Why Bora Bora is the Jewel of the South Pacific
Posted by on 26 Sep 2025
Thinking about a Bora Bora holiday? This island in French Polynesia is often called the jewel of the South Pacific, and for good reason. Its dazzling lagoon, backed by the dramatic peak of Mount Otemanu, has become the gold standard for tropical beauty. But Bora Bora is not just about overwater bungalows and honeymoon escapes. It is a destination that offers cultural discovery, outdoor adventure and world-class dining alongside unparalleled luxury.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover its charm, Bora Bora rewards travellers with an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and warm Polynesian hospitality. With Entire Travel Group’s curated Bora Bora holiday packages, you can relax knowing every detail is taken care of, from accommodation and transfers to unique excursions that suit your pace.
Trip Highlights
Swim, snorkel and dive in Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon filled with coral gardens and colourful fish.
Experience luxury overwater bungalows, an iconic way to stay in the South Pacific.
Dine on exquisite French-Polynesian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and tropical flavours.
Join cultural experiences such as Polynesian dance, storytelling and village visits.
Take a scenic cruise or kayak for unbeatable views of Mount Otemanu rising above the lagoon.
Bora Bora’s Lagoon: A Natural Wonder
The heart of Bora Bora is its lagoon, one of the most photographed and admired in the world. Its shades of blue seem almost unreal, shifting from aquamarine shallows to deep indigo channels.
Travellers can snorkel among coral gardens, glide across the water in a kayak or try stand-up paddleboarding. For those who love marine life, diving in Bora Bora offers encounters with manta rays, reef sharks and schools of tropical fish. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners, while experienced divers can explore deeper sites with dramatic coral formations.
“The lagoon was like nothing we had ever seen before. Crystal-clear, calm and alive with colour. It felt like swimming in a dream,” said Amelie, 2022.
Mount Otemanu: Bora Bora’s Iconic Peak
Towering over the island at 727 metres, Mount Otemanu is the dramatic backdrop that gives Bora Bora its distinctive silhouette. Once a volcano, the jagged green peak now stands as a symbol of the island.
Travellers can admire it from almost anywhere, whether on a lagoon cruise, from a resort deck or during a guided hike. A popular experience is taking a 4x4 tour around the base, where guides share stories of Polynesian legends tied to the mountain. Adventurous visitors can trek through lush valleys to viewpoints where the mountain and lagoon unfold in spectacular contrast.
Overwater Bungalows: A Tahitian Invention
Bora Bora is famous for its overwater bungalows, but many travellers don’t realise that this style of accommodation originated in Tahiti. Inspired by traditional fishing huts, they offer guests a direct connection to the lagoon with steps leading straight into the water.
Staying in an overwater bungalow is a quintessential Bora Bora experience. Waking up to the sight of the lagoon, enjoying breakfast delivered by canoe or watching the sunset from a private deck makes it an unforgettable choice for couples, families or anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Dining and Cuisine in Bora Bora
Fresh Flavours of Polynesia
Bora Bora’s cuisine blends French culinary expertise with Polynesian traditions. Expect plenty of fresh seafood, like tuna, mahi-mahi and lagoon-caught prawns, paired with tropical fruit and coconut-based sauces.
Poisson Cru: A Must-Try Dish
One of the most beloved local dishes is poisson cru, a refreshing mix of raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. Many visitors say tasting this dish is a highlight of their trip.
Dining Experiences
From beachside barbecues to elegant fine dining with French wine pairings, Bora Bora offers a spectrum of dining experiences. Private dinners on the sand or on a pontoon over the lagoon are popular for special occasions.
“We were surprised by the food. It was refined yet so fresh. Every meal felt like part of the experience, especially dining under the stars with Mount Otemanu in the distance,” recalled Lachlan S., 2023.
Cultural Encounters in Bora Bora
While Bora Bora is often associated with luxury escapes, it also offers rich cultural experiences. Polynesian heritage is woven into daily life through music, dance, crafts and storytelling.
Travellers can join guided village tours to learn about traditional cooking methods, visit pearl farms to see how black pearls are cultivated or enjoy performances of Ori Tahiti, the vibrant Tahitian dance. For many, these experiences offer a deeper connection to the island beyond its postcard beauty.
Adventure Activities on Land and Sea
Lagoon Cruises and Water Sports
Bora Bora’s lagoon is best explored by boat. Catamaran cruises, glass-bottom boat tours and even jet ski excursions give visitors the chance to enjoy the scenery from different perspectives.
Hiking and 4x4 Tours
Beyond the water, Bora Bora offers rugged hiking trails and guided 4x4 safaris. These excursions take travellers into the island’s interior, showcasing viewpoints, historical sites and remnants of World War II bunkers.
Diving and Snorkelling Hotspots
The Coral Gardens, Anau and Tapu are some of the most popular snorkelling and diving spots in Bora Bora. Each offers unique marine encounters, from giant manta rays to vibrant coral reefs.
Luxury Experiences Unique to Bora Bora
Bora Bora is synonymous with indulgence. Beyond overwater bungalows, travellers can enjoy private yacht charters, helicopter rides over the lagoon and bespoke spa treatments using local ingredients like monoi oil.
Wellness retreats are also gaining popularity, offering yoga sessions on the beach and spa therapies that draw on Polynesian traditions. These experiences allow visitors to rejuvenate both body and mind in a setting that feels worlds away from daily life.
Expert Travel Tips for Bora Bora
Best Time to Visit: May to October offers drier, cooler weather perfect for outdoor activities. November to April is warmer and more humid, with occasional rain, but fewer crowds.
Getting There: Bora Bora is reached via a short flight from Tahiti’s international airport in Papeete.
Packing Essentials: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, light clothing and water shoes for lagoon activities.
Cultural Etiquette: Always greet locals with a smile and “ia ora na.” Modest dress is recommended when visiting villages.
Money Matters: The local currency is the CFP franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted in resorts and shops.
Traveller Experiences
“We thought Bora Bora might just be for honeymooners, but our family had an incredible time. The kids loved snorkelling in the shallow lagoon while we enjoyed the cultural evenings.” – Hannah P., 2023
“From the flight over the lagoon to the canoe breakfast at our bungalow, it felt like a dream. Entire Travel Group made the whole trip seamless.” – Marco B., 2022
“The village visit gave us a deeper sense of the culture. Learning about pearl farming and seeing the dances really rounded out our holiday.” – Sienna L., 2024
Frequently Asked Questions About Bora Bora
Do I need a visa to visit Bora Bora?
For entry and visa requirements, please check the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website.
What is the best time to visit Bora Bora?
The dry season from May to October is considered the best for weather. From November to April, you can enjoy warmer temperatures and lower rates.
How long should I stay in Bora Bora?
A minimum of four nights is recommended to fully experience the lagoon, culture and luxury of Bora Bora.
Is Bora Bora only for couples?
While popular with honeymooners, Bora Bora is also great for families and groups. Many activities cater to all ages.
How do I get to Bora Bora?
Travellers fly into Papeete, Tahiti, then take a short domestic flight to Bora Bora. Most transfers are included in Entire Travel Group packages - please speak with the team for more details.
What currency is used?
The currency is the CFP franc (XPF). ATMs are available and credit cards are widely accepted.
Is Bora Bora expensive?
It is a luxury destination, but booking with Entire Travel Group ensures curated packages that provide value without compromise.
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Plan Your Bora Bora Escape with Entire Travel Group
From its turquoise lagoon to cultural discoveries and indulgent escapes, Bora Bora truly earns its title as the jewel of the South Pacific. Whether it is your first visit or a return journey, the island promises memories that last a lifetime. With Entire Travel Group’s tailored packages, you can enjoy the beauty of Bora Bora without worrying about the details.
