Big changes are now in effect at Delta Air Lines' network of Sky Clubs. As of Feb. 1, SkyMiles members who get Delta lounge access via a cobranded credit card have a set number of annual club visits they can make.
13.01.2025 - 01:19 / lonelyplanet.com / Bora Bora
Jan 12, 2025 • 6 min read
Magical Bora Bora is famous around the world for its vibrant turquoise lagoon, soft, white sandy stretches of beach and luxurious resorts. Who wouldn’t want to plan a dream getaway here?
Yet that doesn’t mean you need to spend every minute sipping cocktails in a pool-side lounge chair. (If that’s your thing, though – go for it.) For this remote French Polynesian paradise has much more to offer, with activities for ocean lovers, hikers and cultural enthusiasts you’ll find only here.
Beyond the beach, here are nine ways to make your trip to Bora Bora one you’ll never forget.
Many of the Society Islands, including Bora Bora, have a snorkel spot filled with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. Bora Bora’s Coral Garden was originally used by local fishermen, who cleaned their daily hauls here – attracting marine wildlife and, in turn, tourists. Today, feeding the wild animals is no longer allowed (although, unfortunately, some tours still do) and it's quite safe and fun to get in the water with them.
The sharks tend to be shy and keep their distance, but some of the stingrays are quite friendly and will come right up to you, as if to welcome you to the island. Always be respectful of the marine life and do your best to give them plenty of space. This sandbank in the lagoon is a popular diving site and is located well off the main island, only reachable by boat. Join a snorkel trip or day excursion, or rent a boat to meet the wildlife.
Join a lagoon excursion to spend a full day exploring the famous body of water surrounding the island. Offered by several companies, these trips include multiple snorkel stops (including the shark-and-ray spot mentioned above) as well as a seaside lunch on a motu. Lunch is typically poisson cru – a raw tuna dish served with lime juice, coconut milk and a mixture of fresh vegetables. You will also likely get some barbecue chicken, fresh fruit, rice, and other island picnic essentials. Expect a full, fun day.
Above Bora Bora’s beaches lie several hiking paths through the hills. Since many of the island’s most popular trails, such as Sacred Cave of Anau or Mt Pahia, are well hidden in the lush, tropical rainforest, trekking with a guide is recommended. These trails are not for the faint of heart, with many hikes taking over six hours, and requiring some climbing. Yet those who make it will be rewarded with stunning bird’s-eye views over the island and motu of Bora Bora and the lagoon.
For a less strenuous experience, take a three-hour hike through the Valley of the Kings, which will take you past old villages and historical cultural sites. Again, you will want a guide, as the paths are not well marked – and your guide will teach you about the local plants and
Big changes are now in effect at Delta Air Lines' network of Sky Clubs. As of Feb. 1, SkyMiles members who get Delta lounge access via a cobranded credit card have a set number of annual club visits they can make.
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