What to know about the commune of Bora Bora
Villages and local life
Located in the Society Islands archipelago of French Polynesia, the commune of Bora Bora is made up of the main island and a surrounding ring of small islets known as motus. While the island is famous for its lagoon and luxury resorts, the local way of life is concentrated in several villages that offer an authentic look at Polynesian culture.
Vaitape: the administrative and commercial hub
Vaitape, the island's primary village, serves as its administrative and economic center. This is where most of the population resides, and it is home to the town hall, the main church, local schools, and a variety of shops. Vaitape also hosts a local market where residents and visitors gather to pick up tropical fruits, fresh fish, and handmade crafts. The Vaitape port is a frequent arrival point for water shuttles coming from the airport and for cruise ships.
Faanui: a traditional village
To the north, Faanui is a quieter village surrounded by greenery and historical sites. You will find marae here, which are ancient sacred Polynesian stone platforms that reflect the spiritual history of Bora Bora. Residents here often work in agriculture, fishing, and traditional crafts, far from the reach of mass tourism.
Anau: nature and tranquility
To the east, Anau is a small village with a peaceful, family-oriented atmosphere. It is well-regarded for its natural surroundings and small family-run pensions. You get a better sense of the local pace of life here, walking between coconut plantations with views overlooking the lagoon.
Beyond the resort experience
While Bora Bora is a major tourist destination, it remains deeply rooted in its traditions, and each village maintains its own unique identity. Exploring these areas reveals a side of the island that feels far removed from the typical postcard images.
Make sure to step away from the luxury of the resorts to meet the locals. It is the perfect opportunity to try traditional dishes. As you might expect, the ocean is the star here, with fresh seafood and fish served raw or cooked.
When it comes to crafts, you will find beautiful examples of Polynesian art, including wood carvings, basketry, and paintings. A lesser-known fact for many visitors is that Bora Bora has a fascinating cultural side. You can visit the Marine Museum to see its private collection of boat models. Those interested in history will enjoy hunting for period relics scattered around the island, such as ancient housing terraces, storage pits, and even cannons left behind by the American military.
How to get there
Prepare for a long journey to reach this destination. With various connections, the trip often takes at least 24 hours from the US. A flight to Tahiti typically costs between 77,000 and 132,000 XPF (about $700 to $1,200) depending on the season. From there, several daily flights will connect you to the island of Bora Bora.
