Exploring Bora Bora Beyond the Resorts
- Flo MBT
- Sep 16, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 2
When we told our friends living in French Polynesia that our next stop was Bora Bora, their reactions were almost unanimous: āBoraās nice, but there are other islands just as beautiful with fewer tourists.ā Bora Bora had been a dream for us, ever since we first glimpsed its allure in an old French movie "Le voyage de Penelope".
While their words left us slightly uncertain, we held onto the hope that the island would live up to its legendary reputation. Spoiler alert: it did ā and more!
In this article:
From the moment we landed, Bora Bora took our breath away. The airport itself is not on the main island, so the journey begins with a boat ride across the stunning lagoon. And that water! It's a shade of blue that defies description ā clearer, more vibrant, and more mesmerising than anything we had ever seen before.
Bora Bora view from the airport
We opted for a cozy Airbnb instead of a resort, and it was the perfect choice. Our hostess was the epitome of Polynesian hospitality ā she picked us up from the ferry, helped us secure a scooter rental, and even offered to take us to some of her favorite beaches. The Airbnb was a gem in itself ā a spacious one-bedroom apartment, newly renovated, and equipped with everything we needed for our stay.
Bora Bora Travel & Three Nights in Paradise
We spent three nights in Bora Bora, which turned out to be the perfect amount of time to really get to know the island. With a scooter as our trusty companion, we circled its quiet roads, stopping whenever a breathtaking view appeared (which was often). To top it off, we treated ourselves to a full-day boat excursion ā complete with snorkeling, encounters with marine life, and a traditional Polynesian lunch served on a secluded motu. It honestly felt like stepping into a dream.
Swimming With Sharks, Rays & Coral Gardens
One of the highlights was drifting through a vibrant live coral garden, surrounded by schools of colorful fish. We swam alongside playful stingrays and elegant blacktip reef sharks, an exhilarating experience that somehow felt both thrilling and serene. Later, we even learned how to make our own pareos ā a beautiful reminder to bring home.
The Quiet Charm of the Main Island
What surprised us most was how peaceful the main island is. Far from the glitzy image often associated with Bora Bora, it felt more like a quiet village, where locals went about their daily routines with warmth and ease. Restaurants and bars are few, and we quickly realised that most visitors stay tucked away in luxury resorts on the surrounding motus. We even heard rumors that some hotels discourage guests from visiting the main island, citing stray dogs or questionable food.
Our Experience With Local Life
Our experience couldnāt have been more different. Having visited Bora Bora along with five other islands in French Polynesia, we found the island dogs to be as friendly and unbothered as the locals themselves. And the food? Always fresh, full of flavor, and deeply rooted in the islandās culture. Sharing a plate of poisson cru or grilled fish felt like being invited into the heart of Polynesian life.
Natureās Magic Everywhere
When it comes to natural beauty, Bora Bora truly delivers. The lagoon is a living aquarium, where sharks, rays, and even graceful manta rays glide through crystal-clear waters. The coral gardens, bursting with life and color, make every snorkel or dive feel unforgettable. Itās a place where natureās magic is everywhere you look ā both above and below the surface.
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Bora Bora Travel FAQs
If you have any other questions about traveling to Bora Bora, donāt hesitate to drop them in the comments ā Iād love to help!
What is a motu in Bora Bora?
A motu is a small islet that forms around the lagoon of a volcanic island. In Bora Bora, these sandy islets are often fringed with palm trees and surrounded by turquoise waters. Many luxury resorts are located on motus, but you can also visit them on boat tours for picnics, snorkeling, or cultural experiences.
What language is spoken in French Polynesia?
The two official languages are French and Tahitian. On Bora Bora and the other islands, most locals working in tourism also speak English, so youāll have no trouble communicating.
Is it easy to rent a scooter in Bora Bora?
Yes, renting a scooter is one of the best ways to explore Bora Boraās main island. The roads are quiet and easy to navigate, making it a stress-free ride. However, scooter availability is limited, so itās best to book in advance to guarantee one for your trip.
Nice post! Bora Bora is truly a must-see!