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Things to Do in Bora Bora

Things to Do in Bora Bora

Bora Bora Society Islands, French Polynesia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Bora Bora's natural environment creates a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, having a strong emphasis on water-based activities.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Mount Pahia Hike

A challenging, guided hike (approx. 3-4 hours round trip) to a lower summit with panoramic lagoon views. It needs good physical fitness.

Mount Otemanu Summit Inaccessible

The summit is not accessible for hiking due to unstable rock formations. Views are captured from below or from other points.

Main Island Loop

A relatively flat 20-mile (32 km) loop around the the biggest island, suitable for walking or cycling, presenting a less strenuous outdoor activity with lovely scenery.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Snorkeling: Abundant opportunities in the shallow lagoon, especially at designated coral gardens.
  • Scuba Diving: World-class diving at sites like Tapu and Anau, with options for certified and introductory dives.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Most vacation spots have complimentary use of equipment for exploring calm waters.
  • Jet Skiing: Guided tours all over the island, an exhilarating way to see the lagoon.

Adventure Sports & Boat Tours

  • Outrigger Canoeing: Traditional Polynesian canoes for gliding over the water.
  • Parasailing: Aerial views of the lagoon and volcanic peaks.
  • Boat Tours: Full-day or half-day lagoon excursions, often including snorkeling and motu picnics.
  • Private Charters: Personalized experiences for tailored itineraries.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Shark & Ray Viewing: Popular activities involving supervised interaction in waters that are not deep.
  • Submarine/Subscooter Tours: Explore the the marine environment without getting wet.
  • Picturesque Air tours by helicopter: Scenic flights over Bora Bora, including Tupai (heart-shaped island), for aerial views.
  • Lagoon Wildlife: Direct meetings with tropical fish, rays, and sharks in their habitat during snorkeling or diving.

Cycling & Land Wildlife

  • Bicycle Trails: The largest island loop road is good for cycling.
  • Mountain Biking: Not a prominent activity due to limited dedicated trails on the island's steep interior.
  • Land Wildlife: Observation remains limited, mainly geckos and numerous types of birds.
  • Guided Island Excursions: Jeep tours navigate the island's interior, offering land-based exploration.

Important Drone Usage Warning

Be aware of local regulations for drone use. Consult your vacation spot for certain rules regarding drone operation on the property and around protected areas.

Cultural Immersion

While Bora Bora is noted for its luxury and natural beauty, opportunities exist for cultural immersion, inviting visitors to connect with Polynesian traditions and everyday life.

Workshops & Classes

  • Weaving: Learn to weave with palm fronds, a traditional Polynesian craft.
  • Sarong (Pareo) Tying: Discover various ways to tie the traditional Polynesian sarong.
  • Classic Cooking methods Demonstrations: Some resorts or guesthouses feature these classes, introducing local culinary techniques.
  • Local Art: Opportunities exist to visit artists' apartments and learn about their craft.

Cultural Performances & Community

Polynesian Dance Shows

Numerous high-end hotels feature evening Polynesian dance shows, often including fire dancers as part of themed buffet nights.

Traditional Music

The sounds of ukulele and guitar music are common throughout the islands, heard at resorts, restaurants, and community gatherings.

Community-Based Tourism

Guesthouses on the largest island provide the best opportunity for personal contact with local families, creating a connection.

Language Learning

Learning a few basic Tahitian phrases demonstrates respect and can enrich interactions with locals.

Cultural Festivals

Heiva i Tahiti (July) features traditional music, dance competitions, and outrigger canoe races.

Hawaiki Nui Va'a Race

A key global outrigger canoe race, often passing through Bora Bora's waters in Oct/Nov, celebrating voyaging heritage.

Relaxation & Wellness

Bora Bora has an ideal setting for relaxation and wellness, with its serene environment and world-class spa facilities.

Spa & Wellness Center Recommendations

  • All luxury resorts feature extensive, high-end spas, often employing local ingredients like Noni fruit and Monoi oil.
  • Deep Ocean Spa (InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa): Noted for unique thalassotherapy treatments using deep-sea water.
  • Miri Miri Spa (The St. Regis A Stunning island in french polynesia Resort): An overwater spa with stunning lagoon views for massages and beauty treatments.
  • The Manea Spa (Conrad Bora Bora Nui): Offers traditional Polynesian treatments plus up-to-date therapies in a serene environment.

Natural Therapy & Practices

Hot Springs

No hot springs exist on A Stunning island in french polynesia. The isle's volcanic activity is extinct, and no geothermal features are present.

Traditional Healing Practices

Spa treatments often incorporate traditional Polynesian ingredients and techniques, like Monoi oil, for relaxation and well-being.

Yoga & Meditation

Some resorts feature private yoga sessions or group classes. Dedicated, standalone retreats are rare on Bora Bora itself.

Resort Relaxation & Tips

Beach & Pool Clubs

Resorts present lavish pool areas and pristine private beaches for relaxation. Matira Beach serves as the main public option.

Dedicated Zones

Many resorts also feature designated relaxation zones or adults-only pools for tranquility.

Advance Spa Booking

Book spa treatments in advance, especially during high season, as popular slots sell out fast.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Bora Bora's entertainment options exist mainly within resorts, with a laid-back and quiet atmosphere dominating after dark.

Live Music & Shows

  • Live Music Venues: mainly found at resort bars and restaurants, featuring local bands playing Polynesian music.
  • Theater & Performance Spaces: No dedicated public venues exist; heritage performances occur at resorts as part of themed dinner evenings.
  • Polynesian Dance Shows: Often include fire dancers, delivering cultural entertainment alongside dining.
  • Traditional Instruments: Ukulele and drums frequently are part of local musical performances.

Nightlife Scene

Nightclubs & Dancing

Travelers seeking late-night dancing or clubbing will not find it here; the island’s atmosphere fosters quiet evenings.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

No specific bar district exists. Bars are mostly within resorts, offering comfortable lounges and beachside settings. Pub crawls are not common.

Late-Night Entertainment

Very limited outside resort bars, which typically close by midnight or earlier. Guests usually savor quiet evenings in the open air at night.

Resort Bars

Most luxury hotels feature stylish bars with panoramic lagoon views or beachfront settings for cocktails.

Cocktail Hours

Enjoy signature tropical cocktails and local drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.

Stargazing

The clear night skies away from city lights have superb stargazing opportunities.

Evening Activity Ideas

Quiet Evenings
  • Bring a good book or board game for rest time on your bungalow deck.
  • Enjoy the tranquility and listen to the sounds of the lagoon.
  • Take advantage of in-room dining services for a private meal.
Local Village Exploration
  • Look at a local "roulotte" (food truck) in Vaitape for an authentic dinner.
  • Explore small shops in Vaitape before they close.
  • Consider a taxi for evening transport if staying away from Vaitape.

Nightlife Expectation Warning

Nightlife outside resorts is quite scarce. Bora Bora is noted for its tranquility, not a bustling party scene. Plan for calm evenings and resort-based entertainment.

Shopping & Markets

Shopping in Bora Bora delivers opportunities to find unique local crafts, the famous black pearls, and souvenirs to not forget your trip.

Traditional Markets

  • Vaitape Market: A smaller version of the central Papeete market, situated in Vaitape village.
  • Fresh Produce: The market has fresh fruits, vegetables, and local fish.
  • Prepared Snacks: A limited selection of local prepared snacks is available.
  • Local Crafts: You may find a limited selection of local crafts here.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Local Handicrafts

Several small shops and galleries in Vaitape sell local handicrafts.

Traditional Polynesian Art

You may find wood carvings, woven items, and other traditional Polynesian art pieces.

Unique Souvenirs

These spaces feature unique items that make lasting souvenirs from your trip.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Tahitian Black Pearls: The most celebrated and valuable souvenir.
  • Pareos: Traditional Polynesian sarongs, available in various colors and patterns.
  • Monoi Oil: Scented coconut oil infused with Tiare flowers, used for skin and hair care.
  • Vanilla Beans: High-quality Tahitian vanilla, excellent culinary souvenir.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • High-End Boutiques: Luxury resorts often feature these shops.
  • Designer Apparel: Swimwear, resort wear, and adornments are common items.
  • Black Pearls: A strong focus on certified black pearls.
  • Pricing: Prices in resort boutiques are generally higher than in Vaitape.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Black Pearls: Purchase from certified farms or reputable dealers for an authentic experience.
  • Local Artisans: Support local artisans directly where possible for community-based benefit.
  • Protected Marine Life: Avoid items made from protected sea life (shells, corals).
  • Environmental Care: Choose goods that do not harm the delicate ecosystem.

Shipping & Customs Information

Export Certificates
  • For high-value purchases like black pearls, inquire about export certificates needed for your home country’s customs.
  • A certificate of authenticity should always accompany black pearl purchases.
  • Compliance having global regulations is advised.
Shipping Services
  • Shipping services are available from Vaitape for larger items you cannot carry in luggage.
  • Factor in shipping costs and delivery times when considering larger purchases.
  • Pack fragile items securely for transit.

Shopping Tip

Purchase black pearls from a reputable dealer in Vaitape who issues a certificate of authenticity. This confirms the genuineness of your purchase.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximize Your Days

  • Allocate sufficient time for water--focused activities like snorkeling and lagoon tours.
  • Consider a guided hike for panoramic views of the island's interior.
  • Pre-book popular excursions, especially during high season, to guarantee your spot.
  • Search for distinctive culinary experiences like motu picnics or cooking demonstrations.

Embrace Local Culture

  • Stay at a guesthouse for a few nights to experience authentic local life.
  • Learn a few basic Tahitian phrases to connect with residents.
  • Attend a Polynesian dance show at a vacation spot for cultural entertainment.
  • Visit local markets and artisan shops for special souvenirs.