1. Full-Day Lagoon Tour — The One You Can't Skip
If you do only one thing in Bora Bora, make it a lagoon tour. A half-day tour runs $110–160 per person and typically includes shark and ray feeding, snorkeling at the Coral Gardens, and a stop on a private motu (islet). But the full-day version — $180–250 per person — is the move.
Want it all to yourself? Private lagoon tours range from $320–850 through operators like Toa Boat Bora Bora.
2. Shark and Ray Feeding
Usually bundled into lagoon tours ($110–140 per person). Stand waist-deep in warm water while blacktip reef sharks and stingrays cruise past — thrilling without being dangerous.
3. Snorkeling Coral Gardens
Parrotfish, butterfly fish, Moorish idols, and incredible coral formations. Most lagoon tours include a stop, or paddle out free from your resort.
4. Jet Ski Island Circuit
A two-hour guided circuit runs $150–200 for a full circumnavigation of the island with photo stops and Mt. Otemanu views.
5. Mount Otemanu Hike
Completely free. 2–3 hour moderate hike to the base/viewpoint with panoramic lagoon views. Can't summit (sacred peak).
6. Parasailing Over the Lagoon
$100–150 per person for aerial views of the lagoon color gradient and Mount Otemanu.
7. Sunset Catamaran Sail
$80–150 per person, usually includes drinks. The most romantic activity on the island.
8. Helicopter Tour
$250–450 per person for 15–30 minutes. The ultimate splurge for aerial photography.
9. ATV/Quad Tour on the Mainland
$100–150 per person. Elevated lagoon views, local villages, and WWII gun emplacements.
10. Dinner at Bloody Mary's
Legendary thatched-roof restaurant with sand floors. Main courses $30–60. Pick your fish at the raw bar.
11. Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
$50–80 per person, 1 hour. Perfect for non-swimmers and families.
12. Polynesian Cultural Experience
Free at many resorts, or $50–80 for off-resort cultural shows with fire dancing and workshops.
13. Spa at a Luxury Overwater Resort
$200–500+ for treatments in overwater rooms at the Conrad, Four Seasons, or St. Regis.
14. Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Sunrise
Free at most resorts or $30–50 rental. The sleeper pick — glide across glass-calm water at dawn.
Book It With Points
- Conrad Bora Bora Nui — 80,000–120,000 Hilton Honors points/night
- St. Regis Bora Bora — 60,000–100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points/night
- InterContinental Bora Bora — IHG One Rewards points
Practical Tips for Bora Bora 2026
When to visit: May–October (dry season). November–April is wetter but fewer crowds.
Currency: CFP franc (XPF). Credit cards widely accepted at tourist activities.
Book ahead: Lagoon tours and jet ski circuits fill up fast in peak season (June–August).
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Sarah Cole
Sarah covers destination guides, hotel reviews, and points strategy at Travel-free. She specializes in luxury travel and award redemptions.
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