25 Traveling to Bora Bora Tips: Your Ultimate Paradise Vacation Guide for 2025
Bora Bora – that dreamy island paradise with crystal clear waters, home to vibrant tropical fish, and few places with overwater bungalows that make our Instagram hearts skip a beat! We’ve been drooling over those gorgeous photos too and know planning a trip to this bucket-list destination can feel both exciting and overwhelming.
Whether you’re splurging on a honeymoon or trying to make this dream vacation work on a tighter budget while avoiding high prices , our Bora Bora travel tips will help you navigate everything from the best time to visit to money-saving hacks that’ll show you exceptional service and make your jaw drop. Bora Bora offers a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to budget hotels.
Let’s be real – none of us want to travel halfway across the world only to realize we forgot something major or missed out on an amazing experience! Snorkeling excursions are a must-do activity. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide with everything you need to know before you go.
From packing essentials to must-do activities and cultural dos and don’ts, we’ve got your back, mama! Consider this your BFF’s guide to making the most of your Polynesian adventure. Bora Bora is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
1) Grab a cold bag for your drinks—Bora Bora is a fridge-free paradise!
Heading to gorgeous Bora Bora? We’ve got a game-changing tip for you! Many accommodations don’t have fridges, so a good insulated bag is essential for keeping your drinks chilled.
Those ziplock bags we mentioned? They’re perfect for ice storage!
We’ve learned that packing a variety of ziplock plastic bags is super helpful for storing items you’d normally keep in a fridge.
Trust us, there’s nothing worse than a warm drink after a day in that gorgeous Polynesian sun! A small collapsible cooler takes up minimal luggage space but will be your best friend for beach days.
2) Take a waterproof camera for epic snorkeling shots—trust me, you won’t regret it.
The underwater world of Bora Bora is absolutely magical, especially around the coral reef! We’ve seen folks regret not taking a GoPro for those crystal-clear lagoon memories.
While snorkeling, you can encounter exciting marine life such as manta rays and sting rays, adding to the thrill of your underwater adventure.
Underwater pouches work okay (maybe a 6/10 for quality), but for truly epic shots, consider investing in a proper waterproof camera.
Many travelers highly recommend GoPros for their durability and ease of use. They’re perfect for capturing those colorful fish and coral moments!
If you’re on a planned snorkeling trip, your boat guide will likely have safe spots for storing your regular camera while also ensuring that you have safety equipment available in the water. Just bring a waterproof bag as backup!
3) Bring loads of sunscreen because nobody wants to look like a lobster.
The Bora Bora sun is no joke, especially when lounging on those beautiful beaches and you’ll need way more sunscreen than you think.
Pack as much sunscreen as you can – some travelers report using up to 12 bottles of spray sunscreen during a two-week stay. That’s not an exaggeration!
We recommend reef-safe options to protect those gorgeous corals while you’re protecting your skin. Pure zinc sunscreen works great for this!
Even if you “don’t usually burn,” this tropical paradise sun hits different. Better to bring extra than to spend your vacay feeling like a crispy critter!
4) Wear a hat with ties—it’s stylish and windproof.
Ladies, trust us when we say a hat with ties is going to be your BFF in Bora Bora! The island gets super windy, especially when you’re boating around that gorgeous blue water.
We learned this the hard way! Nothing ruins a cute vacay pic faster than chasing your favorite hat across the beach (been there, done that!).
A straw hat or wide-brimmed hat isn’t just for the ‘gram—it’s absolutely essential for protecting your face from that intense tropical sun.
Plus, many locals consider hats with ties to be a must-have item when visiting. Your scalp will thank you, and you’ll look totally cute in all your paradise photos!
5) Pack light! You’ll mostly be living in swimsuits and flip-flops.
Let’s be real, friends – when you’re heading to paradise, you don’t need your entire closet! Bora Bora is all about that relaxed beach life.
We highly recommend bringing two swimsuits because one is usually drying while you’re wearing the other. Trust us on this one!
Those cute strappy sandals and fancy shoes? Leave ’em at home! Flip flops work perfectly everywhere you’ll go in Bora Bora.
Don’t forget to pack a few beach cover-ups and light dresses for wandering around or dining. We packed way too much on our first trip and barely used half of it!
6) Stay hydrated and pack your own reusable water bottle (save the planet, ya know?)
When we visited Bora Bora, we learned quickly that staying hydrated with tap water is super important in that tropical heat! The sun is no joke there, ladies!
Bringing your own reusable water bottle is a total game-changer. Many hotels in Bora Bora actually provide water fountains for refilling, making it super convenient.
Some places like Le Bora Bora even give guests reusable aluminum bottles with their logo – cute souvenir alert! This saves you from spending crazy money on bottled water and helps keep those gorgeous beaches plastic-free.
We’re all about looking cute while saving the planet, right?
7) Consider traveling in April or November for sweet shoulder season weather.
Guess what? We’ve found the secret to enjoying paradise without emptying your wallet! Visiting Bora Bora in April or November during the shoulder months gives you that sweet spot between good weather and better prices. Traveling during the low season can lead to lower prices, making it the most economical time for visitors.
April marks the transition to dry season, meaning you’ll likely catch gorgeous sunny days while dodging peak season crowds. How amazing is that?! We love that these shoulder months can offer savings on those dreamy overwater bungalows we’ve all been dreaming about.
The weather is typically still fabulous, with some travelers reporting it’s “gorgeous (and HOT and humid)” with maybe just a day or two of rain. Totally worth it for those incredible savings! The high season, running from May to October, is the most popular time to visit due to favorable weather conditions and lower rainfall.
8) Whale-watching dreams? Moorea ships offer some serious aquatic action.
If swimming with whales is on your bucket list, we’ve got the inside scoop!
While Bora Bora is amazing, Moorea is particularly popular for small group whale-watching tours.
We recommend checking out Moorea for this incredible experience. Some tourists have gone with Moorea Moana tours and spotted lots of whales, though swimming with them isn’t guaranteed since these magnificent creatures move on their own terms!
This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can only do in French Polynesia or Tonga. Just imagine the stories you’ll tell back home!
9) Tipping isn’t a thing here, but kindness is always appreciated.
Guess what? When you visit Bora Bora, you can leave your tipping calculator at home, as tipping is not part of the everyday life in French Polynesia, and locals don’t typically tip. Tipping is not part of the culture in French Polynesia, and locals don’t typically tip.
That said, many resort staff earn minimum wages, and tips can go a long way for the amazing people making your vacay dreams come true!
While it’s not required or expected, a small gesture of appreciation for excellent service is always welcome.
We like to carry a few extra bills for those special moments when someone goes above and beyond.
There’s no standard amount, so just tip what feels appropriate based on the service. Your smile and genuine thanks mean just as much!
10) Plan for 4-7 days to soak up every bit of this dreamy island
We’ve found that 4-7 days is the sweet spot for a Bora Bora getaway! This gives you enough time to really sink your toes into that gorgeous white sand without feeling rushed.
During your stay, you’ll want at least one full day for snorkeling trips to see the vibrant marine life. Trust us, those colorful fish are absolutely worth it!
Remember, Bora Bora is all about slowing down and soaking up the paradise vibes.
We recommend planning 2-3 activity days and leaving the rest for lazy beach time and impromptu adventures.
Don’t cram your schedule too full! The best memories often come from those unplanned moments watching the sunset over that incredible blue lagoon.
11) Yeti-style bags for ice? Yes, and thank me later!
When heading to paradise, you might not think about ice storage, but trust us on this one! Bringing a cold bag or two is highly recommended for your Bora Bora adventure.
Why? Because while ice is easy to find at resorts, refrigeration isn’t always available.
Those collapsible Yeti-style coolers are absolute lifesavers when you want to keep drinks cold on the beach or store snacks for day trips.
We love that they’re 100% leakproof and can hold ice for days! Plus, they fold down when not in use, saving precious luggage space. Perfect for mamas who like to be prepared but hate overpacking!
12) Remember that binocs—they’re not just for birdwatchers anymore.
Pack a pair of binoculars for your Bora Bora trip! We cannot stress this enough.
They’re total game-changers for spotting those amazing details you’d otherwise miss.
From your overwater bungalow, use them to spy on colorful fish swimming below without getting wet. Hello, lazy viewing session!
Want to spot those gorgeous tropical birds from your deck? Binoculars make it possible.
They’re also perfect for gazing at Mount Otemanu from afar and checking out the stunning landscape.
We love using ours for scanning the horizon for dolphins or whales that occasionally visit. Trust us, you’ll be so glad you brought them!
13) Bring local currency because, hey, cash is king for small purchases
When visiting Bora Bora, we highly recommend getting your hands on some XPF (the local currency), also known as the French Pacific Franc. Trust us on this one!
Many smaller shops and food trucks only accept cash payments, and you don’t want to miss out on those amazing street snacks or cute souvenirs!
While credit cards work at resorts and bigger restaurants, local markets and tiny sellers might give you the side-eye if you try to pay with plastic.
It’s super helpful to exchange a small amount of money for those little incidental expenses that pop up. Your future self will thank you when you’re buying that irresistible smoothie from a beachside stand!
14) Prepare for a digital detox, Wi-Fi is all about those chill island vibes.
Let’s be real – the Wi-Fi in Bora Bora isn’t exactly winning any speed contests! But honestly? That’s part of the magic!
We think it’s the perfect excuse to embrace those island vibes and give yourself a much-needed digital detox vacation.
Many resorts actually promote a tech-free environment, which is SO refreshing!
We’ve found that luxury resorts in Tahiti often limit digital access on purpose – they want you enjoying that gorgeous turquoise water, not your Instagram feed!
Before you go, let your people know you’ll be mostly offline. Then ditch those devices, grab a fruity drink, and reconnect with what matters. Your mental health will thank you!
15) Get ready for jaw-dropping sunsets—perfect for those Insta moments
Bora Bora sunsets are seriously next-level gorgeous! We’re talking about skies painted with vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples that’ll make your jaw drop and your Instagram followers go wild.
The lagoon becomes a mirror of colorful light transformations as day turns to evening.
Our favorite spots include Matira Beach, hillside viewpoints, or from an overwater bungalow if you’re splurging.
For an extra special experience, try a sunset cruise. It’s super romantic and gives you unique photo angles you can’t get from land. Trust us, you’ll want your phone fully charged for this daily spectacle!
16) Adventure seekers, don’t miss out on swimming with whales!
Bora Bora is one of those rare places where you can actually jump in and swim with magnificent humpback whales! We’re still pinching ourselves that this is even possible. It’s like something straight out of our wildest dreams!
You’ll need to be a decent swimmer though. The experience requires being able to swim steadily for about 300 feet. Treading water for up to 45 minutes is also part of the adventure.
Don’t worry if you’re feeling a bit intimidated by their size. Humpback whales are completely safe to swim with, and the experience happens aboard a 26-foot inflatable boat with experienced guides.
The best months for whale watching are August and September when these gentle giants are most active around the islands, making it a perfect time for your final destination . Trust us, this will be the highlight of your trip!
17) Bora Bora’s small, but oh so mighty with epic views from every beach angle.
Bora Bora might be tiny (just 12 square miles!), but we’re telling you – this small island packs a serious punch when it comes to jaw-dropping views!
Every beach angle offers something magical to feast your eyes on. We love how the stunning Mount Otemanu creates the perfect backdrop against that crystal-clear turquoise water that honestly looks photoshopped (but it’s not!). The stunning turquoise lagoon that surrounds the small islets enhances the island’s reputation as a paradise destination, with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coral gardens.
Don’t forget to get out on the water for the best views! The lagoon’s vibrant blues and greens against those white sandy beaches give us life every single time.
18) Be a hero and pack eco-friendly toiletries—let’s keep our oceans clean!
Guess what? We can totally save the ocean while we’re living our best Bora Bora life, and using a boat transfer is one of the easiest ways to do that ! Bringing eco-friendly toiletries is such an easy way to be kind to those gorgeous turquoise waters we’re all drooling over on Instagram.
Many resorts offer reef-safe sunscreen for free, but we still recommend tossing a few eco-friendly options in your suitcase just to be safe.
Look for shampoo bars, biodegradable soap, and toothpaste tablets that won’t harm marine life. They’re super compact too—hello, extra room for souvenirs!
There’s no better feeling than swimming in that crystal-clear water knowing we’re not leaving harmful chemicals behind. Mother Earth high-five!
19) Indulge in the island’s fresh seafood for some tropical foodie heaven.
Bora Bora is a seafood lover’s paradise, and we’re totally here for it! The island offers amazing fresh catches that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Don’t miss trying the grilled Mahi-Mahi, which is often served with tropical fruit salsa. It’s seriously divine!
Tuna and lobster are also super popular local specialties that you absolutely need to experience.
For a fun dining adventure, check out Bloody Mary’s, one of the island’s most famous restaurants. It has sandy floors and amazing fresh seafood in a cool Polynesian setting.
20) Consider travel insurance—better safe than, you know, stuck.
Let’s be real – Bora Bora is literally in the middle of nowhere! That’s part of its charm, but it also means you’ll want some backup if things go sideways.
Travel insurance is a must when heading to remote paradise islands like this. Our friend Katie got stranded an extra week due to a tropical storm, and it was a nightmare!
For Bora Bora trips, we recommend looking into plans that include trip cancellation coverage and emergency medical evacuation. Those medical evac costs can be astronomical, friends!
Your regular health insurance might not follow you to French Polynesia, so don’t forget to check that too. Better to spend a little now than face a financial nightmare later!
21) Dress up with colorful beach wraps—fashion meets function under the sun.
Beach wraps are our absolute must-have for Bora Bora, especially when you’re paddle boarding ! We’re obsessed with how these colorful pieces pull double duty as both cute fashion statements and practical sun protection.
Look for quick-drying fabrics in neutral shades or soft blues that match those gorgeous lagoon views. Seriously, the photos will pop!
We love wraps because they transform from sarongs to dresses to shoulder covers in seconds. Perfect for when we need to dash from beach to lunch without a full outfit change.
Beach coverups don’t take up much space in our suitcase either! Let’s be real – more room for souvenirs is always a win!
22) Keep an eye out for the exotic Polynesian dance shows. Shakers welcome!
You can’t visit Bora Bora without experiencing a traditional Polynesian dance show! We were totally mesmerized by the colorful costumes and incredible hip-shaking moves.
Most resorts host these amazing performances around 8pm at their restaurants and bars. Sometimes you can just buy a cocktail at the bar to watch the show – budget-friendly win!
For a unique experience, check out Saturday shows at the Bora Bora Yacht Club. They have a deck right on the water – so dreamy!
Don’t be shy if they invite audience participation! Jump right in and try those hip shakes. We promise everyone’s too busy having fun to judge your moves!
23) Gonna hop on a boat? Bring something snug like a windbreaker.
Boat trips in Bora Bora are amazing, but they can get pretty windy out there on the water! We learned this the hard way when our hair was flying everywhere and we got chilly during our lagoon tour.
A lightweight windbreaker is perfect for those boat excursions. It won’t take up much space in your day bag, but it’ll keep you comfy when that ocean breeze picks up.
You’ll thank yourself later when you’re cruising between motus without shivering or holding your hat down for dear life!
24) Carry a lightweight backpack for those chic island adventures
We can’t stress this enough – a lightweight daypack is a must for exploring beautiful Bora Bora! Trust us, you’ll want something comfy to carry your essentials while looking fab.
Those gorgeous island excursions require you to tote around sunscreen, water bottles, and beach towels. Nobody wants to lug around a heavy bag in that tropical heat – talk about a vibe killer!
Many travelers recommend packing light anyway due to weight restrictions on inter-island flights. A small backpack is perfect for day trips, hiking, or simply wandering through paradise while keeping your hands free for photos or holding your bestie!
25) Practice your French with a phrasebook, or charm the locals with ‘bonjour!’
Nothing breaks the ice like trying to speak the local language! Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia, so French is one of the main languages spoken on this gorgeous island.
We totally recommend grabbing a pocket phrasebook before your trip, even if you’re flying in on domestic flights, as mastering a few essential French phrases can make your vacation experience so much more authentic and fun! Even just mastering a few essential French phrases can make your vacation experience so much more authentic and fun!
Locals appreciate the effort! Even if you just learn “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), and “S’il vous plaît” (please), you’ll see smiles appear and maybe even make some new friends. How cute is that?
Understanding Bora Bora’s Vibe
Bora Bora isn’t just a pretty face with those stunning blue lagoons! This magical island has a unique atmosphere that combines laid-back island life with luxury and natural beauty that’ll take your breath away. Visitors can indulge in private island experiences, such as dining on secluded beaches or staying at luxurious resorts surrounded by nature.
Some resorts are situated on their own motu, offering exclusive experiences with stunning views and top-notch amenities.
Cultural Snapshot
Let’s get real about Bora Bora’s culture – it’s absolutely enchanting! The locals (who are primarily Polynesian) are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. They welcome visitors with open arms and the warmest smiles ever!
Tahitian culture plays a significant role in shaping the local customs and traditions, with its rich heritage of tattooing, dance, and music offering visitors an immersive experience.
Traditional Polynesian customs are still very much alive here. You’ll see this in their:
Music and dance performances (the hip-shaking is INTENSE!)
Handcrafted items like pareos (colorful wraps) and shell jewelry
Food traditions featuring lots of fresh fish and tropical fruits
To truly embrace Bora Bora, we need to show respect at sacred sites and engage with warmth. Learning a few Tahitian phrases goes a long way – try “Ia ora na” (hello) and “Mauruuru” (thank you). The locals will LOVE it!
Weather: What to Expect
Girl, pack that sunscreen because Bora Bora brings the heat! The island enjoys a tropical climate with basically two seasons:
Dry Season (May to October)
Average temps between 75-85°F (24-29°C)
Less humidity (your hair will thank you!)
Perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving activities
Most popular time to visit (but also pricier)
Wet Season (November to April)
Slightly warmer with occasional rain showers
Higher humidity levels
Still plenty of sunshine between showers
Better deals on accommodations
Don’t worry about those rain showers – they typically pass quickly, and the lush greenery they create is totally worth it! We recommend bringing light, breathable clothing and a light rain jacket just in case. The water temperature stays divine year-round, hovering around 80°F (27°C).
Navigating Bora Bora’s Activities
Bora Bora offers so many amazing activities that can make your trip unforgettable! We’ve explored this paradise and want to share our ultimate travel guide and top tips to help you make the most of your island adventure.
In Vaitape, you will find convenient access to shops and restaurants that enhance your travel experience.
Additionally, consider the opportunity to visit other islands in French Polynesia, such as Moorea, to broaden your adventure.
Fun in the Sun: Beaches and Beyond
Matira Beach is absolutely your must-visit spot! Known for its white sand beaches, we spent hours on this gorgeous public beach with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, but we also dream of relaxing on a private deck overlooking the lagoon . Don’t forget to bring reef-safe sunscreen—the sun is stronger than you think!
For an awesome cultural experience, check out the local handicraft markets in Vaitape. We found some beautiful black pearl jewelry and hand-painted pareos (sarongs) that make perfect souvenirs.
Hiking Mount Otemanu gives you breathtaking views of the island. We recommend going early morning to beat the heat! The trails can be challenging, so proper footwear is essential. The hiking trails also offer gorgeous views of lush green mountains and crystal-clear lagoons, making it a picturesque adventure.
Want to explore beyond the resort? Rent a bicycle! It’s our favorite way to discover hidden gems and local food trucks serving fresh poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk).
Water Adventures: Snorkeling and Diving
Bora Bora’s lagoon is basically an underwater paradise perfect for those who love to snorkel! The best snorkeling spots include the Coral Gardens and the famous Lagoonarium. There, we swam with colorful fish, rays, and even reef sharks (don’t worry—they’re friendly!).
Snorkeling excursions are a popular activity offered by many resorts, providing guided tours to explore the vibrant marine life and clear waters surrounding the island. Snorkeling tours fill up quickly, so we recommend booking these adventures in advance. Most resorts offer equipment rental, but bringing your own mask can be more comfortable for long snorkeling sessions.
The outer reef is where diving enthusiasts can find amazing dive sites like Tapu and Anau. We were blown away by the visibility—often exceeding 100 feet! Even if you’re a beginner, most dive shops offer introductory courses in shallow lagoon waters.
Our absolute favorite water activity? The jet ski tours around the island give you a thrilling perspective of Bora Bora’s stunning landscape. We couldn’t stop smiling the entire time!
