Your Bora Bora Itinerary: Must-Do Bora Bora Water Sports For An Unforgettable Vacation

Illustration of a serene tropical resort in Bora Bora with overwater bungalows, lush green mountains, a clear blue sky, and a person paddling a canoe in the tranquil sea.

Dive into the depths of Bora Bora’s water adventures with this guide! We will cover the must-experience water adventures that this awesome destination has to offer. Not sure where to start? Read on inside our comprehensive guide and find out all about the waterborne adventures that await!

Split view of a tropical ocean with clear skies above and a vibrant coral reef below, featuring a pair of yellow flippers swimming among the corals.

Coral Gardens

Nestled in the azure waters of French Polynesia, the Coral Gardens of Bora Bora. The Coral Gardens stand as a beacon for snorkeling enthusiasts and underwater adventurers. This vibrant underwater oasis offers an unparalleled experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of marine life, making it a top choice among Bora Bora tourist attractions and a must-visit destination on your list of Bora Bora places to visit.

Access and Exploration:
- The Coral Gardens are easily accessible by boat. Exploring the Coral Gardens is accessible, with many Bora Bora excursions and tours departing from local resorts. These tours often include options for glass-bottom boats, allowing even non-swimmers to enjoy the underwater spectacle.
- For a more hands-on experience, try the snorkeling tours. Snorkeling excursions in Bora Bora let visitors glide over the shallow coral reefs, providing up-close encounters with an array of marine species. The waters here are clear and calm, making it an ideal spot for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike, highlighting the best of Bora Bora water sports and activities.
- Adventurous guests can paddle to the Coral Gardens using a Polynesian Outrigger Canoe. Departures from locations like Matira Beach or the Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island offer a unique way to reach these stunning snorkeling spots, showcasing the variety of Bora Bora excursions and tours available.
Marine Life and Preservation:
- The Coral Gardens boast a diverse ecosystem, home to brain, staghorn, and table corals, among others. The area teems with tropical fish species such as angelfish, parrotfish, and the iconic clownfish, creating a kaleidoscope of color beneath the waves.
- Visitors might also encounter sea turtles, eels, and stingrays, adding to the rich tapestry of life that thrives within this protected area. To ensure the preservation of this delicate ecosystem, snorkelers are advised to wear water shoes and apply reef-safe sunscreen well in advance of entering the water.
Safety and Environmental Considerations:
- The Coral Gardens are characterized by both their beauty and their fragility. Sharp and fragile coral formations underline the importance of mindful exploration. Tour operators provide life vests and often remind guests to maintain a safe distance from the coral to prevent damage.
- Photography is encouraged, but visitors are reminded to respect the marine environment, avoiding any actions that could harm the wildlife or their habitats.

Whether you’re snorkeling above the vibrant corals, paddling in a traditional canoe, or observing the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat, the Coral Gardens of Bora Bora offer an unforgettable adventure. This showcases the natural beauty and ecological diversity of this island paradise, making it a prime destination for those seeking Bora Bora adventures, experiences, and activities.

A luxury yacht sailing at sunset near a mountainous island, casting a golden reflection on the calm sea.

Bora Bora Boat Tours

Exploring Bora Bora’s pristine waters and breathtaking landscapes can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you choose the right tour. Here’s a guide to some of the most sought-after Bora Bora boat tours and excursions, designed to cater to a variety of interests and preferences, and highlighting the best things to do in Bora Bora.

High-Speed Adventure:
- Bora Bora Jet Tours: For thrill-seekers, a jet boat tour promises an adrenaline rush with high speeds and 360-degree spins, showcasing the adventurous side of Bora Bora water sports. Starting at $150 per person, this tour combines excitement with the stunning backdrop of Bora Bora’s lagoon.
Romantic Escapes:
- Bora Bora Romantic Tour: Offers couples an intimate experience with a private sunset cruise. Priced at $450 for two, this tour, a highlight among Bora Bora tours, includes champagne and a Polynesian dinner, setting the stage for a memorable evening that captures the essence of Bora Bora’s nightlife.
Family-Friendly Explorations:
- Bora Bora Adventure: A 3-hour snorkeling tour introduces guests to the marine life of Bora Bora, including stingrays and sharks, making it a perfect adventure for those interested in Bora Bora water sports and adventures at $110 per person. It’s an engaging way for families to connect with nature.
- Moana Adventure Tours: Provides a comprehensive 3-hour lagoon tour with a motu picnic for $135 per person, this experience is perfect for those wanting to explore the island’s beauty through Bora Bora tours and enjoy a meal in an idyllic setting, enhancing their Bora Bora experiences.
Combo Packages:
- Many operators offer combination packages to maximize your experience. Prices range from $180 to $250 per person. Opt for a half-day snorkeling tour followed by a relaxing sunset cruise, allowing guests to enjoy the best of both worlds in Bora Bora’s adventures and experiences.
Customizable Tours:
- Tour packages can be tailored to suit individual preferences, including half- to full-day excursions, and the choice between private or shared tours. Activities may include deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, animal feeding, and enjoying full meals aboard the vessel. This flexibility ensures that every traveler can find a Bora Bora tour that perfectly matches their interests and adventures.

These tours not only offer a gateway to the unparalleled beauty of Bora Bora’s waters but also provide an opportunity to create lasting memories, whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, or family fun, making them quintessential Bora Bora experiences. Highly recommended companies like Lagoon Service, Moana Adventure Tours, and Bora Bora Photo Lagoon, visitors are guaranteed exceptional service and an unforgettable experience.

A person snorkeling over a vibrant coral reef in clear, shallow waters, with a scenic mountainous island in the background.

Shark/Stingray Feeding

Diving into the mesmerizing waters of Bora Bora offers a unique opportunity to engage with marine life through shark and stingray feeding sessions, a highlight for many adventurers seeking to add an unforgettable experience to their Bora Bora activities itinerary. Here’s what participants can expect:

Feeding Sessions Overview:
- Conducted at specific times, usually in the morning or late afternoon, these sessions allow participants to see marine life up close, including snorkeling with stingrays, lemon sharks, and a variety of tropical fish.
- Despite a ban on shark feeding since 1997 due to safety concerns, these exhilarating experiences continue under careful management, ensuring the safety of both participants and marine life.
Marine Species Encountered:
- Sharks: Participants often encounter blacktip reef sharks and the larger lemon sharks, which can grow up to 3 meters in length. Shark feeding is described as an adrenaline-rushing experience, likened to swimming in an aquarium, highlighting the adventurous spirit of Bora Bora experiences.
- Stingrays and Manta Rays: The sessions also feature friendly stingrays, known for their approachable demeanor, and majestic manta rays, celebrated for their graceful mating dances. Visitors are advised on how to safely feed these creatures, using both hands to maintain stability and keeping bait above water.
Safety and Conservation:
- To ensure a respectful interaction with the marine environment, unsafe practices such as diving with bait in hand or holding bait to the mask underwater are discouraged. Sharks can sense bait from hundreds of meters away, potentially targeting the hand holding it, thus caution and instructions provided by guides must be followed.
- Guides also share insights about marine life, their behaviors, and ongoing conservation efforts, emphasizing the importance of these experiences in promoting awareness and appreciation for marine creatures.
- The feeding sessions are not only thrilling but contribute to local conservation efforts, with trained guides supervising at all times to ensure a safe and educational experience for all participants.

Participants should come prepared with sun protection, a towel, and a change of clothes, and can expect to pay between $50 to $150 per person for this remarkable adventure, lasting typically between 2 to 3 hours. Children are usually welcome, though age restrictions may apply, making it a family-friendly activity that offers both excitement and a deeper understanding of Bora Bora’s marine ecosystem. Engaging in Bora Bora adventures and activities is one of the fun things to do in Bora Bora for families seeking an enriching experience.

A vibrant underwater scene with colorful coral reef and a diverse array of fish swimming under sunlit water.

Bora Bora Lagoonarium

The Bora Bora Lagoonarium, a natural aquarium nestled on a motu near the main island, offers an immersive experience of the vibrant underwater world of French Polynesia. Here’s what visitors can look forward to during their visit: a chance to explore one of the top Bora Bora attractions and tourist attractions, showcasing what Bora Bora is known for.

Getting There and Essentials:
- Access: Reachable by a short boat ride from most resorts and hotels on the main island, the Lagoonarium is an easily accessible adventure for all.
- Preparation: While snorkel equipment is often provided, bringing fins can enhance your mobility in the water. For those looking to relax, consider pool floaties for lounging in the lagoon’s serene waters.
- Safety Measures: Life jackets are mandatory for all visitors, ensuring a safe experience as you explore the lagoon. Trained guides are always on hand, and first aid kits are readily available.
Experiences and Activities:
- Guided Tours: Learn about the diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish, during the hour-long guided tours. These educational sessions provide insight into the species you’ll encounter.
- Snorkeling Adventures: Bora’sSnorkel alongside sharks, turtles, rays, and various fish under the expert supervision of wildlife guides in Bora Bora. This experience is a highlight of Bora Bora’s adventures, offering unforgettable Bora Bora experiences and water sports, making it one of the fun things to do in Bora Bora. A rare opportunity to swim with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
- Additional Activities: Beyond snorkeling, the Lagoonarium offers jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, enriching your Bora Bora adventures with a variety of water sports. While these activities come with an additional cost, they present a chance to experience the lagoon from different perspectives, adding to the array of Bora Bora activities available.
Visiting Details:
- Admission: Entrance fees vary, with adults typically paying around $50-60 USD and discounts available for children under 12. This fee includes a guided tour, snorkeling equipment, and access to the Lagoonarium for the day.
- Tour Options: Choose between half-day and full-day tours, with the latter including a canoe tour of the island and a barbecue picnic, adding a cultural and culinary dimension to your adventure, and making it a unique Bora Bora tour and experience.
- Facilities: The Lagoonarium is equipped with restrooms, changing rooms, and a small restaurant serving local cuisine, ensuring comfort during your visit.

The Bora Bora Lagoonarium is not just an attraction but a gateway to understanding and appreciating the delicate marine ecosystem of this island paradise. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snorkeling gear and wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the corals, aligning with the Lagoonarium’s commitment to marine conservation. With its blend of adventure, education, and breathtaking natural beauty, the Lagoonarium stands out as a must-visit for anyone looking to dive deeper into the wonders of Bora Bora, offering some of the best things to do in Bora Bora.

Two snorkeling masks and fins floating on clear, shallow ocean water under a bright, sunny sky.

Eco Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari

The Eco Shark and Ray Snorkel Safari offer a blend of excitement and education, providing guests with an intimate look at Bora Bora’s marine biodiversity while emphasizing environmental preservation. Here are the details and highlights of this must-experience Bora Bora tour and adventure.

Tour Overview:
- Duration: Ranges from 2.5 to 4 hours, ensuring ample time to explore and enjoy.
- Availability: Conducted daily, with departure times at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., offering flexibility to fit into your itinerary.
- Pricing: Adult tickets start at €92.18 (approximately $104), with discounts for children and free participation for infants, making it a family-friendly adventure.
What to Expect:
1. Marine Life Encounters: The safari, a highlight among Bora Bora adventures, is renowned for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, where you can swim alongside blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, and a colorful array of tropical fish, making it a top choice for Bora Bora water sports and activities. The chance to see sea turtles, dolphins, whales, leopard rays, and manta rays adds to the excitement, although sightings depend on weather conditions and the time of year.
2. Cultural and Environmental Insight: A focus on respecting marine life is central to the tour, providing a magical experience that also contributes to the preservation of aquatic fauna and flora. The safari includes stops at a coral reef for snorkeling, a shallow water encounter with gentle stingrays, and an area to observe gray sharks and blacktip reef sharks, making it a quintessential part of Bora Bora adventures and water sports., all under the guidance of knowledgeable professionals who share insights into Polynesian culture and marine conservation.
3. Customer Reviews: Participants have praised the tour for its fun and educational nature, highlighting the comfort provided by the guides, the informative and entertaining commentary, and the overall value of the experience. Despite the tour’s current technical difficulties, customer service agents are available for assistance, ensuring your adventure planning remains smooth.
Practical Information:
- Transportation: Complimentary pick-up and drop-off service is included, with specific arrangements for guests from major resorts like Four Seasons, St. Regis, and InterContinental Bora Bora, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Safety and Equipment: All skill levels are welcome, with professional guides offering instruction and safety information. The tour provides bottled water and light snacks, and while snorkeling equipment is included, participants are encouraged to bring sun protection, a towel, and a change of clothes.

This Eco Shark and Ray Snorkel Safari stands out as a highlight in Bora Bora, blending thrilling water-based adventures with educational insights and a strong commitment to environmental conservation. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner eager to explore the underwater world, this tour promises an unforgettable addition to your Bora Bora vacation, making it one of the best things to do in Bora Bora.

A yacht sailing on a serene sea at sunset, with a vibrant sky and silhouetted mountains in the background.

Bora Bora Jet Ski Adventure

Embarking on a Bora Bora Jet Ski Adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the island’s lagoon, combining the thrill of speed with the beauty of Polynesian waters. Here’s what adventurers can expect, making it a must-do for anyone looking for Bora Bora adventures and water sports.

Preparation and Gear:
- Essential items to bring include a waterproof camera or GoPro for capturing the vibrant underwater scenes and memorable moments of the ride.
- A waterproof dry bag and a phone pouch are recommended to protect belongings from water splashes.
- For those planning to extend their adventure to land with an ATV ride, a driver’s license is required.
Tour Options and Pricing:
- 1-Hour Tour: A quick exploration around the lagoon, costing approximately $180 to $200 per jet ski, allowing a maximum of two people for an intimate experience.
- 2-Hour Tour: Offers a deeper exploration with prices ranging from $300 to $350, ideal for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Bora Bora’s waters, making it a quintessential part of Bora Bora’s adventures and experiences.
- Full-Day Adventure: For the ultimate experience, some operators offer full-day tours costing upwards of $600, providing an extensive exploration of the island’s aquatic wonders.
- Each tour includes stops at various motus for leisurely strolls and a unique coconut show, enriching the cultural aspect of the adventure.
Booking and Considerations:
- Advanced booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure the best prices and ensure availability.
- Age restrictions apply, with a minimum age of 16 to drive and 11 to ride as a passenger, ensuring a safe experience for all participants.
- A waiver is required for all participants for insurance and safety reasons, emphasizing the importance of adhering to guidelines for an enjoyable and secure adventure.

This adventure not only showcases the stunning beauty of Bora Bora’s lagoon but also offers a mix of adrenaline, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-do activity for visitors seeking both excitement and an appreciation for the island’s natural and cultural offerings. It’s an essential addition to your ‘what to do in Bora Bora’ list, promising fun things to do in Bora Bora.

Vibrant coral reef teeming with various corals and plants under sunlit water.

Nemo Snorkeling

Embarking on the Nemo Snorkeling adventure in Bora Bora is an exquisite way to explore the underwater marvels of this tropical paradise, offering a unique snorkeling experience that’s a highlight among Bora Bora’s adventures, experiences, and water sports.

Tour Details and Pricing:
- Duration: 3.5 hours, ensuring ample time for exploration and enjoyment.
- Pricing: Adult participants are charged 10,800 Frs (approximately 90.50€), while a special rate of 7,800 Frs (about 65.36€) is available for children aged 4 to 10 years old.
- Manta Pass: Offers a 50% discount on the same tour another day, enhancing chances of encountering Manta rays.
Marine Life Encounters and Activities:
- Exclusive Swimming with Clownfish: Dive into the waters to swim alongside clownfish in their natural habitat, a unique feature of Nemo Snorkeling, marking it as a standout among Bora Bora adventures, experiences, and water sports.
- Diverse Marine Life: The tour includes visits to vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, opportunities to meet Manta and Eagle rays, and observing sharks and rays in pristine conditions from the boat, encapsulating the essence of Bora Bora adventures, water sports, and activities.
- Snorkeling Initiation: Beginners are not left out, as the tour includes snorkeling initiation to ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty of Bora Bora’s underwater world. New snorkeling full-face masks are available for beginners.
Operational Details:

Nemo Snorkeling’s approach to underwater exploration in Bora Bora not only offers a mesmerizing encounter with some of the most beautiful marine species but also does so with an environmental consciousness and a focus on safety and education for all participants, making it a top thing to do in Bora Bora for those seeking Bora Bora adventures and experiences.

Vibrant coral reef bustling with colorful marine life under sunlit water.

Aqua Safari with Helmet

Dive into the serene waters of Bora Bora with the Aqua Safari Helmet Dive, a unique Bora Bora adventure that ranks high among Bora Bora water sports and experiences. It features an underwater walking experience that allows you to explore the lagoon’s floor up close. This adventure is perfect for those who wish to marvel at the underwater world without the need for traditional scuba diving gear. Here’s what you need to know about this extraordinary activity:

Helmet Diving Essentials:
- Breathing Made Easy: Participants wear specially designed helmets that enable them to breathe normally underwater, eliminating the need for scuba certification or swimming skills.
- All Ages Welcome: Suitable for adventurers as young as 8 years old, making it a family-friendly experience.
- Duration: The underwater journey lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, offering ample time to soak in the vibrant marine life.
- Depth: Adventurers can reach depths of up to 12 feet, providing a spectacular view of the lagoon’s ecosystem.
What to Expect:
- Marine Interactions: Get up close with an array of marine life, including colorful fish and possibly sea turtles, in their natural habitat.
- Professional Guidance: Led by experienced and safety-conscious staff, ensuring a secure and enjoyable underwater adventure.
- Photography: While underwater photography services are mentioned, details on pricing vary, so it’s recommended to inquire beforehand for those wishing to capture their experience.
Practical Information:
- Cost: The experience is priced at approximately $139.95 per person, offering a unique adventure that’s worth every penny.
- Availability: The helmet diving experience operates from Monday to Saturday, allowing flexibility in scheduling this must-do activity during your Bora Bora visit.
- Health and Safety: Participants must complete a medical history/liability waiver, and the activity is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with asthma, or those unable to walk.

Embarking on an Aqua Safari Helmet Dive is not just about the thrill of underwater exploration; it’s about connecting with the marine environment in a respectful and awe-inspiring manner. Whether you’re a seasoned diver looking for a new experience or a non-swimmer curious about the underwater world, this activity promises an unforgettable addition to your Bora Bora itinerary, making it a top thing to do in Bora Bora for those seeking Bora Bora adventures and unique Bora Bora experiences.

A yacht cruising in the ocean at sunset near a mountainous island with a golden sky.

Deluxe Eco-Sunset Cruise

Embarking on the Deluxe Eco-Sunset Cruise aboard the Okeanos Pearl Catamaran offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and environmental consciousness, exclusive to guests of Le Bora Bora Resort & Spa. This solar-powered catamaran, celebrated for its zero emissions, glides through the lagoon’s waters, providing an eco-friendly journey without compromising on the exquisite ambiance and breathtaking views of Bora Bora’s sunset, making it a quintessential Bora Bora experience and a highlight among Bora Bora tours.

Cruise Details:
- Duration: A 2-hour journey, with departures scheduled at 5 PM, perfectly timed to capture the mesmerizing sunset hues.
- Beverages Offered: A selection of rosé, white or red wine, beers, and soft drinks, ensuring a refreshing experience as you sail.
- Unique Features: The catamaran boasts sleek lines and zero emissions, set against the heavenly backdrop of Bora Bora, providing an intimate connection with nature.
Exclusive Offerings:
- Private Cruise Option: For those seeking a more personalized experience, a private cruise is available starting from $745, offering the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity.
- Pick-Up Location: Conveniently located at the hotel dock, making access to this extraordinary adventure seamless for guests.
Enhanced Experience:
- Snorkeling Equipment Provided: Guests are equipped with snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life beneath the lagoon’s surface, offering an exciting Bora Bora water sports adventure.
- Gourmet Picnic on a Private Motu: The cruise includes a stop at a secluded motu for a gourmet picnic, featuring local and organic products, complemented by complimentary champagne, served throughout the journey.
- Knowledgeable Guide: A guide is present to share valuable insights about the local ecosystem and marine conservation efforts, enriching the experience with educational and cultural appreciation.

This eco-conscious voyage not only offers guests a luxurious sunset cruise but also an opportunity to engage with Bora Bora’s rich marine life and pristine natural beauty. The Deluxe Eco-Sunset Cruise is an essential addition to any Bora Bora itinerary, promising an adventure that harmoniously blends environmental responsibility with unforgettable moments of luxury and exploration, ranking it among the top things to do in Bora Bora.

Aerial view of a tropical coastline with a resort, scattered coral reefs in the clear blue ocean, and rugged mountains in the background.

Conclusion

In diving into the essence of this article, we’ve spanned the breadth of Bora Bora’s unmatched allure— from the vibrant corals of the Lagoonarium to the adrenaline-pumping Jet Ski adventures, and from the serene encounters of the Aqua Safari Helmet Dive to the unforgettable moments aboard the Deluxe Eco-Sunset Cruise. Each activity meticulously detailed captures the spirit of exploration and the profound connection one can have with the natural beauty of this Polynesian paradise. Such adventures offer more than just memories; they open a gateway to understanding the delicate balance of marine life and the importance of eco-conscious travel in today’s world, making them some of the best things to do in Bora Bora.

As we draw this guide to a close, it’s evident that Bora Bora is not merely a destination but a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re gliding alongside majestic manta rays, sharing waters with curious blacktip sharks, or simply soaking in the sun-kissed serenity of an overwater bungalow, the island beckons with promise of discovery and enchantment at every turn. For those eager to embark on this mesmerizing journey and dive deep into the heart of the ocean’s wonders, Bora Bora’s adventures and experiences await. Start Planning Your Trip with Greatpriceflights today! Embrace the call of Bora Bora and let it guide you to an adventure that echoes with the pulse of the sea, underlining an essential truth—the most unforgettable experiences lie in the embrace of the natural world. Discover the essence of Viator Bora Bora’s adventures.

FAQs

What activities are popular among visitors to Bora Bora?

Visitors to Bora Bora are treated to an array of activities, showcasing its stunning natural beauty and offering a plethora of Bora Bora sightseeing opportunities. The island, famous for its breathtaking turquoise lagoon, often hailed as the most beautiful in the world, vibrant coral gardens, and pristine white sandy beaches, offers endless things to do in Bora Bora. From hiking, exploring the small islets known as motu in Tahitian, relaxing under the tropical sun, taking evening strolls along the shore, indulging in spa treatments, to dining out, the Bora Bora activities are diverse and fulfilling. Wondering what can you do in Bora Bora? The island’s entertainment options cater to every visitor’s desires, making entertainment in Bora Bora varied and exciting.

Can you share some fascinating facts about Bora Bora?

Certainly! Here are five intriguing facts about Bora Bora:

The island is home to approximately 10,000 residents.
Mount Otemanu, the island’s highest point, rises to 727 meters.
Bora Bora is a territory of France.
In terms of visitors, Hawaii receives more in 10 days than Bora Bora does in an entire year.
The St Regis Bora Bora Resort was a filming location for the movie “Couples Retreat.”

Which Bora Bora resort did the Kardashians visit?

The Kardashians vacationed at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, a luxurious resort known for its unparalleled views and pristine waters that blend seamlessly with dreamlike beaches. This French Polynesian hideaway captivated the celebrity family, making it their chosen retreat in 2011.

Why is Bora Bora a must-visit destination?

Bora Bora is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Pacific” and is celebrated as one of the most exquisite places on earth, embodying what is Bora Bora known for. The island boasts a crystal-clear lagoon, exceptional coral reefs, endless stretches of white sandy beaches, and dense forests teeming with lush green tropical vegetation, making it an unparalleled island paradise.

References

Your Bora Bora Itinerary: Must-Do Bora Bora Water Sports for an Unforgettable Vacation