The top 19 things to do in Bora Bora

04.01.2025 - 20:01 / lonelyplanet.com / Bora Bora

Jan 4, 2025 • 13 min read

The name Bora Bora comes from the Tahitian language, and roughly translates to “created by the gods.” To call Bora Bora photogenic would be a glaring understatement. Formed by a volcano some 7 million years ago, the island’s stunning basaltic peaks soar above lush lowland rainforest, while the surrounding lagoon’s sapphire, indigo and turquoise hues swirl like a blue-obsessed painter’s palette. Most of the luxury hotels and resorts are situated on a motu, or small islet.

Bora Bora might be known for its luxe resorts but this French Polynesian paradise has so much more to offer. With diving, snorkeling and hiking excursions and countless lagoon and island tours on offer, here are nineteen top things to do in Bora Bora.

Many of the society islands, including Bora Bora, have a snorkel spot filled with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. It started because local fishermen used to clean their daily hauls here and that attracted the wildlife which, in turn, attracted the tourists. You are no longer allowed to feed the sea life (although, unfortunately, a couple of tours still do), however, it’s 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 say hi and welcome you to the island. Always be respectful of 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 – it can only be reached by boat. You will need to join a snorkel trip, day excursion, or rent a boat to visit.

Spend a full day exploring the lagoon around Bora Bora by joining a lagoon excursion. This activity is offered by several companies and includes multiple snorkel stops (including the shark and ray spot described above) as well as a sea-side lunch on a motu. Lunch is poisson cru which is a raw tuna dish served with lime juice, coconut milk, and a mixture of fresh vegetables. You will also likely get some barbeque chicken, fresh fruit, rice, and other island picnic essentials. It’s a fun way to spend a day exploring Bora Bora by water. Our recommended lagoon tour operators include Lagoon Service, Moana Adventure Tours and Reef Discovery.

Planning tip: Competition is fierce among the various operators who provide trips on the lagoon and its surrounding motu, so don’t hesitate to shop around. Ask what’s included in a cruise and check the ethos of the operator, especially regarding interactions with sharks – a growing number of operators are abstaining from creating inappropriate interactions with animals.

Considered the most beautiful beach in Bora Bora, Matira Beach is a public beach with soft white sand.