11 Useful Tips for Visiting Bora Bora

Since I’ve been to Bora Bora in French Polynesia, as well as several other Tahitian islands recently, a travel consultant friend of mine asked for my useful tips for visiting Bora Bora. Here are my top 11.

See Bora Bora from the water or outer reefs – Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its setting is so spectacular.  The main island with the peak of Mt. Otemanu is the jewel on display at the center of a necklace of coral reefs surrounding the island.  If you’re staying on the main island, make sure during your visit that you get out on the water or to one of the reefs to see the iconic view of the mountain rising up majestically.

Enjoy the beaches – On the beaches in Bora Bora you’ll find soft, white sand, unlike some of the other French Polynesian islands that have ground coral on the beach.  They are some of the most beautiful beaches in Tahiti.  Stroll on them, lay on them and take lots of beautiful pictures to bring your memories home.

Make the most of romantic opportunities – Bora Bora is one of the most romantic places on earth.  Dance together in your room.  Hold hands while you snorkel.  Write your names in the sand.  Experience a couple’s massage.  Share kisses in the moonlight out on your deck.  Savor your moments together.

Don’t miss the sunrise – The sunsets in Bora Bora are gorgeous, but don’t miss the sunrise.  The billowing clouds, turquoise waters, expansive ocean views and thatched roofs create magical, dream-like scenes.  You might even be lucky enough to see a rainbow.

Take snorkel equipment to your room – Some of the resorts, like the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa allow you to take your snorkel and fins (included) to your room to use during your stay.  This will save you a lot of time, as you won’t have to stop at the sports shack every time you want to use them.  This is especially convenient if you have an overwater bungalow (highly recommended).  They are sometimes a good distance away from the main hotel area.  You’ll be able to just jump right into the water to snorkel right from your deck whenever you want.

 

Take advantage of what’s included at your resort – most of the resorts in Bora Bora include the use of snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, kayaks and hobie cats.  The lagoon in Bora Bora is protected by reefs, so have fun and enjoy snorkeling and seeing all of the beautiful fish right there within swimming distance.  Try something new, like paddle boarding.  Ask for some instruction and take a hobie cat out.  You’ve already paid for it, so have fun with all that’s included.

Enjoy dinner on the beach – Sunset is a magical time for romance.  Splurge on one special night dining on the beach at sunset.  Torches will cast a soft, romantic glow around the two of you, as you enjoy delicious food served by an attentive staff and sip champagne on your special occasion.

Bring everything you need – Make sure to bring everything you’ll need with you, such as sunscreen and bug repellant, as it’s very expensive in Tahiti.  I saw a small bottle of sunscreen in the airport in Tahiti for about $40.

Sunscreen of SPF 30 is a must – Tahiti is very close to the equator, so the sun is much stronger there.  And, you’ll likely spend a lot of time in the sun, so a very strong sunscreen is a must.  You can even get sunburned in the shade.  I thought I was doing well by using SPF 15.  I ended up getting sun poisoning and had to stay out of the sun for several days of our vacation.

Stretch your food budget – Food is very expensive in Tahiti.  Stretch your food budget by getting breakfast included with your room.  The resorts serve fabulous breakfast buffets.  Bring snacks that travel well with you to tide you over until dinner, like cookies, crackers and granola bars.  Visit the little town of Viatape on the main island early on your vacation to stock up on perishable foods like fruit and cheeses.  Take the boat from your resort, walk out to the main road and turn left.  The little market will be a little way down on the right hand side.  The Tahitians also make out-of-this-world French bread, which you can buy in the little market there.  Also, purchase water and beverages to bring back to your room.

Don’t get a meal plan – Other than a breakfast included with your room, I don’t recommend pre-purchasing a meal plan at your hotel.  You might want to explore away from your hotel and end up eating somewhere like at Bloody Mary’s.  Or, you might get up late and still be full from the delicious breakfast and decide to skip lunch.  And, sometimes a lunch is included with an excursion that you purchase and you don’t want to wind up paying for lunch twice.

Well, that’s it for now.  What are some of your useful tip for visiting Bora Bora?  Please share them here.

I’m Sheila Cannon and I help career focused couples, who have no time to plan, have the honeymoon, destination wedding or romantic vacation of a lifetime custom designed for them without them having to lift a finger.  If that’s you, click here to get started putting me to work for you!