Enchanting Bora Bora, Tahiti, is undoubtedly French Polynesia’s crown jewel, sitting at the top of many travel lists. In addition to her unrivaled natural beauty there is even more to experience on this small island than most people realize. Discover the most magical moments we’ve found with our list of the top 10 things to do in Bora Bora.
- Experience a Polynesian feast on the beach
Treat yourself to an exotic Polynesian dinner and show at the Four Seasons resort, and be swept away in a cultural experience of sight and sound. The beachside event begins at sunset and features traditional Polynesian fare served family-style while performers dance, sing and play live music. Come nightfall, fire dancers come out on the sand for a mesmerizing grand finale.
- Snorkel with stingrays
Any list of things to do in Bora Bora should include a swim with the curious and graceful stingrays. There are many tours and locations, but most convenient is the lagoonarium – a large swimming area on the southwestern coast created as a natural habitat for marine animals. Instructors will provide snorkeling gear and details on how to safely interact with the friendly rays. Plan your visit for noontime, when you can help feed the resident reef sharks!
- Visit the Tahiti Pearl Market
Shop for the perfect black pearl at the Tahiti Pearl Market, one of the largest pearl farming operations in Tahiti. The family-owned business cultures and harvests pearls on several atolls throughout the region, providing many local jobs. Browse the large collection of pre-made jewelry, or select the perfect pearl from among thousands and have it mounted in the setting of your choice.
- Explore towering Mount Otemanu
We’re sure you will recognize Mount Otemanu when you see it. The two peaks of this majestic extinct volcano are likely the most photographed subject in the region – ensuring its place on our list of things to do in Bora Bora. Rising a dizzying 2,385ft above the lagoon, it’s recommended that hikers visiting Mount Otemanu hire a guide. Or try a four-wheel-drive tour around the mountain’s base to see World War II cannons, cave formations and fascinating ancient relics.
- Visit a world-famous Tahitian art studio
French artist Alain Despert settled in Bora Bora in 1986, and quickly became known for his vivid paintings of life on Bora Bora. Alain Despert Studio is located on a hill above beautiful Matira Beach, and can be visited by appointment. You may even get to meet the artist himself!
- Relax on Matira Beach
This mile-long stretch of powdery-white sand is located at the southern tip of Bora Bora. The shore is lined with stately swaying palms, perhaps just one reason that Matira Beach is frequently named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Swimming and snorkeling here are divine, with a gentle slope into the warm sand-bottom lagoon. When hunger pangs hit, stroll over to Fare Manuia restaurant for casual poolside dining with the locals.
- Take in a Tahitian Sunset
As the sun dips down, head to a west-facing resort and grab a beach bar seat – or preferably a chaise lounge! Get there early to secure your best view and settle in with a cocktail. Hotel Royal Bora Bora has excellent views at sunset and a fantastic beach. At nearby Sheraton Moorea, the strip of over-the-water bungalows are silhouetted against the setting sun for a dramatic display.
- Visit a turtle sanctuary
When making your list of things to do in Bora Bora, add a visit to the Bora Bora Turtle Center for the morning feeding and educational tour. Injured turtles are brought here to heal and recover. All proceeds go to help the turtles, and guests can participate in their care and even swim with them!
- Dine at MaiKai BoraBora Marina and Yacht Club
Enjoy a French Polynesian dining experience at the famed MaiKai Bora Bora. This elegant lagoon-side establishment sets the tone immediately with rich dark wood details and soaring thatched-roof ceiling. Expect the best quality ingredients and the freshest of seafoods. Chef and owner, Teiva is Paris trained and delights diners with a range of salads, sashimi, and perfectly prepared seafood and steaks. Teiva is known to engage with his guests frequently, describing the exquisite meals he’s preparing for them!
- Vacation aboard a crewed yacht charter
A crewed yacht charter is without a doubt the best way to see the incredible islands of French Polynesia. Take in the sights on land and then jump aboard your private yacht to experience sailing Bora Bora’s hidden lagoons, tiny villages and ancient sites with no set itinerary – all at your own pace. Your captain and chef handle every detail, from dinner reservations at the best local restaurant, to after dinner cocktails under the stars – where you and your guests may well be the only souls in sight.
Find out more
There will be no shortage of things to do in Bora Bora while on the yacht charter vacation of a lifetime in Tahiti. With the boat of your choice as home base, secluded beaches and lagoons will be your playground.
Choose a bareboat charter to try your hand at the helm, or relax on a skippered charter vacation and let a knowledgeable local show you the area’s best-kept secrets. Or consider a by the cabin or all-inclusive crewed yacht, and let your captain and chef delight you with delectable meals and new adventures each day.
Learn more about yacht charters in Tahiti, or one of our many other destinations on our blog. Get in touch with our team today on 855.650.8902 or email [email protected] for more information.
