Bora Bora, located in French Polynesia, is a breathtaking destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury. (It’s also where my husband proposed to me!)
Its white sand beaches and turquoise waters are a haven for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Scuba diving in Bora Bora is an unforgettable experience as it offers an opportunity to explore the rich marine life of the Pacific Ocean.
With world-class resorts and fine dining options, Bora Bora is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious and relaxing holiday.
Whether you desire a romantic getaway or a fun-filled vacation with family and friends, Bora Bora has something for everyone. But when is the best time to visit Bora Bora? Here we’ll explore this wonderful destination month by month so you can plan the perfect time to for you.
A Bit About Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a small island located in French Polynesia in the South Pacific. It’s known for its stunning turquoise lagoon, white-sand beaches, and volcanic peaks.
Visitors can enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding.
One of the main attractions is Mount Otemanu, a dormant volcano that dominates the island’s skyline.
The island also offers a variety of traditional Polynesian food such as Poisson cru, a raw fish salad, and grilled seafood.
Bora Bora is a popular honeymoon destination, and its luxurious resorts provide an ideal tropical getaway.
The Best Time to Visit Bora Bora
If you want to experience the warm tropical weather and enjoy the island’s water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving, visit Bora Bora in the dry season (May to October).
If you want to witness the humpback whales’ migration and enjoy the island’s lush greenery, visit Bora Bora in the rainy season (November to April).
If you wish to witness the traditional Polynesian culture and enjoy the Heiva festival, visit Bora Bora in July.
If you are a foodie and want to savor some of the best Polynesian cuisines, visit Bora Bora during the Bora Bora Liquid Festival in August, which features food events and competitions.
The Climate in Bora Bora
Bora Bora has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:
Dry Season (May to October): During the dry season in Bora Bora, the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. This is a popular time for visitors as it offers plenty of sunshine and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Wet Season (November to April): The wet season in Bora Bora is characterized by occasional rain showers, high humidity, and temperatures ranging from 80°F to 90°F. However, the rain usually doesn’t last long, and the sun often returns quickly. This season also sees fewer visitors and lower prices, making it a good time for budget-conscious travelers.
From a tourism perspective, Bora Bora’s climate can be divided into three distinct seasons:
Peak or High Season (May to October): This is when Bora Bora sees the biggest crowds and the highest accommodation prices. The dry season is famous for its warm sunny weather and blue skies, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and water sports.
Shoulder Seasons (April and November): Bora Bora has fewer crowds during these months, and prices are more reasonable. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it a good time to visit and avoid the peak season crowds while enjoying great deals.
Low Season (December to March): Bora Bora’s low season has the fewest visitors, and prices are at their lowest. While the wet season may deter some visitors, it’s a good time for those who prefer fewer crowds and lower prices. Plus, the occasional rain showers can be a refreshing break from the heat.
What is the Best Month to Visit Bora Bora
There is no good or bad time to visit Bora Bora. Bora Bora is a year-round tourist destination. The best time to visit the beautiful island is just a matter of your budget and preferences.
Visiting Bora Bora in January
January may not be the ideal time to visit Bora Bora because it falls in the wet season. However, it can be an excellent time for budget travelers to save on luxury resorts and hotels.
The breathtaking scenery and views are still worth experiencing, even if the weather is unpredictable.
The Taurua Varua festival is held in January and celebrates the island’s culture and history through song competitions, lavish decorations, and feasts of native French Polynesian food. This makes it a great opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local community.
Overall, visiting Bora Bora in January can be a great way to enjoy the island’s beauty and luxury without overspending.
Visiting Bora Bora in February
Couples and honeymooners can consider visiting Bora Bora in February, despite the weather conditions.
They can enjoy the romantic appeal of luxury suites and sandy beaches during Valentine’s Day. February receives an average of 9 inches of rainfall, although it is not the rainiest month.
It is important to purchase travel insurance as cyclone season falls during this month, and flights or cruises may get canceled due to high winds or swells.
Depending on the calendar, people can also Chinese New Year.
Visiting Bora Bora in March
In March, the rainy season begins to subside and fair weather prevails, but high temperatures in the 80s and approximately 7 inches of rainfall can still contribute to humidity.
Despite this, March offers the best opportunity to visit Bora Bora due to low tourism traffic and local events.
Missionaries Day is celebrated during this time with traditional dancing and songs in churches to commemorate the arrival of Protestantism on the island.
Additionally, the Orero Championship, a singing competition showcasing the mastery of traditional French Polynesian songs, takes place in mid-March.
After winning the Championship, the competitors compete against the top performers from other islands in different locations.
Visiting Bora Bora in April
April is one of the two months of the shoulder season. During this period, the weather is usually mild and the rainfall is low, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience calmness before the high season begins.
Compared to the peak months from May to October, April is relatively less crowded, yet without the typical rainfall that comes with the off-peak season.
The average temperature during this month ranges from the mid-70s to the high 80s, and the rainfall is typically only around 5.5 inches, making it a great time to enjoy good weather conditions.
You can save money because of discounted hotel and resort prices, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this tropical island paradise.
Visiting Bora Bora in May
The peak season for Bora Bora starts in May, which brings with it better weather, larger crowds, and a variety of events to enjoy.
During this time, precipitation remains limited to 3 inches for the month, and temperatures range from the low 70s to mid-80s, making it an ideal time to visit and take full advantage of the island’s beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities.
One of the most significant events that attract visitors to the French Polynesian island chain is the Tahiti Pearl Regatta. Despite its name, this event covers all the islands in the chain, and the race route changes annually, often including a stop in Bora Bora.
Whether or not the racing boats make a stop at the island, the surrounding waters are filled with sailboats, yachts, and other vessels that celebrate the event and get an up-close view of the races. The festive atmosphere can be felt throughout the entire island chain!
Additionally, Victory Day on May 8th celebrates the end of World War II, and depending on the calendar year, public holidays such as Ascension Day and Whit Monday may also be observed.
Visiting Bora Bora in June
June is a part of the peak season on the island and is characterized by excellent weather and plenty of events and festivities for both locals and tourists.
Resorts, hotels, and restaurants take advantage of the peak tourist season to host a variety of shows, events, excursions, and recreational activities.
With rainfall of around 2 inches and temperatures ranging from 70 to the low 80s, visitors can enjoy water sports, diving, and sunbathing on the beach.
Additionally, dance schools use this time to practice and prepare for a grand month-long event at the end of June featuring spectacular French Polynesian dances.
Visiting Bora Bora in July
July is considered by many as the best time to visit Bora Bora, as it is the peak season with warm temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 80s and very little rain, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach-goers.
The Heive I Bora Bora, a month-long celebration of French Polynesian culture, takes place in July alongside the Heive I Tahiti. This festival includes traditional dances, musical shows, and local feasts, and many of the events are free.
The resorts and hotels also offer their own shows and events. Bastille Day, a French national holiday, is also celebrated in July with song, dance, and plenty of food.
For those seeking adventure, the Raid Anei Bora Bora is a competitive hiking event at the end of the month, which attracts competitors from around the world to traverse the lush jungle terrain of the tropical island.
The entire island is decorated with flowers and vegetation, creating a magical appeal and a tropical view. Plan ahead and expect hotel prices.
Visiting Bora Bora in August
Image Credit: Sba2 , CC BY 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
In August, Bora Bora experiences some of the most pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to visit the island.
With low humidity, minimal rainfall, and lots of sunshine, temperatures stay within the high 60s to low 80s range.
The island is bustling with tourists during this peak season, which means plenty of entertainment, dining, and adventure options are available to suit everyone’s preferences.
If you’re looking to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities, August is the perfect time to visit Bora Bora.
Visiting Bora Bora in September
Image Credit: Angelique800326, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In September, the number of visitors to the island decreases and this results in lower prices for hotels and resorts.
Many people consider September to be the best time to visit Bora Bora as the weather is as good as or even better than that of August. Rainfall is under 2 inches and temperatures remain in the moderate range of the high 60s to low 80s.
The added bonus is that the trade winds have settled to a calmer and cooler amount that is less persistent than during July and August.
With gentler winds, cruising is more comfortable and the clarity of the waters for diving and snorkeling improves.
September allows you to enjoy the amenities of the peak season without the bustling crowds, making it an ideal time to visit Bora Bora if you want to score a deal.
Visiting Bora Bora in October
October is a favored month to visit the area, as it is the last month with reliable weather. Visitors are less likely to encounter rainfall during their stay, making it a good choice for short trips.
While temperatures climb to the low 70s and mid-80s, the average rainfall of 3.5 inches may make the weather feel more humid and uncomfortable.
However, there are still many clear and pleasant days, especially when compared to the off-season wet weather.
Another reason to visit during October is the stone-throwing competitions that celebrate the French Polynesian tradition of fishing by throwing stones.
This event takes place at the beginning of the month and showcases the island’s respect for native Polynesian traditions.
Visiting Bora Bora in November
November is one of the two months of Bora Bora’s shoulder seasons. While there is more rainfall than in the dry season, it is only half as much as in the rainy months.
Temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s, which can lead to increased humidity and mosquitoes. However, the trade-off is fewer tourists and reduced hotel and resort prices on the island.
November is also a month full of festivals and events, making it an even more attractive time to visit. The Hawaiiki Zuni Va’a is a grand championship canoe race that showcases the French Polynesian art of outrigger canoes.
This event takes place at the beginning of November and features some of the best athletes of the sport, along with feasts of local and regional food and traditional song and dance.
Armistice Day is another significant event celebrated in Bora Bora during November, with festivities commemorating the end of World War II.
Rooster fighting, a sport that is banned in many countries, is practiced during this time, providing a rare opportunity to witness the tradition firsthand.
Lastly, Matarii Nia is a cultural event that takes place at the end of November, celebrating the ancient religious practices of the original Polynesian natives.
The event includes abundant food, joyous song, and exhilarating dance as locals show their gratitude for the rainy season and pray for a bountiful harvest season.
Visiting Bora Bora in December
Image Credit: Bianca Henry, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
December may not be the ideal month to visit Bora Bora due to the high humidity and rainfall of over 12 inches, but it is a busy time for tourism as many people come for the holiday season.
In addition to private events at resorts, there are also public events such as the Va’a Bora Bora outrigger canoe race, featuring local rowers and athletes from around the region.
The event is a celebration of French Polynesian culture, including traditional dancing, singing, and delicious food.
Christmas is also celebrated with parades, craft fairs, singing, and decorations. Despite the weather, a holiday trip to Bora Bora during this time could be a great getaway for many travelers.
The Best Time to Visit Bora Bora for Snorkeling and Diving
Bora Bora offers a stunning lagoon for marine enthusiasts to snorkel and see the vibrant fish, rays, turtles, and reef sharks in warm waters.
Even beginners can enjoy the shallow waters and witness the reefs’ beauty and their inhabitants.
The best time to experience clear waters is between May to October, but during June, July, and August, trade winds can cause some disturbance.
Another popular activity in Bora Bora is going on a tour to see the grey, reef, blacktip, and lemon sharks and interacting with rays in waist-deep water.
Local outfitters offer these tours through resorts in both seasons. There are also opportunities to learn how to dive and explore dive sites beyond the lagoon.
The Best Time to Visit Bora Bora for Whale Watching
Humpback whales migrate from Antarctic waters to French Polynesia between August and October to breed and raise their young.
Bora Bora provides a safe environment for the calves, as there are no predators in the surrounding waters.
The best time to see these whales is in September during the Maraamu SurfSki race, which coincides with peak tourist season on the island.
Teavanui Pass is the most popular spot for whale-watching tours, where visitors can listen to the male humpback whales’ haunting songs using hydrophones.
The Best Time to Visit Bora Bora for Digital Nomads and Long-Term Travelers
Digital nomads and long-term travelers with a bit more flexibility and a low budget can enjoy the cheapest prices in Bora Bora during the low season which lasts from December to March. The heat, humidity, rainy weather, and mosquitoes keep tourists away.
However, do expect some tourist swell during the December holidays when prices will rise temporarily. But this is also the month when you will enjoy traditional canoe races, fairs, parades, and festivities.
The Best Overall Time to Visit Bora Bora
While some people argue that the high season is the best time to visit Bora Bora, I believe the shoulder season is the most ideal time.
April and November are the transition months with great weather, fewer tourists, and low prices, making these two months a wonderful time to visit this island paradise while taking advantage of good deals.
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FAQs in Relation to The Best Time to Visit Bora Bora
When is summer in Bora Bora?
Summer months in Bora Bora are December to March, while winter occurs between May and October. April and November are the transition months (shoulder months). This happens because Bora Bora is in the southern hemisphere.
However, it’s important to note that Bora Bora has a tropical climate, so temperatures remain relatively consistent throughout the year, with highs averaging around 85°F (29°C) and lows around 75°F (24°C).
How many days are enough for Bora Bora?
Three to four days are enough because Bora Bora is a small island with not many attractions. If you want, you can spend a couple of weeks and live in overwater bungalows with lovely ocean views.
The Best Time to Visit Bora Bora: Summary
The ideal time to visit Bora Bora depends on your personal preferences. The peak season (May to October) is perfect for those who enjoy the dry and warm weather.
Shoulder season (April and May) is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy comfortable weather and avoid tourist crowds. These months have relatively lower prices.
The wet season (December to March) is ideal for those who enjoy the cheapest prices and don’t mind excessive humidity and higher temperatures.
Irrespective of when you visit Bora Bora, it is a beautiful island with breathtaking views, snorkeling & scuba diving opportunities, and interesting culture.
