EMBRACE THE BLUES

Cruise to Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Loosely translated from ancient Tahitian, Bora Bora means "created by the gods" — and when you set foot on this heavenly island in French Polynesia, you won't have any trouble understanding how it got its name. Crystalline turquoise waters and a vibrant coral reef surround a string of motus — tiny islets around the main island, just across the lagoon. Relax in the powder-soft white sand of Matira Beach, and breathe in the fresh scent of Tiare Tahiti, the distinctive white gardenia that grows wild here. Dive or snorkel among the coral reef just off Sofitel Marara. Or hike iconic Mount Otemanu, the lushly forested extinct volcano at the center of the island.

National Language French

Currency Accepted CFP Franc (XPF)

Things To Do in Bora Bora

View of Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Mountain High

Mount Otemanu towers 2,400 feet above the lagoon. Its jagged peaks are among Bora Bora's most distinctive sights, and locals have held it as sacred since time immemorial — the bodies of ancient Polynesian kings rest here. You can get to the summit by 4x4 jeep tour, helicopter or good old-fashioned hike.

Fish and a stingray in the ocean

Get Friendly With Fish

Let a guided boat get you up close to the rainbow of underwater wildlife of Bora Bora. Observe black-tipped sharks via snorkel, or feed some of the friendly mantas while you enjoy the clear, calm waters.

A World War 2 cannon in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

History on Wheels

Explore the island on a 4x4 tour to hear the fascinating history of Bora Bora, spanning its ancient Polynesian past to its role as a military base in World War II. Whether it's a champagne tour or a hearty jungle trek, you can learn at exactly your speed.

Local Cuisine

Bora Bora's cuisine brings a mix of French, Asian and Tahitian flavors to the local seafood bounty. Looking for a breakfast fit to fuel a hike up Mount Otemanu. Try firi firi, a Tahitian donut that's also made with the ever-present coconut milk. Don't leave without trying the French Polynesian specialty, poisson cru, a ceviche of Tahitian ahi tuna in coconut milk and lime juice.

Shopping

Head to the shops of Vaitape for stunning pearl jewelry — one of the signature items of French Polynesia, with the pearls themselves plucked straight from the lagoons. Other treasures include Tahitian tapestries, colorful printed pareus (sarongs), monoi oils for the skin and island fragrances laced with vanilla and tiare.