Bora Bora is a South Pacific island group in French Polynesia's Society Islands, situated about 230 to 260 kilometres northwest of Papeete, Tahiti. Reaching this tropical destination typically involves flying into the island's primary airstrip located on Motu Mute, a northern islet constructed originally during World War II. From the air or sea, travellers are greeted by dramatic volcanic peaks rising directly above a sprawling, sheltered lagoon that is separated from the open Pacific Ocean by a protective outer barrier reef.
The destination centers around a mountainous main island featuring Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, surrounded by small sand islets known as motus. Main beaches line the southwest between Pointe Paopao and Pointe Matira, facing shallow, calm lagoon waters that shift in shade from dark indigo to pastel blue and green. Brightly coloured corals beneath the surface showcase shades of egg yolk, red, blue, and purple. Protected by the necklace-shaped coral reef, the shoreline provides tranquil conditions ideal for seaside relaxation and water activities.
Around the main island and its motus, the atmosphere blends luxury resort living with deep-rooted Polynesian culture and WWII history. The primary settlement of Vaitape sits on the western shoreline opposite Teavanui Passage, offering access to local shops and dining like the famous Bloody Mary's. Dense tropical vegetation, coconut palm plantations, and inland hiking routes line the interior. This stunning setting caters perfectly to couples seeking over-water bungalow retreats, snorkellers, scuba divers looking to spot rays and sharks, and nature enthusiasts exploring mountain trails.
01 Highlights & things to do
What makes this stretch of coast worth the trip — from the water to the walks, wildlife and the views.
Compiled from Wikipedia · conditions vary with weather, tides and the season.
Beach map & the area
The free OpenStreetMap layer below shows the beach and its surroundings — the coastline, access roads, nearby towns and where to park. Zoom in for detail, or open it live in a full map.
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL, free).
02 Getting there
| Option | Detail |
|---|---|
| Air | Air Tahiti operates five or six daily flights between Tahiti (Faa'a International Airport) and Bora Bora Airport on Motu Mute. |
| Rental Vehicle / Bicycle | There is no public transport, so rental cars, bicycles, and small two-seater buggies in Vaitape are recommended. |
| Boat | Motorboats can be rented in Vaitape to explore the lagoon, while large cargo and cruise ships enter via Teavanui Passage. |
Getting there · Last updated: 2026-09-12 · always double-check access & ferries
03 Where to stay
Resorts, towns and areas near the beach — the closer you stay, the easier the early-morning and sunset hours when the light is best and the crowds are thin.
Opened in 1961 as an early pioneer of tourism on the island.
Located on the motus, featuring the artificial island of Motu Marfo in the northeastern lagoon.
04 Best time to visit & the water
| Season | When | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June to October | Features warm, fairly dry weather with trade winds blowing strongly at times, lower average humidity (45–60%), and occasional afternoon showers. |
| Rainy Season | November to April | Brings heavy atmosphere, high humidity (75–90%), violent storms with heavy rains lasting several days, alongside many sunny days. |
Conditions vary with weather, tides & season · Last updated: 2026-09-12
05 Nearby & around
Other beaches, coves, towns and sights within easy reach — worth stringing together into a coastal day.
Good to know
- There is no public transport on Bora Bora; travellers rely on rental cars, bicycles, buggies, or rental motorboats.
- Hikes in the interior, such as Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, are best navigated with an experienced local guide.
- The lagoon is shallow outside the main western entrance, Teavanui Passage, restricting deep-draft vessels to the main channel.
- Shark fishing has been strictly banned around the island since 2012.
- Tahitian and French are the main languages spoken, though English is widely spoken by tourism workers.