Bora Bora is a world-renowned destination for its stunning beauty, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts. But beyond the popular tourist spots, there are a number of secret places that offer a more intimate and authentic experience of this Polynesian paradise. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and discover the true spirit of Bora Bora, here are 7 secret places that you should add to your itinerary.
October is also the perfect time to plan a trip to Bora Bora if you want to experience a traditional Polynesian fire dance. The annual Heiva festival is held in July and features traditional music, dance, and cultural performances, and plenty of delicious local food to pair with your cocktails.
Secret Place #1: The Coral Gardens
Located just off the coast of the main island, the Coral Gardens are a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful coral and tropical fish. Snorkeling and diving are the best ways to explore this underwater paradise. Whether you prefer to snorkel or scuba dive, you will be amazed by the variety of marine life here.
What to Expect:
The Coral Gardens are home to over 100 species of coral and 500 species of fish. It is a popular spot for snorkelers and divers of all levels. If you’re lucky, you might even see a sea turtle or a manta ray. No matter your skill level, a trip to the Coral Gardens is a must-do activity in Bora Bora.
Secret Place #2: The Bloody Mary’s Restaurant
Bloody Mary’s is a small, family-run restaurant that serves delicious Polynesian cuisine. The restaurant is located on a small island off the coast of Bora Bora and can only be reached by boat. The setting is beautiful, and the food is even better. Try the poisson cru, the mahi-mahi, or the lobster. You won’t be disappointed.
What to Expect:
Bloody Mary’s is a popular spot for lunch and dinner. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. The restaurant is cash only, so be sure to bring some francs with you. Bloody Mary’s is a great place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal. The staff is friendly, and the food is made with fresh, local ingredients.
Secret Place #3: The Faanui Bay
Faanui Bay is a beautiful bay located on the east side of Bora Bora. The bay is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers stunning views of the lagoon. It is also home to the Faanui Pass, which is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Test your skills and see how many species you can spot on your marine safari.
What to Expect:
Faanui Bay is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. There is a small beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or just relax in the shade of the palm trees. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the bay. Faanui Bay is a great place to spot marine life, so be sure to bring your snorkel or diving gear.
Secret Place #4: The Vaitape Market
The Vaitape Market is a lively market located in the main town of Bora Bora. The market is a great place to buy souvenirs, local produce, and fresh seafood. You can also find a variety of food stalls selling delicious Polynesian dishes. If you are looking to shop in Bora Bora, the Vaitape Market is a must-visit.
What to Expect:
The Vaitape Market is open every day from 8am to 6pm. The market is a great place to find souvenirs, such as pareos, carvings, and jewelry. You can also find a variety of local produce, such as fruits, vegetables, and spices. The market is also a great place to try some delicious Polynesian dishes. There are a variety of food stalls selling everything from poisson cru to grilled chicken. The Vaitape Market is a great place to experience the local culture and find some unique souvenirs.
Secret Place #5: The Mount Otemanu
Mount Otemanu is the highest point on Bora Bora. The mountain is a popular hiking destination and offers stunning views of the island and the lagoon. The hike to the summit is challenging, but it is worth it for the incredible views. Get ready to sweat for that ‘grammable’ shot.
What to Expect:
The hike to the summit of Mount Otemanu takes about 2 hours. The trail is well-maintained, but it is steep and challenging in some sections. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. The views from the summit are incredible. You can see the entire island of Bora Bora, the lagoon, and the surrounding islands. The hike to Mount Otemanu is a must-do for anyone visiting Bora Bora.
Secret Place #6: The Matira Beach
Matira Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bora Bora. The beach is located on the south side of the island and offers stunning views of the lagoon and the surrounding mountains. The sand is white and powdery, and the water is crystal-clear. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy everything this secret gem has to offer.
What to Expect:
Matira Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can swim, sunbathe, or just relax in the shade of the palm trees. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the lagoon. Matira Beach is also a great place to watch the sunset. The colors are incredible, and it is a truly magical experience.
Secret Place #7: The Topua Iti Motu
Topua Iti Motu is a small island located off the coast of Bora Bora. The island is uninhabited and offers a secluded and peaceful retreat. The only way to get to Topua Iti Motu is by boat. Topua Iti Motu is a great place to go for a picnic, swim, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
What to Expect:
Topua Iti Motu is a popular spot for day trips. There are several tour operators that offer boat trips to the island. You can also rent a private boat and explore the island at your own pace. Topua Iti Motu is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the true beauty of Bora Bora.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels
Bora Bora has a rich Polynesian culture. The people of Bora Bora are friendly and welcoming, and they are proud of their heritage. The best months to visit Bora Bora are April, May, October, and November. These months offer the best weather conditions and the clearest visibility for snorkeling and diving.
Bora Bora is accessible by plane or by boat. The main airport is Bora Bora Motu Mute Airport (BOB). There are several airlines that offer flights to Bora Bora, including Air Tahiti and Air France. You can also take a ferry from Tahiti to Bora Bora. The ferry ride takes about 4 hours.
The local food of Bora Bora is a mix of Polynesian and French cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include poisson cru, mahi-mahi, and lobster. There are several restaurants in Bora Bora that serve local and international cuisine. Some of the best restaurants include Bloody Mary’s, Le St. James, and La Villa Mahana.
There are several luxury hotels in Bora Bora. Some of the best hotels include the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, and the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including private bungalows, overwater villas, and spas.
Bora Bora is a truly magical destination. With its stunning beauty, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture, it is no wonder that Bora Bora is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventurous vacation, Bora Bora has something to offer everyone.
