Where is Bora Bora? Infos & facts (2024)

Where is Bora Bora Located?

Bora Bora is situated in the country of French Polynesia.

French Polynesia is made up of several archipelagos and islands, including the famous Society Archipelago with well-known beaches destinations like Bora Bora, Moorea, and Tahiti.

Size of French Polynesia

French Polynesia, in which Bora Bora is located, is an expansive territory spread over 2,500,000 square kilometers of the South Pacific Ocean. The actual land mass, however, totals just about 4,167 square kilometers, roughly equivalent to the size of the U.S. state of Rhode Island.

This vast oceanic canvas is dotted with 118 islands and atolls, grouped into five archipelagos. These islands are diverse in size and topography, from towering volcanic peaks to low-lying coral atolls, painting a beautiful picture of tropical paradise across the vast expanse of the Pacific.

Islands of the Society Archipelago

The Society Islands, a cluster of geographically and culturally diverse islands, each possess their own unique charm. Nestled in French Polynesia, the Society Islands are renowned for their captivating beauty and cultural richness.

Divided into two groups—the Windward Islands, home to the world-famous Tahiti and Moorea, and the Leeward Islands, where Bora can be found—each island showcases a slice of paradise with its distinctive topography and vibrant biodiversity.

For centuries, these islands have enchanted explorers, artists, and tourists alike. Here is a list of the islands within this archipelago:

• Tahiti : The largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant Polynesian culture.
  
• Moorea : Known as the “sister island” of Tahiti, it’s famous for its breathtaking bays and lush mountainous landscapes.
  
• Bora Bora : A major international tourist destination, located in the Leeward group, known for its unique geography with a main island surrounded by motus (islets), lagoon and aqua-centric luxury resorts.
  
• Huahine : Also part of the Leeward group, it’s recognized for maintaining the most extensive traditional Polynesian culture.
  
• Raiatea : Regarded as the ‘Sacred Island‘, it is the second largest of the Society Islands and shares its lagoon with the island of Tahaa.
  
• Tahaa : Often referred to as the “Vanilla Island” for its many vanilla plantations.
  
• Maupiti : The smallest of the Leeward Islands, it’s a quieter, less touristy alternative with equally stunning beauty.

Where is Bora Bora in the Society Islands?

Bora Bora is located within the Society Archipelago of French Polynesia, approximately 170 miles northwest of Tahiti. The island covers an area of approximately 30.55 square kilometers (11.78 square miles) and is characterized by its lush greenery, clear turquoise water, and iconic Mount Otemanu. The island is encircled by a single road.

What make Bora Bora different from the other islands?

The island is known for its stunning natural beauty, with a central mountain peak surrounded by a lagoon, barrier reef and motus.

As a tourist destination, Bora Bora is renowned for its luxurious resorts, overwater bungalows, and crystal-clear blue waters. The island’s reputation as a paradise on earth is well-deserved, as it offers visitors the opportunity to relax on pristine beaches, partake in water sports, and immerse themselves in the Polynesian culture.

Bora Bora’s unique geography and reputation as a romantic getaway have made it a popular destination for honeymooners and luxury travelers from around the world. Its picturesque landscapes and idyllic setting have cemented its status as one of the most sought-after vacation spots in the world.

Don’t worry if Bora Bora is beyond your budget! You’ll be thrilled to know that there are numerous alternatives in the Society Islands for an unforgettable overwater bungalow experience in French Polynesia.

Consider exploring Moorea or Tahaa, for example. You won’t be disappointed! While Bora Bora is undeniably the most popular, it’s worth exploring the diverse offerings of this paradise.

Can I visit Bora Bora on a budget?

While Bora Bora is definitely the most expensive island of French Polynesia and known for its luxurious accommodations and high-end, almost all-inclusive resorts, it is possible to visit the island on a budget.

Travelers can opt for more affordable accommodations such as guesthouses or Airbnb rentals, and can also save money by planning their trip during the off-peak season. Additionally, there are many free or low-cost activities to enjoy on the island, such as hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the local markets and villages. With a little bit of planning and research, it is possible to experience the beauty of the island without breaking the bank.

How to get to Bora Bora?

To get to Bora Bora, travelers have several transportation options available. The most common way to reach the island is by taking a flight to Bora Bora Airport, which receives direct flights from Fa’a’ā International Airport in Tahiti. Another option is to take a ferry from another islands such as Tahiti or Raiatea.

Once travelers arrive at Bora Bora Airport, they have the option to either avail of a complimentary boat transfer to the main island or make arrangements for transfers through their accommodations if they are staying on a motu.

Once on the island, transportation options include shuttle services provided by resorts and hotels, as well as taxis for more flexible travel around the island.

Overall, getting to Bora Bora involves flying into the airport and then taking a boat transfer to the main island, with shuttle services and taxis available for transportation within the island.

Average Flying Times to Bora Bora

The average flying time to Bora Bora from major international airports is around 8 to 9 hours. Flights from Los Angeles and other West Coast cities in the United States typically take around 8 hours, while flights from East Coast cities like New York can take upwards of 12 hours with a layover.

Travelers will first need to fly to Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport, which is the major airport of the country to clear customs. From there, connecting flights are available to Bora Bora’s Motu Mute Airport, with a flight time of approximately 50 minutes.

Overall, the average flying time to Bora Bora is influenced by the location of the departing airport and the availability of direct flights. Travelers may need to plan for layovers or additional connecting flights when booking their trip to this picturesque island paradise.