12 Amazingly Beautiful Places in Bora Bora (Bucket List Spots)

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated May 17, 2025 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
Beautiful bedroom in overwater bungalow in Bora Bora
This post may have affiliate links, where I may receive a commission if you purchase through them. Here's our Disclosure and Privacy Policy for more info.

Bora Bora is the kind of place that feels straight out of a dream. With its turquoise lagoons, iconic overwater bungalows, and lush green peaks, it’s no wonder this island is a bucket-list destination for so many. Having explored its jaw-dropping beaches and hidden gems, I can say Bora Bora truly lives up to the hype. Whether you’re swimming with rays, cruising the crystal-clear waters, or just soaking up the unreal views, this island is pure magic.

In this guide to the 12 most beautiful places in Bora Bora, I’m sharing the ultimate spots you need to see. These are the places that make Bora Bora one of the most stunning destinations in the world.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Bora Bora

Ready to explore Bora Bora’s most stunning spots? This South Pacific gem offers everything from cultural landmarks to serene retreats in nature. Here are the must-visit locations you can’t miss:

Before you book anything, don’t miss these deals 👇

1. Bora Bora Lagoonarium

  • 📍 Location: Northeastern coast of Bora Bora, accessible by boat from the main island
  • 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🐠, marine life enthusiasts 🐢, underwater photographers 📸
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming with sharks and rays, guided coral reef tours, fish feeding sessions
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for clearest water visibility and dry weather ☀️
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort – Luxury overwater bungalows with direct lagoon access

The Bora Bora Lagoonarium welcomes visitors to a natural marine sanctuary where blacktip reef sharks, tropical fish, and gentle stingrays swim freely around you. Expert guides lead small groups through various sections while sharing fascinating insights about the local ecosystem. The shallow areas accommodate beginners perfectly, while deeper sections satisfy experienced snorkelers seeking more adventure.

Don’t miss the spectacular fish-feeding demonstrations that bring the underwater world to life in vibrant colors. I recommend bringing an underwater camera to capture these unforgettable moments with marine life. The family-owned attraction ensures both visitors and sea creatures remain safe throughout the experience. Plan at least half a day here to fully appreciate all the Lagoonarium has to offer.

Enchanting marine wonderland: Bora Bora Lagoonarium unveils a mesmerizing underwater paradise of vibrant life.
Enchanting marine wonderland: Bora Bora Lagoonarium unveils a mesmerizing underwater paradise of vibrant life.

2. Bora Bora Turtle Center

  • 📍 Location: Southeastern shore of Bora Bora, near Matira Point
  • 🏆 Best For: Wildlife conservationists 🐢, families with children 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, eco-tourists 🌿
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Observing turtle rehabilitation, interactive education programs, turtle releases
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for turtle viewing, February-March for potential hatchling sightings 🐣
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts – Overwater bungalows with stunning lagoon views and direct access to vibrant coral reefs

The Bora Bora Turtle Center stands as a vital conservation facility dedicated to rehabilitating injured sea turtles before their return to the wild. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures up close in specially designed observation pools while learning about their biology and the threats they face. The knowledgeable staff provide fascinating presentations that create meaningful connections to marine conservation efforts throughout French Polynesia.

For an unforgettable experience, time your visit during a scheduled release event when rehabilitated turtles return to the ocean. The center’s interactive exhibits engage all ages with educational content presented in entertaining ways. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for these endangered animals and the important work being done to protect them. The facility represents the perfect balance of education and emotional connection to nature.

Bora Bora Turtle Center: where gentle giants roam in a haven of azure waters and serenity.
Bora Bora Turtle Center: where gentle giants roam in a haven of azure waters and serenity.

3. Coral Gardens

  • 📍 Location: Western coast of Bora Bora, between the main island and Motu Tapu
  • 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🤿, coral enthusiasts 🪸, marine photographers 📸
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Drift snorkeling through coral passages, spotting giant clams, finding Nemo (clownfish)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for calmest waters and best visibility 🌊
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: InterContinental Bora Bora Resort – Offers tours directly to the Coral Gardens

The Coral Gardens dazzle visitors with one of the most accessible and vibrant coral ecosystems in the South Pacific. A natural channel known as the “Coral River” allows currents to gently carry snorkelers over endless fields of pristine coral formations in every imaginable color. Giant clams with iridescent blue mantles reaching over two feet across hide among the coral structures, creating a true underwater treasure hunt.

Even snorkeling beginners can enjoy this site thanks to the protected waters and abundant marine life visible in shallow areas. Water shoes prove helpful for navigating occasional shallow sections without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. Many tours combine Coral Gardens with other spots, but dedicating at least two hours solely to this location allows you to fully appreciate its complexity and beauty without rushing through.

Nature's kaleidoscope in Bora Bora, where vibrant coral reefs paint an underwater masterpiece of biodiversity.
Nature’s kaleidoscope in Bora Bora, where vibrant coral reefs paint an underwater masterpiece of biodiversity.

4. Leopard Rays Trench

  • 📍 Location: Northwestern lagoon of Bora Bora, near Motu Toopua
  • 🏆 Best For: Advanced snorkelers 🤿, ray enthusiasts 🐡, underwater adventure seekers 🌊
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming with massive leopard rays, exploring the sandy trench, observing ray behavior
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning hours (8-10am) when rays are most active and playful 🌅
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui – Offers premium excursions to the Leopard Rays Trench

The Leopard Rays Trench reveals a hidden spectacle where magnificent spotted eagle rays with wingspans up to 10 feet congregate in impressive numbers. This natural depression in the lagoon floor creates ideal conditions for these graceful creatures to glide effortlessly below snorkelers. Visitors witness dozens of rays performing barrel rolls or making curious, gentle passes in crystal-clear waters that showcase their distinctive spotted patterns.

Early morning visits provide the optimal experience before larger tour groups arrive. The rays appear most active during this time, often approaching snorkelers with natural curiosity. Most excursions combine this site with other locations, but ray enthusiasts should seek specialized tours that maximize time here. The experience of floating among these majestic animals creates memories that rank among Bora Bora’s most magical moments for underwater enthusiasts.

Leopard Rays Trench: Dive into the hypnotic beauty of Bora Bora's aquatic realm, home to graceful leopard rays.
Leopard Rays Trench: Dive into the hypnotic beauty of Bora Bora’s aquatic realm, home to graceful leopard rays.

5. Matira Beach

  • 📍 Location: Southern tip of the main island of Bora Bora
  • 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, sunset chasers 🌅, shallow water swimmers 🏊‍♀️
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on powder-white sand, shallow water swimming, spectacular sunset views
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler temperatures and breathtaking sunsets 🌇
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Matira House – Charming beachfront accommodation with direct access to the sand

Matira Beach stretches for a mile with powder-soft white sand that gradually slopes into a shallow, warm lagoon of impossible blue hues. This public beach curves gently between two points, creating a protected swimming area with water so clear you can spot tropical fish without needing a snorkel. The gradual depth makes it perfect for families and relaxed swimming, while the western exposure guarantees spectacular sunset views.

Several small, family-owned restaurants at the southern end serve fresh seafood and tropical drinks at tables set directly on the sand. The combination of Mount Otemanu silhouetted against the evening sky creates photography opportunities that define bucket-list travel. My favorite moment here comes at sunset when the entire landscape transforms into a canvas of orange, pink and purple tones. Plan at least half a day here to fully enjoy Matira’s renowned beauty.

✈️ Pro Travel Tip:

I use Going.com to find crazy flight deals...($300 roundtrip to Europe kind of crazy).

It’s free, and I honestly check it more than Google Flights. For a limited time only, they are offering 25% off on Premium and Elite to readers of my website, using my special code: JON25)

👉 Get Free Flight Alerts 🔔

Matira Beach: Nature's canvas painted with golden sands and turquoise waters, a tranquil paradise in Bora Bora.
Matira Beach: Nature’s canvas painted with golden sands and turquoise waters, a tranquil paradise in Bora Bora.

6. Mont Popoti

  • 📍 Location: Northwestern region of Bora Bora, second highest peak on the island
  • 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, photography enthusiasts 📸, adventure seekers 🧗‍♂️
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Summit panoramic views, spotting native birds, photographing Mount Otemanu
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning for clearest skies and coolest hiking temperatures 🌄
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Offers guided hiking excursions to Mont Popoti

Mont Popoti rewards adventurous travelers with 360-degree views encompassing the entire lagoon, barrier reef, and neighboring islands. The trail winds through lush tropical vegetation featuring native flowers and fruit trees before opening to breathtaking vistas. From the summit, the patterns of deep blue channels cutting through turquoise shallows reveal natural artwork visible only from above.

Unlike the challenging Mount Otemanu, Popoti can be summited without technical climbing skills. You won’t find many marked trails here, so hiring a local guide is essential. Some luxury resorts, like Four Seasons, may help coordinate custom hikes in the area.. Begin your hike early in the morning before tropical heat intensifies and allow 3-4 hours for the round-trip journey. Pack plenty of water and a camera with extra storage for the countless photos you’ll take from this spectacular vantage point.

Mont Popoti: Majestic peaks reaching for the sky, a serene spectacle embracing nature's grandeur.
Mont Popoti: Majestic peaks reaching for the sky, a serene spectacle embracing nature’s grandeur. | Image credits: iwashere.lonco

7. Mount Otemanu

  • 📍 Location: Central Bora Bora, rising 2,385 feet above the lagoon as the island’s highest peak
  • 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, hikers 🥾, adventure seekers 🧗‍♂️
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the lower slopes, taking a 4×4 jeep tour, capturing sunrise/sunset views
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for clearest skies and best visibility 🌞
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort – Luxury overwater bungalows with unobstructed Otemanu views

The dramatic remnant of an ancient volcano, Mount Otemanu serves as Bora Bora’s most iconic landmark. This jagged, emerald-colored mountain rises dramatically from the turquoise lagoon, creating postcard-perfect views from every angle. While the summit itself is inaccessible due to sheer rock walls, local guides offer hikes around the lower slopes with incredible views of the lagoon and surrounding peaks. In addition, 4×4 jeep tours climb partway up for spectacular panoramic vistas.

For an unforgettable experience, book a helicopter tour circling the peak to reveal hidden valleys impossible to see from the ground. The mountain’s distinctive silhouette creates magical displays of color during sunrise and sunset, when I always make sure to have my camera ready. Even from the comfort of an overwater bungalow, simply gazing at this majestic mountain forms an essential part of the Bora Bora experience.

Mount Otemanu: Towering guardian overlooking Bora Bora's beauty, a majestic icon amid Polynesian paradise.
Mount Otemanu: Towering guardian overlooking Bora Bora’s beauty, a majestic icon amid Polynesian paradise.

8. Mount Pahia

  • 📍 Location: Southwestern Bora Bora, adjacent to Mount Otemanu, rising 2,159 feet above sea level
  • 🏆 Best For: Serious hikers 🥾, adventure enthusiasts 🧗‍♂️, nature lovers 🌿
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Summit hiking with guides, birdwatching, capturing dual-mountain panoramas
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning hours during the dry season (May-October) 🌅
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort – Offering excellent views of both Pahia and Otemanu

The challenging summit of Mount Pahia offers the ultimate conquest for determined hikers visiting Bora Bora. Unlike neighboring Otemanu, explorers can reach Pahia’s peak through a 4-hour climb navigating dense tropical vegetation and steep inclines. Hiring a local guide is essential not just for safety but also to learn about the fascinating ecosystem and island legends along the way.

The reward at the top includes breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing all of Bora Bora and neighboring islands on the horizon. Rare bird species like the Tahitian monarch flycatcher inhabit the mountain’s slopes, making stops along the trail rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts. Several lower viewpoints offer spectacular photo opportunities capturing both Pahia and Otemanu together without requiring the full summit trek.

Mount Otemanu: Towering guardian overlooking beauty, a majestic icon amid Polynesian paradise.
Mount Otemanu: Towering guardian overlooking beauty, a majestic icon amid Polynesian paradise.

9. Paroisse Saint Pierre Celestin Church

  • 📍 Location: Vaitape village, Bora Bora’s main town on the western coast
  • 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture enthusiasts 🏗️, cultural explorers 🧭
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Attending Sunday service with local singing, admiring stained glass, exploring the church grounds
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings for authentic cultural experience, or weekdays for quiet exploration 🙏
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Village Temanuata – Charming beachfront hotel within walking distance of the church

The historic stone structure of Paroisse Saint Pierre Celestin Church offers a fascinating glimpse into Bora Bora’s cultural heritage beyond its natural beauty. Built by missionaries in 1822, this architectural gem combines European design with distinctly Polynesian touches throughout its carefully preserved interior. Sunday services fill the space with thunderous hymns sung in Tahitian, creating an unforgettable cultural experience even for casual visitors.

Colorful stained glass windows depict biblical scenes with local influences, while hand-carved wooden details showcase remarkable island craftsmanship. The peaceful grounds and cemetery tell stories of generations of islanders through ornate headstones and markers. Located centrally in Vaitape, the church provides an easy cultural stop while exploring the main village, perfectly framed by Mount Otemanu rising in the background.

Paroisse Saint Pierre Celestin Church: A heavenly sanctuary amidst lush greenery, echoing peace and serenity.
Paroisse Saint Pierre Celestin Church: A heavenly sanctuary amidst lush greenery, echoing peace and serenity.

10. Tupitipiti Point

  • 📍 Location: Northern tip of Bora Bora, accessible by boat or along coastal roads
  • 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🤿, sunset chasers 🌅, marine life enthusiasts 🐠
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling with rays and sharks, sunset picnics, coastal hiking
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning for calmest waters or late afternoon for spectacular sunsets 🌞
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Royal Bora Bora – Family-friendly retreat nestled in lush gardens with direct access to Matira Beach and vibrant Polynesian cultural evenings

The stunning peninsula of Tupitipiti Point remains one of Bora Bora’s best-kept secrets among locals. Here, the island’s coral reef approaches dramatically close to shore, creating a marine paradise accessible to almost anyone without a boat. The shallow, crystal-clear lagoon hosts a natural aquarium of tropical fish, gentle stingrays, and small reef sharks accustomed to human visitors.

More experienced snorkelers can venture toward the reef drop-off for encounters with larger marine species and dramatic coral formations. A walking path along the point offers spectacular views across the lagoon toward Mount Otemanu throughout the day. As evening approaches, the western side transforms into what many consider the most spectacular sunset viewing spot on the entire island, where ocean and sky merge in a breathtaking display of color.

Tupitipiti Point: Where crystal-clear waters meet emerald landscapes, a harmonious blend of nature's enchantment.
Tupitipiti Point: Where crystal-clear waters meet emerald landscapes, a harmonious blend of nature’s enchantment.

11. White Valley

  • 📍 Location: Central Bora Bora, inland between Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia
  • 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, 4×4 adventurers 🚙, jungle explorers 🌴
  • 📸 Top Experiences: WWII historical tours, jungle treks, visiting ancient marae sites
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Dry season (May-October) when trails are less muddy and more accessible 🌞
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort – Offering guided tours to the valley

The lush jungle interior of White Valley reveals Bora Bora’s hidden historical depths away from the familiar beaches and lagoons. Named for distinctive white rock formations visible on surrounding slopes, this central valley contains several ancient marae where Polynesians once gathered for sacred ceremonies. These stone structures have stood for centuries, silently preserving the island’s rich cultural heritage.

The area gained new significance during World War II when American forces established a supply base throughout Bora Bora. Rusted military equipment, bunkers, and other remnants now create fascinating contrasts among the dense vegetation. A 4×4 tour provides the most practical way to explore key sites, though adventurous travelers can arrange guided hikes to more remote corners where few tourists venture.

White Valley: A pristine haven nestled between emerald hills, where purity meets serenity in embrace.
White Valley: A pristine haven nestled between emerald hills, where purity meets serenity in embrace.

12. WWII Guns

  • 📍 Location: Strategic points Bora Bora’s coastline, primarily accessible by guided tour
  • 🏆 Best For: Military history buffs 🏛️, photographers 📸, WWII enthusiasts 🪖
  • 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the eight coastal cannons, hiking to viewpoints, learning about Operation Bobcat
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning for best lighting and cooler hiking conditions 🌅
  • 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Royal Bora Bora – Casual beachfront hotel offering garden-view rooms, a laid-back atmosphere, and easy access to Matira Beach for swimming and snorkeling

Massive coastal cannons stand as surprising sentinels within Bora Bora’s perimeter, remnants of the 1942 American military operation that transformed this peaceful island. Code-named “Operation Bobcat,” the installation brought over 5,000 troops to establish eight 7-inch defensive guns strategically positioned at high points around the island. These weapons were meant to protect the harbor from Japanese naval attacks that ultimately never materialized.

The most accessible cannons near Faanui Bay can be reached by moderately challenging hikes through tropical vegetation. Beyond the weapons themselves, explorers discover bunkers, ammunition storage facilities, and other infrastructure slowly returning to nature. These forgotten relics provide a fascinating historical counterpoint to Bora Bora’s famous luxury reputation while offering some of the most spectacular viewpoints overlooking the lagoon and ocean beyond.

WWII Guns: Silent sentinels of history, these relics stand as witnesses to the wartime past.
WWII Guns: Silent sentinels of history, these relics stand as witnesses to the wartime past.

   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Bora Bora

Looking to enhance your awareness of Bora Bora’s most eye-catching sites? Here are some questions that regularly come my way about the best places to see in Bora Bora.

Which side of Bora Bora is best?

The Matira Beach area is often considered the best side of Bora Bora. It offers the most accessible public beach and is close to various amenities like restaurants and shops. However, the “best” side can vary depending on what you’re looking for—whether it’s seclusion, activities, or amenities.

What is the main city in Bora Bora?

Vaitape is the main city and the economic center of Bora Bora. It’s the island’s hub for shopping, dining, and transportation. The city provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and is the primary point of entry and exit for visitors.

What country is Bora Bora under?

Bora Bora is a French Polynesian island, making it an overseas collectivity of France. It’s part of the Society Islands archipelago in the South Pacific.

Is Bora Bora the most beautiful place in the world?

Determining the “most beautiful place in the world” is a subjective endeavor, as beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. However, Bora Bora frequently graces the top of lists for the world’s most breathtaking destinations. With its turquoise lagoons, lush mountainous landscapes, and iconic overwater bungalows, the island offers a picture-perfect setting that many consider to be the epitome of a tropical paradise.

Its unique blend of natural beauty and luxury accommodations make it a dream destination for travelers worldwide. While it may be difficult to definitively declare Bora Bora as the “most beautiful,” it certainly ranks among the world’s most visually stunning and luxurious places to visit.

Why is Bora Bora the best place to visit?

Here are the reasons why Bora Bora is the best place to visit:

  • Natural Beauty: Bora Bora’s lagoons and coral reefs offer a stunning backdrop for relaxation and adventure, making it a visually captivating destination.
  • Luxury Accommodations: The island is renowned for its exclusive resorts and overwater bungalows, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury.
  • Adventure Opportunities: From snorkeling and scuba diving to jet skiing and hiking, Bora Bora offers a wide range of activities for thrill-seekers.
  • Cultural Richness: The island’s Polynesian heritage adds a unique cultural layer to the experience, evident in local art, dance, and cuisine.
  • Versatility: Whether you’re on a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure trip, Bora Bora caters to a wide range of travel styles and preferences.
Exploring Bora Bora: Unveiling an exquisite tapestry of beauty, culture, and adventure in every enchanting corner.
Exploring Bora Bora: Unveiling an exquisite tapestry of beauty, culture, and adventure in every enchanting corner.

What is Bora Bora best known for?

Bora Bora is best known for the following:

  • Turquoise Lagoons: The island’s vibrant blue-green lagoons are its most iconic feature, attracting travelers from around the world.
  • Overwater Bungalows: Bora Bora is synonymous with luxury, particularly its overwater bungalows that offer unparalleled views and direct access to the lagoon.
  • Adventure Activities: The island is a hotspot for water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing, making it a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Marine Life: Coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life offer excellent opportunities for underwater exploration.
  • Polynesian Culture: The island’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its local art, dance, and cuisine, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Bora Bora    

Bora Bora is not just a destination; it’s a dream turned reality, a slice of paradise that offers an unparalleled blend of natural splendor and luxury. The island’s iconic turquoise lagoons are a visual feast, providing a stunning backdrop for both relaxation and adventure. These lagoons are not just for gazing; they are playgrounds for snorkelers, divers, and water sports enthusiasts who want to get up close with the vibrant marine life.

The luxury accommodations, particularly the overwater bungalows, elevate the travel experience to a whole new level. Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves and stepping directly into crystal-clear waters from your own private deck. It’s an experience that’s hard to match anywhere else in the world.

But Bora Bora is not just about natural beauty and luxury; it’s also a cultural treasure trove. The island’s rich Polynesian heritage offers a fascinating glimpse into a unique way of life, from traditional dances to local cuisine and art. Participating in a traditional Polynesian ceremony or enjoying a local luau can be as memorable as any beach activity.

Adventure seekers will find no shortage of things to do, from hiking up the scenic trails of Mount Otemanu to parasailing over the lagoon. And for those looking to simply unwind, the island’s world-class spas offer traditional Polynesian treatments that rejuvenate both body and soul.

In summary, Bora Bora is a multifaceted gem that offers a little bit of everything—natural beauty, adventure, luxury, and culture. It’s not just one of the most beautiful places in Bora Bora; it’s a strong contender for the most awe-inspiring place on Earth, a must-see for any serious traveler.

Best things to do in Bora Bora for all types of travelers.
Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Bora Bora? Pin it! 

Need help planning your trip? Check out these helpful links:

You may also like

Leave a Comment