Best Things to Do in Bora Bora
Tucked away in the South Pacific, Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia and often tops the list of the world’s most beautiful islands — and for good reason. It’s about 140 miles northwest of Tahiti and easy to reach with a quick flight from Papeete, the capital. The island itself is tiny — just under 11 square miles — but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in scenery. At the heart of it all is Mount Otemanu, a dramatic, jagged peak that was once a volcano, now surrounded by lush greenery. Around the island, a vivid turquoise lagoon and a protective coral reef create calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and spotting marine life.
Whether you’re here for adventure or pure relaxation, Bora Bora has something for every kind of traveller. Here are some of the best things to do while you’re there:
Snorkel in the Coral Gardens
If there’s one activity to add to your itinerary while in Bora Bora, it’s an afternoon snorkelling in the Coral Gardens. Located between the main island and the surrounding motus (small islets), this underwater haven is known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and incredible visibility — perfect for spotting marine life up close. As soon as you dip beneath the surface, you’re likely to spot schools of tropical fish weaving in and out, as well as butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and even the occasional moray eel or sea urchin. Many lagoon tours stop here, and some even offer the option to feed the fish under the guidance of your tour guide.
Helicopter flight over Bora Bora
For a truly unforgettable honeymoon experience, take a helicopter or seaplane flight over Bora Bora to see the island from a completely new perspective. From the air, the island’s stunning turquoise lagoon stretches out like a vast natural canvas, surrounded by lush motu (small islands) and the towering presence of Mount Otemanu.
As part of the tour, your pilot will take you on a scenic route that includes a flyover of the famous heart-shaped island of Tupai, located just a few miles from Bora Bora. This small, romantic island is often referred to as the “love island” due to its distinctive heart shape, making it a popular spot for couples.
Go on a shark and ray excursion
Ever wanted to get up close and personal with sharks and stingrays? A guided boat excursion is your chance to do just that! You’ll head out into Bora Bora’s crystal-clear lagoon, where you can snorkel alongside these incredible (and surprisingly friendly) creatures.
The adventure starts with a scenic boat ride through the lagoon, stopping at some of the best snorkelling spots. Your first stop is often where you’ll meet the stingrays. They’re very used to humans and will glide right up to you. Next, you’ll head to deeper waters to meet blacktip reef sharks. While they sound a bit intimidating, they’re calm and accustomed to snorkellers.
Many tours also include a stop in shallower waters, where you can swim among colourful coral and tropical fish. And to wrap things up, you might get to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on a private motu, complete with fresh fruit, grilled fish, and views of Mount Otemanu in the distance.
Relax on Matira Beach
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to unwind in Bora Bora, Matira Beach is the place to be. It’s one of the island’s few public beaches, but it’s very private and largely untouched. It’s characterised by soft, powdery white sand stretching out along the shoreline, with shallow turquoise water gently lapping at the beach. .
The water here is warm and calm, ideal for a leisurely swim or simply dipping your toes in while you relax under the shade of the swaying palm trees. The lagoon is shallow for quite a distance, so you can wander out into the water without it getting too deep. If you’re lucky enough to be there at sunset, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable view as the sky turns into a canvas of vibrant oranges and pinks, that’ll make the perfect backdrop for a selfie with your spouse.
Climb Mount Otemanu
No trip to Bora Bora is complete without seeing Mount Otemanu, the island’s stunning peak. Rising over 2,385 feet, it’s the highest point on the island and offers some of the most incredible views you’ll find in all of Bora Bora. While you can’t hike all the way to the summit, there are still plenty of trails to explore. One option is a guided hike through the jungle trails at the base of the mountain, with a chance to spot local plants and wildlife along the way. If you’d prefer something a little less demanding, a 4×4 tour is a fantastic alternative. These guided off-road excursions take you into the heart of the jungle.
Explore Polynesian culture
While in Bora Bora, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s Polynesian culture. One of the best ways to do this is by attending a Polynesian dinner night. These events feature traditional dishes like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), grilled meats, and fresh tropical fruits. As you dine, you’ll also experience cultural performances, including fire dancing, where dancers twirl flaming poi and tell stories from Polynesian myths.
Many resorts offer hands-on activities where you can learn about local crafts. You can try your hand at pareo (sarong) painting, a popular art form where you design fabric using natural dyes. There are also coconut husking demonstrations, where experts show how to transform the tough outer shell into useful items or decorative pieces. Many resorts also offer hula dance lessons, where you can learn the movements and storytelling techniques central to Polynesian culture.