French Polynesia in the South Pacific is home to one of the world’s most beautiful islands – the Bora Bora Island. This volcanic island is adorned with lagoons that have crystal-clear blue waters and lush green peaks. Though Bora Bora is famous as a honeymoon destination, the sheer, shimmering beauty of the island attracts travelers of all ages. Here’s all you need to know about this ‘Jewel of the Pacific’, Bora Bora Island!
A Tropical Paradise: Bora Bora Island
How To Reach Bora Bora Island From India
The only way to reach Bora Bora Island is by air. You must first reach Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport from where you can get a flight to Bora Bora that will only take about 50 minutes.
However, the real deal is reaching Tahiti’s international airport. As of 2025, there are no direct flights from any major Indian city to Tahiti. Indians traveling to Bora Bora must take help of connecting flights that can sometimes have a few layovers.
For example, if you’re in Mumbai or Delhi, you must first fly to either Dubai or Singapore. From here, you can get a flight to Auckland. Once you reach Auckland, you must then take a flight to Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport. And it is from here that you’ll be able to get a flight to Bora Bora.
We know this sounds a little hectic, but currently it is the only way to reach Bora Bora from India. Flight prices are usually expensive, considering you’ll be halting at multiple airports and changing your flights at least once or twice. During the peak season, flight prices can sky rocket, however, even during the off season, the prices can still be high for Indian tourists.
Best Time To Visit Bora Bora
The months between May and October are typically considered to be the best (and busiest) months of the year. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, allowing you to live your tropical dreams. The months offer calm sea waters, meaning you can try a variety of water adventure activities. Make sure not to miss out on the sunrises and sunsets that look nothing less than a masterpiece every day.
However, this is also the time when resorts and hotels receive plenty of tourists. Expect accommodation prices to be high during this season. So, we recommend that you make reservations as early as possible, preferably a few months before you actually visit Bora Bora Island.
From December to March, you’ll typically see the island drenched in rain. Weather is quite humid and you’ll find the island draped in lush green vegetation. The good news is that prices for accommodations are quite reasonable during this time and the tourist crowd reduces. With more locals and few tourists, you can visit the island during this time for an authentic ‘island’ experience.
The months of April and November are considered to be the shoulder season here. The rain is negligible, giving way to drier, warmer days. Also, flights and accommodation are priced pretty reasonably during this time. If you wish to avoid the crowded touristy season as well as the low season, consider visiting the island during the shoulder season.
How To Get In And Around Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a small island, so don’t expect a well-laid public transportation system operating here. Instead, you can navigate the island with the help of open-air electric vehicles called Twizies. Also, you’ll be able to rent scooters and bikes, or bicycles if you are looking for a cleaner and greener alternative. Taxis are available here, however, you must book them in advance. Plus, they can be a little more expensive compared to Twizies or renting bikes and bicycles.
In the end, the best option is to rent a bicycle and explore the beautiful island at your own pace.
Top Things To Do In Bora Bora
Indulge In Exciting Water Adventure Activities
Bora Bora has plenty of exciting water adventure activities that you can try. All of them are beginner-friendly, however, some are more challenging than the others. Here, you can go kayaking in the shallow lagoon waters with your friends. This activity is something that many can do quite easily and doesn’t involve contact with water, in case someone’s not comfortable with it.
Moreover, you can go snorkeling and spot a diverse array of marine species. Be it giant manta rays and small sharks or schools of fishes, snorkeling is fun if you love being underwater. The waters here are crystal clear, providing you clear visibility of these colorful marine creatures.
There are other different activities that you can do here, including scuba diving, swimming, boating, canoeing, etc.
Board A Sunset Cruise
The sunsets here are no less than art presented in the skies. Hues of crimson, orange, yellow, and purple paint the sky as the sun sets. To get an indulgent experience of this phenomenon, you can board a sunset cruise. These cruises are decked with everything you need for a luxury experience. From great music to gourmet food and drinks, these sunset cruises are luxurious in every way.
Hike Up To Mount Otemanu
This might not sound exactly what you’d do when on a summer vacation, but hiking to the top of Mount Otemanu is an experience you can’t miss out on. A full day trek to the top of the mountain can take about four to six hours. If you are not a seasoned climber, you can take the help of a guide. The views on the mountain top are simply breathtaking – 360 degree panoramic views of the endless sea and the lush green forests.
Explore Local Culture
Vaitape is the main city of Bora Bora. Here, you can find plenty of local-run restaurants and shops that sell souvenirs. Stop by for delicious local food and shop local handicrafts to take back home. There are grocery markets where you can see unique, native vegetables, herbs, and other edibles on sale. If you wish to experience the local life and culture of Bora Bora, we recommend spending at least a day exploring Vaitape.
Summing Up
Bora Bora Island – a tropical gem in French Polynesia that takes pride in its natural beauty and caring people. While getting to Bora Bora is certainly not that easy, it is definitely worth it if you wish to see crystal clear South Pacific waters, try out exciting activities, and understand a rich culture different from yours.
FAQs
What Country Owns Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is a part of French Polynesia and is a collectivity of France.
How Many Days In Bora Bora Is Enough?
About 4 to 7 days are enough in Bora Bora, excluding your transit days. You can easily explore the island easily in this duration and also relax and rejuvenate at your own pace.
Do They Speak English In Bora Bora?
While Tahitian and French are commonly spoken in Bora Bora, many locals can speak in English too. The spike in tourism has led to many locals adapting and learning English.
