Bora Bora

Bora Bora, the most beautiful island in French Polynesia –

perhaps the entire South Pacific and maybe even the world – does not disappoint!

Simply arriving here by air (via a 45-minute flight from the international airport in Papeete) is a breathtaking thrill as the island’s towering jagged green peak, Mt. Otemanu, appears on the horizon, surrounded on all sides by the clearest, most captivating blue lagoon imaginable.

It’s not just one shade of blue, but dozens, probably even hundreds. It is a sight one does not easily, if ever, forget.

The most photographed and written-about of Tahiti’s islands, Bora Bora has surged in popularity over the past two decades, resulting in a flurry of luxury resort development (which bordered on over-development, but building has now subsided after the boom years of 2003-2008).

From its pristine white-sand beaches to its tropical-fish-packed lagoons, Bora Bora’s natural splendors have enthralled visitors for centuries (from sailors to painters to poets) and vacationers (especially honeymooners) since the first overwater bungalows appeared more than 40 years ago.

Unlike on Tahiti and Moorea, most resorts on Bora Bora are not located on the island proper, but rather on the ring of small motus that surround it – giving most resorts amazing lagoon and Mt. Otemanu views. Thus, transport is primarily via boat. Most resorts have private motorboats that will pick up guests at Bora Bora airport, and deliver them right to the resort’s dock (travelers should arrange this in advance). Another option is to take the ferry to the port village of Vaitape, where land transport is available to the resorts that are located on the main island rather than a private motu.