After years of dreaming of those crystal-clear lagoons and overwater bungalows, I finally traveled to Tahiti and Bora Bora. And let me tell you — this French Polynesian paradise exceeded every expectation I had. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about planning your own perfect getaway to these stunning islands.
Fly to Tahiti and Bora Bora: A Complete Guide
The Journey to this Paradise starts with finding the right flight to Tahiti and Bora Bora. First, You arrive at Faa’a International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti. It’s best reached from major hubs in USA like Los Angeles or San Francisco. Once you land in Tahiti, you will have to get on a 45-minute flight to Bora Bora on Air Tahiti. I suggest to book Bora Bora flights 6-8 moths in advance to get the best deals.
Pro tip: Look for a package deal for Bora Bora. Many Tahiti and Bora Bora vacation packages include international flights and inter-island flights, sometimes at a better rate than booking them separately.
Ideal Duration of Visit Tahiti and Bora Bora
This is what I would generally recommend for various styles of trip to Tahiti and Bora Bora:
| Trip Type | Recommended Duration | Suggested Split |
| Honeymoon | 7-10 days | 2 days Tahiti, 5-8 days Bora Bora |
| Family Vacation | 10-14 days | 3-4 days Tahiti, 7-10 days Bora Bora |
| Adventure Trip | 12-15 days | 5 days Tahiti, 7-10 days Bora Bora |
| Quick Getaway | 5-7 days | 1-2 days Tahiti, 4-5 days Bora Bora |
When to go to Tahiti and Bora Bora: Seasons & Weather
Getting the timing of your trip just right can make a world of difference to your experience. The best time to visit Bora Bora is May to October, which I found through discussions with local people. When I visited back in June, the weather was ideal with low-humidity and minimal rain.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowd Level | Prices |
| Peak Season | July-August | Perfect, dry | Very High | Highest |
| Shoulder Season | May-June, Sept-Oct | Excellent | Moderate | High |
| Low Season | Nov-April | Wet, humid | Low | Lowest |
Where to Stay: Best Tahiti and Bora Bora Hotels
The islands offer accommodation for every budget, although Bora Bora is typically more luxurious. Here are some of them:
In Tahiti:
- InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
- Le Meridien Tahiti
- Manava Suite Resort
In Bora Bora:
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
- St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
- Pearl Beach Bora Bora
My personal favorite was overwater bungalow at Pearl Beach Bora Bora. There is nothing more incredible than waking up to the sound of gentle waves, and looking down at tropical fish swimming beneath the glass floor.
Things To Do in Tahiti and Bora Bora: Adventures & Activities
Things to do (and see) in Tahiti and Bora Bora that made my trip unforgettable:
Water Activities
- Snorkeling with reef sharks and rays
- Jet skiing around the lagoon – Take a break from lounging on the beaches of Bora Bora on an exciting tour of the lagoon by jet ski.
- Paddleboarding at sunrise
- Scuba diving in the coral gardens – Take the opportunity to scuba dive for the first time in the teeming waters of Bora Bora.
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Sunset sail-Watch the sunset from the deck of a catamaran during evening sail around Vaitape.
- Whale watching
Land-Based Activities
Mount Otemanu is one of the best things to see in Bora Bora. I trekked partway up for spectacular views of the lagoon. Other essential experiences include:
- Bora Bora ATV tours- Explore Bora Bora by riding an ATV or quad. Visit some of the most beautiful locations on Bora Bora on a tour with a difference. You’ll drive your own ATV off road to the lookout atop Mt. Popoti and to the cultural relics at Faanui Valley. See sights that most conventional tours bypass.
Read more about – Bora Bora Atv-Quad Tours - Visiting local pearl farms to discover the mystery of the creation of a pearl. The black pearl is an emblematic jewel of Polynesia!
- Exploring local villages
- Sunset dining on the beach
- Cultural dance shows
Best Beaches to Visit
A trip to Bora Bora is incomplete without experiencing its gorgeous beaches. Matira Beach at Bora Bora is famous as the world’s most beautiful beach. The pale sand and shallow turquoise water make a natural swimming pool.
Other top Bora Bora beach spots include:
- Matira Point
- White Valley Beach
- Sofitel Private Beach
Local Culture and History
Tahiti and Bora Bora (technically Bora Bora French Polynesia) features an interesting medley of Polynesian and French cultures. During my time there, I found out about the island’s rich history through:
- Traditional dances
- Local craft markets
- Visits to ancient marae (temple)
- Polynesian cooking classes
Bora Bora Tourist Attractions You Can’t Miss
Here are some of the top Bora Bora attractions:
- Vaitape Village: The main town to experience local life
- Lagoonarium: Swim with the native marine flora and fauna
- Mount Pahia: Amazing hiking opportunities
- Bloody Mary’s Restaurant: Famous for Celebrities
- Local pearl markets are ideal sources for authentic souvenirs
Planning Your Trip: Practical Tips
The Geography of Tahiti and Bora Bora Explained
Tahiti is the largest island and main gateway; while Bora Bora is about 230 kilometers northwest, as the map shows. The islands are parts of French Polynesia’s Society Islands group.
Budget Planning
Activities for Bora Bora range from budget-friendly to luxury experiences. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Budget: $500-700/day
- Mid-range: $700-1000/day
- Luxury: $1000+/day
Package Deals
Tahiti and Bora Bora holiday packages are usually much cheaper than booking everything yourself. Search for packages that offer:
- Flights and transfers
- Accommodation
- Some meals
- Basic activities
What to Pack
Here’s what you should not forget while packing for your dream vacation:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Underwater camera
- Light, breathable clothing
- Water shoes
- Insect repellent
- French to English dictionary app
Food and Dining
An eye (or mouth) should be trained on the local cuisine. During my stay, I enjoyed:
- Fresh fish and seafood
- Poisson cru (local ceviche)
- Tropical fruits
- French-inspired dishes
- Old Polynesian recipes
Best Photography Spots
For those Instagrammable shot:
- Overwater bungalow sunrise
- Mount Otemanu sunset
- Matira Beach at golden hour
- Lagoon coral gardens
- Traditional outrigger canoes
Local Transportation
Getting around in Tahiti and Bora Bora is relatively simple:
- Tahiti: Public buses, taxis, car renting
- Bora Bora: Boat shuttles, bicycle rentals, resort transfers
Sustainable Travel and Conscientious Tourism
Tahiti and Bora Bora are making significant efforts to preserve their natural beauty. As tourists, we can help by:
- Using reef-safe sunscreen
- Respecting marine life
- Supporting local businesses
- Minimizing plastic use
- Following local guidelines
Pro Tips for your Tahiti and Bora Bora Trip
- Book accommodations well in advance, particularly during peak season
- Think about split stays between islands
- Learn basic French phrases
- Respect local customs
- Plan indoor activities during those occasional rains
- Keep some provisions for unexpected costs
More Advice for First-Time Visitors
- Download maps to use offline prior to arrival
- Pack several swimsuits – You won’t get drying time due to humidity
- Pack formal wear for fine dining restaurants
- Island hop- Consider island hopping to make the most of your experience
- Book spa treatments early in your stay
- Try to learn about local customs and traditions
- Don’t skip Tahiti — it has one-of-a-kind charms
- Look for a travel insurance policy that covers cancellations due to the weather.
Remember, whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or relaxation, Tahiti and Bora Bora offer something for everyone. The secret is to plan, but leave room for discovery.
Conclusion
My trip to Tahiti and Bora Bora really changed my life. From the first moment I arrived until the day I had to leave, every day was a new adventure and a new favorite memory. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, family vacation, or solo adventure, these islands have something for everyone.
Note that the photos are breathtaking but don’t compare to the real item. The real magic of Tahiti and Bora Bora can’t be captured with a camera — whether it’s the feeling of floating in warm turquoise waters, the flavor of juicy tropical fruits, or the kindness of local people.
So go ahead and start planning your trip to paradise, I promise you’ll not regret it. And who knows? You’ll already plan for your return tour, before you even leave, just like me. Checkout my experiences of visiting Bali-another tropical paradise!
FAQ About Tahiti and Bora Bora
Q.-Is Bora Bora worth the cost?
A.-In my experience, 100% yes. It is expensive, but the luxury, natural beauty, and one-of-a-kind experience that are so well executed make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will want to save up for.
Q.-Do I need to speak French?
A.-French and Tahitian are the official languages, but most of the resort staff and tourism workers speak English. But locals also enjoy a few basic phrases in French.
Q.– Are there ATMs in Bora Bora?
A.-There are ATMs in Vaitape (the main town), but I recommend bringing enough cash. Not all the smaller places take credit cards.
Q.-Is the water safe to drink?
A.-All resort water is generally safe, but bottled water should be cautious, especially in Tahiti.
Q.-What is the best mode of transportation in Bora Bora?
A.-There is no public transportation on the island. The resorts offer boat shuttles, and visitors can rent bikes or book tours.
Q.-Is Bora Bora cheap to visit?
A.-Although it’s known for luxury, there are ways visit the island on a moderate budget by:
- Staying at guesthouses rather than resorts
- Visiting during low season
- Booking vacation packages
- Preparing some meals yourself
Q.-Do I need a visa?
A.-Most visitors don’t need a visa for stays less than 90 days, but check the current requirements for your country.
Q.-How good is the internet connectivity?
A.-Resorts have WiFi, but it may not be as fast as what you’re accustomed to. Look at this as an opportunity to do a digital detox!
Q.-Are there any dangerous animals or insects?
A.-No poisonous snakes and no dangerous land animals. The two main concerns are mosquitoes and sun exposure.
Q.-Do I need to book activities ahead of time?
A.-Tours of attractions such as shark-feeding excursions and jet skis tend to book up fast, so I would suggest booking a few days in advance at least.