Bora Bora is a globally renowned luxury island destination in French Polynesia, famed for its turquoise lagoon, over-water bungalows, and iconic mountaintop views.
According to the regional statistics for 2023, the island welcomed ~305,700 visitors and is projected to receive ~326,632 visitors in 2024, marking continued recovery and growth.
Key stats: Bora Bora Tourism
- Around 264,000 tourists visited French Polynesia in 2024 — a slight increase over the previous year, signalling steady recovery.
- Among them, 52,111 arrived via cruise ships in 2024, nearly one-fifth more than in 2023: cruise access remains a growing segment.
- On Bora Bora specifically, tourism had already surged to approximately 236,000 visitors in 2019, up dramatically from ~160,000 in 2011 — showing long-term growth.
- The local airport handled 384,564 passengers in 2023, up nearly +20% — illustrating the rising connectivity and traveller flow.
- For the wider French Polynesia region, tourism revenue once reached about US$642 million (~10% of GDP circa 2018), underscoring how critical this industry is for the island economy.
How Many Tourists Visit Bora Bora Each Year?
In 2023, Bora Bora welcomed ~305,700 visitors; estimates for 2024 show ~326,632 visitors (+6.9 % vs 2023).
- 2023: ~305,700
- 2024 (estimate): ~326,632 visitors
- Cruise passengers in 2023: 43,815; in 2024: ~52,111 (+18.9 %)
- Tourists staying in accommodation on land: 2023: 217,998; 2024: ~211,655 (-2.9 %)
How Many Tourists Visit Bora Bora Each Day?
With ~305,700 visitors over a year (2023), the average is roughly 837 visitors per day; in the 2024 estimate (~326,600) the average rises to ~895 per day.
Given the luxury positioning and limited capacity, day averages belie the intense peak-season concentrations.
How Much Do Visitors Spend on Bora Bora Tourism?
Tourism revenue in Bora Bora reached ~99 billion XPF in 2023 (~USD 0.98 billion) according to the local statistics.
The average spend per visit: ~380,000 XPF (~USD 3,700) among visitors staying on land.
Tourism also accounts for approximately 18.1 % of total employment in French Polynesia in 2024.
Which Markets Visit Bora Bora the Most?
Detailed breakdowns for all source markets are limited, but general trends show:
- High proportion of international luxury travellers (US, France, Australia)
- Growing emphasis on lowering cruise passenger numbers, shifting toward higher-value land-based stays.
What Are the Most Visited Areas / Attractions in Bora Bora?
Though official visitor counts for each attraction are scarce, common high-demand sites include:
- Motu of the lagoon and over-water resorts
- Mount Otemanu viewpoint
- Lagoon cruises and snorkeling tours
- Matira Beach
- The main town of Vaitape
Given the luxury nature of the destination, average stay lengths and spending are higher than many regional resorts.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Bora Bora?
Peak season: May to October (dry season, best weather)
Shoulder seasons: November and April
Low season: February, March (higher rainfall)
Short-term rental data for 2025 show occupancy dips and ADRs drop significantly in February, while August remains one of the strongest months.
What Are the Biggest Tourism-Events / Trends in Bora Bora?
- Shift in cruise tourism management: local authorities aim to cap large-ship arrivals to preserve environment and visitor experience.
- Trend toward longer stays, higher spending: “people are flying in more, staying longer, and booking hotels” in French Polynesia in early 2025.
FAQ – Bora Bora Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Bora Bora each year?
About 305,700 visitors in 2023; estimated ~326,632 in 2024
What is Bora Bora best known for?
Its luxury over-water bungalows, pristine lagoon, and high-end resort experiences in the South Pacific.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season (May to October) offers the best weather; for fewer crowds consider April or November.
Is Bora Bora expensive?
Yes — average visitor spend (~380,000 XPF or ~USD 3,700) combined with the high cost of resort accommodation reflects premium positioning.
Is the destination dependent on cruise tourism?
Historically yes, but policy shifts are in place: cruise arrivals are being capped to protect the environment and pivot toward higher-value stays.
Sources
- Tahiti Tourisme (ISPF data) — Key Statistics & Data – Bora Bora, French Polynesia (2023-24)
- The Guardian — “Paradise divided: French Polynesia wrestles with lure of mass cruise tourism”
- Wander in Paradise — French Polynesia Travel Trends 2025: Longer Stays, Fewer Visitors
- AirROI — Bora Bora Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: ADR, occupancy, STR insights
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