Bora Bora, jewel of French Polynesia in the South Pacific, is the pinnacle of romantic luxury. Encircling a calm lagoon boasting fifty shades of azure and emerald, sheltered by sandy coral motus beneath majestic Mount Otemanu, it is true paradise.
Top Attractions & Sights
Mount Otemanu
The iconic jagged 727-meter extinct volcano core rising dramatic and emerald-green from the center of the crystalline turquoise lagoon.
Coral Gardens & Barrier Reef
A vibrant marine garden where you can snorkel alongside gentle stingrays, harmless blacktip reef sharks, and kaleidoscope schools of parrotfish.
Matira Beach
The premier public white-sand beach on the main island, boasting coconut palms and warm, knee-deep crystalline waters ideal for wading.
Where to Go & Neighborhoods
Relax on private outer coral motus in overwater bungalows, and visit downtown Vaitape village to shop for Tahitian black pearls.
Where to Eat & Local Gastronomy
Bloody Mary's (Vaitape)
Iconic thatched South Seas institution since 1979 with white sand floors and coconut stool seating, serving grilled catch-of-the-day and steaks.
Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges (St. Regis)
Suspended over the lagoon with glass floor viewing panels, offering Jean-Georges Vongerichten's French-Asian fusion with direct views of Mount Otemanu.
Snack Matira (Matira Beach)
Casual toes-in-the-sand beach shack serving mouthwatering traditional Poisson Cru au lait de coco, sashimi, and cold Hinano beers.
Getting Around & Transportation
Fly 45 minutes from Tahiti (PPT) to Bora Bora Airport (BOB), perched on an offshore motu. All transfers to resorts are handled by motorized wooden boats across the lagoon.
Best Time to Visit & Stay Duration
May to October brings the dry austral winter with lower humidity, gentle trade winds, and bright clear lagoon waters. Recommended stay: 4 to 6 days.
Traveler's Tip
Treat yourself to a traditional canoe breakfast delivered directly to your overwater bungalow deck on a flower-strewn outrigger canoe.