Bora Bora - Excursions

Places to visit

The American author, James Michener, described Bora Bora as the most beautiful island on earth. We invite you to see for yourself what inspired the writer to make such a bold claim. Dominated by two towering volcanic peaks that are visible from any point on the island, Bora Bora is indeed awesome.

As our frequent visitors will attest, sightseeing on Bora Bora is a soul-satisfying experience. Guests can inspect the World War II relics that dot the island, visit museums and art galleries, walk along beautiful Matira Beach, or simply examine the colorful flora that blooms around the island.

Whatever you choose, take it slow. In Bora Bora, the locals believe in taking time to "smell the flowers."

Bloody Mary's

Few watering holes are so mythic that they merit inclusion on a list of historic sites, but this bar/restaurant is an exception. Bloody Mary's is a Bora Bora institution, thanks to the many international celebrities who have passed through her doors. The restaurant's more famous patrons are listed on a prominent sign inside the bar. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Marae Aehua-Tai

Resembling a wall of black slab tombstones, Marae Aehua-Tai is one of several ancient Polynesian temples on Bora Bora. From the stone site visitors are afforded an excellent view across the lagoon.

Marae Marotetini

Restored in 1968, this landmark was once the most important Polynesian temple on Bora Bora. According to the old religion, the "marae" stones here are associated with Mt. Otemenu. Nearby are a pair of tombs built for the Bora Bora royal family during the 19th century. 

Marae Taharuu

One of the more curious ancient "marae" stones in all French Polynesia, Marae Taharuu is a tall, thumb-shaped obelisk that juts from the earth. This vantage point also yields one of the finest views in Bora Bora. 

Matira Point

A popular attraction with both locals and tourists, Matira Point is a pin-shaped parcel of land that is home to one of Bora Bora's finest public beaches. The Point is named after the 490-ton British ship, Mathilda, which wrecked in 1792. "Matira" is the Tahitian pronunciation of Mathilda.

Mount Pahia

This majestic volcanic peak is greatly admired for its imposing beauty. Depending on the weather and the time of day, visitors can see brilliant contrasts in light and color between the great peak and the ever-changing lagoon that surrounds it.

Mount Otemanu

Situated on the island's east coast, Mount Otemanu is the highest point on Bora Bora. Made of ominous black rock, this ramrod-straight peak dwarfs nearly everything on the island.

Marine Museum

Nautical enthusiasts are encouraged to visit this popular maritime museum. Among the exhibits on display are a Mark II coastal defense gun and remnants of various vehicles and old vessels.

World War II Relics

In the wake of the 1942 Japanese raid on Pearl Harbor, Bora Bora was selected as a refueling base. Some remnants of the American military presence can still be observed on the island. 

On an elevation at Matira Point, visitors can see a World War II coastal defense gun installment. An even more impressive defense gun emplacement can be viewed at Tuivahora Point.

On the very tip of Anau Village you will find a boat pier and seaplane ramp. Still in use today, the pier's sloping concrete ramp was used as a seaplane base. Another kilometer up the road is an old vatlike structure which was initially built to accommodate submarines.