On the plane ride to Bora Bora, we flew over quite a few other islands giving us a better idea of how French Polynesia is a long chain of islands quite close together. It was obvious we were approaching Bora Bora when we spotted the renowned Mt. Otemanu jutting out of the water. The island is only 12 sq miles and the mountain takes up most of it, leaving only the perimeter to live on. The entire island is surrounded by barrier islands (motus) that formed on top of coral reefs, creating optimal water conditions for sea life, coral, and crystal clear calm water.
From the air, you can see the atoll (ring of coral around the island creating the lagoon) and then the motus that formed on top.
The different colors of blue can be seen even from the air.
The little airport was located on a motus, open to air, and right on the water.
We took a boat ferry over to the island and caught a cab to the hotel.
The mountain was the stunning back drop wherever you looked.
We stayed at the Sofitel Private Island which was located on a tiny motus right off the main island. A boat shuttled us back and forth.
We were greeted with a song, a real flower lei, a cold face towel, and a fresh coconut drink.
The grounds were paved with lava rocks.
In Bora Bora we sprung for the over water bungalow and it was worth it.
The room had intricate wood details and carvings with plenty of room to spread out.
and the view was insane.
Even the ceiling was cool.
We enjoyed watching the fish swim below the bungalow.
We spent most of our time right here taking in the view, reading, or snorkeling off the bungalow dock.
On the other side of the private island was an amazing place to snorkel. They called it the "Aquarium." I've never seen so many fish in so many different varieties. We took our kayak out there a few times. We also tried some paddle boarding, which was fun.
At the top of the hotel grounds was a look out point with a deck and chairs to take in the 360 views.
A view of our bungalow below.
We spent most sunsets at the top of the island. Being on the motus allowed us to be far enough back to see the outline and beauty of Bora Bora.
The color of the water changed throughout the day.
I feel like the pictures don't even accurately capture its vibrant colors.
The gulls were not afraid to hang out with you.
The hotel property had a little beach.
There were a handful of Blacktip reef sharks swimming around our lagoon.
Every day a quick thunder storm rolled in changing the the scenery and cooling things down with a huge dump of rain.
Then it was back to hot and sunny.
One day we took a long walk on the main island to take a look around. Here's a look at our hotel island from the main island.
Most little towns had a small market. This was an actual grocery store.
Tahiti hair!
These spotted rays liked to swim around the lagoon as well.
Our boat ride back to the airport.
It truly was paradise.
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