City BuddyCityBuddy
English
Stunning view of overwater bungalows with a mountain backdrop in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

Things to Do in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Photo made by Adrien Daurenjou on Pexels.com

When to visit

MODERATEJan28°18d rain
MODERATEFeb28°16d rain
MODERATEMar28°17d rain
NOT BUSYApr27°12d rain
NOT BUSYMay27°10d rainBEST
NOT BUSYJun26°8d rainBEST
NOT BUSYJul26°7d rainBEST
NOT BUSYAug26°6d rainBEST
NOT BUSYSep26°8d rainBEST
MODERATEOct27°10d rainBEST
MODERATENov27°13d rain
MODERATEDec28°16d rain

Most popular attractions in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Top things to do in Bora Bora, French Polynesia include swimming at Matira Beach, a 1.5-kilometer stretch of white sand perfect for snorkeling. Explore Mount Otemanu, the island's extinct volcano, for breathtaking panoramic views. Visit Bora Bora Lagoonarium to encounter vibrant marine life up close in this natural aquarium.

Matira Beach

1. Matira Beach

4.8 (626)Free entry
Tourist AttractionPoint of InterestEstablishment

Unwind on powdery sand kissed by crystal-clear waters. Discover serene lagoons and breathtaking sunsets for unforgettable moments.

Mount Otemanu

2. Mount Otemanu

4.5 (59)Free entry
Mountain PeakNatural FeatureEstablishment

Jaw-dropping views reward your trek up this volcanic peak. Experience serene lagoon vistas and mystical ancient caves along the way.

Bora Bora Lagoonarium

3. Bora Bora Lagoonarium

4.7 (297)
Tour AgencyTravel AgencyServicePoint of InterestEstablishment
Closed Sat

Discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and graceful rays. Snorkel, swim, and connect with marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Motu Tapu

4. Motu Tapu

4.8 (39)
IslandNatural FeatureEstablishment

Escape to a private island haven with vibrant reefs and soft sands. Snorkel, relax, or soak in breathtaking views in a peaceful paradise.

Coral Gardens

5. Coral Gardens

4.9 (8)
Tourist AttractionPoint of InterestEstablishment

Explore dazzling coral reefs alive with exotic fish. Swim through a vibrant marine paradise just beneath the waves.

Bora Bora Turtle Centre

6. Bora Bora Turtle Centre

4.9 (380)
Tourist AttractionSports CoachingTour AgencyTravel AgencySchool

Discover incredible sea turtles in their vibrant reef home. Experience up-close encounters and learn about marine conservation efforts firsthand.

Bora Bora Airport

7. Bora Bora Airport

4.6 (281)Free entry
AirportTransportation ServicePoint of InterestEstablishment

A quick gateway to paradise. Experience stunning lagoon views from touchdown to takeoff.

Where to Stay in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions

Search all hotels in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Powered by agoda

Opening days in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Which of the top sights close on which day of the week — the classic trip-ruiner, checked for you.

Saturday: 1 of 3 top sights closed — plan museums for another day.

Closed on Saturday · 1 closed, 2 open

Opening days from Google Maps (checked 2026-03-01). Public holidays, strikes and seasonal hours can differ — check the official website before you go.

Traditional Sweet Dishes

Po'e

Po'e

Po'e is a traditional Polynesian dessert made from mashed bananas or papaya mixed with coconut cream and arrowroot, then baked until it forms a pudding-like consistency.

Tropical Fruit Salad with Coconut Cream

Tropical Fruit Salad with Coconut Cream

This dessert features fresh, locally grown tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, and papaya, served with rich coconut cream for a refreshingly sweet treat.

Banana Tart

Banana Tart

Banana tarts in Bora Bora are known for their use of ripe bananas and a delicate flaky crust, often flavored with vanilla and coconut.

Traditional Savory Dishes

Poisson Cru

Poisson Cru

Poisson Cru is a signature Bora Bora dish, consisting of raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, often mixed with fresh vegetables.

Fafaru

Fafaru

Fafaru is a traditional fermented seafood dish that holds cultural significance and offers a unique, intense flavor distinct to French Polynesia.

Grilled Mahi Mahi

Grilled Mahi Mahi

Grilled Mahi Mahi is a popular savory dish that showcases the fresh fish caught in Bora Bora's surrounding waters, often seasoned with tropical herbs and served with island sides.

Traditional Beverages

Tiare Flower Drink

Tiare Flower Drink

This fragrant drink is made from the iconic Tiare flower, offering a floral aroma and a lightly sweet taste that embodies the essence of Bora Bora.

Fruit Punch with Tropical Juices

Fruit Punch with Tropical Juices

A refreshing beverage combining fresh local juices like pineapple, passion fruit, and orange, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Kava

Kava

Kava is a traditional Polynesian drink made from the root of the kava plant, known for its relaxing and ceremonial use.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Is Bora Bora, French Polynesia safe for tourists?
Bora Bora is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates. Visitors should still follow common safety practices like securing valuables and being cautious in isolated areas. The island is welcoming, and most travelers have trouble-free experiences.
How many days should I spend in Bora Bora, French Polynesia?
Most travelers find that spending 4 to 7 days in Bora Bora is ideal. This duration allows you to enjoy the beaches, water activities, and local culture without feeling rushed, making the most of your visit to this island paradise.
What is the best time to visit Bora Bora, French Polynesia?
The best months to visit Bora Bora are May, June, July, August, September, and October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Is Bora Bora, French Polynesia expensive to visit?
Bora Bora is considered expensive, with an average cost of living around $1500 per month. Accommodation, dining, and activities tend to be pricey due to the island's remote location and luxury tourism market.
How to get around Bora Bora, French Polynesia?
Public transportation in Bora Bora scores 3 out of 10 for convenience. Visitors commonly use taxis, rental bikes, or boats to explore the island. Renting a car is less common since the island is small and many spots are reachable by foot or boat.

Get a PDF with the most popular attractions sent to your email

Get a PDF with all attractions, ratings, and tips. Perfect for offline use.

Most popular day trips

Motu Tapu

5 km 15 min by boat

A small private island perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.

Mount Otemanu

4 km 1h by hike

The highest peak on Bora Bora with stunning panoramic views.

Coral Gardens

3 km 20 min by boat

A beautiful snorkeling spot with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Vaitape

10 km 20 min by car

The main village with shops, markets and local dining experiences.

Getting there

Fly into Papeete International Airport then take a domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport. Boats are used for transfers from the airport to resorts.

Useful information for Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Shopping locationsVaitape Market
Nightlife locationsBloody Mary's, St. James
Popular casual restaurantsMatsuhisa, Bloody Mary
Popular fancy restaurantsLe Corail, La Villa Mahana
Popular coffee shopsCafe Teiki, Bloody Mary's
Tap water safe to drinkNo
Digital nomad visaNo
Best taxi appUber, Local Taxi
Taxi price / km$3
Tourists / year200000
Population10523
Mobile internet speed15 Mbps
Unemployment percentage13 %
Poverty percentage17 %
Average income / month$2500
Average cost of living / month$1500
Hotel price / night from$180
Beer price from$7
Coffee price from$4
Street food price from$8
Restaurant meal price from$25
Local currencyXPF
Power plug typesC, E
ReligionsChristianity
Spoken languagesFrench, Tahitian, English
EthnicitiesPolynesian
Political orientationCenter
Population density165 /km²
Geographical area38 km²
Possible natural disastersCyclone, Flood, Earthquake
Locations for a nice walkMatira Beach, Laghetti Beach, Otemanu Mountain
Public transportationsBus, Taxi
AirlinesAir Tahiti, Air France
Suggested vaccinationsHepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, Diphtheria
Architecture typePolynesian, Colonial
Average beer consumption per person / year25 l
Average wine consumption per person / year10 l
Tipping cultureCustomary to tip 10-15% in restaurants
Coworking / day$25
Airbnb / month$3000
1BR rent / month$1500
Gym / month$75
Daily budget (backpacker)$40
Daily budget (mid-range)$120

Overview for Bora Bora, French Polynesia

English proficiencyBad
Traffic safetyGood
Friendly to foreignersAverage
Freedom of speechGood
Public transportationBad
HealthcareAverage
EducationAverage
Power grid reliabilityAverage
Crime safetyGood
WalkabilityGood
NightlifeAverage
Food sceneGood
LGBTQ+ friendlyBad
Startup sceneBad
Noise levelBad
CleanlinessGood
Nature accessVery good

Compare Bora Bora with other destinations

Prices, safety, weather and top attractions side by side, with a verdict for every kind of traveler.

Explore all of French Polynesia →
Want a day-by-day plan for Bora Bora, French Polynesia? Open the trip planner

Plan your perfect trip to Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Get a complete travel plan built just for you in under 30 seconds, with daily routes, local food tips, budget estimates and more.

Day-by-day itinerary tailored to your style
Detailed budget breakdown with accommodation & food costs
Complete pre-trip checklist so you don't miss a thing

Are any of these especially important to you?

Select all that apply

Getting around

How do you want to move between places?

Plan language: English

Looking for another city?