Bora Bora Lagoonarium
Immerse yourself in Bora Bora's vibrant marine sanctuary, snorkeling with sharks, rays, and colorful fish in crystal-clear waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Marine life is most active
Bora Bora Lagoonarium
Best Time
Marine life is most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in Bora Bora's vibrant marine sanctuary, snorkeling with sharks, rays, and colorful fish in crystal-clear waters.
"Absolutely fabulous day trip. Great ambience whole day, you get to see so many spots in one day."
🐠 Non-swimmer friendly options
Even if you don't swim, you can enjoy the marine life! Ask about helmet dives or stay on the boat.
☀️ Reef-safe sunscreen is key
Protect the delicate coral reefs and your skin. Apply generously before your tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snorkel with Sharks and Rays
Bora Bora Lagoon
Swim alongside blacktip sharks and graceful stingrays in their natural habitat. An unforgettable encounter!
Vibrant Coral Gardens
Coral Reefs
Explore a kaleidoscope of colorful corals teeming with tropical fish. A visual feast for snorkelers.
Manta Ray Encounters
Bora Bora Lagoon
Witness the majestic manta rays glide through the water. Their impressive wingspan is awe-inspiring.
Traditional Polynesian Lunch
Private Motu (Island)
Savor a delicious feast prepared in traditional Polynesian style, often served on a private island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Lagoonarium Adventure
What to Pack for the Lagoon
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐠 Non-swimmer friendly options
Even if you don't swim, you can enjoy the marine life! Ask about helmet dives or stay on the boat.
☀️ Reef-safe sunscreen is key
Protect the delicate coral reefs and your skin. Apply generously before your tour.
📸 Bring an underwater camera
Capture the incredible underwater world! GoPros are perfect for these adventures.
💧 Stay hydrated & bring snacks
Full-day tours can be long. Pack extra water and snacks for energy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐠 Non-swimmer friendly options
Even if you don't swim, you can enjoy the marine life! Ask about helmet dives or stay on the boat.
☀️ Reef-safe sunscreen is key
Protect the delicate coral reefs and your skin. Apply generously before your tour.
📸 Bring an underwater camera
Capture the incredible underwater world! GoPros are perfect for these adventures.
💧 Stay hydrated & bring snacks
Full-day tours can be long. Pack extra water and snacks for energy.
🎶 Enjoy the island music
Many tours feature live Polynesian music, adding to the authentic experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bora Bora Lagoonarium for its authentic marine encounters and engaging guides. The opportunity to swim with sharks, rays, and see vibrant coral gardens is a major draw. The traditional Polynesian lunch and cultural activities add significant value, making it a highly recommended experience for most. Some find the search for manta rays can be hit or miss, and full-day tours require good stamina.
"This was a truly authentic native experience! We absolutely loved it! Ropati was so fun and energetic! Coral garden was amazing. Our guides dove down and actually pet the two Morray eels! Swam with rays and black tip sharks! And they fed us a feast on the island in woven reed baskets! We danced and learned how to shrewd a coconut and drank the water and milk! So fun! Would definitely recommend."
Caleb Mitsvotai
"Fantastic adventure. The staff is knowledgeable and entertaining. What you'll see on the full day tour is all of the Bora Bora water highlights... sharks, rays, tropical fish in coral gardens. You will also be treated to a fantastic Polynesian lunch (can't stress enough how good it was) and some other fun on-land activities. Even though we've sailed to Bora Bora and have access to a dingy, this was a worthwhile adventure with people that know the best spots."
Arthur Krzycki
"🏖️Bora Bora Lagoonarium 🏖️
Absolutely fabulous day trip. Great ambience whole day, English and French spoken and you get to see so many spots in one day. Corals, sharks, rays, turtles and even a pig. Definitely one of the best tour I have done in French Polynesia. And the lunch was super tasty too! It will be hard to beat this experience. Maururu!👍🏻
Fantastic adventure. The staff is knowledgeable and entertaining. What you'll see on the full day tour is all of the Bora Bora water highlights... sharks, rays, tropical fish in coral gardens. You will also be treated to a fantastic Polynesian lunch (can't stress enough how good it was) and some other fun on-land activities. Even though we've sailed to Bora Bora and have access to a dingy, this was a worthwhile adventure with people that know the best spots.❤️
We cannot recommend this tour enough!!! The moment you step on the outrigger, your journey begins with Max and his family entertaining you with island music. The first stop was an amazing area with beautiful coral reefs and tons of bright colored fish everywhere. They then found eagle rays that were, unfortunately, sleeping on the bottom but we at least got to see them. Then on to snorkeling with black tip sharks and large stingrays. Then, after painstakingly searching, they were able to find a group of huge manta rays for us to snorkel above which was absolutely breathtaking. These magnificent creatures are a sight to behold! Then on to a private motu (island) for a traditional Polynesian lunch and snorkeling with several large lemon sharks. We also learned how to tie sarongs on both men and women and learned how to properly and quickly open coconuts. And, while you’re on the island, don’t forget to ask about meeting Bacon, the Bora Bora chihuahua. This was an absolutely perfect day and this entire crew did everything in their power to make it as perfect as possible, from start to finish, for everyone on the tour. Make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and any snacks you might need because this is a full day on the water.❤️"
Omkar Kâdãm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bora Bora Lagoonarium is typically accessed via boat tours departing from various points around Bora Bora. Many resorts offer direct access or can arrange transportation to tour departure points. It's often part of a larger lagoon tour.
Yes, most Bora Bora Lagoonarium tours include boat transfers from your resort or a designated meeting point. The type of boat can vary, from traditional outriggers to speedboats.
While some resorts have their own lagoonariums (like the St. Regis
For island hopping between Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora, inter-island flights are the most efficient method. Air Tahiti is the primary airline.
Getting around Bora Bora primarily involves boat transfers, as most resorts are on motus (islets). Rental cars are available on the main island, but boats are essential for accessing many attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary depending on the duration and inclusions. Half-day tours might range from $100-$150 USD, while full-day tours with lunch can be $150-$250+ USD per person. Booking in advance is advised.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your Bora Bora Lagoonarium tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time.
Most tours include snorkeling gear, boat transportation, guided snorkeling sessions with marine life, and often a traditional Polynesian lunch. Some may also include cultural activities.
Yes, you can find half-day and full-day tours. Full-day tours typically offer a more comprehensive experience with more stops and a longer lunch break.
While Bora Bora can be expensive, looking for package deals or booking directly with local operators might offer better value. Some TikTok creators share tips on finding deals. +1
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of marine life including blacktip sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, Napoleon fish, sea turtles, and numerous species of colorful tropical fish in vibrant coral gardens. +1
The sharks and rays encountered are generally accustomed to humans and are not aggressive. Tour guides ensure safety protocols are followed, making it a safe experience.
Many tours cater to non-swimmers. You can often stay on the boat, wear a life vest, or participate in helmet diving tours for a unique underwater perspective.
Snorkeling sessions typically last between 30 minutes to an hour at each designated spot, allowing ample time to observe the marine life.
Popular snorkeling spots include the coral gardens, areas known for shark and ray encounters, and the protected sanctuary of the Lagoonarium itself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, most full-day Bora Bora Lagoonarium tours include a delicious traditional Polynesian lunch, often served on a private motu.
Expect fresh seafood, local fruits, and traditional Polynesian dishes prepared with local ingredients. It's often described as a fantastic and tasty feast.
It's best to inquire with your tour operator in advance about dietary restrictions. They can often accommodate requests for vegetarian or other special meals.
Some tours may offer drinks for purchase, but it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially for full-day excursions.
Beyond tour lunches, popular dining spots include Bloody Mary's for a unique atmosphere and various resort restaurants offering fine dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Bring a waterproof camera or a GoPro for underwater shots. For land, a good smartphone camera or DSLR will capture the stunning scenery.
Absolutely! The marine life is a major highlight. Ensure your camera is ready for quick shots of sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photography for personal use. However, always be respectful of other visitors and local customs.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and portrait photography. Midday sun can be harsh but is great for underwater shots.
Mount Otemanu is iconic. Photos are best captured from overwater bungalows, boats, or viewpoints on the main island. The Westin offers great sunset views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a half-day tour to keep the experience manageable for younger children. Life vests are usually provided, and guides can offer extra assistance. The opportunity to see sharks and rays, even from the boat, is often a thrilling highlight for kids. Don't forget to pack plenty of sunscreen and hats!
💑 Couples & Honeymooners
Many tours culminate in a private Polynesian lunch on a secluded motu, providing an intimate setting for couples to enjoy delicious food and each other's company. The breathtaking scenery and the thrill of encountering marine creatures create unforgettable memories.
🐠 Snorkel & Dive Enthusiasts
+1While the Lagoonarium itself is a highlight, consider combining it with other diving or snorkeling excursions. Bora Bora offers incredible dive sites, including opportunities to see humpback whales (seasonally) and manta rays with impressive wingspans.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Bora Bora Lagoonarium
+1Visitors can expect to snorkel or dive alongside blacktip sharks, stingrays, and a dazzling array of tropical fish amidst vibrant coral gardens. Some tours even offer opportunities to see manta rays and Napoleon fish. The guides are experts at locating these creatures and ensuring a respectful and memorable encounter for everyone.
Beyond the underwater spectacle, many tours include a traditional Polynesian lunch on a private motu (islet). This cultural immersion often involves learning about local customs, such as how to open coconuts, and enjoying authentic island cuisine. It's a holistic experience that combines adventure, education, and cultural appreciation.
Navigating Bora Bora's Unique Geography
When planning your trip, understand that the main island is accessible by boat, and it's where you'll find local villages and some amenities. However, the true magic of Bora Bora often lies in exploring the lagoon. Inter-island travel within French Polynesia is primarily done via flights, with Air Tahiti connecting major islands like Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora.
For activities like visiting the Lagoonarium, tours are the most common method. These excursions are designed to navigate the lagoon efficiently, taking you to the best spots for snorkeling and wildlife viewing. Be prepared for a water-centric experience, where boats are your primary mode of transport between different aquatic wonders.
Budget-Friendly Bora Bora Tips
When it comes to activities, prioritize experiences that offer great value. Full-day lagoon tours that include snorkeling, lunch, and cultural activities can be more cost-effective than booking multiple separate excursions. Research local operators, as they might offer more competitive pricing than larger resort-affiliated companies.
For dining, explore options beyond resort restaurants. While resort dining is convenient, trying local eateries on the main island or packing some of your own snacks can help save money. Many tours also include a substantial lunch, reducing the need for additional meals during the day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit