Where is Bora Bora Located?

1. Location

Bora Bora is an island in the Pacific Ocean. It is located in the French Polynesia, and it is the overseas territory of France. Its original name is actually Pora Pora, the letter “b” doesn’t even exist in the local language, and it means “First Born.“ The island is 7 million years old but was first discovered in 1722. It is located about 160 miles northwest of Tahiti, and around 2600 miles south of Hawaii.

The island is of volcanic origin and is surrounded by coral reefs. It is a luxury resort very popular with tourists, so expect some crowd. The official language is French, but the local Polynesian dialect is also spoken here.

2. Climate

There is, pretty much, no bad time to visit Bora-Bora, but still, the best time to visit might be in June, July, August and October.

The summer lasts from November till April and is quite hot and humid, while the rest of the year is a bit cooler and dryer. The summer is the rainy season, so it is cloudy almost every day and the storms are short, strong and unpredictable.

The average high yearly temperature is 84.7F, while the average low is 74.5F. Bora Bora has the average of 109 rainy days throughout the year, and the rainiest months are from January till April. The rainy season is considered to be the “off season” but it also has a couple of advantages. First and foremost, the island is less crowded during this period, so it is easier to find accommodation.

The prices are also lower during the rainy season. You might think that there will be no sun during the wet season, but that’s not really true. You will get your fair share of the sun, just expect less of it than during the dry season. Dry season, on the other hand, is the peak of the tourist season.

During this period Bora Bora is packed with people. Rain is seldom and the fluctuation between day and night temperatures is minimal. It is also the best period for diving, because the water will be crystal clear.

The most crowded month is July, because a lot of local celebrations are held during this month. Expect wind during the whole year in Bora Bora.

Also bear in mind that this region is prone to cyclones and hurricanes, but not really as much as south or Midwest of the US for example. So, there is no a real reason to worry, but precaution and a wind proof jacket are advisable.

3. Tourism

Bora Bora basically lives off tourism and it offers so many fun things to do; from the inevitable diving, snorkeling and fantastic trips to mountains in 4×4 Jeeps, to feeding sharks and sting rays.

The island itself is so fantastic that you will be absolutely satisfied to do nothing at all but to sunbathe and swim in the crystal clear water. Still, there are really a lot of great things to do and see and you should not miss them.

For more information about this, check out the article on Things to do in Bora Bora. I am sure you will find something you like. Check out this amazing travel guide about Bora Bora and find out more.

Are you planning on visiting Bora Bora? Tell us about your plans in the comments below!

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