Bora Bora Lagoon
Experience paradise in Bora Bora's iconic turquoise lagoon, with luxurious overwater bungalows and breathtaking Mount Otemanu views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dry season, ideal weather
Bora Bora Lagoon
Best Time
Dry season, ideal weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience paradise in Bora Bora's iconic turquoise lagoon, with luxurious overwater bungalows and breathtaking Mount Otemanu views.
"This has to have been the most lovely tour I have ever been on."
Stay in an Overwater Villa
It's the ultimate Bora Bora experience! Even one night makes it unforgettable. :housewithgarden:
Book Lagoon Excursions
Essential for seeing sharks, rays, and coral gardens. Small groups are best! :boat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turquoise Lagoon Exploration
Bora Bora Lagoon
Cruise the iconic turquoise waters, snorkel with vibrant marine life, and soak in the breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu.
Overwater Bungalow Stay
Various Resorts
Experience ultimate luxury in an overwater villa, with direct access to the crystal-clear lagoon.
Swimming with Sharks and Rays
Lagoon Excursions
An exhilarating encounter with blacktip sharks and graceful stingrays in their natural habitat.
Mount Otemanu Views
Panoramic Vistas
Marvel at the majestic, emerald peak of Mount Otemanu, a stunning backdrop to the lagoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Overwater Bungalow Early
Consider Travel Time & Budget
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Stay in an Overwater Villa
It's the ultimate Bora Bora experience! Even one night makes it unforgettable. :housewithgarden:
Book Lagoon Excursions
Essential for seeing sharks, rays, and coral gardens. Small groups are best! :boat:
Enjoy Sunset Dining
Don't eat indoors during sunset; the views are spectacular! :sunset:
Pack Light & Smart
Focus on swimwear, light clothing, and reef-safe sunscreen. :briefcase:
Tips
from all over the internet
Stay in an Overwater Villa
It's the ultimate Bora Bora experience! Even one night makes it unforgettable. :housewithgarden:
Book Lagoon Excursions
Essential for seeing sharks, rays, and coral gardens. Small groups are best! :boat:
Enjoy Sunset Dining
Don't eat indoors during sunset; the views are spectacular! :sunset:
Pack Light & Smart
Focus on swimwear, light clothing, and reef-safe sunscreen. :briefcase:
Consider Your Budget
Bora Bora can be pricey, but deals exist. Plan ahead for flights and accommodation. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Bora Bora as an 'absolutely incredible' and 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience, praising the stunning turquoise lagoon, luxurious overwater bungalows, and vibrant marine life. The warmth and knowledge of local guides on excursions are frequently highlighted as a major positive, making interactions feel genuine and fun. While the cost is a significant factor, most feel the unparalleled beauty and unique experiences justify the expense.
"An absolutely incredible experience.
The boat was clean and in perfect condition. The three stops we did were fantastic. We then had lunch in a Motu, the food was again amazing and was plenty for two.
However the best part of our experience was Captain Ta’Aroa. He was just the best and had so much knowledge of the sea, the island, the culture.
A once in a lifetime experience"
Alfonso Garcia
"This has to have been the most lovely tour I have ever been on. We saw the most beautiful black tip sharks, Stingrays and lovely fish. We had a lovely lunch on a private islet and enjoyed a fun demonstration. To top it off, our tour guides were extremely nice and friendly. I could not recommend this more."
Ritika Ravichandra
"We had the most wonderful experience with our tour and guide (Vatea). We loved swimming with the sharks and rays, and exploring the coral garden. The lunch was enormous, local, and delicious and many fish came to greet us again. Our guide was fun and a great yukulele player and singer. He knew every corner of the island and his love for it was palpable. This is a family business and everyone chips in—feels very genuine. A truly unique and fun experience! We highly recommend it. Muruuru Roa!"
Lisa Pinheiro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Flights to Bora Bora typically involve multiple legs, often starting with a flight to Tahiti (PPT) followed by a short domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB).
The journey can be long, so be prepared for extended travel times. Many travelers find the airport itself to be stunningly beautiful.Once you arrive, resorts often provide boat transfers. For exploring the island and lagoon, boat tours are the most popular and recommended method.
Most resorts offer private boat transfers from Bora Bora Airport, which is located on a small islet. This is usually arranged in advance when booking your accommodation.
The total travel time to Bora Bora can range from 18 to 25 hours, depending on your departure location and layovers.
Direct flights to Bora Bora are rare. Most international travelers will fly into Faa'a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti and then take a short inter-island flight to Bora Bora (BOB).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific 'tickets' to enter Bora Bora itself, but you will need to purchase flights and book accommodation. Many activities, like lagoon tours, require separate bookings.
Bora Bora is an island destination, not a single attraction with set hours. Resorts operate continuously, and lagoon tours typically run during daylight hours. It's best to check with specific tour operators or resorts for their schedules.
Bora Bora is known for being a luxury destination, and costs can be high, especially for flights and overwater bungalows.
However, there are ways to find deals and budget-friendly options if planned carefully.Yes, it's highly recommended to book popular lagoon excursions and activities in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
The lagoon itself is a natural environment and does not have an entrance fee. However, boat tours and excursions that take you into the lagoon will have associated costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-do activities include staying in an overwater bungalow, taking a lagoon tour for snorkeling and swimming with sharks and rays, and enjoying the stunning views of Mount Otemanu.
Absolutely! The Bora Bora lagoon is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and abundant marine life, making it excellent for snorkeling and diving.
Many consider the overwater bungalows with mountain views, like those at the Four Seasons, to be the best.
Ultimately, the 'best' room depends on personal preference and budget.The lagoonarium at The St. Regis Bora Bora is a protected marine sanctuary within the resort, allowing guests to snorkel and observe diverse sea life in a controlled environment.
You can expect to see blacktip sharks, stingrays, and a variety of colorful tropical fish while snorkeling or diving in the lagoon.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bora Bora offers a mix of French-inspired cuisine and local Polynesian dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight. Many resorts offer fine dining experiences, and local eateries provide authentic flavors.
While resorts offer many dining experiences, there are some local restaurants and 'roulottes' (food trucks) on the main island that offer delicious and more affordable meals.
Don't miss fresh fish dishes like 'poisson cru' (raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk), grilled seafood, and tropical fruits.
Dining at resorts can be quite expensive. Exploring local options or opting for lunch during excursions can help manage food costs.
Yes, many resorts offer private dining experiences, including romantic dinners on secluded motus (islets) or on your bungalow's deck.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo spots include the overwater bungalows, the turquoise lagoon with Mount Otemanu in the background, and the stunning sunsets. Private motus also offer unique photo opportunities.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with your resort and local authorities regarding any restrictions on drone usage to avoid issues.
A good waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for capturing underwater shots. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Consider booking a private tour for more flexibility, or look for unique spots like heart-shaped motus for memorable shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Honeymooners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Overwater Bungalows
When choosing an overwater bungalow, consider factors like the view (lagoon vs. mountain), the size of the deck, and amenities like plunge pools. Some bungalows offer direct access to the resort's lagoonarium or private motus, adding an extra layer of exclusivity. Even if a full stay in an overwater bungalow isn't feasible, some travelers suggest splurging for just one night to experience it.
Exploring the Bora Bora Lagoon
Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day trips, often including lunch prepared on a motu. Travelers rave about the knowledge and friendliness of local guides, who share insights into the island's culture and marine ecosystem. Some tours even feature live ukulele music and singing, adding a festive Polynesian touch to the experience. The lagoon's clarity is exceptional, providing incredible visibility for underwater photography and wildlife viewing.
Best Times to Visit Bora Bora
The wet season, from November to April, experiences more rainfall, often in short, intense bursts, but it also brings fewer tourists and potentially lower prices. Despite the rain, the island remains lush and beautiful, and many visitors find the trade-off worthwhile for a more tranquil experience. Shoulder seasons, like April-May and September-October, can offer a good balance of favorable weather and moderate crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit