Plan Your Trip to Bora Bora: Best of Bora Bora Tourism
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Essential Bora Bora
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Bora Bora Is Great For
Snorkeling
Shopaholics
Shark Diving
Resorts
Jet Ski Rentals
Local eats
Bora Bora travel advice
Water Excursions
Many travelers emphasized the unique experience of Bora Bora's lagoon. Popular activities include snorkeling tours and boat excursions that circumnavigate the lagoon, often featuring encounters with marine life like fish, rays, and sharks. Companies like Pure Snorkeling by Reef Discovery and Lagoon Services were frequently recommended for their full-day tours, which also include lunches on a motu (islet).
Land Excursions
For those interested in exploring the island itself, 4x4 and ATV tours are highly regarded. These tours offer access to historical sites, including World War II cannons, and stunning views of the island's interior and coastline. Companies like Tupuna Safari received positive mentions, though the choice of tour provider was suggested to be important due to the varying quality of experiences.
Self-Guided Activities
Some travelers also highlighted the joy of renting a boat to independently explore the lagoon. This allows for a more personalized experience, stopping at preferred spots around the lagoon at leisure.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Regulations on Alcohol Import
According to forum posts, travelers can bring alcohol into Bora Bora, but there are specific regulations to consider. Alcoholic beverages must be in retail packaging, in containers of less than 5 liters, and not exceed 70% alcohol by volume. Each person is restricted to 5 liters.
Carry-on and Checked Luggage Information
Some travelers mentioned that alcohol purchased at duty-free shops is usually packed in a sealed bag, which can be carried on flights along with other carry-on items, without counting towards the carry-on weight limit. However, experiences vary, and some travelers have faced issues with baggage checks and broken bottles when the alcohol was placed in checked luggage.
Duty-Free Purchase Locations
Travelers have shared that while there is no duty-free shop at the Bora Bora airport, duty-free alcohol can be purchased upon arrival at Tahiti-Faaa Airport. It's suggested to buy alcohol at LAX duty-free for better prices and more variety, though purchasing at Papeete upon arrival is also an option.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Dining Options at Resorts
Some travelers mentioned that dining at resorts in Bora Bora such as Conrad Bora Bora can be expensive but offer various meal plans like buffet breakfasts and half-board options. The Conrad Bora Bora provides a happy hour for drinks but not for food. The Banyan restaurant at the Conrad is preferred for dinners.
Vegetarian Options
According to forum posts, vegetarian and vegan options are available, although they might require a bit of planning. Restaurants like Les Delices and the Lagoon at the St. Regis offer vegetarian menus. Most establishments are willing to accommodate dietary preferences with prior notice.
Local Dining
For those looking to dine outside resorts, Matira Beach offers local dining experiences with several restaurants and cafes, providing a less expensive alternative to resort dining. The Aloe Cafe in town is noted for casual meals like sandwiches and milkshakes.
Meal Plans
Travelers have discussed the advantages of opting for meal plans at resorts, which can simplify the dining experience and potentially offer cost savings compared to ordering a la carte, especially given the high prices of individual meals and beverages at luxury resorts.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Inter-Island Flights
According to forum posts, the only way to travel from Tahiti to Bora Bora is via Air Tahiti. There are no alternatives mentioned for inter-island flights.
Hotel Transfers
Travelers have called out that transportation from Bora Bora airport to resorts typically requires using the hotel's shuttle service, especially if the hotel is located on a motu (small island). Some resorts offer this as part of their package, and arrangements are typically pre-set, as mentioned by users discussing Costco travel packages.
Excursion Transportation
For those looking to explore beyond their resorts, forum posts indicate water taxis are an option. These can provide more flexible transportation compared to the hotel shuttles, which often have limited schedules.
Public and Private Options
Some travelers said that while there is no direct access to grocery stores or similar amenities from the airport due to its location on a separate motu, public and private boat services are available for transfers to the main island where stores can be accessed.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?General Overview
According to forum posts, the best overwater bungalows (OWBs) in Bora Bora vary depending on the specific needs and preferences of travelers. Some resorts mentioned for their excellent OWBs include the St. Regis, Conrad Bora Bora Nui, and the Intercontinental Bora Bora.
Facilities and Location
Travelers have called out the St. Regis and the Conrad for their spacious and luxurious OWBs, with the Conrad Bora Bora Nui also noted for great snorkeling opportunities directly from the bungalows. The Intercontinental Bora Bora's Brando Suite is another top contender, offering extensive square footage and luxurious amenities.
Snorkeling and Views
For those prioritizing snorkeling, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui is frequently recommended due to the abundant marine life accessible directly from the OWBs. Alternatively, some travelers suggest the newly renovated Le Bora Bora by Pearl for its maintained Polynesian flair and good snorkeling opportunities, although opinions on its snorkeling quality vary.
Price and Value
Price and value considerations are significant, with the Four Seasons often mentioned as more expensive. Travelers seeking value might consider options like Le Bora Bora, which offers competitive rates and includes additional amenities such as dinner and shuttles, enhancing the overall value of the stay.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?