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The Best & Worst Times to Visit Bora Bora in 2024

The Best & Worst Times to Visit Bora Bora in 2024

What's the best time to visit Bora Bora?

The best times to visit Bora Bora are April and November, marking the shoulder seasons with blue skies, warm weather, and fewer crowds. April offers the end of the rainy season, enhancing water visibility for diving and providing less crowded beaches. Despite November’s higher humidity and potential for rain, sunny days are still plentiful, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.

Whether you want to sunbathe and enjoy cocktails all day or have an adventure-packed vacation, the beautiful island of Bora Bora has got you covered.

However, your experience on this French Polynesian island largely depends on which time of the year you’re visiting. Although Bora Bora is a year-round destination, it still has high and low seasons.

If you want to avoid getting caught in the crowds, or you’re eager to enjoy good deals, you need to research well. For beach bums who have their heart set on visiting Bora Bora, we’ve gathered all you need to know about the best time to visit Bora Bora.

The Overall Best Time to Visit Bora Bora

Beach and palm trees pictured during the best time to visit Bora Bora

Lux Blue/Shutterstock

Overall, the best time to visit Bora Bora is during the shoulder seasons, in April and November. During these months, you’ll enjoy blue skies, warm weather, and limited crowds.

 In April, the rainy season will start to fade away. This change means better water visibility for those who want to visit Bora Bora mainly to dive and see underwater sights.

The beaches are also not too crowded during this time, so you won’t have trouble taking an Instagram-worthy shot. On the other hand, the humidity is higher during November, and while you may experience rain, the temperature on the island is still very manageable.

You’ll still be able to enjoy the sun because the rainy season is still starting, and you’ll also get to have fun doing activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling.  

In April and November, there are also fewer tourists than in peak season, so you can explore the island without bumping into too many people. This slowdown is what makes it the best time to visit Bora Bora. 

In addition to the weather, the savings you can enjoy during the slow season are also great. The reason is that there are fewer tourists during these months, so the resorts decrease their rates and offer discounts for tourists.  

Cheapest Time to Visit Bora Bora

Blue water below a hut on a cloudy day during the cheapest time to visit Bora Bora

iPics/Shutterstock

The cheapest time to visit Bora Bora is from December until March. These months are considered low season because of the weather, but there are still plenty of activities you can enjoy. Typically, the wet season starts from November to April, but it is in full swing from December to March.

In these months, the weather is more unpredictable, and there are more chances of rain. However, these months are also the best time to visit the island because hotel rates are a lot more affordable compared to other months.

Because of the low season, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a more peaceful vacation with fewer tourists around you. Despite the humid and rainy weather, you’ll enjoy December in Bora Bora because it is Christmas time.

You’ll see the locals go into holiday mode, and you’ll be able to attend tons of local events. If you’re visiting in January, expect more rain. This month is usually when you can easily nab the best deal at luxury resorts, even if you’re on a budget.

While the weather is still not predictably sunny in February, you can expect to enjoy jaw-dropping sunsets, which is the perfect view to cap off your Valentine’s vacation.

Finally, the rain decreases more in March, although experiencing high humidity and unexpected rain showers during this month is still quite normal. March also marks the start of Bora Bora’s event season.

Least Busy Time to Visit Bora Bora

Couple snorkeling over a green lagoon for a piece on the best time to visit Bora Bora

Martin Valigursky/Shutterstock

The least busy time to visit Bora Bora is from November until April. During these months, the island experiences its wet season, so expect to see a lot of rain, and if it’s not raining, there’s a great chance that it will be cloudy.

During these months, resorts offer great deals to make up for the lack of tourists. In addition to the cheaper rates, you’ll also have a more peaceful vacation, although the weather isn’t as sunny as in other months.

As mentioned above, December is also one of the most humid months in Bora Bora. The same is true for January. You can get uncomfortable during the day and while doing sightseeing activities because of the weather.

Worst Time to Visit Bora Bora

Overwater bungalows pictured during the cheapest time to visit Bora Bora

Vyshnivskyy/Shutterstock

The worst time to visit during February due to the weather and from May to October because every spot is packed.  Although there is less rain in February compared to January, it has the highest probability of cyclones.

French Polynesia is situated on the main cyclone belt, although cyclones are very rare and the last major one hit in 2010.

During August, you’ll see tons of European travelers on the island because it’s the best time to enjoy the sunshine in this tropical paradise. The temperature during these months ranges from mid-70 °F to lower 80 °F.

Aside from the crowd, you’ll also face exorbitant fees for resorts and hotels. Keep in mind that you’ll also be spending more on food due to the huge number of people on the island. It’s worth noting that the mainland only has one major sandy stretch called Matira beach.

So you may not be able to enjoy its white powdery sand and crystal clear water when it’s filled with hordes of locals and tourists. 

If you want to enjoy private beaches during these months, we recommend staying in resorts or hotels located on small islands that are off the mainland because their beaches are private and can only be accessed by guests.  

If you don’t mind the crowd and you just want to enjoy the sun, you’ll still be able to enjoy Bora Bora from May to October. No matter which month you choose to visit, there’s no doubt that Bora Bora is a wonderful place to be.

Whether you want to experience a relaxing vacation or want to take part in excursions and underwater activities, you’ll enjoy your time on this amazing island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bore bora pictured during the best time to go with few clouds and lots of sun

Henrique O de Assumpcao/Shutterstock

Here are some questions you may have about Bora Bora:

What is Bora Bora known for?

Bora Bora is well-known for its breathtaking beaches and its underwater activities. If you plan to go to the island, you need to explore the beaches and make sure that you take part in one of its underwater activities.

What is the water like in Bora Bora?

Bora Bora is an island that is surrounded by the South Pacific. It has very calm and clear waters, making it one of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Is Bora Bora surrounded by water?

Yes, Bora Bora is surrounded by water.

How much does it cost to visit Bora Bora?

The cost of visiting Bora Bora depends on several factors. It can range from $50 to $2,000 per person per day. Prepare to shell out money for accommodation and tours.

What is a good reason to go to Bora Bora?

A good reason to go to Bora Bora is to explore its amazing beaches and rich culture.

What are the recommended attractions in Bora Bora?

The main attractions in Bora Bora are its beaches and reefs. There are also a lot of sights off the island that are worth checking out, such as Mt. Otemanu, the Kincaid Galleries, Motu Tapu, as well as its lagoons. You can even go yachting or swimming with stingrays and sharks.

Is there Wi-Fi in Bora Bora?

Yes, there is Wi-Fi in Bora Bora. Most resorts, lodges, and hotels offer it to their guests so you can always stay connected with loved ones.

Is Bora Bora accessible for someone in a wheelchair?

If you are in a wheelchair, you can still enjoy the island. It has a wheelchair-accessible ramp for boats. In addition, many hotels are also wheelchair-friendly.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Bora Bora?

👍 Best Time to VisitApril-November
💲 Cheapest Time to VisitDecember-March
🗓️ Least Busy Time to VisitNovember-April
👎 Worst Time to VisitMay-October

The simple answer is anytime! However, if you want to have the best time in Bora Bora, you need to choose the right season.

If you want to avoid crowds and save money, the best time is to visit during shoulder seasons, specifically in April and November. If you want to get good deals, plan your trip from November to April during the rainy season.