Bora Bora - Pearl of the Pacific

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🌅 Bora Bora Travel Guide 2025

Bora Bora isn’t just a destination—it’s the definition of paradise. With turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and the world’s most iconic overwater bungalows, it’s no wonder this island is nicknamed the Pearl of the Pacific.

But here’s the truth: while Bora Bora is breathtaking, it’s also one of the most expensive islands in the world. So how do you know if it’s worth it—and how do you plan the trip of a lifetime without overspending?

After experiencing Bora Bora myself, I can confidently say it’s worth the hype—but there are a few things you’ll want to know before you book. This guide covers everything: how to get there, where to stay, the best things to do, and insider tips that will help you make the most of your trip.

                                                                 Credit to WorldAtlas

✈️ How to Get to Bora Bora

Most travelers arrive in Tahiti (PPT Airport) first. From there, the only way to reach Bora Bora is by a domestic flight with Air Tahiti—about 50 minutes. Unlike Moorea, there are no ferries to Bora Bora.

💡 Tip: Sit on the left side of the plane for unforgettable aerial views of Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon and Mount Otemanu. It’s truly a “pinch-me” moment.

🛶 Where to Stay in Bora Bora

Bora Bora is famous for its luxury resorts, but there are options for every budget:

  • Luxury Resorts (Overwater Bungalows):

    • Four Seasons Bora Bora – Ultimate honeymoon vibes.

    • St. Regis Bora Bora – Over-the-top luxury (featured in movies).

    • Conrad Bora Bora Nui – Great mix of lagoon + hillside views.

    • InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa – Known for wellness and epic Otemanu views.

  • Mid-Range Options:

    • Hotel Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora – Some overwater rooms at more affordable rates.

    • Small boutique lodges around Vaitape.

  • Budget-Friendly:

    • Guesthouses and pensions (locally owned, more authentic).

    • Airbnbs (limited, but cheaper than resorts).

👉 Not every bungalow is overwater—beach and garden villas (I actually preferred them in Bora Bora) can save you hundreds while still giving you access to resort amenities.

🌊 Best Things to Do in Bora Bora

Bora Bora may be small, but it’s packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences:

  • Lagoon Tour & Shark Snorkeling
    Snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in crystal-clear water is the top activity here. Tours usually include coral garden snorkeling and a Polynesian picnic on a private motu. Some tours even take you to a manta ray cleaning station and you can swim with them!



  • Mount Otemanu Views
    This volcanic peak dominates Bora Bora’s skyline. While you can’t summit it, guided hikes, ATV rides, and boat tours offer incredible views

  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise
    Glide across the lagoon at golden hour with champagne in hand—it’s pure romance.

  • Relax on Matira Beach
    The island’s most famous (and only public) beach. Free, stunning, and perfect for a lazy afternoon swim.

  • Water Sports
    Jet ski around the island, paddleboard at sunrise, or just jump into the lagoon from your bungalow deck.

💡 Pro Tip: Book popular tours in advance, especially if you’re visiting in high season (June–September).

☀️ Best Time to Visit Bora Bora

  • Dry Season (May–October): Best weather (sunny, less humid), but also most expensive.

  • Wet Season (November–April): Hotter, humid, with afternoon rain showers. Still beautiful, but expect lower prices.

  • Whale Season (July–October): One of the rare places in the world where you can snorkel near humpback whales as they breed and raise calves.

  • Honeymoon Season (June–September): Resorts are busiest, so book well in advance.

💰 Bora Bora on a Budget

Yes, Bora Bora can be done without draining your savings! Here’s how:

  • Stay at pensions or Airbnbs instead of 5-star resorts.

  • Eat at roulottes (food trucks) or local snack bars—meals for $10–$15 instead of $40+.

  • Shop at small grocery stores for fruit, snacks, and Hinano beer.

  • Split your stay: 2–3 nights in a guesthouse + 1–2 nights in an overwater bungalow for the dream experience.

💕 Honeymoon in Bora Bora

Bora Bora is considered the ultimate honeymoon destination—and for good reason.

  • Most romantic activities: couples spa treatments, private motu dinners, lagoon picnics, sunset cruises.

  • Resorts often offer honeymoon packages with perks like champagne, spa credits, or breakfast delivered by canoe.

  • Best honeymoon resorts: Four Seasons, St. Regis, and Conrad.

💡 Tip: Don’t feel pressured to spend your entire honeymoon here. Many couples combine Bora Bora with Moorea or Tahiti for variety (and budget balance).

🌺 Bora Bora vs Moorea

Travelers often ask which island to choose.

  • Moorea: More budget-friendly, adventurous, local vibe, easier to get to.

  • Bora Bora: Iconic luxury, remote, postcard-perfect lagoons.

👉 If you can, visit both—Moorea for adventure, Bora Bora for indulgence.

📌 Practical Travel Tips

  • Currency: French Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit cards widely accepted at resorts, but carry cash for food trucks + small shops.

  • Language: French & Tahitian, but English spoken at most hotels.

  • Transport: Resorts use boats + shuttles. Water taxis available but expensive. Plan around your hotel location.

  • Internet: Good WiFi at resorts, weaker in pensions.

  • Packing list: Reef-safe sunscreen, reef shoes, bug spray, dry bag, waterproof camera/GoPro, light rain jacket (if visiting in wet season).

✨ Final Thoughts

Bora Bora is one of those rare places that actually looks like the postcards. Yes, it’s expensive—but it’s also unforgettable. Whether you’re splurging on an overwater bungalow or exploring on a budget, this island delivers once-in-a-lifetime memories.🌺


This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you.

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