Exploring Bora Bora

Getting there

If you are starting your trip in Tahiti, it is a 50 minute flight to reach the island. Bora Bora is located in the South Pacific Ocean, northwest of Tahiti, within the Society Islands of French Polynesia. The main island sits approximately 230 kilometers (125 nautical miles) northwest of Papeete.

Island activities

You can spend your time on the water or heading inland. Matira Beach is often considered the best beach on the island for relaxing. For those who prefer to stay active, you can use kayaks and paddleboards in the lagoon, go snorkeling with sharks, manta rays, and tropical fish, or take boat tours of coral gardens.

If you want a different perspective, you can take helicopter flights over the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. For those who prefer hiking, there are trails that lead up to Mount Otemanu, which is the highest point on the island at 727 m (2,385 ft). Other options include deep sea fishing beyond the reef and catamaran cruises to neighboring islands.

Local culture and history

The island has a long history, with Polynesian settlers arriving around the 3rd century CE. European contact began with Jacob Roggeveen in 1722, followed by James Cook on July 29, 1769. Bora Bora remained an independent kingdom until it was annexed by France in 1888.

You can visit ancient marae (sacred temples) to learn about religious rituals. You can also explore remnants of Operation Bobcat, which was a US military supply base established during World War II. This base included an airstrip, seaplane base, oil depot, and defensive fortifications, using nine ships and nearly 7,000 soldiers.

When it comes to food, you should try the traditional poisson cru, which is raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk. While Tahitian and French are the main languages spoken, many locals speak English because of tourism.

Where to stay

Depending on your budget and preference, there are several luxury options available. You can choose between overwater bungalows, five star resorts, or traditional Tahitian spa villas.

Sources

[S1] https://www.tahititourisme.com/islands/bora-bora/, https://www.tahititourisme.com/islands/bora-bora/ [S2] https://boratool.com/, https://boratool.com/ [S3] https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bora_Bora, https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bora_Bora [S4] https://bora-corp.com/about-us/, https://bora-corp.com/about-us/