5-Day Family Adventure: Unexplored Bora Bora, Sightseeing, and Shopping
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
5 days
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 2
Historical Sites and Turtle Centre Visit
Morning
Visit the WWII Guns in Bora Bora, a historical site that offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery in Vaitape. Try the poisson cru, a local dish made with raw fish and coconut milk.
Afternoon
Take a guided tour of the Bora Bora Turtle Centre. Learn about the conservation efforts for these endangered species and even get a chance to swim with them.
Dinner
Enjoy a beachfront barbecue dinner. Many restaurants in Bora Bora offer this dining experience, complete with a fire dance show.
Evening
Spend the evening stargazing. Bora Bora's clear skies and minimal light pollution make it an excellent place for stargazing.
Day 3
Marae Temples and Lagoon Exploration
Morning
Start the day with a visit to the Marae Temples, ancient Polynesian religious sites scattered around the island.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery in Vaitape. Try the local dishes like poisson cru or grilled mahi-mahi.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant in Vaitape. Try the local dishes like poisson cru or grilled mahi-mahi.
Evening
End the day with a relaxing walk around Vaitape. The town is quiet in the evening, providing a peaceful end to the day.
Day 4
Sailing and Lagoon Exploration
Morning
Visit the Bora Bora Yacht Club, a popular spot for sailing enthusiasts. The club also offers sailing lessons for beginners.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery in Vaitape. Try the local dishes like poisson cru or grilled mahi-mahi.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Bora Bora Lagoon by kayak. This is a great way to see the island's marine life up close.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant in Vaitape. Try the local dishes like poisson cru or grilled mahi-mahi.
Evening
End the day with a relaxing walk around Vaitape. The town is quiet in the evening, providing a peaceful end to the day.
Day 5
Last Day Shopping and Lagoon Exploration
Morning
Start your last day in Bora Bora with a visit to the Bora Bora Pearl Market. This market is a great place to find unique and beautiful Tahitian pearls, as well as other local crafts and souvenirs.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery in Vaitape. Try the local dishes like poisson cru or grilled mahi-mahi.
Dinner
Have your last dinner in Bora Bora at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy the local cuisine while watching the sunset over the lagoon.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing walk around Vaitape. The town is quiet in the evening, providing a peaceful end to the trip.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Bora Bora Pearl Market
The Bora Bora Pearl Market offers a unique shopping experience with a wide range of pearls, from the rarest and most valuable to the more common and affordable ones.
2Matira 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.
3Bora Bora Lagoonarium
A natural aquarium where visitors can swim with a variety of marine life, including sharks and rays. Guided tours are available.
4Bora 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.
5WWII Guns
The WWII Guns in Bora Bora are a historical landmark featuring remnants of World War II, offering stunning views of the island.
6Bora 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.
7Marae 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.
8Bora 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.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
These are small shrimps that are often served with a garlic butter sauce. They are a popular seafood dish in Bora Bora.
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 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 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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Air Travel
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.
Boat Transfer
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.
Car Rental
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.
Bicycle Rental
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.
Scooter Rental
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.
Public Bus
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.
Taxi
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
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are not currently available in Bora Bora.
Private Boat Rental
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.
Shuttle Services
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.
Guided Tours
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.
Important information
Currency XPF
Time zoneUTC-10
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 15; Fire: 18; Police: 17
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
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
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Flip flops
Sandals
Sunglasses
Hat
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion
Insect repellent
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Personal hygiene items
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and traveler's checks
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
International plug adapter
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory cards for camera
Portable power bank
Headphones or earbuds
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Travel blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide and maps
First aid kit
Beach bag
Beach towel
Snorkeling gear
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Moorea
Known for its stunning mountain peaks, lush hills, and sandy beaches. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and hiking.
Tahiti
The largest island in French Polynesia, known for its black-sand beaches, lagoons, waterfalls, and 2 extinct volcanoes.
Raiatea
Known as the 'Sacred Island', it's home to Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is a hub for sailing and deep-sea fishing.
Huahine
An island known for its lush forests, untamed landscape, and quaint villages. It's a great place for those seeking a laid-back vibe.
Maupiti
A small coral atoll with a volcanic island in its midst. Known for its beautiful beaches and rich marine life.
Tupai
A heart-shaped atoll known for its beautiful lagoon and abundant bird life. It's a popular spot for romantic getaways.
