BORA BORA

Lush, tropical, romantic. Three words embody the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia, part of the same island chain as Tahiti and Moorea. Tourism is the No. 1 industry in Bora Bora, often called the world’s most beautiful island. Geographically, the dramatic peak of Mt. Otemanu and the surrounding blue lagoon characterize the island. Around 9,000 people inhabit the island, known as much for its neon-lit turquoise lagoons and white-sand beaches as for its overwater hotel bungalows, which first appeared about 40 years ago. One must wonder: Was the word “paradise” created exclusively for Bora Bora?

GETTING THERE

Air Tahiti Nui serves Bora Bora with flights from Papeete and Moorea (approximately 45 minutes) or from Huahine and Raiatea (about 20 minutes). The airport, built by U.S. Marines during World War II, is on Motu Mute, an island just off the northwestern edge of Bora Bora. Travelers will need to be ferried between the airport and Vaitape, Bora Bora’s only village. From here, buses transport guests to their respective hotels.

GETTING AROUND

There is no public transportation on Bora Bora. Individual resorts may offer shuttle services to Vaitape several times per day. Rental cars, scooters and bicycles are a traveler’s best bet for navigating Bora Bora. Europcar is the largest rental car agency on the island; rates are around $130 per day. While taxis do not patrol the island, hotels and restaurants can arrange for licensed transport, but rates are high.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Bora Bora Lagoonarium
This outdoor aquarium is the largest and most well known of the two in French Polynesia. Visitors are able to swim with the creatures of the lagoon, getting up close and personal with the help of a trained guide. Socialize with turtles, sharks, rays and fish during this unique experience perfect for families.

Marae Temples
The first sign of human life on Bora Bora dates back to 900 A.D. As a result, the island is home to approximately 40 open-air stone temples, or the ancient marae temples. The Marae Fare-opu, with its petroglyphs of turtles, is on the west coast of the island; continuing south, the Marae Marotetini was restored in 1968. Two more — Aehua-tai and Taharuu — are on the eastern side.

Matira Beach
Known as the island’s most popular public beach, Matira Beach’s mile of white sand lies at the southern tip of the island. During low tide, beachcombers can wade from the lagoon to the nearby barrier reef. Snorkeling and other water activities are available. Stop by the popular Bloody Mary’s Restaurant and Bar for lunch and an afternoon libation.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

Bora Bora Liquid Festival
The annual festival, held in December, is celebrating its 13th year honoring water sports and Tahitian culture.

Heiva I Bora Bora
Singing, dancing and traditional sports competitions are hallmarks of this yearly festival, dedicated to the history of French Polynesia.

Tahiti Pearl Regatta
Each year, the sailing race between the islands is slightly different, but the festivities surrounding the event remain a true celebration.

RESOURCES

For more information, visit tahiti-tourisme.com