Bora Bora is an enchanting island group in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia, known for its breathtaking lagoon and barrier reef. Covering 30.55 km², the main island features two peaks from an extinct volcano, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, reaching 727 meters.
The primary languages spoken are Tahitian and French, with many locals also fluent in English due to tourism. Bora Bora is a renowned tourist hotspot, celebrated for its luxury seaside and offshore resorts. The main settlement, Vaitape, is situated on the island’s western side, while the island’s produce mainly comes from the sea and coconut trees.
Bora Bora – History
Bora Bora was first settled by Polynesians around the 3rd century CE. The island was sighted by European explorer Jacob Roggeveen in 1722, and later by James Cook on July 29, 1769, with the assistance of Tahitian navigator Tupaia. The London Missionary Society established a Protestant church in 1890. Bora Bora remained an independent kingdom until 1888, when the French annexed it as a colony, leading to the abdication of its last queen, Teriimaevarua III.
Bora Bora – Tourism
Bora Bora’s economy relies mainly on tourism, with many resorts built on motus around the lagoon. Hotel Bora Bora opened in 1961, and by 1970, over-water bungalows became popular. These bungalows range from basic to luxurious. While most attractions are water-based, there are also land sites like WWII cannons.
Air Tahiti offers several flights daily to Bora Bora Airport, and since there’s no public transport, visitors can rent cars, bikes, or small buggies. Vaitape, the main village, is a popular tourist spot. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities, with many sharks and rays found in the lagoon. An artificial island, Motu Marfo, has been added near the St. Regis Resort.
Further information: Wikipedia
Main Attractions
Lagoon Exploration:
- Glass bottom boats, diving, and snorkeling offer views of vibrant coral reefs and fish.
- Guided diving excursions allow tourists to feed barracudas and sharks.
Stingray Strait:
- A popular diving area with large schools of stingrays, including manta rays and leopard rays.
Jeep Safaris:
- Explore the island’s interior, but hiking is recommended for experiencing natural beauty.
Hiking Trails:
- Trails lead to Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, offering scenic views and lush surroundings.
- Mount Pahia features orchards, forests, and fern-covered areas, while Mount Otemanu has a grotto with nesting frigate birds.
Marae Sites:
- Remains of over 40 marae (ceremonial platforms) can be visited.
- Notable sites include Marae Fare Opu in Faanui Bay and Marae Marotitini on the northern beach.
Beaches and Resorts:
- Most hotels and beaches are located between Pointe Paopao and Pointe Matira in the southwest.
Dining at Bloody Mary’s:
- A famous bar and restaurant frequented by celebrities, with a yacht jetty and a wall of celebrity names at the entrance.
