Bora Bora - History

Historians believe that the proud, brave Polynesian settlers first sailed their double-hulled voyaging canoes through the Teavanui Pass, the only navigable break in the coral wall, sometime during the ninth century. They named the island Vavau, « First Born », and claimed Motu Tapu as their sacred islet. The name was later changed to Porapora.

When Captain James Cook visited in 1777, he recorded the island’s name as Bola Bola. The American Armed Forces who were stationed on the island in World War II called it Bora Bora.

It’s fun and easy to explore Bora Boar's main island, which is only 10 Km (6,2 miles) long and 4 Km (2,5 miles) wide. A partially paved road circles the coastline, winding 29 Km (18 miles) through the colourful villages of Vaitape, Faanui and Anau. 

You’ll see little settlements of modest fares with big, bountiful flower-filled gardens, the homes of Bora Bora’s 5,767 inhabitants.