A Beginner’s Guide to The Beautiful Island of Bora Bora

From overwater bungalows to teeming wildlife and tropical jungle, Bora Bora's reputation for idyllic getaways has been carried on by the tides to all corners of the globe. Shimmering in the South Pacific Ocean and sheltered by a pristine lagoon and barrier reef the French Polynesian group is just one hour flight from Tahiti. Bora Bora has nurtured its inhabitants with a bountiful song since the 3rd century when the earliest French mariners arrived on those shores. In ancient times the island was known as Pora Pora mei te pora or created by the Gods. Today this paradise appears to have been created for just one thing –relaxation.

Getting to the pearl of the Pacific is an adventure itself. Most travellers fly into Tahiti before boarding a small plane for a short flight to Bora Bora. Take in the soaring peak of Otemanu, whose eruptions lifted the ocean floor into the bright Pacific sunlight millions of years ago. From Bora Bora Airport take the ferry across the lagoon to the main island and let your tensions slip away in the wake behind you.

VAITAPE

Step ashore and be welcomed by the happy harmonies of island songs in Vaitape which is Bora Bora’s largest town. Browse the local market for a snack or start collecting treasures like Tahitian pearl or crafts lovingly made by the locals. When you have finished exploring Vaitape set sail to your chosen resort.

LE MERIDIEN BEACH

With breath-taking views of Otemanu crystal clear water brimming with life and of course your very own water or beachfront bungalow. Le Meridian is a five star favourite of honeymooners and romantics.

ST REGIS BORA BORA RESORT

Another of Bora Bora's most iconic resort hideaways is St Regis Bora Bora Resort. After a day of exploring the lagoons' vibrant marine life and savouring the islands' fresh flavours unwind in your bungalow and let the melody of the flapping waters beneath lull you into a state of total relaxation. Rise to the morning tides and set out on a boat tour to explore the aquatic abundance of Bora Bora’s lagoon. Slip into the sheltered waters to meet friendly rays and black-tipped reef sharks.

MATIRA POINT

Swap your boat for a bike at Matira Point and explore the cafes, markets, and vistas of Bora Bora’s southernmost tip. When it's time to cool off again park your bike at Matira Beach which is Bora Bora’s most popular public beach. Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters or roll out your towel in the sun-baked sands and lounge the afternoon away.

SOFITEL BORA BORA PRIVATE ISLAND

Follow the fragmented sands of frangipani across the lagoon to Sofitel Island. The private resort island is the shimmering jewel of one of the world’s most lavish hotel groups. Don’t just come to experience luxury take some home.

THE FARM AT THE BORA BORA PEARL COMPANY

At the Bora Bora Pearl Company dive for your very own Tahitian pearl and discover how the island's lagoon is filled with life as well as treasures.

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