Bora Bora Regions Guide - overview

Satellite pictures of the tiny island of Bora Bora from hundreds of miles above the earth show it to be almost glowing, its dark green centre surrounded by a coral necklace and an iridescent aquamarine lagoon. Little wonder that this is the dream destination for celebrities, honeymooners and lovers who live in splendour in the island's luxurious spas and resorts, but enjoy privacy and anonymity on magical secluded beaches.

Visitors touch down on an airstrip (built by U.S. troops during World War II) sited on a motu (islet) in the middle of the beautiful crystal-clear lagoon, and are ferried to the main island. The lagoon forms the centre of activities for holidaymakers, being the stage for numerous adventures from shark-feeding excursions and swimming with giant turtles, to scuba diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, glass-bottom boat cruises, descending into the 'lagoonarium', kite-sailing, picnicking on a motu and so on. Bora Bora also offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions, like taking a day trip to a Marae (ancient temple), exploring the World War II canon and relics, browsing the art and craft galleries, watching a Tahitian dance ceremony and perhaps even braving a tattoo (the skin art apparently originated here).