Tahiti and Bora Bora are two of the most popular vacation destinations in the South Pacific. Both islands are located in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France, and offer stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. While they are often lumped together, Tahiti and Bora Bora are actually quite different from each other and offer unique experiences for travelers. There are several ways to get to the beautiful island of Bora Bora from Tahiti and here’s a guide for your travel.
Tahiti to Bora Bora
There are several ways to get to the beautiful island of Bora Bora from Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia. The most popular option is to fly to the capital city of Papeete, located on Tahiti, and then transfer to a smaller plane or boat to reach Bora Bora.
Air Tahiti is the main airline that operates flights to Papeete from major cities in the United States, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. From Papeete, Air Tahiti also operates flights to Bora Bora several times a day. The flight from Papeete to Bora Bora takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the island from above.
Another option for getting to Bora Bora is to take a ferry from Papeete. The ferry ride takes about 5 hours and offers a more leisurely way to reach the island. You can also take a private boat or yacht from Papeete or another nearby island if you prefer a more customized and luxurious travel experience.
Accommodations
Bora Bora is home to a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. One of the most iconic and luxurious options is the overwater bungalow, which is a standalone villa built on stilts over the crystal-clear lagoon. Overwater bungalows offer panoramic views of the lagoon and often come with private decks and plunge pools.
If you prefer to be closer to the beach, you can choose from a range of beachfront villas and hotels. Many of these accommodations offer amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and fitness centers. Some hotels also offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, activities, and other perks.
Things to Do
Bora Bora is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy. One of the must-do activities on the island is snorkeling or scuba diving in the lagoon, which is home to an abundance of colorful marine life. You can also take a lagoon cruise to explore the island’s outer reefs and visit the various coral gardens and marine reserves.
If you’re interested in culture and history, you can visit the Marae, which are ancient Polynesian temples that were used for religious ceremonies and other cultural practices. You can also visit the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, which is home to a black pearl farm and a pearl museum.
Dining and Shopping
Bora Bora is home to a variety of local and international dining options, ranging from casual beachside restaurants to fine dining establishments. The island’s cuisine is a blend of French and Polynesian influences, with dishes such as poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk) and taro (a root vegetable) being popular local specialties.
Shopping in Bora Bora is a treat for those who love souvenirs and artisanal products. You can find a range of local crafts and gifts at the market in Vaitape, the island’s main town. You can also shop for black pearls, which are a specialty of the island, at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa or at one of the many pearl shops around the island.
Tips for Travelers
If you’re planning a trip to Bora Bora, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is generally sunny and dry during this time, with temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong in Bora Bora. You should also bring insect repellent, as there are mosquitoes on the island.
- Bora Bora is a small island, so you can easily explore it on foot or by bike. Renting a car or scooter is also an option if you prefer more independence.
- If you’re staying in an overwater bungalow, be aware that some of them may have limited privacy due to the open-air design. If you’re concerned about privacy, you can choose a bungalow that is farther from the main hotel or resort.
- Bora Bora is a relatively expensive destination, so it’s a good idea to budget accordingly. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher than in other parts of the world, so you may want to consider purchasing a travel insurance policy to protect your trip investment.
- Finally, be mindful of local customs and traditions while on the island. Bora Bora is a Polynesian island, and the people here have a strong cultural identity. Respect their customs and traditions, and be sure to ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites.
Our Top FAQ's
There are several travel options available for getting to Bora Bora from Tahiti, including flying to Papeete and then transferring to a smaller plane or boat, taking a ferry from Papeete, or taking a private boat or yacht.
What types of accommodations can I find on Bora Bora, and what amenities and services do they offer?
Bora Bora offers a range of accommodations, including overwater bungalows, beachfront villas, and hotels. These accommodations offer amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and fitness centers, and some offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, activities, and other perks.
Some must-do activities and attractions on Bora Bora include snorkeling or scuba diving in the lagoon, taking a lagoon cruise to explore the island’s outer reefs, visiting the ancient Marae temples, and touring the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa’s black pearl farm and pearl museum.
Tips for travelers visiting Bora Bora include visiting during the dry season (May to October), packing sunscreen and insect repellent, budgeting for the island’s relatively high costs, respecting local customs and traditions, and considering purchasing travel insurance.