Guide to Resorts & More in Dreamy Bora Bora

Bora Bora is fringed by a coral reef ring (an atoll) where you can snorkel or scuba dive and see a rainbow of tropical fish, turtles, sharks, rays and giant manta rays. So many water activities are available here: jet skis, wave runners, paddleboards, kayaks, jet boats, outrigger canoes, fishing, parasailing, catamaran sails and more.

Hikes, helicopter tours and ATV tours on Mt. Otemanu will give you some stunning views. The main town of Vaitape is a starting point for renting bicycles, scooters and cars (watch for dogs and roosters).

Drive around the island in an hour, or take longer to stop at Matira Beach to take a dip in the warm shallow waters and take in the views and fragrances of Tiare flowers. There are also shops in Vaitape where you can pick up local crafts and a beautiful pareo (a wrap made of fabric with a Tahitian design) to wear. Or, reserve a relaxing massage or treatment in the spa at one of the luxury resorts and feel any stress melt away.

If you are spending a night or two in Tahiti before or after your time in Bora Bora, why not do a circle island tour and see black sand beaches, waterfalls, tropical gardens, the traditional marketplace and learn about Tahitian culture and history? Or, take a 30-minute ferry to the dreamy heart-shaped island of Moorea for a day trip with Moorea Moana Tours. Here you can swim with humpback whales (when in season), sharks and stingrays - they even have photographers to take pictures of your underwater experience.

La Villa Mahana is one of Bora Bora’s most romantic and intimate restaurants. You will feel like you are dining in a private Mediterranean villa. Five-course Polynesian dinners are prepared using French techniques for only six tables - so you’ll want to reserve well in advance.

Your resort will have several dining options and offer a breakfast buffet as well as room service. They may also have a Polynesian dinner buffet and show and this shouldn’t be missed if you haven’t experienced the music and dancing of the Society Islands. You’ll get a glimpse of the food and culture - the music and dancing are more raw, energetic and sensual than what is experienced in the Hawaiian Islands.

If your resort is away from the main island of Bora Bora, you can take a water shuttle into town for lunch or dinner. Your resort may offer this service as complimentary during the day on a set schedule but charge for the transfers in the evenings.

Restaurant St. James, Bora Bora Yacht Club and Bloody Mary’s are all tried and true favorites for visitors to Bora Bora.

Les Roulettes are also a great option - these reasonably priced local food trucks can be found near Vaitape and Matira beach and they serve dishes like grilled fresh-caught fish, steak frites and burgers in the evenings. Make sure you try the local specialty - poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk, lime juice and fresh vegetables) - it’s delicious!

You can also stop at a local market, Chin Lee’s in Vaitape, Tiare Market near Matira Point or Super U on the north side of Vaitape, to grab some freshly baked baguettes, meats, cheeses and snacks for a picnic on the beach.