5-Day Family Adventure and Sightseeing in Bora Bora

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

5 days

Bora Bora
Bora Bora
Bora Bora beach
Bora Bora
Luxury overwater villas

About Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Experience the enchanting beauty of Bora Bora, French Polynesia, a tropical paradise nestled in the South Pacific. This idyllic island, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush greenery, and iconic overwater bungalows, offers a tranquil retreat like no other. Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, hike up the majestic Mount Otemanu, or simply relax on the pristine white sandy beaches. Indulge in Polynesian culture with traditional feasts and dance performances. Luxurious resorts provide world-class spa treatments, gourmet dining, and stunning sunset views. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, Bora Bora promises an unforgettable journey.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Matira Beach and Lagoonarium de Bora Bora

Morning

Start your adventure in Bora Bora with a visit to Matira Beach, one of the most famous beaches in French Polynesia. Enjoy the crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, perfect for a morning swim and sunbathing.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. Pack some local delicacies from the nearby market.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the Lagoonarium de Bora Bora, a natural aquarium where you can swim with turtles, rays, and various tropical fish.

Dinner

Enjoy a beachfront dinner with a view of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Try some local seafood dishes.

Evening

End the day with a relaxing walk along the beach under the stars.

Morning

Start the day with a hike up Mount Pahia, one of the two extinct volcanoes on the island. The trail offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean.

Lunch

Have a packed lunch at the summit of Mount Pahia and enjoy the panoramic views.

Afternoon

Visit the Bora Bora Turtle Centre and learn about the conservation efforts for these beautiful creatures.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Polynesian dinner with a view of the lagoon.

Evening

Take a stroll around Vaitape, the main town of Bora Bora, and explore the local shops and markets.

Morning

Start the day with a boat tour around the island. Visit some of the smaller islets and enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the secluded islets.

Afternoon

Visit the Bora Bora Yacht Club and take a sailing lesson or just enjoy watching the boats.

Dinner

Dine at a restaurant with a view of the yacht club and the lagoon.

Evening

Relax at your accommodation and enjoy the tranquility of the island.

Morning

Visit the World War II cannons, a historical landmark offering panoramic views of the island.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the views from the cannons.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the Marae Temples, ancient Polynesian temples made of stone.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Polynesian dinner in a local restaurant.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll around Vaitape and enjoy the local nightlife.

Morning

Spend your last day in Bora Bora exploring the Coral Gardens, a beautiful underwater ecosystem.

Lunch

Have a beachfront lunch and enjoy the view of the lagoon.

Afternoon

Visit the Bora Bora Pearl Company and learn about the process of pearl farming.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Bora Bora at a beachfront restaurant with a view of the sunset.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing walk on the beach under the stars.

Attractions in Itinerary (12)

Matira Beach

1
Matira Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Bora Bora, known for its soft white sand and crystal clear waters. It's a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Beaches
Lagoonarium de Bora Bora

2
Lagoonarium de Bora Bora

The Lagoonarium de Bora Bora is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. It offers guided tours and snorkeling opportunities in a natural aquarium filled with marine life.

Attractions
Tours
Mount Pahia

3
Mount Pahia

A towering mountain offering challenging hikes and panoramic views.

Attractions
Landmarks
Bora Bora Turtle Centre

4
Bora Bora Turtle Centre

The Bora Bora Turtle Centre is a sanctuary dedicated to the care and protection of sea turtles, offering educational programs and interactive experiences.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Vaitape

5
Vaitape

The main town in Bora Bora, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. It's also home to the island's largest supermarket.

Neighborhoods
Shopping
Food and Drink
Bora Bora Yacht Club

6
Bora Bora Yacht Club

The Bora Bora Yacht Club is a popular spot for dining and yachting, offering stunning views of the lagoon and a menu featuring local Polynesian cuisine.

Food and Drink
Sports
World War II cannons

7
World War II cannons

The World War II cannons on Bora Bora are historic landmarks, offering insight into the island's role during the war and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Monuments
Landmarks
Marae Temples

8
Marae Temples

The Marae Temples in Bora Bora are ancient Polynesian temples that offer a glimpse into the island's past, featuring stone platforms and sacred artifacts.

Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Coral Gardens

9
Coral Gardens

A shallow, easily accessible area of the lagoon known for its vibrant coral and diverse marine life.

Attractions
Beaches
Bora Bora Pearl Company

10
Bora Bora Pearl Company

Bora Bora Pearl Company is a renowned retailer of high-quality pearls. They offer a wide range of pearl jewelry, from necklaces to earrings, all crafted with exquisite attention to detail.

Shopping
Bora Bora Lagoon

11
Bora Bora Lagoon

A boat tour of the Bora Bora lagoon offers a unique opportunity to explore the island's vibrant marine life, including rays, sharks, and a variety of tropical fish. The crystal clear waters provide perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving.

Attractions
Tours
Beaches
Motu Tapu

12
Motu Tapu

Motu Tapu is a private island off the coast of Bora Bora, known for its stunning beach and tranquil atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip or a romantic getaway.

Beaches
Attractions

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Poisson Cru

Poisson Cru

This is the national dish of French Polynesia, made from raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. It's a must-try when in Bora Bora.

Chevrettes

Chevrettes

These are small shrimps that are often served with a garlic butter sauce. They are a popular seafood dish in Bora Bora.

Fafa

Fafa

Fafa is a traditional Polynesian dish made from taro leaves and chicken cooked in coconut milk. It's a staple in Bora Bora.

Poulet Fafa

This is a variation of the Fafa, where chicken is used instead of taro leaves. It's a popular dish in Bora Bora.

Fe'i Bananas

These are a type of banana that is native to French Polynesia. They are often used in desserts or eaten raw in Bora Bora.

Uru

Uru, or breadfruit, is a staple food in Bora Bora. It can be roasted, boiled, or made into a dessert.

Matuata

Matuata is a local beer brewed in French Polynesia. It's a popular choice for tourists looking to try a local drink in Bora Bora.

Tahitian Vanilla

Tahitian Vanilla

Tahitian vanilla is renowned for its quality and is used in a variety of dishes and desserts in Bora Bora.

Coconut Bread

This is a sweet bread made with coconut milk. It's a popular breakfast item in Bora Bora.

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi is a type of fish that is often grilled or baked in Bora Bora. It's a popular choice for seafood lovers.

Rum Tahiti

Rum Tahiti is a local rum made from sugarcane. It's a popular choice for tourists looking to try a local drink in Bora Bora.

Pineapple Wine

This is a unique wine made from pineapples. It's a must-try for wine lovers visiting Bora Bora.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bora Bora, French Polynesia is during the months of May to October. This period is often referred to as the dry season or winter season, with less rainfall and humidity, making it the most comfortable time for tourists. The temperatures during this time are warm and pleasant, ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Additionally, this period is also the peak season for tourism due to the favorable weather conditions, so it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 5

Tue

Missionary Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 8

Wed

Victory Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

June 29

Sat

Autonomy Day

July 14

Sun

French National Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

To reach Bora Bora, you'll first need to fly into Tahiti's Faa'a International Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Bora Bora's Motu Mute Airport via Air Tahiti.

Once you arrive at Bora Bora's airport, you'll need to take a boat transfer to reach the main island or your resort. Many resorts offer their own boat transfers directly from the airport.

While Bora Bora is a small island, renting a car can be a convenient way to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental agencies available, including Avis and Europcar.

For those who prefer a more active mode of transport, renting a bicycle is a popular option. Bora Bora's flat terrain and scenic roads make it a great place for cycling.

Renting a scooter can be a fun and efficient way to get around Bora Bora. Scooters are widely available for rent, and driving them is relatively easy due to the island's light traffic.

Bora Bora has a public bus system, known as Le Truck, which operates around the main island. However, service can be infrequent and may not reach all areas.

Taxis are available in Bora Bora, but they can be expensive and are not always readily available. It's recommended to arrange taxi service in advance.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are not currently available in Bora Bora.

For a unique way to explore Bora Bora, consider renting a private boat. This allows you to visit secluded beaches and snorkeling spots at your own pace.

Many resorts in Bora Bora offer shuttle services to and from popular attractions on the island. This can be a convenient option if you're planning to spend most of your time at the resort.

For those who prefer a structured itinerary, there are many guided tours available in Bora Bora. These can include land-based tours by bus or 4x4, or water-based tours by boat or jet ski.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency XPF

Time zoneUTC-10

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 15; Fire: 18; Police: 17

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type E

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Bora Bora, French Polynesia as a first time visitor

1

Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia, which is an overseas territory of France. Therefore, the official language is French, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

2

The local currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

3

Bora Bora is located in the South Pacific, and it has a tropical climate. The average temperature ranges from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).

4

The island is known for its luxury resorts, many of which feature overwater bungalows. These can be quite expensive, so budget accordingly.

5

Bora Bora is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

6

The island is small and can be explored by bicycle or on foot. There are also car and scooter rental services available.

7

Bora Bora is not known for its nightlife. Most activities are centered around the beach and the ocean, and evenings are typically quiet.

8

The island's cuisine is a mix of French and Polynesian influences. Seafood is a staple, and you should try local dishes like poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk).

9

Tap water is not safe to drink in Bora Bora. Always drink bottled water.

10

Bora Bora is in the Tahiti Time Zone, which is 10 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-10).

11

Bora Bora has a laid-back, casual dress code. However, it's respectful to cover up when you're not on the beach.

12

The island has a small population of around 10,000 people. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

13

Bora Bora is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples due to its romantic setting.

14

The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including sharks, rays, and many species of tropical fish.

15

Bora Bora's peak tourist season is from May to October, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, this is also when prices are highest.

16

The island is accessible by plane. Most visitors fly into Tahiti and then take a short domestic flight to Bora Bora.

17

Bora Bora has a high cost of living due to its remote location and reliance on imports. Expect to pay more for food, drinks, and goods than you would at home.

18

The island's main industries are tourism and pearl farming. You can visit a pearl farm to learn about the process and buy authentic Tahitian pearls.

19

Bora Bora has a rich Polynesian culture. Traditional music and dance are important parts of local life, and you may have the opportunity to witness a performance during your stay.

20

The island is known for its stunning sunsets. Make sure to take the time to watch one during your visit.

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ia ora na

Yaorana

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Nānā

Nana

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Mārū

Maru

Making a request

Thank you

Māuruuru

Maorooroo

Expressing gratitude

Yes

E

Eh

Agreeing with someone

No

Aita

Aita

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

E aha

E aha

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Aita au e 'ite

Aita au e ite

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

Teie te farii pape?

Tayay te faree pape?

When you need to use the bathroom

I need help

Ua 'ore au i te tauturu

Ua ore au i te tauturu

When you need assistance

Do you speak English?

E parau 'oe i te reo pārāni?

E parau oe i te reo parani?

When you need someone to speak English

How much is this?

E 'ōfea teie?

E ofea teie?

When you want to know the price of something

Water

Vai

Vai

When you want to order water

Food

Ma'a

Ma'a

When you want to order food

Beer

Pia

Pia

When you want to order beer

Wine

Vīni

Vini

When you want to order wine

Good morning

Ia ora na i te poipoi

Yaorana i te poipoi

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

Ia ora na i te po

Yaorana i te po

Saying goodnight to someone

I'm sorry

Mārū

Maru

Apologizing

I love you

Ua here au ia 'oe

Ua here au ia oe

Expressing love to someone

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Swimwear (at least 2 sets)

  • Lightweight clothing for warm weather

  • Evening wear for dining out

  • Underwear and socks

  • Flip flops or sandals

  • Water shoes for snorkeling

  • Sun hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen (reef-safe)

  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (local currency)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and flight booking confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter for electronics

  • Camera or GoPro

  • Extra memory cards for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snorkeling gear

  • Travel pillow and blanket for the flight

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for beach reading

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for protecting electronics

  • Travel guide and map

  • Beach bag

Weather Conditions

Bora Bora, a tropical paradise in French Polynesia, experiences warm weather throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the island has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season, from May to October, is the most popular time to visit. During this period, you can expect temperatures to range from 70°F to 84°F (21°C to 29°C). The weather is generally sunny and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and beach lounging. However, as it's the peak tourist season, be prepared for higher prices and more crowds. The wet season, from November to April, sees more rainfall and higher humidity. Temperatures during this time range from 75°F to 86°F (24°C to 30°C). Despite the rain, the island remains warm and the showers are often brief, so you can still enjoy your vacation. Plus, you'll benefit from fewer tourists and lower prices. However, keep in mind that cyclones can occur during this season, although they are rare. Regardless of when you visit, remember to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a good sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun. Also, don't forget your swimsuit and snorkeling gear to enjoy Bora Bora's stunning lagoons and coral reefs. In conclusion, Bora Bora is a year-round destination. Choose the dry season for less rain and more sun, or the wet season for fewer crowds and lower prices. Just be prepared for the occasional tropical shower and remember to protect yourself from the sun.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 25°

January is the wettest month in Bora Bora, with frequent showers and high humidity. However, the temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

February

31° / 25°

February continues the wet season, with high humidity and rainfall. Temperatures are similar to January, with highs of 31°C.

March

31° / 25°

March sees the end of the wet season, with decreasing rainfall. The temperatures remain warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

April

31° / 25°

April marks the start of the dry season, with less rainfall and humidity. The temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

May

30° / 24°

May is a pleasant month to visit Bora Bora, with less humidity and rainfall. The temperatures slightly drop, ranging from 24°C to 30°C.

June

30° / 24°

June is one of the coolest months in Bora Bora, with low humidity and rainfall. The temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, making it a comfortable time to visit.

July

30° / 24°

July is the coolest month in Bora Bora, with low humidity and minimal rainfall. The temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, offering a comfortable climate for outdoor activities.

August

30° / 24°

August continues the cool and dry trend, with low humidity and rainfall. The temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, making it a popular month for tourists.

September

30° / 24°

September marks the end of the cool season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. The humidity and rainfall start to increase towards the end of the month.

October

31° / 25°

October sees the start of the wet season, with increasing rainfall and humidity. However, the temperatures remain warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

November

31° / 25°

November is a wet month in Bora Bora, with high humidity and frequent showers. The temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

December

31° / 25°

December is the peak of the wet season, with high rainfall and humidity. The temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C, making it a tropical getaway for those escaping colder climates.

Did you know?

Did you know that Bora Bora is known as the 'Pearl of the Pacific' due to its stunning beauty and high-end luxury resorts?

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