A beautiful beach in Bora Bora on a sunny day

Updated: June 10, 2026

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Bora Bora: 5-Day Itinerary

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This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a vacation in Bora Bora and want to make the most of your trip? You’ve come to the right place! 

Bora Bora is everything you see in those travel documentaries and magazines. Yes, the lagoon is that neon turquoise (you’ll finally convince yourself it’s not photoshopped!). The overwater huts with thatched roofs are actually ultra-luxurious inside, and most restaurants sit right by the beach, so your lunch comes with views of colorful fish swimming near your feet. 

Whether you’re planning on snorkeling, hiking, cruising on two wheels, or simply being lazy on the beach, this 5-day itinerary has you covered. We did the hard work, so you don’t have to waste time planning every moment. Just show up and enjoy! 

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

A-stingray-seen-at-stingray-city-on-a-snorkel-tour-in-Bora Bora

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our FAVORITE thing we did in Bora Bora was this full-day lagoon tour! Cruising the turquoise lagoon, coming face-to-face with sharks and stingrays, and enjoying a Polynesian-style lunch made for the ultimate island experience. It was the perfect mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and local culture!

Check the 1,500+ reviews and book this tour here.

Itinerary Overview

A-woman-enjoys-the beach on a tour of Bora Bora
Welcome to paradise!
View of Bora Bora from drone (2)
Yes, it’s this beautiful!

Bora Bora is a small island surrounded by many motus (islets). This itinerary is based on staying on the main island since most tours and excursions depart from here. Many travelers spend their first few days here before heading to a resort on a motu to enjoy the overwater bungalow experience!

That being said, if you’re already staying in an overwater bungalow, most of these tours offer a pick-up service; you’ll just have to confirm beforehand. Since Bora Bora is so compact, even if you’re staying in Vaitape or Matira Beach, it’s only about a 15-minute drive to get around.

If you’re based in a resort on a motu, you’ll need to take a ferry to the main island for some activities. To get around, you will probably want to rent a scooter or a car. Nothing is very far, and having your own wheels makes it easy to explore whenever you want. 

Taxis are also available, but they’re more expensive and not as available in the evening. Note that there aren’t many breakfast options around because most people eat at their hotels.

Ready to see what 5 days in Bora Bora looks like? Let’s get into it! 

Day 1: Spend an entire day on the water, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying lunch with island views. End the day with a sunset dinner at one of the best restaurants in town. 

Day 2: Depending on how well you slept, you can either start your day with a hike or be lazy on Matira Beach, where you can also grab a quick lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day 4×4 island safari and wrap things up with a nice dinner and a dance performance at a lovely restaurant. 

Day 3: Start the day with a pearl farm tour and learn why Bora Bora’s black pearls are so prized, then circle the island on a motorbike or e-bike. Reserve your evening for a catamaran sunset cruise and dinner back at your favorite restaurant. 

Day 4: Choose between a scuba diving or snorkeling tour, then refuel with lunch near Matira Beach and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the beach. Finish the day with a delicious dinner at one of the nicest off-resort restaurants on the island. 

Day 5: Kickstart the morning with a hike to Mount Mata Pupu, then refuel with lunch by the beach before going jet skiing around the island. Catch the sunset at Matira Beach and finish off your trip with dinner overlooking the water. 

Day 1 

Morning – Spend a day on the water with snorkeling, swimming, and island views

A-stingray-in-the-water-seen-on-a-tour-in-Bora Bora
Swimming with rays!
The view of Bora Bora from the water on a boat tour
Yep, it’s this pretty

There’s no better way to kick off your Bora Bora itinerary than with this full-day lagoon tour. Not only will you see some of Bora Bora’s most famous scenery right away, but you’ll also get a glimpse into the local culture, helping you connect with the island beyond its beautiful beaches.

The tour runs from 9 am to 3 pm and includes pick-up from most hotels on the main island, so getting started couldn’t be easier. After setting off across Bora Bora’s famous turquoise lagoon with a small group and friendly local guides, you’ll visit some of the area’s best snorkeling spots, including a colorful coral garden teeming with tropical fish. 

You’ll also get to splash around with friendly stingrays in the shallows before experiencing the thrill of swimming alongside blacktip reef sharks. It’s easily one of the most memorable moments of the day!

Bailey-snorkels-in-Bora Bora
The snorkeling was incredible
Two-people-relax-in-the-shallow-waters-of-Bora Bora
Talk about relaxing!

Around midday, you’ll cruise to a private motu for a Polynesian-style lunch served right on the beach, with Mount Otemanu providing an incredible backdrop. Fresh grilled fish, chicken, salads, and tropical fruit are on the menu, but the cultural demonstrations and live local music are what make this stop so special. Watching traditional coconut weaving and learning more about Polynesian traditions added a whole new layer to the experience and gave us a much better feel for the island’s culture.

The combination of stunning scenery, marine life, local traditions, and plenty of time to relax makes this one of the best introductions to Bora Bora. By the time you return to your hotel around 3 pm, you’ll already have experienced many of the things that make this island so unforgettable.

Dinner – Restaurant Saint James  

Saint James Bora Bora in Bora Bora
Photo credit: Saint James Bora Bora
Saint James Bora Bora in Bora Bora 1
Photo credit: Saint James Bora Bora

Your tour ends around 3 pm, so head back to your hotel to freshen up and relax for a while. Hit the beach, hang out by the pool, or just relax and take it easy before dinner. Tonight, we’re taking you to Restaurant Saint James right by the beach, where the bar tables are literally set in the sand.

Here, you get to treat yourself to some delicious French cuisine specialties with Polynesian flavors, French wines, or a cocktail if you prefer, all served on a lovely terrace on stilts above the lagoon. Before the food even arrived, we spotted a ray and plenty of fish swimming right beside our table, so we spent most of the time leaning over the railing, trying to catch the next surprise gliding by.

And when the food showed up, there was no talking. Fresh fish, delicious sauces, crusty French baguettes, each dish beautifully presented. One thing you absolutely have to try is their specialty, Poisson Cru, made with raw fish cured in lime juice and fresh coconut milk.

There’s also a little shop on-site selling sarongs, bikinis, bags, and jewelry if you want to take a look before heading back. For those staying further away without a rental car, don’t worry, the restaurant can help arrange rides to and from your resort. Just keep in mind that Restaurant Saint James is closed on Sundays, so make sure to plan accordingly. 

Day 2 

Morning – Go on an easy hike or hit the beach 

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-Matira Beach in Bora Bora
Matira Beach!
Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora
Views from along the trail

Hopefully you’ve had a good rest, as today we have another busy day planned for you. If you’re an active traveler, there’s a nice and easy hike that offers great views. The trail to the Tuuraapuo Communication Towers (TV Towers) is about 1 mile (1.6 km) and should only take around an hour.

There’s a slight elevation gain, but it’s a pretty easy hike. Plus, you’re surrounded by groves of hibiscus and pandanus trees, so there’s plenty of shade along the way. The reward comes as soon as the canopy starts to thin out near the towers, and you finally get to see just how beautiful Bora Bora really is from above. The best part is that it’s not overly popular, so you won’t have to deal with crowds. For us, it was exactly the peaceful retreat we were hoping for.

And if you’re looking for some serious beach time, head to Matira Beach, one of the few free public beaches in Bora Bora. This is a proper tropical beach, with white sand and turquoise waters so clear you can spot colorful fish swimming all around you. The water is also very shallow, which means you can walk far into the lagoon with it barely reaching your waist. A paradise for kids, for sure!

You can also rent a kayak or try paddleboarding here, but we decided to stay lazy, lounge in the sun, and enjoy a few cocktails instead.

Lunch – Snack Matira 

Pizza-eaten-for-lunch in Bora Bora
Yum!

While you’re in the area, we suggest grabbing lunch at Snack Matira (open 10 am–4 pm daily except Mondays), which is right at the entrance to Matira Beach. From the outside, it might look like a shack, but don’t let that fool you. Once you’re seated and take a look around, you’ll quickly realize it’s actually the perfect spot for cooling off or having lunch between swims. 

We loved that it was just an open-air wooden patio shaded by palm trees, and that we could walk straight off the sand in our bathing suits to order. Isn’t that the best? Food-wise, you’ll find all the usuals here, from omelets, pizzas, salads, and sandwiches to Mahi-Mahi fish burgers. But make sure to grab a coconut milkshake for later, especially if you’re heading back to the beach.

This might not be the fancy food stop you were expecting, but you’ll remember the views and the fact that you enjoyed eating like a local, too. It’s also one of the more affordable places in the area, so you can even splurge on an extra cocktail or two. When you’re done with lunch, head back to your hotel and get ready for your afternoon tour.

Afternoon – Explore Bora Bora’s wild side on a 4X4 island safari 

A cannon from WWII in Bora Bora seen on a tour
A cannon from WWII
The landscape seen on a 4x4 tour of Bora Bora
This is a great way to see Bora Bora’s rugged and beautiful landscape

After a relaxing morning at the beach or on the trails, it’s time to trade the lagoon for Bora Bora’s rugged interior. This 4X4 safari takes you off the beaten path to scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and lush valleys that many visitors never get to see.

We recommend booking the 1:30 pm tour, which wraps up around 5 pm and includes hotel pick-up from main island hotels, with motu pick-up available upon request. Once aboard the open-air 4X4, you’ll leave the paved roads behind and head into Bora Bora’s rugged interior, tackling dirt tracks, steep inclines, and winding trails as your guide shares stories about the island along the way.

One of the highlights is a stop at Mount Popoti, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible 360-degree views over the lagoon, Mount Otemanu, and even some of the neighboring islands. You’ll also visit historic WWII gun emplacements, giving you a fascinating glimpse into Bora Bora’s role during the war.

The tour continues through Faanui Valley, home to tropical fruit plantations and local artisans. We loved getting to sample fresh mangos and coconuts straight from the trees, and it was fun seeing a local artist hand-paint traditional pareos right before our eyes.

Lasting just over three hours, this small-group tour packs a surprising amount into one afternoon. Between the viewpoints, history, local culture, and off-road adventure, it’s easy to see why so many travelers consider this one of the best tours in Bora Bora.

Dinner – Bora Bora Yacht Club 

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Cheers to a great day!
Tuna tartar with avocado and lemon eaten for dinner in Bora Bora
The seafood here is as fresh as it gets

After your quad bike tour ends around 5 pm, you’ll have enough time to wash off the dust and change into something a little nicer, as we’re sending you to the Bora Bora Yacht Club for dinner. Don’t get us wrong, this isn’t fine dining or anything like that. It’s actually a casual open-air restaurant and one of the most popular spots for fresh seafood on the island (still, that doesn’t mean you don’t get to dress up!). 

Also, you don’t have to think twice about what to order here. Local fishing boats dock right here to deliver the catch of the day, so we’d suggest either the pan-seared Mahi-Mahi or the Trio of Tahitian Fish paired with a nice glass of chilled white wine. You won’t regret it! Of course, there’s also risotto, pasta, stir-fries, and plenty of other choices if you don’t eat fish or meat.

Depending on the night of the week, there are Polynesian performances here, including live traditional dancing and even fire-twirling shows. If you can catch one, be sure to do so, even if it means switching the days around in this itinerary!

It’s open every day until 11 pm, so even if you arrive around 7 or 8 pm, you still have plenty of time to settle in, order another glass (or two) of wine, and really take your time. Better yet, you don’t even have to drive, as they offer a free taxi service from 5 pm for guests staying on the main island.

Day 3

Morning – Discover the island’s famous black pearls

Farming for black pearls on a tour in Bora Bora
It was really cool learning about black pearls
A shell full of black pearls in Bora Bora
Look at them all!

Bora Bora is known for its stunning lagoon, but it’s also famous for producing some of the world’s most beautiful black pearls. This interactive pearl farm tour offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how these prized gems are cultivated, along with the chance to see if you can find one of your own.

The tour runs from 9 am to 11 am, but you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Vaitape by 8:30 am. Since Vaitape is the island’s main town and transportation hub, it’s easy to reach from most resorts, although those staying on the motus should allow extra time for the boat transfer.

The experience begins with a short boat ride to Motu Taufarii, where you’ll learn about the history of black pearls and the delicate process used to cultivate them. Afterward, you’ll have the chance to hop into the lagoon for a quick snorkel near the coral garden, where you can see the oyster lines gently swaying beneath the water.

Then comes the most exciting part: selecting oysters and discovering whether one contains a pearl inside. There’s a surprising amount of suspense involved, and if you’re lucky enough to find one, you’ll leave with a truly unique souvenir from your time in Bora Bora.

Educational, interactive, and completely unique to French Polynesia, this experience offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Bora Bora’s most iconic industries. It’s no wonder this tour has earned so many glowing 5-star reviews.

Lunch – Bora Healthy  

Bora Healthy in Bora Bora (1)
Photo credit: Bora Healthy
Bora Healthy in Bora Bora (2)
Photo credit: Bora Healthy

After your tour, stop by Bora Healthy for a light and casual lunch. The opening hours are a bit unusual: Monday to Friday from 10 am to 2 pm and again from 6 pm to 9 pm, only from 6 pm to 9 pm on Sundays, and closed on Saturdays. But since it’s just a 10-minute walk from where the tour ends, it’s a very convenient spot to grab lunch. Plus, it’s much more affordable than most dining spots on the island.

It might not look like much from the outside, but the food is delicious, and the portions are pretty generous too. The most popular dishes are the poke and Buddha bowls, which you can put together however you like. You’ll also find burgers and plenty of sweet treats, including their homemade banana tart, which looked so tempting we just couldn’t resist it, and you should definitely go for it too!

Afternoon – Rent a motorbike or e-bike and circle the island

A woman rides a scooter in Bora Bora
A motorbike is a great way to see the island!
WWII cannon seen on Bora Bora
The WWII cannons at Faanui

This afternoon is all about cruising the island on two wheels, whether you opt for a motorbike or an e-bike. There’s a single road that circles the main island, and it’s 32 kilometers (about 20 miles) long. It takes around 45 minutes to complete this drive without stopping, but trust us, those stops are essential!

If you decide on an e-bike, it will take a bit longer, but the roads are flat and paved, so it’s still a very easy ride. Expect to spend between 2 and 3 hours exploring the island this way. If you’d rather have a scooter, you can rent one from Avis at the main docks in Vaitape.

There are also a few bike rental shops in Vaitape, so you can sort that out right after your morning tour. We suggest Bora Bora First Adventures as a good option for an e-bike.

Matira Beach (which you’ve already checked out) is worth another stop if you have the time. 

Make sure to pull over at some of the scenic viewpoints overlooking Mount Otemanu; there seems to be one around every corner! The WWII Guns at Faanui are an interesting bit of the island’s history, and Anau is another lovely stop, especially since you’ll have more time to explore it later.

Evening – Relax on a sunset cruise 

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Just enjoying the views!
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What a sunset!

After a busy day exploring the island, there’s no better way to slow things down than with this sunset sail across Bora Bora’s lagoon. Between the incredible scenery, relaxed atmosphere, and front-row seat to one of the island’s famous sunsets, this catamaran cruise is the perfect way to end the day.

This tour is only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so you may need to move it around depending on your travel dates. Luckily, this itinerary is very flexible, making it easy to swap activities if needed. The departure time varies throughout the year, but plan on being ready around 4:15 pm, with the tour returning around 6:15 to 6:30 pm.

After being picked up from your hotel dock, you’ll transfer to a spacious catamaran and settle into the padded lounge areas as you set sail across the lagoon. Once the sails go up and the engine cuts out, the boat glides quietly over the water, creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

As the sun begins to set, Mount Otemanu provides a dramatic backdrop while the sky shifts through shades of orange, pink, and purple. The crew keeps everyone stocked with drinks and light snacks, and there’s plenty of space to stretch out on the front netting and take in the views. We even spotted a double rainbow during our sail, which felt pretty magical.

Relaxed, intimate, and effortlessly beautiful, this sunset cruise is one of the best ways to experience Bora Bora. It’s no wonder this tour has earned so many glowing 5-star reviews.

Dinner – Return to your favorite restaurant!

Saint James Bora Bora in Bora Bora 2
Photo credit: Saint James Bora Bora

It’s been a long day, and by now you’re probably starving. There honestly aren’t a ton of restaurants in Bora Bora, so we’d recommend going back to one of the places we mentioned over the last two days: Bora Bora Yacht Club or Restaurant Saint James.

We’d definitely go with the first one if they have a dance show scheduled. If not, having your feet in the sand at Saint James is also a great way to relax for the evening. Whichever you choose, try not to stay out too late, as we’ve got a big day planned for tomorrow, and it starts bright and early.

Day 4

Morning option 1: Go scuba diving

Daniel-scuba-diving-in-Bora Bora
We love diving!
A-manta-ray-seen-on-a-scuba tour of Bora Bora
A manta ray we saw on a boat excursion!

If you’re a certified diver, this scuba adventure is your chance to experience the underwater world that makes Bora Bora famous. While the island’s lagoon is stunning from above, nothing compares to seeing it from below, especially when manta rays, reef sharks, and vibrant coral reefs are involved.

This two-tank dive tour includes hotel pick-up between 7 and 8:30 am and lasts approximately four hours, getting you back around 12:30 to 1 pm—just in time for lunch. One thing we loved about this experience was that groups are capped at just five divers per instructor, so it felt personal and relaxed rather than rushed.

After boarding the dive boat, you’ll head out to two different dive sites showcasing different sides of Bora Bora’s underwater landscape. The first dive takes place in the calm lagoon, where you’ll drift past colorful coral formations and schools of tropical fish in every direction. It’s a great way to ease into the day and get comfortable in the water.

The second dive is where things really get exciting. Just outside the reef, you’ll have the chance to encounter some of Bora Bora’s most famous marine life, including graceful manta rays and reef sharks cruising through the blue. It was easily the highlight of the morning for us.

Between dives, you’ll have time to relax on the specially designed dive boat while enjoying tea, water, and cookies before heading back out for more underwater exploration. For certified divers, this is hands down one of the best experiences in Bora Bora!

Morning option 2: Snorkel your way through Bora Bora’s coral gardens 

A-woman-snorkels-during-a-tour in Bora Bora
Such a cool experience
Coral-seen-in-Bora Bora
So pretty!

Don’t have your dive certification? No problem! While you’ve already spent some time snorkeling on Day 1, can you really get enough of Bora Bora’s crystal-clear water, colorful coral gardens, manta rays, and sharks? We certainly couldn’t, which is why this snorkeling tour makes such a great alternative.

Hotel pick-up is available starting around 9 am, and the tour wraps up around 12:30 to 1 pm, making it easy to fit into your day. Plus, with a small group and attentive guides, the experience feels personal from start to finish.

The adventure begins with a visit to one of Bora Bora’s famous manta ray cleaning stations, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel alongside these graceful giants as they glide effortlessly through the water. From there, you’ll visit two different coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, giant clams, and even the occasional moray eel hiding among the reef. The coral itself is incredibly vibrant and healthy, making every stop feel like swimming through a giant aquarium!

Later, you’ll head into deeper water in search of eagle rays and blacktip reef sharks. The guides are fantastic at helping less confident swimmers feel comfortable, and they stay close by throughout the experience.

When you’re not in the water, you’ll have time to relax on the shaded boat while enjoying bottled water and taking in the scenery. Combining incredible marine life, beautiful lagoon views, and some of Bora Bora’s best snorkeling spots, it’s easy to see why this tour has earned more than a THOUSAND five-star reviews.

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Lunch – The Lucky House 

Steak-eaten for lunch in Bora Bora
A great lunch spot!

After a busy morning, The Lucky House is exactly where you’ll want to be. It’s right next to Matira Beach, so you really can’t miss it, and most importantly, if you’re hungry (and you will be), it’s got a variety of comfort food that usually hits the spot. 

The menu is unbelievable, with more than 30 different pizzas, cheeseburgers, loaded nachos, and even vegan meals. Like many places in Bora Bora, it’s pretty simple from the outside, but once you see and taste their giant portions, you’ll soon find out why people keep coming back.

This place even has a small backyard pool, so grabbing a cocktail after lunch while cooling off in the pool isn’t a bad idea. If there’s a match on, the atmosphere changes completely as fans start cheering in front of the big TV screens. We absolutely loved it! 

It opens at 11:30 am every day, so definitely grab lunch here, then get ready for a relaxing afternoon at the beach. 

Afternoon – Relax on Matira Beach 

Matira Beach in Bora Bora (2)
Matira Beach

There are about a dozen private resort beaches in Bora Bora, but Matira Beach is one of the few free and public ones, plus it’s gorgeous! We spent most of our lazy afternoons here as the water is crystal clear, shallow, and calm (it felt like being in a massive pool), and there are plenty of water activities when you’ve had enough lying in the sun. Plus, there are lots of restaurants right behind the beach, so grabbing food and drinks is easy.

Snorkeling is one of our favorite things to do here because you don’t need to swim far to spot colorful marine life. We saw clownfish and moray eels, but we were also told that blacktip reef sharks occasionally swim around here. Since the beach stretches for about a mile (1.6 km), it never feels crowded, and on weekends, you might even see local families barbecuing, playing the ukulele, and simply enjoying a day by the water.

You’ve got plenty of time to catch a tan this afternoon before heading back to the hotel to get ready for dinner.

Dinner – La Villa Mahana 

La Villa Mahana in Bora Bora (1)
Photo credit: La Villa Mahana
La Villa Mahana in Bora Bora (2)
Photo credit: La Villa Mahana

Dinner tonight is at La Villa Mahana, one of the nicest off-resort restaurants in Bora Bora. Unlike the usual shack-style spots, this one is set inside an intimate Mediterranean-style villa. We were immediately taken by the atmosphere. 

There were candles on every table, soft music in the background, an elegant table setup, a swing hanging from a tree in a lovely courtyard, and mostly couples enjoying a romantic evening. Because there are only about eight tables, both indoors and outdoors, we highly recommend booking ahead, preferably a few months in advance.

One thing that surprised us was seeing the chef come out to greet guests. We later learned that Damien Rinaldi-Dovio, the owner and chef, has been running the restaurant since 2003. With his French training, expect French cuisine with Polynesian influences and excellent wine pairings.

We absolutely loved the banana curry mahi-mahi and the filet de boeuf. For guests staying on the main island, they also provide a complimentary taxi service, so you don’t have to overthink that second (or third) glass of wine. Well, maybe just a little, as you’ve got an early morning hike tomorrow!

Day 5

Morning – Go hiking 

Lagoon in Bora Bora seen on a hike
Views of the lagoon along the trail

On your last morning, fuel up on breakfast at your hotel because you’re going to need it for the hike to Mount Mata Pupu. This trail is a bit more strenuous than the one to the TV Towers, but once you reach the peak, you’ll know it was all worth it. The reward is an absolutely stunning 360-degree panorama of both sides of the island, the lagoon, and Mount Otemanu.

As always, you have the option to skip the hike and spend a little more time at the beach or snorkeling. But if you’re an active traveler, you don’t want to miss this! One thing to keep in mind, though, if it’s been raining, don’t attempt this hike as the trail can get muddy and quite steep near the end. 

If conditions are good, plan on spending about 1.5 hours hiking, and make sure to bring a hat and, of course, plenty of water. The trail is located in the middle of the main island, about a 15-minute drive from Vaitape and just 5 minutes from Matira Beach, so it’s very easy to find.

Lunch – Restaurant Tama’a Maitai  

Grilled-fish-eaten-for-dinner-in-Bora Bora
Lunch time!

After our hike, we stopped at Restaurant Tama’a Maitai for a waterfront lunch, and we suggest you do the same. We loved the traditional Polynesian-style building and the tables right on the beach, so you can walk barefoot to order, and no one will even bat an eye. Once we sat down, we quickly realized why people love this spot, even if it’s a little pricier since it’s part of the Maitai Hotel. 

You’re overlooking the blue lagoon with boats passing by! The food was something else, too! We went for the shrimp in mango sauce with rice and the grilled fish with rice and veggies. If you still have room afterward, don’t miss the lava cake with locally made vanilla ice cream.

The restaurant opens at 11:30 am, so there’s no need to rush back from your hike. It’s located just north of the Matira Beach entrance and only a short drive from the trail.

Afternoon – Go jetskiing around the island

A-person-rides-a-jet-ski-in-Bora Bora
So much fun!
The view of Bora Bora on a jet ski expereince
And a great way to get some scenic views of Bora Bora

After conquering Mount Mata Pupu and enjoying a well-earned lunch, it’s time for one last adventure. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to experience Bora Bora’s lagoon, this jet ski tour is hard to beat. Between the crystal-clear water, incredible scenery, and adrenaline rush of speeding across the lagoon, it’s the perfect way to spend your final afternoon on the island.

This tour is offered at 9 am or 1 pm, but we recommend the 1 pm departure since hiking is much more enjoyable in the cooler morning temperatures. The tour includes hotel pick-up and lasts approximately two hours, getting you back around 3 pm with plenty of time to relax before sunset.

Once you hop on your jet ski, you’ll set off across the lagoon with Mount Otemanu towering in the background. We were surprised by how easy the jet skis were to operate, even for first-timers, and the small group size meant there was plenty of room to spread out while still keeping up with the guide.

Along the way, you’ll cruise past some of Bora Bora’s most beautiful scenery before stopping at a small motu for a break. Here, you’ll have time to go for a swim, watch a traditional coconut husking demonstration, and sip fresh coconut water while soaking in the tropical surroundings.

The two hours absolutely fly by thanks to the combination of adventure, scenery, and a few cultural touches along the way. Whether you choose to ride solo or share a jet ski, this tour is one of the most exciting ways to explore Bora Bora—and a memorable way to wrap up your final full day on the island!

Evening – Catch the sunset at Matira Beach

Matira Beach sunset Bora Bora
A great sunset spot

Your tour finishes at 3 pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to head back to your hotel and relax for a bit. Since this is your last night here, we recommend making your way to Matira Beach for a chilled evening watching the sun go down! This is by far the best spot to catch the sunset in Bora Bora, so grab some drinks and head over.

We arrived at golden hour (best light for beach photos) and loved watching the colors of the lagoon change. This is also the time when most beachgoers pack up their things and leave, so the beach feels quieter and more intimate (maybe a ukulele playing somewhere nearby, which is even better).

It’s ideal for a romantic evening or just a fun thing to do with your kids, perhaps scavenging for shells and rocks to bring home. For us, it was a lovely way to unwind and enjoy a few cocktails before dinner.

Dinner – Bora Bora Beach Club 

Stuffed Baked Lobster eaten for dinner in Bora Bora
A great way to end the trip!

Finish off your trip with dinner (and maybe a little dancing) at the familiar Bora Bora Beach Club overlooking the water. The restaurant is located in Matira, so you won’t have to go far. Since it’s your last night, we suggest splurging a little. 

Start with the seafood platter and order the catch of the day for your main. You won’t regret it! Pair that with a good French wine, and you’ll probably end up staying longer than planned, which is perfectly fine since there’s nowhere else to rush off to.

And if you happen to catch a show, even better! Just be warned, you might end up on the dance floor yourself. The place stays open until 11 pm, so sit back, relax, and enjoy, or as they say around here, Maita’i! 

Where to Stay in Bora Bora

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort in Bora Bora 1
Photo credit: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort in Bora Bora
Photo credit: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Now that you have your Bora Bora itinerary all set, you just need a great place to stay! Accommodation here tends to be pretty luxurious—think secluded beachfront suites and stunning overwater villas.

Budget is a relative term in Bora Bora, but we’ve sifted through all of the options and picked our favorite luxurious, mid-range, and budget-friendly options to help you find the perfect base for your vacation. Because places here book up fast (especially the top-rated ones), reserving early is definitely your best bet.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort – $$$ 

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is the pinnacle of luxury in Bora Bora! It offers overwater and beachfront villas with breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Each villa features hand-carved Polynesian décor, Italian marble bathrooms, and options like private pools, whirlpools, or outdoor showers. This truly is next-level luxury. 

Beyond the opulent villas, there are also two pools on site, and you can even enjoy a floating breakfast! There are also multiple restaurants on site, including the Lagoon, which serves Asian-French fusion, and Bam Boo, which offers teppanyaki and sushi. Meanwhile, the Iridium Spa provides massages, a sauna, a steam room, and beauty treatments, making it easy to unwind completely.

This would be the ultimate place to stay if you’re heading to Bora Bora on your honeymoon! Prices typically range from $1,600 to $7,000 USD per night, depending on villa type and season. Check availability and book your stay here!

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts – $$ 

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts offers a gorgeous island escape. Guests have a choice of garden villas with private pools, beachfront suites, or overwater bungalows with direct lagoon access. How dreamy is that? Each unit comes with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a 20-inch LCD satellite TV, all designed for comfort with breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu. Meanwhile, dining here is exceptional.

The resort is home to three restaurants and a bar, including Otemanu Restaurant, which serves al fresco meals overlooking the turquoise lagoon. There’s also a huge communal pool, a top-notch tennis court, and a serene spa. Prices typically start at $1,300 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

Maitai Bora Bora – $ 

Maitai Bora Bora sits on the famous Matira Point Beach in southern Bora Bora, offering a mix of garden-view rooms, lagoon-view rooms, and bungalows with direct beach access or overwater locations. Best of all, the overwater bungalows feature glass tables so you can watch tropical fish from your room – how cool is that?

Dining is a treat at Haere Mai restaurant, where French and Polynesian cuisine is served alongside traditional Polynesian singing and dancing. You’ll also be able to take advantage of free snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing equipment.

With the beach at your doorstep and the airport just six miles away, Le Maitai Polynesia combines convenience, charm, and a relaxed island vibe. Prices typically range from $250 to $1,500 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

For more options, click here to see all listed properties in Bora Bora!

Related Read: If you don’t see a hotel calling your name, our complete guide on where to stay in Bora Bora has more dreamy overwater villas and beachfront stays!

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Thanks for reading!

Bailey-and-Daniel-pose-for-a-photo-in Bora Bora
Thanks for reading!

Five days in Bora Bora might sound like a long time to spend on one small island, but trust us, it flies by. Between snorkeling with sharks and rays, cruising across the lagoon, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, and spending lazy afternoons on Matira Beach, every day brings something different. By the end of this itinerary, you’ll have experienced Bora Bora from just about every angle.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Oceania travel guides for more tips, favorite tours, and hidden gems that can make planning your trip even easier. Or, if you’re already looking for your next adventure, here are a few destinations we think you’ll love!

The Best Overwater Bungalows in Moorea, French Polynesia

15 BEST Places to Visit in Fiji

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Launceston, Tasmania: 3-Day Itinerary

The Services We Recommend

From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Costa Rica with confidence.

Bailey and Daniel are the married couple who started this blog. They’re endlessly curious, always planning the next adventure, and happiest when they’re on the move. Travel isn’t something they do once or twice a year — it’s the way they’ve chosen to live their lives.

Learn more about Dan & Bailey

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