Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The island, located about 230 km northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. In the centre of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 m.
Bora Bora is a major international tourist destination, famous for its aqua-centric luxury resorts. The major settlement, Vaitape is on the western side of the main island, opposite the main channel into the lagoon. Produce of the island is mostly limited to what can be obtained from the sea and the plentiful coconut trees, which were historically of economic importance for copra. According to a census performed in 2008, the permanent population of Bora Bora is 8,880.
Beaches
Many folks think Matira Beach, on the southern end of the main island, is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of French Polynesia. Studded with tall coconut palms, it stretches more than two miles (3 kilometers) around a small peninsula that juts out into the sandy-bottom lagoon. The crystal-clear waters are shallow all the way to the coral reef.
Things to Do
Explore Bora Bora's turquoise seas with a snorkeling excursion among coral gardens swarming with tropical fish, ending with a stop at the boat captain's private motu for fresh-cut fruit. Polynesian-style outrigger canoes and glass-bottom boats glide across the pristine water. Sunset catamaran sails are accompanied by Tahitian singers and dancers. Visit old U.S. military gun sites, lush valleys and mountain lookout points for unforgettable views by four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Eating and Drinking
Bora Bora's luxury resorts offer myriad options for cocktails and dining, but make sure to step out of your hotel cocoon on occasion to sample the local flavors. Bora Bora Yacht Club is a lively watering hole with a stunning waterfront setting for a casual meal of fresh oysters and Australian steaks. The menu at elegant Villa Mahana, in the main town of Vaitape, entices with ahi tuna marinated in local vanilla oil and a salad of lobster, prawns and caviar.
Nature
The translucent seas encircling Bora Bora and its motus teem with rich marine life that no aquarium can match: schools of docile blacktip reef and lemon sharks, moray eels and green turtles. Gigantic manta rays gracefully circle the lagoon. Nemo-like clownfish and a thousand other species of tropical marine life make their home in the otherworldly turquoise playground below.
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