There are so many activities to enjoy in the world's most famous lagoon that some visitors never leave the water.  The clear, shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling, and you can start from you bungalow or off the beaches anywhere around Bora Bora.  Another way to see the bright coral and schools of tropical fish is upon a glass bottom boat.  But, for an even faster pace, explore the entire lagoon by rented motorboat or Jet Ski where you and your guide can glide around the island, stopping off at a beach or a tiny motu along the way for a picnic.

Because of the abundance of large marine life, diving within the waters of Bora Bora’s lagoon is on many diver's "must do" list.  During the dives, it is common to be joined by legions of gigantic manta rays gliding gracefully within arm's reach while schools of reef sharks parade by.  Perfect for both beginning and advanced divers, diving highlights include shallow waters, oceanic drop-offs, sunken ships and planes, a beautiful coral reef, and schools of smaller species. 

Although the idea of feeding sharks may sound somewhat ominous, it is now one of the most popular excursions in the South Pacific.  Originated on Bora Bora, your close encounter begins when you put on a snorkeling mask and float in the shallow lagoon waters behind a secure rope.  Docile sharks arrive in schools and are hand-fed by your guide just a few feet away.  Later in the same tour, you'll stand in shallow waters as graceful rays circle the group with ballet-like movements.

Even though Bora Bora is small, the adventures along the interior roads are huge.  A favorite activity among visitors is the circle-island tour of the dramatic coastline.  The scenery includes wave-pounded cliffs, peaceful beaches, brightly colored homes and splendid historic sites.  Stops are made at many overlooks, ancient Maraes, and waterfalls.  Extended tours can be taken to the island interior, which will make you feel as if you have been transported to another world.  These overgrown forest roads wind high above the lagoon to panoramic stops that can only be described as breathtaking.  The island's role during World War II is expertly told as you visit large U.S. Naval guns left behind in 1945.

Attractions in Bora Bora

One attraction that Bora Bora has to offer is its shops and boutiques, with lots of them scattered about the island you will find thousands of Polynesian goodies.  These shops carry an endless variety of Pacific Island related products, including wonderful gift ideas like island handicrafts, beautiful clothing, paintings, paraeus, shells, books, art, and much more.  Bora Bora also offers a number of quality art galleries and working artists on the island, exhibiting a fine collection of arts and crafts from Bora Bora, as well as other Polynesian islands and around the world.

The island of Bora Bora has many historic sites within its shores that can be enjoyed and explored.  The ancient Marae temples are symbols to many of the history of the Polynesian islands themselves.  Fascinating and well-studied sources of archeological interest, these Maraes are amazing to experience even if you're not a big history buff.  All of Bora Bora’s Marae temples are set along the coast.

Another activity that has been attracting vacationers to Bora Bora is their superb Polynesian Spas.  From the soothing lagoon waters to the air scented of vanilla and flowers, Bora Bora has all the ingredients necessary to create an unmatched spa experience for you and yours.  Some call it a ‘spa within a spa’ experience, one found nowhere else on earth.  With the addition of spa facilities within the luxury resorts and cruise ships, Tahiti has quickly become one of the world's leading spa destinations.  Most spas are open-air and located in garden areas facing the blue lagoons.

Bora Bora has been attracting guests with its nickname, the Romantic Isle for more than 40 years.  Considered its biggest attraction, Bora Bora has the ability to create the perfect romantic getaway for you and your better half.  Needless to say, the resorts on this island have mastered romance and offer a variety of ways to do this.  They include breakfast brought to your overwater bungalow's private balcony by an outrigger canoe regaled in flowers, gourmet picnic lunches enjoyed from a private beach on a motu, sunset sails aboard a private catamaran including four-course dinner and the sounds and emotions of live Polynesian music and dancers, sharing a lagoon-view table at one of the many fine restaurants, and Polynesian wedding ceremonies from simple to royal.

Bora Bora’s most sought after attraction is its ultimate private island escape, Motu Tapu.  Motu Tapu is the most photographed isle in the South Pacific.  This tiny motu, just a few hundred yards from the main island, is best described as the world's most perfect place to relax.  Motu Tapu is reserved for guests of select resorts and groups with invitations.

Some of your best bets for Bora Bora activities and attractions include Moana Jet Boat Tours www.boraboraisland.com/jetboat/private.html, DiveEasy www.boraboraisland.com/diveasy/index.html, Deep Ocean Spa by Algotherm www.deepoceanspa.com, and Cap-Lagoon www.cap-lagoon.com.