How to Spend 5 Days in Bora Bora: A Dream Island Itinerary
Bora Bora—just the name conjures images of turquoise waters, lush volcanic peaks, and dreamy overwater bungalows. Located in French Polynesia, this world-famous island is often associated with honeymoons and luxury escapes. But beyond its iconic beauty, Bora Bora offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences, from swimming with rays to dining on a private beach. If you’re planning a short escape, this 5-day Bora Bora itinerary blends relaxation and adventure, letting you soak in every ounce of paradise without feeling rushed.
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Day 1: Arrival in Paradise + Sunset Cruise
Morning: Welcome to Bora Bora
After landing at Bora Bora’s tiny airport—located on a separate islet—you’ll immediately feel the magic of the island. Transfers to most resorts are via boat, offering stunning views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu even before you check in. Many resorts greet you with flower leis and a refreshing drink upon arrival.
Settle into your accommodation—preferably an overwater bungalow for the full Bora Bora experience. Resorts like the Four Seasons, InterContinental Bora Bora, or Conrad Bora Bora Nui offer luxurious options with direct access to the lagoon.
Afternoon: Settle In and Swim
After your journey, ease into island life. Take a swim right off your deck, try out your private plunge pool, or simply unwind on a lounger with a tropical cocktail. Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen—this sun is no joke.
Evening: Sunset Cruise + Island Dining
Kick off your trip with a romantic sunset cruise, where you’ll drift across calm waters as the sky turns orange and pink behind Mount Otemanu.
Recommended Tour:
👉 Bora Bora Sunset Cruise and Dinner at St. James Restaurant
This tour combines a scenic sunset ride with a fine dining experience at one of Bora Bora’s most acclaimed restaurants.
Day 2: Snorkeling and Lagoon Exploration
Morning: Snorkeling Safari in the Lagoon
Bora Bora’s lagoon is teeming with marine life. Spend the day exploring its colorful coral gardens and swimming with rays and reef sharks.
Recommended Tour:
👉 Morning or Afternoon Bora Bora Lagoon Snorkeling Tour by Private Boat
This private experience offers multiple snorkeling stops, including the famous Coral Garden and a shallow sandbar where you can interact with rays.
You’ll spot rainbow-colored parrotfish, moray eels, and vibrant coral formations. Don’t worry—the blacktip reef sharks are harmless and curious, making them an unforgettable part of your trip.
Afternoon: Traditional Motu Picnic
After snorkeling, many tours include a motu picnic—a local-style lunch served on a small islet, complete with grilled fish, tropical fruit, and coconut bread.
Take your time to explore the islet, wade in the shallow waters, or simply bask in the sun before heading back.
Evening: Resort Dinner and Polynesian Entertainment
Back at your resort, enjoy a traditional Polynesian buffet followed by a cultural dance show. Many resorts offer this experience once or twice a week, featuring live music and fire dancers.
Day 3: Island Safari + Cultural Exploration
Morning: 4×4 Jeep Safari Around Bora Bora
Trade the water for wheels today and explore Bora Bora by land. A 4×4 island safari takes you deep into the island’s mountainous terrain, past lush vegetation, sacred sites, and panoramic lookouts. You’ll learn about the island’s World War II history and see ancient Polynesian stone temples (marae).
Recommended Tour:
👉 Bora Bora Half Day 4X4 Island Safari Tour
This tour includes stops at scenic viewpoints, a visit to a local pareo (sarong) workshop, and insights into Polynesian legends.
Afternoon: Cultural Immersion
Spend your afternoon diving deeper into local life. Visit a pearl farm to learn how Tahitian black pearls are cultivated or take a Polynesian cooking class where you’ll prepare dishes like poisson cru (raw tuna in coconut milk and lime).
If you prefer something low-key, head to Vaitape, the island’s main village, for some casual shopping and café-hopping.
Evening: Sunset at Matira Beach
Grab a drink and head to Matira Beach, the island’s only public beach and one of the best places to catch a sunset. The calm, shallow waters stretch out for miles, and the golden hour here is pure magic.
Day 4: Water Sports + Private Beach Picnic
Morning: Jet Ski Adventure Around the Island
Rev up the excitement with a morning jet ski tour circling the island. This exhilarating experience offers views of Mount Otemanu from every angle, hidden lagoons, and the occasional stop for a swim.
Recommended Tour:
👉 Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour
Perfect for thrill-seekers, this tour is safe and guided, often with the option to go solo or tandem.
Afternoon: Private Picnic on a Motu
Reward your adventurous spirit with a private beach picnic. Picture this: a white-sand islet surrounded by shimmering blue water, a laid-back lunch spread, and nothing but the sound of the ocean.
Recommended Tour:
👉 Private Bora Bora Lagoon Experience with Beach Picnic
This VIP experience includes snorkeling, cultural insights, and a beachside meal with champagne.
Evening: Stargazing from Your Bungalow
End your day with a long soak in your bungalow’s bathtub or plunge pool. Bora Bora has virtually no light pollution, making it perfect for stargazing. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations from your deck.
Day 5: Last Lagoon Moments + Departure
Morning: Breakfast by Canoe
Enjoy one of Bora Bora’s most iconic experiences—breakfast delivered by outrigger canoe. Watch as resort staff dressed in traditional attire paddle up to your bungalow with fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee.
Leisure Time
Use your final hours to soak up the last moments in paradise. Go for a paddleboard ride, take a final dip, or visit the spa for a relaxing massage before your flight.
Afternoon: Departure by Boat
Transfers to the airport are usually by boat, giving you one last look at Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon. It’s a bittersweet farewell, but the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Bora Bora Getaway
- Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season) offers ideal weather for tours and snorkeling.
- Currency: The local currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF), but major credit cards are widely accepted.
- What to Pack: Lightweight clothing, swimsuits, water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a waterproof phone case.
- Health and Safety: Drink bottled water, protect yourself from the sun, and wear a rash guard when snorkeling.
Final thoughts:
Spending 5 days in Bora Bora is like stepping into a postcard. From lagoon adventures and snorkeling with rays to private beach picnics and sunset sails, this island offers once-in-a-lifetime moments at every turn, and this carefully crafted itinerary ensures that you experience the very best of it. Whether you’re staying in an iconic overwater bungalow or relaxing on powder-soft beaches, each day is designed to balance adventure with indulgence, giving you the perfect mix of exploration and serenity in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations!
