Watersports in Bora Bora

Take to the waves and experience Bora Bora's crystal clear waters.

A utopia for water lovers, Bora Bora features breathtaking ocean views, diverse marine life and warm, clear waters that invite you to paddle, swim and float. Those who love snorkelling, diving, surfing and kayaking will fall in love with this paradise island. Snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs, explore the depths on diving adventures, ride the surf or glide on a SUP. On this gorgeous island, you’ll enjoy an aquatic odyssey like no other.

Surfing in Bora Bora

Surfers worldwide flock to Bora Bora in French Polynesia for its outstanding beaches and exhilarating waves. An exquisite blend of powder-white sand, warm waters and impressive swells offers an exciting surfing experience.

Experienced surfers especially appreciate Teavanui Pass. This renowned surf spot sits on the island of Bora Bora, within French Polynesia, and is famous for its massive barrels and powerful waves which provide an unforgettable ride. This one is for experienced surfers only.

We’d also recommend you check out Motu Piti Aau – although this is a less reliable spot for surfing than Teavanui Pass, it offers opportunities to surf from November to March, during the island’s wet season. Surfers should exercise caution however as this is during cyclone season, where strong winds and large waves can be risky. It’s also a challenging spot, so again, it’s better for experienced wave riders.

The best surfing conditions on the rest of the island occur from May to October when the swell direction changes. It’s important to research the ideal swell direction for each spot before heading out into the water.

We Suggest…

Secluded Tahiti & Rangiroa Tour

Tailor-made Holiday

This itinerary moves through three of French Polynesia's quieter islands, each reached only by boat or short inter-island flight, and each rarely appearing on a first-time visitor's itinerary. It suits travellers who have already done Bora Bora, or who would rather skip it, in favour of a slower, less-photographed route through French Polynesia. The journey begins on Tahiti, where volcanic peaks meet a coastline still shaped by the island's original Polynesian settlements.

9 days tailor-made from £4,185 per person View trip

Diving in Bora Bora

If you want to catch a glimpse of majestic manta rays and impressive sharks, then diving in Bora Bora is a must. On each dive, you’re treated to a symphony of vibrant hard and soft corals, bustling with an array of reef fish. The allure of exploring the waters within the world’s most exquisite lagoon is a must for many divers.

The island’s unique volcanic shaping has bestowed Bora Bora with a serene, translucent lagoon, that sits bordered islets and a coral reef, punctuated by a single pass leading to the deep blue embrace of the Pacific Ocean. Yet, it’s the sheer abundance and diversity of marine life that steals the limelight in Bora Bora’s underwater realm. Eagle rays, stingrays, bat rays and leopard rays can all be seen, as well as black tip reef sharks, lemon sharks, grey sharks, white tip sharks and hammerhead sharks. Humpback whales have even been spotted in these waters from late July to November.

Numerous established dive sites grace Bora Bora’s waters, catering to divers of all proficiency levels. The inner tranquility of the lagoon is perfect for beginners, while those seeking a challenge will find more intricate dives beyond the protective reef.

Sailing in Bora Bora

Embark on an exquisite sailing journey around Bora Bora and find beautiful views and landscapes along the way. Bora Bora offers a range of experiences for both experienced and beginner sailors. Flit around picture-perfect islands, jump off for a swim in crystal-clear turquoise bays, and get up close and personal with marine life.

Stop off on tiny islands and find remote villages and quaint beachside spots. Float over tranquil lagoons and past idyllic beaches. Your sailing journey is sure to be magical and memorable in equal measure.

When planning a sailing sojourn in this region, the prime months for weather span from May to October. During this period, the trade winds ensure a steady and dependable sailing environment. Nonetheless, it’s advised to acquaint yourself with the average weather patterns for when you plan to go, so you can optimise your voyage and steer clear of any inclement conditions.

We Suggest…

Polynesian Paradise: An Overwater Villa Escape

Tailor-made Holiday

This itinerary is built around one thing: waking up over the water, on three of French Polynesia's most iconic islands. Every hotel here is chosen specifically for its overwater accommodation, not as an upgrade option but as the room type itself, from the first night in Tahiti through to the last night in Bora Bora. Tahiti opens the trip in an overwater bungalow at the InterContinental, with coral reefs visible directly from the deck.

10 days tailor-made from £6,650 per person View trip