World Travel Guide. Bora Bora.
Ready to transform your Instagram feed with breathtaking Bora Bora images? Don’t just dream about paradise—book your trip today and start capturing memories that will last a lifetime! Explore these incredible spots, experiment with different angles, and let the beauty of Bora Bora inspire your creativity. Your followers (and your travel memories) will thank you for it!
