Bora Bora has a reputation for being the kind of place people only visit once in a lifetime. The photos make it look unreal, and honestly, the lagoon really is that color. It is bright turquoise in a way that makes you stop mid-sentence the first time you see it.

But Bora Bora is not just overwater bungalows and pretty sunsets. It is also flight planning, transfer logistics, budgeting, and knowing what things cost before you arrive so you are not surprised. If you are thinking about going, this guide covers what you actually need to know to plan it well.

Where is Bora Bora?

Bora Bora is in French Polynesia in the South Pacific, part of the Society Islands. It sits northwest of Tahiti. It is small enough that you can drive around the island in less than an hour, but the lagoon surrounding it is huge, and that is what makes Bora Bora feel so special.

When people talk about Bora Bora, they are usually picturing the lagoon. Calm water. Clear visibility. Little motu islands floating on the horizon. Mount Otemanu rising behind everything like a backdrop that never looks the same twice.

When is the best time to visit Bora Bora?

Bora Bora is warm year-round. The main difference between seasons is rain, humidity, and price.

Dry season (May to October)

This is the most popular time to visit because the weather is more consistent. It is drier, slightly cooler, and less humid. The lagoon stays gorgeous all year, but you are more likely to get those long sunny days without interruptions.

Downside: this is peak season, so resorts cost more and book up early.

Shoulder season (April and November)

These are great months to consider if you want a balance. The weather is still very good, but prices can be a little less intense than the busiest summer months. If you want Bora Bora without it feeling packed, this is a smart time to go.

Wet season (December to March)

This is the rainier season, and humidity is higher. Rain showers are common, but they are not always all-day storms. It can still be beautiful and sunny, just with more scattered tropical rain.

If you want the easiest planning and the best shot at picture-perfect weather, June through September is the safest choice. If you want a slightly calmer experience, April or November are my favorite recommendations.

How to get to Bora Bora

Most trips to Bora Bora start in Tahiti.

Step 1: Fly into Tahiti (PPT)

Tahiti is the main international arrival point for French Polynesia. The airport is called Faa’a International Airport (PPT), located near Papeete.

Step 2: Fly from Tahiti to Bora Bora (BOB)

From Tahiti, you take a short flight on Air Tahiti to Bora Bora. The flight takes about 45 to 55 minutes.

Tip: sit on the left side of the plane if possible. The lagoon views when you arrive are unreal.

Step 3: Transfer to your hotel by boat

Bora Bora’s airport is not on the main island. It is on a small islet. Most resorts handle transfers by boat directly from the airport to the property.

If you stay on the main island instead of a resort motu, you may take a boat to the main port, then a shuttle or taxi to your hotel.

Main island vs resort motu: where should you stay?

There are two main ways to do Bora Bora.

Option 1: Stay on the main island

This is usually more budget-friendly, and it gives you easier access to local restaurants, shops, and a bit more everyday island life. You can still do lagoon tours and snorkeling and beach time. You just will not be waking up over the water.

This can be a great option for travelers who want Bora Bora without spending luxury resort prices.

Option 2: Stay on a private motu at a luxury resort

This is the classic Bora Bora experience. Overwater bungalows. Lagoon views from your deck. Steps down into the water. Quiet mornings. Gorgeous sunsets.

It is also the most expensive way to visit.

Many people do a mix and split their stay. For example, 2 to 3 nights on the main island, then 3 to 4 nights at a resort. It makes the trip more balanced and helps the budget.

What Bora Bora costs (and what surprises people)

Bora Bora can be as expensive as you expect, but there are a few costs people forget to plan for.

Transfers add up

Many resorts charge for airport boat transfers. Some include it, some do not. Always check, because it can be a noticeable extra cost.

Food is expensive

At resorts, meals and drinks can be shockingly pricey. This is not the kind of destination where you can always “just find a cheap meal nearby,” especially if you are staying on a motu.

If budgeting matters:

Consider booking breakfast included choosing a half-board plan mixing a few restaurant meals with light grocery items if you’re on the main island.

Tours are worth budgeting for

Lagoon tours, snorkeling trips, and private boat experiences often become the highlight of the trip. Plan for at least one major lagoon day.

Best things to do in Bora Bora

You do not come to Bora Bora to stay busy every minute. It is a place that feels best when you slow down. That said, there are a few experiences that really make the trip.

1. Lagoon snorkeling tour

This is the number one activity I recommend. Most tours take you to multiple stops:

-coral gardens with bright fish

-shallow sandbars with stingray areas sometimes reef sharks

It is safe, beautiful, and truly feels like you are swimming in an aquarium.

2. Sunset cruise

If you want romance, this is it. The water gets glassy, the mountains darken, and the sky turns gold. Even a simple sunset boat ride feels special here.

3. Mount Otemanu viewpoints and interior tours

You cannot hike to the top of Mount Otemanu, but you can take guided tours into the island’s interior for scenic viewpoints, lush jungle scenery, and WWII history.

4. Matira Beach

This is Bora Bora’s most famous public beach and it is stunning. Soft sand, shallow water, and perfect for a long afternoon.

5. Paddleboarding or kayaking

If you stay at a resort, these are often included. Morning paddleboarding on calm water is peaceful in a way that just sticks with you.

Bora Bora Packing List: What to Bring (and What You Can Skip)

Bora Bora is the kind of destination where you’ll live in swimsuits and easy outfits most of the time. You really do not need a huge suitcase, but there are a few things that make the trip way more comfortable (especially with lagoon days, boat tours, and resort life). Here’s what I recommend packing.

Essentials You’ll Actually Use

Passport + copies (keep a photo on your phone too)

Travel insurance info

Credit card + some cash (CFP franc)

Phone + charger + portable power bank

Waterproof phone pouch

Reusable water bottle

Small day bag or tote for excursions

Swim + Water Gear

2–3 swimsuits

Rash guard or swim shirt

Reef-safe sunscreen

After-sun lotion or aloe Snorkel mask (optional but nice)

Water shoes (highly recommended for coral areas)

Quick-dry towel (optional)

Clothing: Keep it Light

2–3 cover-ups or lightweight layers

2–4 casual daytime outfits

1–2 nicer outfits for dinners

Light sweater or wrap for breezy evenings

Rain jacket or packable poncho (especially in wetter months)

Shoes

Flip-flops or slides Sandals you can walk in

One pair of casual shoes for tours/hikes

Water shoes (yes, again)

Resort and Comfort Extras

Dry bag for boat tours

Bug spray or mosquito wipes

Hat that will not fly off

Sunglasses

Hair ties/claw clips

Small first aid kit (band-aids, blister pads)

Toiletries and Personal Items

Prescriptions (plus extras)

Motion sickness meds or bands Pain reliever + antacid

Face moisturizer (sun and salt dry you out)

Content Creator Add-ons (Optional)

GoPro or waterproof camera

Extra SD cards

Mini tripod Lens wipes

Drone (only if experienced and allowed by your resort)

What You Can Skip

Heels

Heavy jackets

Too many outfits

Fancy jewelry (salt air is rough on it)

Final thoughts

Bora Bora is expensive, yes. But it is also one of the rare destinations where the experience matches the hype. The lagoon is that beautiful. The sunsets are that soft and golden. The mornings really do feel quiet and unreal.

If you plan it smart, you can make Bora Bora feel seamless and special, not stressful and overpriced. Book your transfers, budget for food, give yourself time, and make at least one full day about the lagoon.

Because that lagoon is the whole reason Bora Bora stays in your head long after you leave.