Dreaming of turquoise waters, overwater bungalows, and endless sunshine? Then Bora Bora is calling your name! This itinerary is your guide to 7 days of pure island bliss, packed with must-see spots, secret escapes, and everything you need to make the most of your Bora Bora adventure.
Day 1: Arrival and Overwater Bungalow Bliss
Alright, let’s get you settled in paradise! Your Bora Bora journey begins at the Motu Mute Airport (BOB). This tiny airport is located on a small islet (motu) on the edge of the lagoon. Transportation from the airport is usually by boat and will be arranged by your resort in advance. It’s all part of the magic – a scenic transfer across those unbelievably blue waters!
Cost: Airport transfers are typically included in your resort package, but confirm beforehand. Private transfers can range from $100 – $300 USD per person.
Recommendation: As soon as you touch down, slather on some sunscreen and be ready with your camera. The views are breathtaking from the moment you arrive.
Once you arrive at your resort (hopefully an overwater bungalow!), take the afternoon to simply soak it all in. Seriously. Unpack, change into your swimsuit, and plunge into the lagoon right from your deck! Many resorts have glass-bottom floors in their bungalows, so you can watch the marine life go by as you relax. This is your time for ultimate relaxation!
Spot Recommendation: Consider resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, or the InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa by IHG Resort & Thalasso Spa. These offer stunning overwater bungalows and exceptional service. But remember, research and book well in advance, especially during peak season (May-October).
For dinner, many resorts offer themed nights with Polynesian dancing and buffet-style meals. Embrace the local culture and enjoy the show! Or, opt for a more intimate dining experience at one of the resort’s restaurants.
Day 2: Lagoon Tour Extravaganza
Today is all about exploring the incredible Bora Bora lagoon! A lagoon tour is an absolute must-do. You can choose from a variety of options, from private motorized boats to shared catamarans. Most tours include snorkeling, swimming with manta rays and sharks (don’t worry, they’re usually reef sharks and very docile!), and a delicious Polynesian lunch on a private motu.
Cost: Lagoon tours range from $150 – $300 USD per person, depending on the type of tour and inclusions.
Manta Ray Snorkeling Spot: Many tours visit specific spots known for manta ray sightings. These gentle giants are incredible to see up close. Listen to your guide’s instructions carefully and avoid touching the rays.
Shark and Ray Snorkeling Spot: Typically, the tours take you to a shallow area where reef sharks and stingrays are abundant. It’s a safe and thrilling experience. Operators practice responsible tourism and the animals are used to the presence of humans.
Motu Picnic: Most tours include a stop at a private motu for lunch. This is your chance to relax on a pristine beach, enjoy delicious grilled fish, and soak in the stunning views. Often, there is music and some entertaining demonstrations, like how to open a coconut!
Tip: Bring an underwater camera or GoPro to capture those amazing snorkeling moments! Also, reef-safe sunscreen is essential to protect the delicate marine environment: look for products labelled “reef-safe” or “reef-friendly,” which means they are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate — common chemicals that can harm coral reefs.
Day 3: Mount Otemanu and Island Exploration
Time to see Bora Bora from a different perspective! Mount Otemanu is the iconic volcanic peak that dominates the island’s skyline. While you can’t hike to the very top (it’s too steep and dangerous), you can get close and enjoy incredible views from various vantage points.
4×4 Safari Tour: The most popular way to explore Mount Otemanu and the island’s interior is by a 4×4 safari tour. These tours take you off-road to scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and local villages. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
Cost: 4×4 safari tours typically cost around $80-$120 USD per person.
Spot Recommendation: Ask your tour guide to take you to the Valley of the Kings, a secluded valley with lush vegetation and ancient Polynesian ruins.
Vaitape: After your 4×4 adventure, head to Vaitape, the main town on Bora Bora. It’s a good place to pick up souvenirs, browse local crafts, and experience a bit of local life. You can find everything from black pearl jewelry to traditional pareos (sarongs).
Tip: Haggling is generally not expected in Bora Bora, but it doesn’t hurt to politely inquire about a discount if you are purchasing multiple items.
Day 4: Matira Beach and Sunset Cocktails
Today is dedicated to relaxing on what is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world: Matira Beach. This stretch of white sand and shallow turquoise water is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply unwinding.
Location: Matira Beach is located at the southern tip of Bora Bora. You can reach it by taxi, bus (Le Truck), or rental car. Many resorts also offer boat transfers.
Cost: Access to Matira Beach is free. However, you may need to pay for transportation and any rentals, such as beach chairs or umbrellas.
Recommendation: Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear water. The water is shallow enough to wade out quite a distance, making it ideal for families with children.
Sunset Cocktails: As the sun begins to set, head to one of the beachfront bars or restaurants along Matira Beach for a cocktail. Watching the sunset over the lagoon is an unforgettable experience. The Matira Beach Restaurant is a popular spot, known for its stunning views and delicious drinks.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset viewing. And don’t forget to bring your camera!
Day 5: Underwater Adventures: Diving or Submarine Tour
Bora Bora’s underwater world is just as spectacular as its above-water scenery. Consider spending a day exploring the coral reefs and marine life through diving or a submarine tour.
Scuba Diving: If you are a certified diver, Bora Bora offers some incredible dive sites. You can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, colorful fish, and coral gardens.
Cost: A two-tank dive typically costs around $150 – $200 USD per person. Introductory dives are available for those who are not certified, usually involving a short training session followed by a dive with an instructor.
Dive Sites Recommendation: Popular dive sites include Tapu, known for its shark encounters, and Toopua, a volcanic pinnacle teeming with marine life.
Bora Bora Blue Adventures: They offer scuba diving and snorkeling tours within the lagoon and ocean. Bora Bora Blue Adventures also offers other activities, such as jet ski tours, parasailing, and private boat tours. For divers of all levels, Bora Bora Blue Adventures provides an immersive and unforgettable experience of Bora Bora’s marine treasures.
Submarine Tour: If you prefer to stay dry, a submarine tour is a great way to see the underwater world. You’ll descend into the lagoon in a comfortable submarine and observe the marine life through large viewing windows.
Cost: Submarine tours typically cost around $100 – $150 USD per person.
Tips: If diving, remember to book in advance, especially during peak season. For the submarine tour, bring your camera to capture the underwater scenery from the comfort of the cabin.
Day 6: Pearl Farm Visit and Polynesian Cultural Center
Learn about the unique culture and crafts of French Polynesia today. Start with a visit to a pearl farm to discover the secrets of black pearl cultivation.
Pearl Farm: Bora Bora is famous for its black pearls, which are cultivated in the lagoon. At a pearl farm, you can learn about the pearl farming process, from seeding the oysters to harvesting the pearls. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase pearls directly from the source.
Cost: Pearl farm tours are usually free, but you may want to purchase a pearl as a souvenir. Prices range from a few dollars for simple pearls to thousands for high-quality specimens.
Spot Recommendation: Several pearl farms are located around Bora Bora. The tour guide can give information how the black pearl farming is performed and its life phases.
Polynesian Cultural Center: In the afternoon, visit a Polynesian cultural center to learn about traditional Polynesian crafts, music, and dance. You can participate in workshops on weaving, carving, or lei making. Some centers also offer traditional Polynesian feasts with music and dance performances.
Cost: Entry fees for Polynesian cultural centers range from $50 – $100 USD per person, depending on the activities included.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the pearl farm and cultural center. Also, bring cash if you plan to purchase pearls or crafts.
Day 7: Farewell Paradise (or Stay Longer!)
Sadly, your 7-day Bora Bora adventure is coming to an end. Enjoy one last breakfast with those incredible lagoon views, and then head to the airport for your departure.
Departure: Remember that you’ll need to take a boat transfer from your resort back to the Motu Mute Airport. Make sure to allow plenty of time for the transfer, as boat schedules can be affected by weather.
Tip: If you have an early morning flight, consider spending your last night at a hotel near the airport on the main island.
Extra Day? If you have an extra day, consider a romantic sunset cruise, a relaxing spa treatment, or simply spending more time on your favorite beach. Bora Bora is the kind of place where you can never truly get enough.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Beyond the popular tourist spots, Bora Bora has a few hidden gems worth exploring:
Coral Gardens: Located off the coast of Motu Piti Aau, the Coral Gardens offer some of the best snorkeling in Bora Bora. The coral is vibrant and teeming with fish. Many lagoon tours include a stop here, but you can also arrange a private boat to visit the gardens.
Cost: Access to the Coral Gardens is free, but you’ll need to pay for boat transportation.
Bloody Mary’s Restaurant: This iconic restaurant in Vaitape is a must-visit for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood. You choose your fish or steak directly from the ice display. Plenty of celebrity photos on the wall since it’s a popular restaurant for the VIP crowd.
Tip: Check out their happy hour. This is a good place to experience that tropical island lifestyle.
Anau Pearl Farm: Situated on a private motu, Anau Pearl Farm offers exclusive tours and a secluded setting. The prices are more expensive. But you’re paying for the attention and personal attention to learn about black pearls in more detail.
Accommodation Options: Beyond the Overwater Bungalow
While overwater bungalows are the quintessential Bora Bora experience, there are other accommodation options to consider:
Beachfront Hotels: Several hotels are located directly on Matira Beach and other beautiful stretches of coastline. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, stunning views, and easy access to the beach.
Guesthouses and Pensions: For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at a guesthouse or pension. These smaller establishments offer simple but comfortable accommodations and a chance to experience local hospitality. Guesthouses can be a much cheaper option around Vaitape.
Villa Rentals: Renting a villa can be a great option for families or groups. Villas offer more space and privacy than hotel rooms, and many come with private pools and gardens.
Tip: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season. Prices can vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodation.
Food and Drink: Local Flavors to Savor
Bora Bora offers a delicious blend of Polynesian and French cuisine. Here are some local flavors to savor:
Poisson Cru: This is the national dish of Tahiti and French Polynesia. It consists of raw tuna marinated in lime juice, coconut milk, and vegetables.
Mitihā: Coconut milk infused with pounded fish and fermented for several days. The dish is an acquired taste, and not always available on menus.
Firi Firi: This is a local donut type fritter. Many food stands sell this type of donut at an economical price.
Hinano Beer: This is the local beer of French Polynesia. It’s a light and refreshing lager that’s perfect for a hot day.
Fresh Coconut Water: Enjoy the sweet and refreshing taste of fresh coconut water straight from the coconut.
Tip: Many restaurants offer set menus that include a variety of local dishes. This is a great way to sample different flavors. Also, be sure to try the fresh seafood, which is caught daily.
Getting Around Bora Bora: Transportation Options
Getting around Bora Bora is relatively easy, although it can be expensive.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport and in Vaitape. However, they can be quite expensive.
Le Truck: This is the local bus system. It’s a colorful and affordable way to get around the island. Just stand on the side of the road when you see one and flag it down.
Rental Car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. However, traffic can be heavy in Vaitape.
Rental Scooter/Bike: For those who would like to explore and get around on a 2-wheel option, renting a scooter or bike is a fun way. Note that roads can be bumpy.
Boat: Many resorts offer boat transfers to different parts of the island. You can also rent a boat for a private excursion.
Tip: If you plan to rent a car or scooter, be sure to have an international driver’s license. Also, book in advance, especially during peak season.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit Bora Bora?
The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is sunny and warm, with low humidity. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
How expensive is Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is an expensive destination. Accommodation, food, and activities can all be quite pricey. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can still enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank.
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 always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and tipping.
What language is spoken in Bora Bora?
The official language of Bora Bora is French. However, Tahitian is also widely spoken. English is spoken in tourist areas.
Do I need a visa to visit Bora Bora?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
What should I pack for Bora Bora?
Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and mosquito repellent. Also, bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture your underwater adventures.
References
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Official Website
- St. Regis Bora Bora Resort Official Website
- InterContinental Bora Bora & Thalasso Spa by IHG Resort & Thalasso Spa Official Website
Ready to make your Bora Bora dream a reality? Start planning your trip today! Book your flights and accommodation, and start researching activities and tours. With this itinerary, you’re well on your way to an unforgettable island adventure. Don’t just dream it, do it!