The Best Things to do on Beautiful Bora Bora
Wondering what the best things to do on Bora Bora in French Polynesia are? I first heard of this stunning island when Vin Diesel sauntered onto our screens as Xander Cage in the XXX movie way back in 2002. After seeing this film, there was no denying that staying in an overwater bungalow is one of the best things to do on Bora Bora, but what else is there to do?
Well, it was to be nearly a decade later before I finally made it there to experience it for myself and I have loved it ever since, returning to French Polynesia on more than one occasion since then. Bora Bora is a traveller’s dream with turquoise and blue waters surrounding an extinct volcano covered by green jungle. To put it bluntly, it’s absolutely stunning from every angle.
So without further ado, here are some of the best things to do on Bora Bora.
Head out on a Lagoon Tour
Enjoying the stunning lagoon is by far, one of the best things to do on Bora Bora. After all, the lagoon is what it’s all about. There are many ways to experience the lagoon, whether it’s on a sailboat, kayak, jet ski or something else. However, a lagoon tour to experience the best of the best is a great option to start with.
The full-day Bora Bora lagoon cruise is truly memorable. Starting with a hotel pickup, you will get the opportunity to snorkel at a few different spots including with stringrays and at a coral garden. Lunch is on a private motu (small island) where you can hike to the island’s summit for great views if you’re feeling up to it. Here you can stroll along the shore or go for a relaxing swim before finishing up with some live music and a coconut husking demonstration.
Credit – Tahiti Tourisme
Chill Out at Matira Beach
Chilling out at Matira Beach is one of the few amazing free things to do in Bora Bora, making it a popular stop for visitors. It’s the largest public access beach on the island and with soft sand and crystal-clear water, it doesn’t disappoint. The waters here are shallow and perfect for families to paddle around, but it’s not the best spot for snorkelling.
Matira Beach can be found around 8km (5miles) south of the main town of Vaitape and if you drive yourself there, parking can be found near the Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort.
Credit – Marc Gérard Photography and Tahiti Tourisme
Hire a Pushbike and Explore at Your Own Pace
One of my personal favourite things to do on Bora Bora is to hire a pushbike and leisurely explore the coastal road at your own pace. There are a couple of places to hire a pushbike along Matira Beach. The coastal road that circles the island is around 32km (20miles) and although you probably won’t manage this distance with kids in tow, it’s a fun and enjoyable ride to just go as far as you please. Stop for anything that takes your fancy …. like a pizza shop, Matira Beach or a pearl shop in town. It’s pure bicycle bliss!
Jump on Board a 4×4 Island Tour
Jump on board a half-day guided 4×4 tour to explore Bora Bora’s lush interior. Although many families come here for the lagoon, exploring the island’s interior from the back of an open-air 4WD is definitely one of the best things to do on Bora Bora. This tour will see you get some Insta-worthy shots from several lookouts, check out some WWII relics, see a local artist demonstration and visit a plantation. Your guide will also fill you in on the Polynesian culture and traditions.
Stay in an Overwater Bungalow (Bucket List Item of Things to do on Bora Bora)
Spending a night in an overwater bungalow (even if it’s just for one night) is the ultimate bucket list items of things to do on Bora Bora. Despite the fact that this is definitely not a budget experience, it’s one of those things that worth it if you can afford it. Jump straight from your deck into the water to enjoy amazing snorkelling and swimming or just relax on the deck chair while the water gently laps underneath you.
Credit – Stéphane Mailion Photography and Tahiti Tourisme
Visit the Town of Vaitape
The main town of Vaitape is quite small as far as towns go and therein lies its greatest charm. When looking for things to do in Bora Bora, strolling around the town is a great free option. Here you will find souvenir shops, churches, the tourist office, and a number of eateries. The black pearl jewellery that French Polynesia is known for can also be purchased here.
Marvel at The Night Sky
Marvel at the night sky on a sunset cruise stargazing tour which will see you depart from the Waitape Pier on a boat to enjoy a sunset over the water. You will then head towards a private motu under the twilight where you will learn how the Tahitian people used storytelling to decipher the night’s sky to guide their way over the Pacific Ocean.
Enjoy Bora Bora’s Lagoon by Stand Up Paddleboard
Stand up paddleboarding is one of my favourite fun things to do on Bora Bora that the whole family can enjoy. If the kids are too little, they can happily don a life-jacket and sit on your board while you paddle around at your own pace. From this point of view, you will really appreciate the stunning colour of the lagoon backdropped by Bora Bora’s unmissable dramatic interior.
Credit – Tahiti Tourisme
Pssst. If you like French Polynesia, check out the lesser-known Cook Islands!
Looking for more awesome family holiday inspiration?
For more information on visiting French Polynesia, head on over to our French Polynesia page. Alternatively, head back to the home page for other destinations and activities.
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Essential information for your French Polynesia family holiday
Best time to visit French Polynesia
The dry period from May to October is a great time to visit due to less rainfall and cooler weather.
Peak season is July and August and Christmas and Easter are also busier. The cost of flights rise considerably over this period.
Getting to French Polynesia
Getting to French Polynesia pretty straightforward. All international flights land in Tahiti. Search for a great deal on flights on Trip.com.
To visit one of the beautiful outlying islands, a flight will need to be booked with Air Tahiti. If you’re planning on visiting a few islands, it’s worth clicking on the Multi-Islands button for a cheaper deal.
Moorea can also be reached by Ferry.
Where to stay in French Polynesia
French Polynesia is not cheap so this will depend on your budget. Luxury accommodation is catered for but cheaper options can be found in family-run guesthouses or pensions. These can be absolutely wonderful!
Search for your accommodation here or check out where we have stayed below:
- TAHITI – We have stayed at Villa BO (our favourite) in Teahupoo and in Papeete at both Hotel Sarah Nui and the Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort.
- MOOREA – We have stayed at the Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort.
- HUAHINE – We have stayed at the Royal Huahine.
- RAIATEA – We have stayed at the Pension Les Trois Cascades.
- BORA BORA – We have stayed at the Sofitel Private Island and the Sofitel Marara Beach Resort.
Getting around the islands
This really depends on what you want to do and the age of your kids!
- We loved hiring a car for a day or two in Tahiti, Huahine, and Raiatea. Search car hire across major brands here.
- In Bora-Bora, Moorea, and Raiatea we loved getting around by pushbike and on foot.
- Taxis, water taxis and private transfers are available and your accommodation can help you out with this.
- There is a public bus on Tahiti which is an enjoyable experience but be warned that it sometimes (especially on the weekend) isn’t reliable. During weekdays and day-time hours should be fine.
Attractions and tours
There is plenty of things to do and see around French Polynesia. I found booking through our accommodation was the best option and we had no problems booking the night before.
WiFi
WiFi is usually available at hotels but the connection can be a bit hit and miss on the lesser-visited islands. Purchasing data is expensive so don’t plan on being able to watch YouTube.
French Polynesia holiday travel guides
Check out the official Tahiti Tourism site here!
