Tips For Traveling To Bora Bora

August 14, 2023

Blue water, overwater bungalows, lush greenery, and prime relaxation are all a part of the Bora Bora experience. When traveling to Bora Bora, there is a lot to consider, and our travel experts have compiled their best tips for this beautiful paradise. From when to visit, where to stay, and what to do—we will unveil all of that and more below. 

Where is Bora Bora?

Bora Bora is located in the Society Islands in French Polynesia. It takes around 50 minutes to travel from Papeete, Tahiti to Bora Bora by plane. The total area of Bora Bora, including its islets, is approximately 15 square miles, making it one of the smaller islands in the archipelago.

When To Visit? 

This is a highly sought-after destination for luxury travelers, making getting reservations at any of the island’s resorts or hotels difficult. So, having solid logistics and planning in place is vital. When planning your visit, keep the weather in mind. In Bora Bora, there are two seasons—wet and dry. The most popular season to visit is the dry season which runs from May to October. But, travelers can enjoy a temperate climate all year, so taking advantage of the low season from March through December can also be a great idea for travelers who want to visit with fewer crowds. If you plan to visit Bora Bora, contact a luxury travel expert as soon as possible to ensure you can book the itinerary of your dreams.

How Long Should You Stay? 

We suggest planning five to seven days to fully unwind and explore the island. If you have multiple islands on your itinerary or have time and budget constraints, we recommend at least three full nights to enjoy a well-rounded experience. If you are traveling to another island during your stay, Air Tahiti offers flights connecting Bora Bora from the Papeete, Moorea, and Raitea airports.

Where To Stay

With just a handful of resorts, you might think deciding where to stay is easy. However, each resort has a unique offering that could be perfect for you. A travel expert can help you navigate those details to find the best stay for your needs.

Choose A Resort That Fits Your Style

Before trying to find the right place to stay, you will need to ask yourself some questions: What are your must-have amenities? Do you have a brand preference (Hilton/Conrad, The Four Seasons, St. Regis, or Intercontinental, for example)? What is your ideal room type and budget for this portion of your trip? 

Many travelers prefer an on-site gym, spa, and multiple restaurants to choose from. Others are loyal to a specific brand and might opt to miss out on amenities to stay within a familiar resort family, and others must have an overwater bungalow experience. It is important to begin your search with this information to make the best decision for yourself. The brand websites typically have room and amenity information available to you. Still, your travel designer has even more insight into the locations, the best things to do, and their suggested stays based on your unique preferences.

Our Top Resort Pick

While many wonderful options are available on Bora Bora, one of our favorite places to visit and send guests is Le Bora Bora, a Relais & Chateaux member resort. Along with lush gardens, a stunning beach, several excellent restaurants, and a new fitness center, this resort has fantastic value for its cost. It has various room types for all budgets–including a garden-view bungalow with a private pool. This resort gains its design inspiration from Polynesian architecture. You will notice thatched roofs, warm colors, and a respect for nature in its surroundings. Amongst all of its efforts in sustainable development, Le Bora Bora also has the only solar-powered electric boat on the island—The Okeanos Pearl. On a zero-emissions, golden-hour cruise, you can enjoy a selection of wine, beer, and soft drinks as you take in the beautiful nature surrounding you.

This small island has more great resorts to choose from, and they all offer something unique to their guests. You can find some of our other favorite resorts in Bora Bora here. 

Our Favorite On-Island Experiences

You’re in luck if you are trying to fill your itinerary full of things to do. Bora Bora is filled with activities, but don’t forget to schedule some relaxation! This destination is perfect for any adventure traveler. Here are a few of our favorite on-island experiences.

1 | Float Right Off Of Your Bungalow

There are few things in life more magical than taking to the blue waters to just be. Let the water gently cradle you as you float right in front of your overwater bungalow. 

2 | Circle The Island By Jet Ski

Grab your travel companions and head out on the water to explore the surrounding lagoon and circle this stunning island. You can take in the sights of the famed Mt. Otemanu, glide past other accommodations, and even see some of the island’s most famous landmarks.

3 | The Loveboat Photo Tour And Sunset Cruise

Every day the Loveboat sets off on a private romantic cruise for a lucky couple. You’ll have an unforgettable time exploring the lagoon, drinking champagne from a coconut, and taking 100 photos for you and your partner to look back on in the future. This experience runs every day as long as the weather permits.

4 | Eco Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari

This two-and-a-half-hour snorkel tour will take you all around the lagoon, stopping multiple times along the way for you to get out of the boat and snorkel with the stunning sea life below. Many snorkelers will see sharks, tropical fish, sea turtles, coral, and other incredible creatures while taking in the vast ocean surrounding them. 

5 | Dine At Bloody Mary’s Restaurant

In researching Bora Bora, you will see Bloody Mary’s Restaurant as a must-visit suggestion from many travel experts. This popular restaurant is best visited with a reservation, so planning ahead is key, like with most activities in Bora Bora. 

6 | 4×4 Jeep Safari Or ATV Tour And Motu Picnic Lunch

Once you’ve seen the island from the viewpoint of a jet ski, you will want to explore the rugged land. Our favorite way to do this is via a Jeep safari or ATV tour and lunch. Your off-road vehicle will allow you to take in the island from several viewpoints otherwise inaccessible. Plus, your guide will be able to share about the island’s history, share more details on the sights you are taking in, and even offer you local tips on places less traveled. 

7 | Sunset Cruise And Dinner At Saint James Restaurant

Equipped with champagne, you can step onto a semi-private outrigger canoe that will carry you on the waters as you take in the beautiful sunset during a 2-hour cruise. Afterward, you will enjoy dinner at Saint James Restaurant, where French cuisine is artfully combined with Polynesian flavors.

Bora Bora is a dream destination of the beauty on and surrounding the island. It is a place where you can enjoy total relaxation and embark on some of the most extraordinary adventures of your life. If you want to visit this island, our Tahiti travel experts—the best Bora Bora travel agents for luxury and adventure travelers—are here to help you. Check out our existing itineraries, or contact us today to see how we can design the perfect trip for you.