Lagoon & Motu Islands

Bora Bora's lagoon is the result of millions of years of geology: The volcano that once formed the island has slowly sunk into the sea, while the coral reef continued to grow, forming the visible ring of reefs and motu islands today. In between lies the lagoon — a protected, shallow basin containing all shades of blue in the color spectrum.

The Lagoon in Numbers

• Area: About 50 km² of lagoon (larger than the main island itself)
• Depth: 1–40 meters, averaging 5–10 meters
• Water Temperature: Year-round 26–29°C
• Visibility: 20–40 meters (best in the dry season)
• Access to the Open Ocean: One main pass (Teavanui Pass) on the west side

Why is the Water So Blue?

The incredible colors of the lagoon have scientific reasons: The white coral sand at the bottom reflects the sunlight, the shallow depth enhances the colors, and the lack of sediment (no river flows into the lagoon) ensures crystal-clear purity. The result: a color spectrum from aquamarine through turquoise and sapphire to cobalt blue, constantly changing with the position of the sun and the clouds.

Motus are the flat, sandy reef islands that form the coral ring around the lagoon. They are rarely higher than 3 meters above sea level, covered with coconut palms and tropical vegetation, and offer the most spectacular locations for luxury resorts. On the motus, you have the lagoon and the view of Mount Otemanu right at your doorstep.

The Main Motus

• Motu Tevairoa — Home to the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, one of the most exclusive hotels in the world. Overwater villas with private pools, butler service, and a view that puts postcards to shame.
• Motu Toopua — The large motu island opposite Vaitape, location of the Hilton Bora Bora (now Conrad). From here, you have the most iconic view of Mount Otemanu.
• Motu Piti Aau — Location of the Four Seasons Resort and the InterContinental Thalasso. Here stand some of the world's most famous overwater bungalows.

Overwater Bungalows — The Experience

Bora Bora is the birthplace of the overwater bungalow: the first hotel of this kind opened here in 1967. What began as a creative solution to the lack of beachfront land became the most iconic hotel form in the world. The experience:

• Glass Floor — Many bungalows have glass floor panels through which you can watch tropical fish, stingrays, and occasionally even small sharks beneath your room.
• Direct Lagoon Access — A staircase or ladder leads directly from the deck into the warm lagoon. In the morning, three steps from bed, and you're swimming among colorful fish.
• Canoe Transport — Some resorts serve breakfast by outrigger canoe directly to your bungalow — a tray with croissants, tropical fruits, and fresh juice delivered over the turquoise water.
• Sunset from the Deck — The private sundeck of each bungalow offers an unobstructed 180-degree view of the lagoon and mountain. A glass of wine at sunset here is the perfect end to the day.

The Lagoon Tour is THE must-do on Bora Bora — a full-day boat tour through the lagoon with multiple stops, combining the best of the underwater world and the motu islands. Almost every guesthouse and resort offers it.

What a Typical Lagoon Tour Includes

• Stingray Stop — In the shallow, sandy area of the lagoon live dozens of tame stingrays. You stand in waist-deep water, and the gentle creatures glide around your legs and allow themselves to be touched. An unforgettable experience — and safe as long as you remain calm.
• Shark Stop — In a deeper area of the lagoon, blacktip sharks and lemon sharks swim. You watch them from the boat or snorkel alongside them — these sharks are accustomed to humans and are not aggressive.
• Coral Garden — A natural aquarium: a shallow, protected reef full of living corals and hundreds of tropical fish in all colors. The best snorkeling spot in the lagoon.
• Motu Picnic — BBQ lunch on a private motu island: grilled fish, Poisson Cru, tropical fruits, with your feet in the sand and a view of the Otemanu. Robinson Crusoe with gourmet catering.

Prices: Full-day lagoon tour from 10,000–15,000 XPF (€84–126) per person, including equipment and lunch. Half-day tours from 6,000 XPF (€50). Book through the guesthouse or resort — privately organized tours are often more expensive.

Other Lagoon Activities

• Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) — Paddle on the mirror-smooth lagoon with a view of the Otemanu. Best in the early morning when the water is calm. Rental fee: about 3,000 XPF (€25) per hour.
• Kayak — Explore the lagoon by kayak, paddle to small motus, and land on secluded beaches. Free for guests at many resorts.
• Glass-Bottom Boat — The perfect alternative for non-swimmers: observe the underwater world of the lagoon through a glass bottom. From 5,000 XPF (€42).
• Sunset Cruise — An evening boat tour through the lagoon with champagne, sunset, and the mountain bathed in golden light. The most romantic experience on Bora Bora. From 8,000 XPF (€67) per person.
• Jet Ski Tour — Adrenaline on the turquoise water: a guided jet ski tour circles the lagoon in 2 hours. From 25,000 XPF (€210) per jet ski.