When you go to Bora Bora, most of your time will be spent being amazed at the scenery. The place is so unspoiled, this is one of the only things to do here. There’s no bowling alley, no movie theater, no dog park, and almost no nightlife.
You’re totally removed from the modern world, and of course that’s what makes it incredibly romantic. Which is not to say you should stay in your bungalow the whole time. Here are a handful of awesome activities for which you should leave your newlywed cocoon.
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Swimming with sharks and rays
Bora Bora, Leeward Islands, French Polynesia
This is the most iconic activity in Bora Bora. There’s a cool little spot in the lagoon that is swarming with reef sharks (thankfully, they’re pescetarians) and stingrays (also harmless). When you go there by boat, the skipper gets in the water with a bucket of fish gruel, and it’s feeding time at the shark zoo. It’s a little scary, but completely safe and memorable (if you prefer you can hang out in the boat, but where’s the fun in that?). You’ll never get this up-close and personal with sharks and rays anywhere else, and it’s even better when you bring snorkels.
iconic activity | harmless marine life
Jet ski the islands
Bora Bora Moana Adventure Tours, Vaitape, French Polynesia
If you’ve never hopped aboard a jet ski before, Bora Bora is the one place in the world you need to try it. For one, you’re going over the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon, so you can see all sorts of marine life as you chug along. You’ll also have Mount Otemanu on the central island to serve as a backdrop and give you a good bearing of the land. Many resorts have their own skis but you can also book with Moana Jet Ski, which takes you to some cool spots you’d never see otherwise, plus the guide will even split open a fresh coconut for you.
crystal-clear waters | marine life | Mount Otemanu backdrop
Sunset cruise
Bora Bora, Leeward Islands, French Polynesia
We admit that sunset cruises are kind of a cheesy cliché, but this is your honeymoon and you’re in Bora Bora. The sunsets in the middle of the Pacific are so unbelievable it will give you goosebumps. What’s more, the sunset will be followed by an incredible view of the night sky, which is as clear as the lagoon, and it all adds up to an unforgettable experience. You may want to hire out your own catamaran or yacht (every resort can arrange this), and depending on where you stay, many five-star properties have their own vessel available (like Four Seasons’ swank catamaran). There’s no better place than a boat to dig into a fancy meal, crack open a bottle of champagne, and then watch the sunset and stargaze. Also, admit it: you’ve always wanted to recreate that Leo/Kate Titanic scene. Go right ahead: no one will judge you.
clear night sky | stargazing
Helicopter tour
Bora Bora, Leeward Islands, French Polynesia
The aerial view of Bora Bora is breathtaking. You see where the lagoon and ocean meet. You see the spectacular architecture of the overwater bungalows. You can spot rays and shark in the turquoise lagoon. And you’ll even see Tupai, an actual heart-shaped island, for an especially romantic honeymoon moment. Ask at your resort about booking a flight.
aerial view | spectacular architecture | Tupai
Take a hike
Bora Bora, Leeward Islands, French Polynesia
The last thing you might consider on a honeymoon in Tahiti is a hike, but hear us out. It’s nice to get your heart pumping after lounging, eating and drinking for days on end. The hikes in Bora Bora are stunning, with lush vegetation and breathtaking views, especially on the peaks. It’s also the most cultural thing you can do here. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. The concierge at your hotel will know all about the hikes (every local has done them as a kid), and the shortest one is Valley of the Kings, which is about 3 hours and great for all difficulty levels.
lush vegetation | cultural adventure
