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Cruise to Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora bora shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in bora bora.

Mountain High

View of Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Mount Otemanu towers 2,400 feet above the lagoon. Its jagged peaks are among Bora Bora's most distinctive sights, and locals have held it as sacred since time immemorial — the bodies of ancient Polynesian kings rest here. You can get to the summit by 4x4 jeep tour, helicopter or good old-fashioned hike.

Get Friendly With Fish

Fish and a stingray in the ocean

Let a guided boat get you up close to the rainbow of underwater wildlife of Bora Bora. Observe black-tipped sharks via snorkel, or feed some of the friendly mantas while you enjoy the clear, calm waters.

History on Wheels

Explore the island on a 4x4 tour to hear the fascinating history of Bora Bora, spanning its ancient Polynesian past to its role as a military base in World War II. Whether it's a champagne tour or a hearty jungle trek, you can learn at exactly your speed.

Local Cuisine

Bora Bora's cuisine brings a mix of French, Asian and Tahitian flavors to the local seafood bounty. Looking for a breakfast fit to fuel a hike up Mount Otemanu. Try firi firi , a Tahitian donut that's also made with the ever-present coconut milk. Don't leave without trying the French Polynesian specialty, poisson cru , a ceviche of Tahitian ahi tuna in coconut milk and lime juice.

Head to the shops of Vaitape for stunning pearl jewelry — one of the signature items of French Polynesia, with the pearls themselves plucked straight from the lagoons. Other treasures include Tahitian tapestries, colorful printed pareus (sarongs), monoi oils for the skin and island fragrances laced with vanilla and tiare.

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Tahiti, French Polynesia & South Pacific Cruises

Enchanting isles cast a magical, mesmerizing spell.

There’s more than one paradise to be found on a South Pacific cruise. It’s where hidden jewels like “Mystery Island” and the Tuamotu Archipelago invite exploration. Take a Tahiti cruise, and other South Pacific cruises and you’ll not only discover the pearls of the South Pacific, you’ll also be introduced to its wonderful color, culture and flavors through unique programs on board and ashore that will change you forever.

Cruise Tahiti & French Polynesia

Enjoy the welcoming spirit and the idyllic islands of French Polynesia, sailing from Tahiti. You’ll discover sparkling lagoons and pristine beaches with overnight stays in Bora Bora, Papeete and a late-night stay in Raiatea.

Cruise The South Pacific

The South Pacific is full of treasures including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, & Vanuatu. Each island shares stunning natural beauty, colorful cultures and rich histories making cruising the best way to experience these enchanting locales.

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Why Cruise Tahiti & French Polynesia?

Tahiti & French Polynesia cruise highlights

Simply paradise

Rimmed by coral reefs, aquamarine lagoons and pristine beaches, the French Polynesian islands have lured those seeking paradise for centuries. Tahiti is the largest of the chain, and its capital, Papeete, is a great base from which it explore its treasures. Gorgeous Moorea, with awe-inspiring vistas from the top of its mounts, to the less frequented yet stunning destinations of Rangiroa and Raiatea; Bora Bora, the cradle of Polynesian culture, and Huahine, two pristine islands connected by a graceful bridge.

Ultimate water playground

The waters of French Polynesia have been called the richest aquarium on Earth, teeming with stunning snorkeling and diving experiences with reef sharks, rays and more. Its crystal-clear waters are home to the most exquisitely colored pearls in the world. Enjoy the island’s wonders on a catamaran to Moorea’s top snorkel spots. Spy Bora Bora’s under-the-sea wonders on a glass-bottom boat, and visit the freshwater eels of Huahine – where you can feed them by hand.

More time to discover these jewels

With our More Ashore program, guests enjoy more time to explore these tropical playgrounds. Enjoy a late-night departure from Raiatea and overnight experiences in beautiful Bora Bora and Tahiti. Indulge in the regional cuisine, sip vanilla-infused cocktails, and dance to Polynesian music under stars that shine more brightly than any place on Earth.

Why Cruise the South Pacific?

South Pacific cruise highlights

History & culture

Explore the life, culture, history and tradition the South Pacific as, a traditional village as it comes to life with tribal chants, see fire walking in Port Vila, and discover the Māori world of myths and legends while enjoying a delectable feast in Tauranga .

Natural wonders

Witness the amazing diversity of colored reef fish while snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystalline waters of the Isles of Pines, enjoy the sparkling beaches of Champagne Bay, and be in awe of the atoll of the Conflict Islands in Papua New Guinea.

Taste the local flavors

Savor authentic regional tastes created by our chefs and influenced by the destinations you are visiting, such as an exotic papaya & banana soufflé, Polynesian chicken pupu, grilled Wahoo fillet with mango salsa or even a traditional Hangi dinner.

Award-Winning shore excursions

See more of the South Pacific ashore with our award-winning shore excursions. Take a scenic drive and visit the renowned “Aquarium des Lagons” in Noumea, or go on a fishing expedition in Port Denarau.

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Sail from Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne to the Isles of the South Pacific. Experience what it’s like to be pampered in paradise.

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French Polynesia, South Pacific

Discover French Polynesian culture, the pristine natural beauty of white sands and warm waters of crystal-clear lagoons on a French Polynesia cruise with Carnival. South Pacific paradise awaits in a range of French Polynesia cruises, including picture-perfect Moorea, Papeete and the vibrant hub of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Cruise to the majestic South Pacific with Carnival from Australia and experience heaven on Earth.

• Thatched roofs, green peaks and azure lagoons: French Polynesia is a dream come true.
• Taste paradise in the French Polynesian fusion of flavours.
• White-sand beaches boast crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

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Cruises to Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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Bora Bora Cruise Port Guide

Bora Bora has been the destination of honeymooners and travelers for decades, known for its beachy vibes and luxury resorts that make for an enticing stop on any New Zealand cruise . On cruises to Bora Bora, you’ll find classic activities like snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, and the hiking here is unbeatable, too. Adventure seekers can go scuba diving in Anau Lagoon or scale the heights of Mount Pahia.

For a sunny escape, it’s hard to beat Bora Bora. It’s quiet without being stuffy, and the dramatic beach landscape combined with rainforest peaks make Bora Bora one of the world’s best destinations. Of course, island tours and excursions are a great way to see Bora Bora when time is limited. Finish your satisfying day in port with authentic Polynesian fare, local catches, and freshly marinated poisson cru.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to Bora Bora, you can still discover the beauty of the region on one of our South Pacific cruises . Browse our luxury cruises to the South Pacific Islands below.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to bora bora, matira beach.

The largest public beach in Bora Bora is also one of its best. Relaxed under a thatched hut roof, drink from a coconut, and soak up the warmth of the sun here. Rumor has it that Matira Beach is the most beautiful beach in the world.

Coastal Defense Guns

History buffs can’t miss a chance to see relics of World War II at Faanui Bay, where U.S. Naval troops kept supplies and defense guns on site. Today, the sight commemorates the struggles of World War II while offering unbeatable views of the lagoon below. 

Head up to the highest point of Bora Bora when you climb the volcanic mountain Otemanu. The view from the top offers a dramatic, beautiful photo op for any traveler passing through. The hike on the way up will satisfy your craving for hardcore physical activity.

Learn More About Bora Bora Shore Excursions

Top things to do in bora bora, climb mt. pahia.

It’s recommended you travel with a group when you scale Mt. Pahia, known for its windy paths and dense trails. As one of the two highest points in Bora Bora, Mt. Pahia offers incredible views of Bora Bora as well as one of the best and most challenging hikes from Vaitape.

Go Diving in Anau

The village of Anau is on the road less traveled by tourists and home to one of the top marine museums in the area. The lagoon is also one of the biggest diving spots for scuba divers who come to the area looking to spot manta rays, eels, and anemones up close.

Head to Motu Tapu to experience this private islet, one of the most exclusive experiences in Bora Bora. The Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa, though based in Vaitape, takes hotel guests and a limited number of passengers to Motu Tapu for snorkeling, diving, and a romantic private islet experience you’ll never forget. 

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Bora Bora Cruise Port

Because Bora Bora is a popular resort town, many travelers who are here for several days have dining packages at their resort. However, if you want to eat like a local while on your Bora Bora cruise, try sampling from the local food trucks, called roulottes, which offer cheap but tasty dishes. One of the local dishes is called poisson cru, which is tuna marinated in coconut and lime. Another typical dish is poe, a taro root pudding.

Culture & History of the Bora Bora Cruise Port

Polynesians have inhabited Bora Bora for thousands of years. Europeans didn’t know this secluded paradise existed until the 18th century, when the British arrived and began to colonize it. Bora Bora then became a French protectorate in the late 1800s as part of what is now known as French Polynesia. In World War II, Bora Bora was used as a U.S. base for supplies, which brought war materials onto the island. Polynesian culture is still very strong here, and the different islands of Polynesia each have their own traditions and cultural practices. Over time, Bora Bora has also become a popular spot for honeymooners and tourists looking to enjoy its luxurious resorts and incredible beaches.

Bora Bora Port Facilities & Location

Bora Bora cruise ships arrive in Pofai Bay and tender passengers to shore to an area called Vaitape, which is the biggest city in the area. The port is centrally located to get to aquatic activities like swimming and diving from there.

Transportation in Bora Bora

There’s limited public transport in Bora Bora. Catamarans and ferries are commonly used to get people to and from the airport. Car rentals and taxi services are available on the island. Before arriving in Bora Bora, be sure to plan activities that you can walk to, or arrange an excursion with transportation included if you want to venture beyond the cruise area.

Shopping Near the Bora Bora Cruise Port

There’s not much in the way of shopping here except for a craft market at the port. Locals hawk their handmade goods, including jewelry, sculptures, and other trinkets that provide a taste of French Polynesian craftwork. Luxury items aren’t typically found in the area.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

In Bora Bora, they use the French Pacific Franc as the official currency, also known as the CFP. Many places accept credit cards, but some will require a minimum purchase to do so. Tipping isn’t the norm here, so on cruises to Bora Bora, don’t worry about tipping your taxi driver or server.

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Cruises To Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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Editor's Note: As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year. French Polynesia cruises are slated to resume in July.

Bora Bora -- home to the always-romantic overwater bungalow concept -- is one of the most anticipated ports of call in the South Pacific .

It's exotic and remote, and it lives up to its reputation. That's why most cruise ships that call here arrive early in the morning, spend all day, overnight in port and then enjoy a partial second day in paradise.

That extra time is important, because once you see the dramatic peak of Mount Otemanu covered by lush vegetation, the glorious white sand beaches and lagoons filled with brightly colored sea creatures, you'll never want to leave.

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If you want the cruise of a lifetime that visits Bora Bora, book an itinerary sailing French Polynesia's Society Islands. Two lines, Paul Gauguin Cruises and Windstar Cruises, sail the islands year-round from their home port in Papeete. Additionally, Carnival , Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , Oceania Cruises , Ponant, Princess Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Royal Caribbean and Silversea will all call on Bora Bora on a variety of 2021 itineraries. These cruises are longer itineraries -- often from the West Coast of the U.S. from ports like Los Angeles and San Diego. There are also round-trip itineraries from Sydney that call on French Polynesia ports and many world cruise segments also call on these island chains.

Related: Which cruise brand is best for you?

3 things TPG loves about Bora Bora

• The dramatic view of Mount Otemanu
• Incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities as well as other water sports
• The opportunity to stay overnight in a romantic overwater bungalow

What we could do without

• The high prices -- meals at restaurants can be extremely expensive, as are hotel accommodations (which is why it's an excellent place to use your stash of Hilton or IHG points).

Related: Which is better: The Maldives or Bora Bora?

Bora Bora basics

Bora Bora comprises an island ringed by a barrier reef and several smaller islands called "motus" where some of the swankiest resorts such as the Four Seasons, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso and St. Regis are located. This arrangement creates calm lagoons between the landmasses that are perfect for enjoying various water sports.

French Polynesia cruises are popular with travelers celebrating milestones such as a wedding, graduation or retirement. As such, some visitors have waited a lifetime to visit Bora Bora and are extremely excited when they finally step off the tender to shore. Here's what they can expect.

Related: How to plan a Bora Bora vacation on points

Arrival details

You won't dock on the island of Bora Bora. Instead, your ship will anchor off the western shore of the main island. You'll then transfer to a tender that will ferry you through an open channel to the lagoon that leads to the pier at Vaitape Village.

Within walking distance of the pier is the post office, plus a few cafes, an Italian gelato shop, car rental agencies, souvenir shops, jewelry stores specializing in local pearls, a bank and the visitors center.

Time zone: If embarking on a cruise from Papeete, try to arrive a day or two before your French Polynesia itinerary. It's a long flight from just about anywhere in the United States to Papeete, Tahiti, where your cruise will embark. The Air Tahiti Nui flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Papeete (PPT) clocks in at just about eight hours (read a review of that flight's business class cabin ). French Polynesia is in the same time zone as Hawaii -- two hours behind Pacific Standard Time (three hours behind during daylight saving time, late March through October).

Related: Finding flight award availability to Tahiti

Languages: French and Tahitian are the official languages, but you may also hear Marquesan and Tuamotuan.

Currency: The French Pacific franc, denoted as XPF, is the currency used in Bora Bora and throughout all French overseas collectives. There's an ATM when you exit the Quai de Vaitape tender area.

Related: Best translation apps for travelers

How to get around

On foot: While you can explore a few shops and restaurants near the tender pier, none of the island's major sights are within walking distance. You're better off booking a ship-sponsored tour, renting a car or bike or making reservations with a third-party tour operator that will meet you at Vaitape Harbor.

By bike: Bike rentals are available at places like Avis and Europcar car rental agencies, located across from the Vaitape pier, or in the Matira Beach area. A daily rental costs about $15 for a traditional bike and $25 for an electric bike.

By taxi: There is a taxi stand at the pier. Fares aren't metered, so always negotiate the fare before getting in the vehicle.

By bus: Le Truck is a public bus that traverses part of the island, but it's hit or miss when it comes to its schedule. You can hail it from Circle Island Road as you exit the tender pier.

Top sights and shore excursions

If you're not a beach person, don't enjoy water sports, don't dive or snorkel, or aren't interested in exploring a tropical island by car or bike, Bora Bora might not be for you. Most of the main attractions are for nature lovers and outdoorsy people, though there are a few World War II sites on the island that might appeal to history buffs. There are island tours on local open-air buses.

Here are some favorite pastimes for cruisers visiting Bora Bora.

Scuba diving

Most cruise ships visiting the island have one or more scuba diving excursions. Booking a ship-sponsored tour, or going with a third-party vendor, is your best bet for seeing the most impressive underwater spots. You'll find dive options both inside and outside of Bora Bora's lagoon. In many cases, but not all, you need to have your scuba certification to sign up for these trips. A two-hour excursion costs about $110 per person.

Snorkel and stingray experience

One of the most famous shore excursions in the Society Islands is the opportunity to snorkel among stingrays and small sharks . (Yes, I was nervous about the shark part, but the sharks are small and they honestly ignored us and just swam around. It wasn't threatening.) The stingrays, on the other hand, are very friendly. They reminded me of labrador retrievers that are excited to greet a new visitor. If you don't want a sea creature getting close to -- or touching -- you, this is not the tour for you. Expect to pay upwards of $110 per person for this tour.

Glass-bottom boat

If you're not comfortable snorkeling but still want to see the magic happening under Bora Bora's lagoon surface, book a glass-bottom boat tour. These boats are easy to board and drinks and snacks are often served as you peer through the glass floor at the tropical fish swimming below. Tours like this cost around $90 per person.

Bora Bora Lagoonarium

Located on the reef between Le Meridien and the St. Regis, this is a fun place to visit because, while you may expect it to be a manmade aquarium, Mother Nature carved the lagoon herself. This is the perfect spot to snorkel and see all sorts of tropical fish, turtles, stingrays, eagle rays, moray eels and sharks (blacktip, lemon and nurse). Tours to the Lagoonarium run about $100 per person.

Bora Bora by Waverunner

For those who love the feel of sea breezes and salt in their hair, try this tour where you circle the island on a Waverunner. Scenic stops are included so you can swim and enjoy different locations around the lagoon. The tour costs about $300, but each Waverunner accommodates two people.

Bora Bora by four-wheel drive

This exciting tour takes you to parts of the island inaccessible without a four-wheel-drive vehicle. (If you've got a bad back or are afraid of heights, you may want to avoid this rough ride.)

Some sights on the tour include Pahonu Hill for sweeping panoramic views of the island, the World War II-era American guns at Fitiiu Point and Anau cannons at Faanui Bay near Farepiti Point, marae (sacred temple) sites and more. You'll spend about $125 per person for a tour like this one.

Related: 11 of the best far-flung dive and snorkel spots to add to your bucket list

Best beaches in Bora Bora

While Bora Bora is home to many beaches, finding one to spend the day at can be tougher than you might expect.

Resort beaches

Many of Bora Bora's most beautiful beaches are located at luxury resorts on its motus. The beaches at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, The St. Regis Bora Bora and Conrad Bora Bora Nui are all beautiful and Le Meridien Bora Bora has an incredible lagoon. Since most ships stay overnight here, you book a stay and enjoy the beach for the day.

Or, book a shore excursion that includes a taxi to the resort where you'll spend a beach day. The package usually includes nonmotorized water sports, snorkel gear, lunch and return by taxi. Paul Gauguin Cruises, for example, offers a beach day at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa for $144 per person.

Put your points to good use if you plan to use the overnight call in Bora Bora to stay in an overwater bungalow. Here's how you could do it:

The St. Regis Bora Bora: Book with Membership Rewards points or cash through the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts program . Reservations include daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade at check in (when available), noon check in (when available), guaranteed 4 p.m. checkout (which you wouldn't make use of in this case) and free Wi-Fi. You must have a Platinum- or Centurion-branded card, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express, to book through FHR. (Note that you can also book the Conrad Bora Bora Nui and Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora through Amex's FHR program.)

Related: The ultimate guide to Amex Membership Rewards

Or, use your Marriott Bonvoy points. The rate starts at 70,000 points on off-peak nights, 85,000 points on standard dates and 100,000 points on peak nights. You can earn Marriott Bonvoy points with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card and Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card.

Related: The beginner's guide to Marriott Bonvoy

Le Meridien Bora Bora: This is a Category 7 property that costs 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points on off-peak dates, 60,000 points on standard dates and 70,000 points during peak season. If you have an up to 50,000-point free night certificate that's conferred on the anniversary of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you can use it at Le Meridien on off-peak nights. New cardholders can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. Another perk of the card is up to $300 in statement credits each cardmember year for eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. The card has a $450 annual fee (see rates and fees).

Related: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express card review

Conrad Bora Bora Nui: As mentioned above, you can use cash or American Express Membership Rewards points to stay at the Conrad. Or, use your stash of Hilton Honors points. Award nights run about 89,000 points. You can earn points with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card. In fact, the new welcome bonus on both of those cards is more than enough for a night at the Conrad. The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: The award traveler's guide to Hilton Honors

Paul Gauguin Cruises' private beach

Paul Gauguin Cruises also has its own private beach on Bora Bora for guest use. It features a gorgeous view of Mount Otemanu as the backdrop.

But, if you're looking for a public beach to explore on your own, this is your best bet:

Matira Beach

Head to the southern tip of the island -- a 15-minute drive south of Vaitape -- for the most popular public beach on Bora Bora. Access to Matira Beach, right near the entrance to the InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora , is free. The sand here is impossibly soft and silky and it's rarely crowded. But while the water is crystal clear and shallow out to the coral reef offshore, it's not the best spot on the island for snorkeling. And, watch for falling coconuts from the palms that line the 2-mile-long stretch of beach.

Where to eat and drink

Food is quite expensive throughout French Polynesia, so most cruisers tour the island but eat lunch and dinner on their ship. But, if you can, dine out at least once while you're on Bora Bora.

Island specialties include many French classics you might enjoy on a trip to Paris , including croissants, baguettes and French cheese.

Look for these local specialties:

• Poisson cru : raw fish and diced vegetables soaked in coconut milk and lime juice
• Chevrettes : freshwater shrimp
• Poe : a sweet taro pudding that's flavored with papaya, banana or vanilla and topped with a coconut-milk sauce

If you'd like to plan a special dinner out, grab a table at one of the following restaurants. Note that most restaurants will send a taxi to pick you up at the tender pier. Just request transportation when you make your reservation.

Bloody Mary's

It might feel a bit cliche, but there's something special about dining barefoot with your feet sinking into the sand at Bloody Mary's (at Pofai Bay, northwest of Matira Beach on Circle Island Road). Yachters and visitors staying on the island have stopped here for fresh seafood under the restaurant's vaulted thatched roof since 1979.

At lunch, the menu focuses on burgers, sandwiches, sashimi and fish 'n' chips. But dinner is another matter. As you walk into the restaurant, you'll see today's catch laid out on ice. Pick one item or a platter piled with crab, lobster, shrimp, steak and chicken.

Diners are seated at tables that have polished tree stump seating. The vibe is decidedly Polynesian. You can find more refined cuisine on the island but the feel here is special and it's a meal you'll remember for a long time.

  View this post on Instagram   Come barefoot if you like to, Island style !???????????????????? #bloodymarysborabora#cool#tasty#colorful#instagood#awesome#beaches#good#sun#nofilter#summer#happy#beautiful#bora#frenchpolynesia#borabora#tahiti#foodporn#seafood#food#honeymoon#travel#travelgram#paradise#instatravel#islandstyle#restaurantinborabora#foodinborabora#boraborarestaurant#boraborafood A post shared by Bloody Mary's Bora Bora (@bloodymarysborabora) on Jan 10, 2019 at 4:54pm PST

La Villa Mahana

Damien Rinaldi-Dovio, a French native, opened the intimate eight-table Villa Mahana in 2003 and its Mediterranean-inspired menu has been popular with locals and tourists ever since. There's indoor seating in a villa-like setting as well as tables in a garden courtyard. It's a lovely place for a romantic dinner. The entrees -- featuring seafood, beef and pasta -- are beautifully presented and the desserts are works of art.

Snack Matira

This small open-air hole-in-the-wall restaurant on Circle Island Road, with a water view of Matira Beach, fits the bill when you just want a basic and affordable meal. The menu features burgers, grilled fish sandwiches and fries, steaks, barbecue chicken, pizza, poisson cru and more. Seating is picnic table-style.

Matira Beach Restaurant

More upscale than Snack Matira but also right on Matira Beach, this restaurant features well-regarded sushi plates. Additionally, you can order entrees such as filet mignon, duck breast, fish burgers, grilled fish and tuna tartare.

Related: Dreaming of French Polynesia

Where to shop

When you're shopping in Bora Bora, look for souvenirs like:

• Black pearls
• Shell jewelry and leis
• Soaps and oils scented with coconut and tiare flowers
• Pareu (sarong) wraps in bright tropical colors
• Wood carvings

You'll find shops and a marketplace in Vaitape near the tender port as well as along the southern portion of Circle Island Road. Just note that many stores close around lunchtime -- sometimes for an extended period.

If you're shopping for pearls, buy from a jewelry store specializing in these local gems. While haggling isn't common with other items in French Polynesia, you should ask for a discount during the pearl-purchasing process. Also, make sure a certificate noting the pearls' authenticity is included. The document should say Tahitian cultured pearl.

Some pearl shops include Tahia Pearls and Robert Wan (within walking distance from the Vaitape pier) and Arc En Ciel (head north on Circle Island Road from the tender area; you'll need a car or bike).

Bottom line

Visiting Bora Bora on a cruise will help you avoid the costly transfer flight from Papeete, Tahiti, to the island — plus you can skip the very expensive hotel rates. So, if you love the tropics, beach life, water sports and slowing down to " island time " you'll thoroughly enjoy your call on Bora Bora.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, click here.

Bora Bora   Travel Guide

Why Go To Bora Bora

The small island of Bora Bora (just about 6 miles long and a little more than 2 miles wide) overflows with beauty. A dormant volcano rises up at its center and fans out into lush jungle before spilling into an aquamarine lagoon. In fact, author James Michener, who wrote "Tales of the South Pacific," called Bora Bora "the most beautiful island in the world." The 18th-century British explorer James Cook even coined it as the "Pearl of the Pacific." The very definition of a tropical getaway, blissful Bora Bora abounds with luxurious resorts , sunny skies, warm waters and friendly locals. 

And as you might've already guessed, the main industry on this petite island in French Polynesia and its swarm of tiny  motu  (islands) is tourism. To that end, you can snorkel, explore  Vaitape  (Bora Bora's main port), hike  Mount Otemanu  and more. But there's a catch: Bora Bora is expensive – very expensive. In short, visit Bora Bora for natural beauty, visit for utter relaxation and visit if you have the money.

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Best of Bora Bora

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• in Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
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Bora Bora Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to go to Bora Bora are November and April. These short shoulder seasons offer fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. Low season stretches from December to March when the weather is wet and visitors become mosquito bait. But really anytime is a good time to visit Bora Bora, since the weather is warm year-round.

Weather in Bora Bora

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

It's all about the lagoon  Here's a secret: Many of Bora Bora's beaches are manmade and not much to write home about. The turquoise waters of the lagoon are another story.

Taste test great local food Trying  poisson cru  (raw fish) – usually tuna or mahi-mahi marinated in lime juice and coconut milk – is a must.

Try the miracle oil  Pick up a bottle of all-purpose  monoi , an oil made from coconut and tiare blossoms. It serves as a leave-in hair conditioner, a moisturizer and even a salve for insect bites.

How to Save Money in Bora Bora

Visit in the offseason  The room rate for an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora can hover close to $1,000 a night, but you can find lower rates if you visit between December and March with the exception of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Take a Pacific Ocean cruise  Many cruise lines stop at Bora Bora, so you can get a taste of the luxe life without cashing in your retirement.

Bring your own alcohol  And pack lots of sunscreen. Many shops on the island sell alcohol and basic necessities – such as sunscreen and bug spray – at high prices, so make sure to pack in surplus.

Culture & Customs

The main languages in Bora Bora are French and Tahitian, but you'll find that many people also speak English, especially resort employees. French Polynesians move at a relaxed pace. They have a life philosophy called "` Aita pea pea, " which means "not to worry." Try to go with the flow and enjoy life at a slower clip. 

Protestant missionaries, who came to the island in the 19th century, have heavily influenced the religion in Bora Bora: Christianity continues to play a major role in the island's culture. If you're interested, you might stop into the  Église Protestante Maohi (Maohi Protestant Church) in Vaitape, which has roots dating back to the late 1700s. 

Since 1946, French Polynesia (a group of islands of which Bora Bora belongs to) has been an overseas territory of the French Republic. But French Polynesia has a lot of autonomy, which you'll see in everything from their currency to taxation. The official currency of Bora Bora is the French Pacific franc (CFP). One U.S. dollar is equivalent to approximately 103 CFP.

What to Eat

Seafood features heavily on the menus of Bora Bora restaurants, and travelers would be remiss if they didn't try some of the local specialities, namely poisson cru , or raw tuna that has been marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. Mahi-mahi, grouper and bonito are other staples that are often found on Bora Bora menus. Visitors should also sample the locally grown pineapple, coconut and bananas. 

Keep in mind that many visitors to Bora Bora choose to purchase a meal plan through their resort, especially if their resort is located on a smaller motu (island), which necessitates boat travel to and from the main island where most of the popular restaurants are located. As you might imagine, Bora Bora's restaurants are often expensive – after all, importing ingredients is expensive. The destination's most popular, traveler-approved fine dining establishments include Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges at the St. Regis Bora Bora , where the ambiance and views rival the French-and-Asian menu, and St. James Bora Bora , where travelers say the service is unparalleled. For a cheaper dining experience, visitors might want to stop by a beachside roulotte (think: food truck) for some inexpensive local fare. Travelers suggest jumping in the queue for the roulottes with the longest lines, as there is likely a delicious reason for their popularity. Other travelers suggest shopping in local supermarkets in Vaitape for snacks and drinks (they'll cost significantly less than what's offered at your hotel).

Getting Around Bora Bora

The best way to get around Bora Bora is by bike, especially when you consider that the entire island only takes a few hours to traverse. Rental cars are another option, but they cost significantly more than a rental bicycle. The local bus system, Le Truck, is notoriously unpredictable and taxis are quite expensive. 

To get to Bora Bora, most travelers fly into Bora Bora Airport also known as Motu Mute Airport. If you're coming from the U.S., you'll first stop at the Faa'a International Airport in Tahiti . Once you've cleared customs, you'll hop on a 45-minute flight to Bora Bora Airport. You'll find this airport on a small islet called Motu Mute, just northwest of the main island, and you'll have to take a quick catamaran ride to reach your final destination at Bora Bora's Vaitape quay. Many resorts offer airport transportation; check to see if yours does before making arrangements.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To visit French Polynesia, you'll need a U.S. passport valid for six months beyond the duration of your trip. If you're planning to stay in the country for more than 90 days, you'll also need to acquire a visa. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

An aerial view of what awaits you in Bora Bora.

Explore More of Bora Bora

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