Bora Bora packs a remarkable range of activities into a very small island. The lagoon is the centrepiece — one of the most beautiful in the Pacific — and most of what draws visitors here takes place on or in it. But the volcanic interior of the main island rewards exploration too.
The Bora Bora Lagoonarium, located on a small islet in the lagoon, offers close encounters with rays, turtles, and tropical fish in shallow, calm water. It's ideal for less confident swimmers and a good introduction to the lagoon's underwater life before venturing further out.
Mount Otemanu (727 m) and the adjacent Mount Pahia dominate the island's skyline. Neither can be summited without serious climbing equipment, but guided hikes through the lush interior reach high ridgelines with sweeping views over the lagoon and outer reef. The greenery — dense tropical forest, coconut groves, flowering hibiscus — is a striking contrast to the turquoise water below.
The island's World War II fortifications are a surprisingly compelling attraction. American forces built gun emplacements and bunkers across the island after 1942 when Bora Bora served as a key supply base; the cannons at the top of Matira Point and other sites are accessible on guided jeep tours.
Lagoon excursions by glass-bottom boat, kayak, outrigger canoe, or motorised skiff cover the same territory from the water. Most operators include a shark and ray feeding stop in the shallow lagoon waters inside the reef — an unforgettable experience if you're comfortable in the water.