14 Fun Things to Do in Bora Bora | 2024 (with Photos)
Bora Bora is a dream destination for many travelers looking for an idyllic getaway in the South Pacific. Located in French Polynesia, this small island is known for its stunning lagoon, lush vegetation, and breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu.
While Bora Bora is often associated with luxurious overwater bungalows and romantic retreats, there are plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy on the island.
From swimming with native blacktip reef sharks to hiking the island's peaks and exploring coral gardens, Bora Bora offers a range of outdoor activities that cater to all interests and ages.
In this article, we'll highlight some of the best things to do in Bora Bora to help you plan your ultimate tropical adventure.
Most Recommended Thing to Do
Snorkeling at the Tiputa Pass
Top Choice Hotel
Hotel Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
Our Top Choice Restaurant
Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife
Best Time to Visit
Sunny, breezy, turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling.
Average Temperature
The average temperature in Avatoru, French Polynesia is warm.
Transportation Options
Taxi, rental car, bicycle, walking – Avaru has options
Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)
$$
My Top Recommendation
Opt for an overwater bungalow for a luxurious stay with direct access to the crystal-clear lagoon. Engage in water activities such as snorkeling and diving to discover the rich marine life, or take a romantic sunset cruise to witness the mesmerizing sunsets over the Pacific.
Don't miss the chance to explore Mount Otemanu for panoramic views of the island. Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture by attending traditional dance shows, and savor the local cuisine at fine dining establishments with stunning lagoon views.
What You'll Need to Bring
- Travel documents
- Money (local currency and/or credit cards)
- Swimming essentials
What Not to Miss
- Matira Beach
- Coral Gardens
- Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia
- Overwater Bungalow
- Bora Bora Lagoonarium
What to Avoid
- Overpriced souvenirs
- Walking alone at night
- Unregistered tour guides
Table of Contents
1. Soak in the Sun on Matira Beach
Matira Beach is a stunning destination that offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of French Polynesia. With its soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Matira Beach is one of the most picturesque spots in the world.
Whether you want to relax in the shade of a palm tree or take a refreshing dip in the ocean, this beach has something for everyone. You can also enjoy a variety of water activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling, or paddle boarding.
With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Matira Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
2. Go Swimming with Sharks
Swimming with sharks in Bora Bora, near the stunning Matira Beach, offers an exhilarating experience in the glistening lagoon, providing a unique perspective on these majestic creatures.
Famous for its clear waters, beautiful coral gardens, and diverse aquatic life, including lemon sharks, reef sharks, and manta rays, Bora Bora's waters are perfect for adventurous activities like deep sea fishing, a jet ski ride, and scuba diving.
From overwater bungalows on the main island to the Tahiti Pearl Market and the family-owned attractions in Bora Bora's main town, there's something for everyone.
With Moana Adventure Tours, visitors can safely swim with sharks while learning about their behavior, and conservation efforts, and even exploring ancient caves on guided jeep tours.
Whether you're riding your own jet ski, snorkeling in a colorful fish-filled private motu, or visiting old Polynesian villages, Bora Bora guarantees unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories.
Don't forget to indulge in amazing food, like the local beer and Polynesian feast at Bloody Mary's, or unwind on the only public beach after an exciting aqua safari around an extinct volcano.
While swimming with sharks is thrilling, it's essential to respect the animals and follow the guidance of trained professionals at all times.
3. Snorkle in the Colorful Coral Gardens
Snorkeling in the colorful Coral Gardens in Bora Bora is a truly breathtaking experience. The vibrant coral formations, teeming with an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other sea animals, provide a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes, making for a stunning underwater vista.
With crystal clear waters, you can easily spot clownfish, parrotfish, and butterflyfish, among other marine life. Snorkeling allows you to get up close and personal with the coral, observing the intricate formations and watching the fish dart in and out of their hiding places.
The gardens are a must-visit for anyone who loves to snorkel, and the experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
4. Take a Hike on Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia
Hiking on Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, is an exciting adventure that offers stunning views of the island and the Ancient cave.
Mount Otemanu, standing tall at 2,385 feet, is the highest peak in Bora Bora and a popular destination among things to do in the area.
The hike to the summit is challenging, but the breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon and the island's lush landscape are worth the effort.
Mount Pahia, on the other hand, is a slightly shorter and less strenuous hike but still offers beautiful views of the island's coastline, black-tipped reef sharks, and the turquoise waters that surround it.
Hiking is an excellent addition to other Bora Bora activities, such as a jet ski ride, an aqua safari, snorkeling excursions, jeep tours, and a sunset cruise, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the natural beauty of this paradise.
5. Watch the Sunset from the Bora Bora Yacht Club
Watching the sunset from the Bora Bora Yacht Club is a magical experience that is not to be missed. Located on the island's waterfront, the Yacht Club offers a stunning view of the lagoon and the surrounding mountains.
As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a breathtaking display of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting off the crystal-clear waters below. The Yacht Club is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold drink or a romantic dinner while taking in the stunning sunset views.
The tranquil atmosphere and the picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot for a relaxing evening with friends, family, or loved ones.
6. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow
Staying in an overwater bungalow is a dream come true for many travelers. These luxurious bungalows are perched on stilts above the turquoise waters of the lagoon, offering unobstructed views of the island's natural beauty.
Guests can step outside their bungalow and dive into the warm waters, or relax on their private deck and watch the fish swim by. The bungalows themselves are spacious and beautifully decorated, with all the modern amenities one could desire.
Some even come with glass floors, allowing guests to observe the ocean life below from the comfort of their room. Staying in an overwater bungalow is an experience of a lifetime and is the perfect way to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and serenity of Bora Bora.
7. Go on an Aquabike Adventure Surrounded by Marine Life
Going on an Aquabike Adventure in Bora Bora is a unique and thrilling way to explore the island's beautiful lagoon. An aqua-bike is a small motorbike that has been modified to operate underwater, providing an exhilarating way to experience aquatic life up close.
The lagoon surrounding Bora Bora is home to an abundance of tropical life, coral formations, and other ocean life, and an Aquabike Adventure allows you to get closer to them than ever before. The experience is easy and safe, and no prior experience is necessary.
The aqua-bikes are easy to operate and offer a fun and exciting way to explore the island's underwater world. It's an adventure that's sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
8. Take a Bora Bora Jeep Tour
One of the best things to do in Bora Bora is to take a Jeep tour. It is a fun and exciting way to explore the island's natural beauty, including the stunning Matira Beach, the beautiful gardens, and the glistening lagoon.
The tour takes you through the lush greenery of the main island, with stops at scenic lookout points, old Polynesian villages, historic sites, and even ancient caves.
Your knowledgeable Bora Bora guide from Moana Adventure Tours will provide insight into the island's history, customs, and traditions, giving you a deeper understanding of Bora Bora's rich culture.
The Jeep tour takes you off the beaten path, allowing you to explore areas that are inaccessible by foot, jet skis, or other means of transportation.
You can choose to visit specific Bora Bora sites like the Tahiti Pearl Market or let the guide lead the way to family-owned attractions and the only public beach on the island.
While on your adventure, don't forget to indulge in Bora Bora's amazing food and local beer, perhaps stopping at Bloody Mary's for a Polynesian feast.
A Jeep tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Bora Bora, and with most resorts offering easy access, it's sure to be a highlight of your trip.
9. Snorkel in the Bora Bora Lagoonarium
Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Bora Bora and an amazing experience that allows you to get up close and personal with a variety of aquatic life.
The Bora Bora Lagoonarium is a protected area of the lagoon that serves as a sanctuary for a wide range of fish and other sea creatures.
Snorkelers can see colorful tropical fauna, eagle rays, sharks, and even turtles in their natural habitat. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to observe some Bora Bora ocean life, and the calm and shallow waters are perfect for beginners.
The Lagoonarium is a must-visit destination for snorkelers and nature lovers alike and provides a unique opportunity to see some of the world's most beautiful sea life in a natural and protected setting.
10. Have Lunch on a Motu
Having lunch on a private motu in Bora Bora is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the island while indulging in delicious local cuisine.
A motu is a small islet located within the lagoon, and many of them are uninhabited and pristine. A typical motu lunch includes freshly grilled fish, local fruits, and refreshing drinks.
Guests can enjoy their meal while sitting on a Bora Bora beach or under a thatched roof shelter, with the sound of the waves and the gentle breeze providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Many motu lunches also include cultural activities, such as traditional dance performances or demonstrations of local crafts.
When you think there are no more things to do in Bora Bora, a motu lunch is a unique opportunity to experience the island's culture and natural beauty for anyone.
11. Kayak Around Bora Bora's Lagoon
Kayaking around the lagoon in Bora Bora is a fun and relaxing way to explore the island's stunning natural beauty. The lagoon is calm and shallow, with crystal clear waters that allow you to see the aquatic life below.
Kayaking provides an up-close and personal experience, as you can glide quietly through the water and observe the tropical fish, rays, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat. Kayaks are easy to operate, and no prior experience is necessary.
Many tours also include stops at scenic locations, such as small islets or coral gardens, where you can snorkel or take a swim. Alternatively, some Bora Bora areas offer a traditional outrigger canoe for those who want to experience a more traditional approach.
12. Take a Helicopter Tour of the Surrounding Islands
Taking a helicopter tour of the surrounding islands is one of the must-do things to do in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
The aerial view provides a unique perspective of the island's stunning landscape, turquoise lagoon, and surrounding coral reefs, as well as an opportunity to spot black-tipped reef sharks.
The tour typically includes a visit to neighboring Bora Bora islands such as Tahaa and Raiatea, which are known for their vanilla plantations, ancient maraes (sacred Polynesian temples), and stunning natural beauty.
The helicopter Bora Bora ride is a thrilling alternative to jet ski tours and aqua safaris, offering a great opportunity to capture breathtaking photos of the islands from above.
With knowledgeable pilots and excellent safety records, helicopter tours in Bora Bora are a safe and unforgettable way to explore the region, and local culture, and experience a unique snorkeling excursion.
Enjoy this adventure alongside other activities like jeep tours, jet ski rides, and sunset cruises for a well-rounded visit to this beautiful destination.
13. Join a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Joining a glass-bottom boat tour in Bora Bora is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Bora Bora's lagoon, including Matira Beach and the glistening lagoon, without getting wet.
These tours, often organized by Moana Adventure Tours, allow visitors to see the colorful coral gardens and ocean life that inhabit the lagoon, including tropical fish, manta rays, and even reef sharks, from the comfort of a boat.
The Bora Bora tours are usually led by knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the marine fauna, ancient caves, and ecosystem of Bora Bora's waters.
This family-owned attraction is perfect for those staying in overwater bungalows on the main island, as most resorts provide easy access to these unique excursions.
Enjoy a break from jet ski rides and snorkeling excursions, and experience Bora Bora's aquatic wonders on a glass-bottom boat tour.
14. Care for Sea Turtles at the Bora Bora Turtle Sanctuary
The Bora Bora turtle sanctuary is a conservation center dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of sea turtles in the region.
Bora Bora visitors can participate in a unique experience of caring for these majestic creatures, including feeding them, cleaning their shells, and learning about their natural history and conservation efforts.
The sanctuary is home to a variety of sea turtles, including the critically endangered hawksbill turtle and the green turtle, and visitors can observe them up close in their natural habitat. The Bora Bora sanctuary also conducts research on sea turtle behavior, migration patterns, and breeding habits.
The conservation efforts of the Bora Bora turtle sanctuary are crucial for the protection of these magnificent creatures and the preservation of the local marine ecosystem, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in marine conservation and education.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Bora Bora
Let's have a look at the most commonly asked questions people have about the best things to do in Bora Bora.
What is there to do on Bora Bora Island?
On land, visitors to Bora Bora can take guided tours of the island to visit an ancient volcano or hike the Leeward Islands, and ancient paths on the southern tip of the island.
Bora Bora Island also offers plenty of opportunities for culture enthusiasts, such as the Tahiti pearl market, local food, listening to the island stories, or an authentic local grocery store experience. Explore Moana Adventure Tours for more options.
What kinds of activities are there in Bora Bora?
There is a wide range of things to do in Bora Bora, both on land and in the water. Bora Bora offers a variety of cultural experiences, such as private tours of Polynesian culture or attending a Tahitian dance performance.
How many days are enough in Bora Bora?
The ideal length of time to spend in Bora Bora depends on your interests and budget. If you are looking for a relaxing and luxurious getaway, 5-7 days may be sufficient to fully immerse yourself in the island's beauty and enjoy its many activities.
What should I be careful of in Bora Bora?
While Bora Bora is known for its stunning natural beauty and laid-back island lifestyle, there are a few things to be mindful of when visiting. One of the main concerns is the strong sun, which can lead to sunburn and dehydration, so be sure to use sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Summing Up: Fun Things to Do in Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is a paradise on earth with numerous fun and exciting activities to offer. There is no shortage of things to do in Bora Bora.
From exploring the vibrant underwater life through snorkeling and scuba diving to experiencing the breathtaking views from above on a helicopter ride, there are countless things to do in this snorkeler's paradise for every kind of traveler.
Visitors can also relax and unwind on the pristine beaches, indulge in luxurious spa treatments, or take part in cultural experiences and island tours.
With its natural beauty, warm climate, and welcoming hospitality, Bora Bora is truly a dream destination that should be on everyone's travel bucket list.
