Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Discover all Bora Bora has to offer during your South Pacific vacation.
Matira Beach – As one of the only public access beaches in Bora Bora, Matira Beach is a popular tourist attraction. Along with crystal clear water and soft sand, Matira Beach is also host to resorts, shops, and eateries. The shoreline is rarely ever crowded, so it’s a great place to relax. If you want to spend a whole day there, we recommend going on your own instead of as part of a tour package. If you don’t have time stay all day at the beach, go for the sunsets. Matira Beach is about 4 miles south of Vaitape, and you can get there by bicycle or taxi. You can also drive there. Parking is available.
Mount Otemanu – At the center of the island, Mount Otemanu is one of two extinct volcanoes, rising 2,400 feet above the lagoon. We suggest visiting the top of this breathtaking mountain. If hiking doesn’t appeal to you, you can enjoy Mount Otemanu via a 4×4 Jeep tour, a boat tour, a helicopter tour, or even by taking photos of it from the beach. If you take a 4×4 Jeep tour, you can reach the top of the mountain faster than hikers. Be sure to check the weather before booking your tour. Most tour operators offer Mount Otemanu excursion packages via their websites, including transportation to and from your hotel. Your hotel’s concierge can also make reservations and offer recommendations.
4×4 Excursions – To explore the island via a customizable 4×4 Jeep tour, multiple tour companies offer these excursions, such as Vavau 4×4 Adventures, Natura Discovery, and Tupuna Safari. On your tour, you’ll learn about the island’s history and culture, as well as island legends. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride or a wild adventure, there are tours that appeal to nearly all travelers. Packages range from half-day cultural island expeditions to romantic sunset tours to safari jungle treks. The tour guides are English-speaking locals who willingly share island secrets. The island views are stunning, so remember to bring your camera. Keep in mind that the roads are bumpy, hilly, and sometimes muddy. Most tour companies pick travelers up directly from their hotels or have centrally located pickup spots.
Coral Gardens – This gorgeous coral reef is located on an islet east of the main island across from the Sofitel Marara. The reef isn’t too far below the water, so all you need are snorkeling goggles to view the array of colorful fish. The beaches consist of coral and not sand, so it gets a bit rocky. We suggest bringing water shoes or aqua socks. The Coral Gardens are an extremely popular destination, so expect to find crowds here. To reach the Coral Gardens, Tahiti Tourism suggests several tour operators near the Bora Bora Lagoonarium. You can get to the reef via a 5-minute boat ride or a 20-minute swim.
Vaitape – In Bora Bora’s main town, you’ll find a variety of eateries and boutiques along its central corridor. Vaitape also has a tourist office, gas stations, and a medical center. If you’re looking for upscale souvenirs, visit Sibani Perle for exquisite black pearl jewelry. There are also many other stores selling less expensive souvenirs. Try local cuisine at Bloody Mary’s restaurant and bar or Restaurant St. James. For seaside dining, book a table at the Bora Bora Yacht Club. Depending on where you’re staying, you can reach Vaitape by taxi, bicycle, or Le Truck bus.
Boat Tours – Whether it’s sailboats, glass-bottom boats, speedboats, kayaks, or jet skis, Bora Bora has it all. Tour packages are customizable for each guest, including everything from half-day to full-day excursions and private or public programs. Deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and animal feeding can be added to most itineraries. Some boat tours also include full meals. Lagoon Service, Moana Adventure Tours, and Bora Bora Photo Lagoon are a few tour companies offering island explorations by sea. During the boat tour, you’ll visit the island’s hidden lagoons and coves, and learn about Bora Bora’s history. Most tour companies include hotel pickup and drop-off in the package price.
Shark/Stingray Feeding – Tour companies, such as Moana Adventure Tours and Reef Discovery, offer shark and stingray feeding adventures. You can interact with native blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in their natural habitats. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity that’s a great way to explore the ocean floor. If you’re uncomfortable feeding the stingrays and sharks, you can still enjoy snorkeling among the reefs. Be sure to check the weather before booking a tour because some activities get canceled due to rain.
Bora Bora Lagoonarium – Located east of the main island, this natural aquarium is part of the lagoon. At this family-owned attraction, you can snorkel under guided supervision. Beneath the lagoon’s surface, you’ll see sharks, turtles, rays, and many other types of marine life. Depending on the length and time of day of your tour, you’ll get a variety of other perks like a canoe tour of the island or a barbeque picnic. The lagoon is a great place for all ages to get up close and personal with Bora Bora’s marine life.
Fishing – Bora Bora offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round. You can catch Pacific blue marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, skipjack tuna, yellowfin tuna, trevally, jack, and barracuda. If you join a local fishing expert on his/her boat, you can choose shallow water, deep sea, or bottom fishing. This private activity accommodates one to six people.
Parasailing – To experience a feeling of freedom, try parasailing, and soar over the lagoon. Most hotels provide a shuttle to Vaitape where a complimentary taxi takes you to the dock. Ask your hotel’s concierge for assistance. Parasailing is offered to adults and children, 10 and over.
Fly first class or business class to Bora Bora! We find reduced rates on luxury flights to Bora Bora and excellent deals on Bora Bora’s upscale accommodations.
If you missed our previous posts about Bora Bora, catch up now with Top Travel Tips for Bora Bora and Top Resorts in Bora Bora.
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