Sun, Boats, and Bungalows: What to Pack for Bora Bora
From overwater bungalow decks to coral reef snorkels and breezy boat rides, pack reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard, non-slip sandals, a dry bag and phone case, and a light cover-up for village visits and sun.
Updated on September 11, 2025
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Packing for Bora Bora can feel like a balancing act between swim days and breezy dinners. Consider this your shortcut: a reef‑respectful, lagoon‑ready capsule that moves from boat deck to bar stool without fuss. We’ll show what looks right at resorts and in villages, how to protect the coral and your skin, and the small choices—non‑slip soles, waterproof storage, lighter luggage—that make island life effortless.
The local read is polished resort‑casual: breathable fabrics, simple silhouettes, and colors that echo the lagoon. By day you’re barefoot or in sandals, moving between overwater bungalows, boats, and beach cafés. After dark, the tone shifts to neat and breezy rather than formal, with modest cover‑ups for village visits. One smart upgrade piece at night is all you need.
Weather here is warm and humid year‑round, with clear trade‑wind days in the dry season and quick, heavy showers in the wet months. Sun can be intense even under clouds, glare bounces off the lagoon, and mosquitoes perk up after rain. Evenings often bring a cooler breeze over the water. Carry a featherlight layer and a compact rain shell you can deploy fast.
From here, this guide maps the essentials that truly matter, then builds a mix‑and‑match resort wardrobe and right‑sized footwear, followed by waterproof storage and boat‑day setups, seasonal adjustments for dry and wet months, and activity add‑ons for snorkeling, diving, boating, short hikes, and dinners. It wraps with what to skip and the practicals on power, payments, and getting around.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Kids Footwear & Beach Gear
Bora Bora Day Bag Checklist
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
Bora Bora Weather & Lagoon Climate Guide
Bora Bora has a tropical maritime climate: warm, humid days typically in the mid-20s to low-22s°F, with a distinct dry season (May–Oct) and a wet, mosquito-prone season (Nov–Apr). Trade winds cool breezy evenings; sudden lagoon squalls and microclimate shifts near Mount Otemanu are common.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 86°F | 77°F |
| Feb | 86°F | 77°F |
| Mar | 86°F | 77°F |
| Apr | 84°F | 75°F |
| May | 82°F | 73°F |
| Jun | 81°F | 72°F |
| Jul | 79°F | 70°F |
| Aug | 79°F | 70°F |
| Sep | 81°F | 72°F |
| Oct | 82°F | 73°F |
| Nov | 84°F | 75°F |
| Dec | 86°F | 77°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring (Sept–Nov): days warm at 79–84°F, shoulder weather can swing from sunny lagoon 86°F to sudden showers. Pack 2 swimsuits, a lightweight quick-dry shell, reef-safe SPF, mosquito repellent, and non-slip boat shoes for bumpy jetty transfers.
summer
Summer (Nov–Apr): hot and humid, daytime highs 84–88°F with heavy tropical downpours. Prioritize reef-safe swimwear and UV rash guards, a packable rain shell, waterproof dry bag for boat days, extra swim duplicates, and compact insect repellent.
fall
Fall (Oct): a true shoulder month around 81–84°F with increasing trade winds and clearer seas. Bring a light linen layer or merino for breezy evenings, a rash guard for cooler mornings, boat shoes, reef-safe SPF, and a compact rain cover.
winter
Winter (May–Oct): dry season with lower humidity and steady trade winds; days around 77–82°F and calm lagoon water ideal for snorkeling. Pack rash guards, 2 swimsuits, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, non-slip boat shoes, and a light wind layer.
Bora Bora Resort Style Compass
Bora Bora style is practical island elegance — lightweight, breathable pieces that move from overwater bungalow to boat deck and dinner table. Prioritize reef-safe swimwear, quick-dry fabrics, sun protection and insect defense. Think relaxed linen silhouettes, mix-and-match neutrals with tropical accents, and carry duplicates of essentials due to limited island shopping.
The Local Dress Code
Resort-casual is standard: swimwear on the beach, tidy cover-ups for village or temple visits and smart-casual outfits for resort dinners. Modest cover-ups are respectful for local sites. Avoid heavy formalwear; prioritize comfortable, breathable evening options and footwear that’s safe on jetties and sandy paths.
Lagoon-first dressing: reef-safe swimwear, breathable resort layers, waterproof storage, sun and mosquito protection, and boat-ready, non-slip footwear for seamless swim-to-dinner days.
Style at a Glance
- • Reef-safe swimwear and rash guards are non-negotiable
- • Lightweight linen and quick-dry synthetics mix and match
- • Pack duplicates of swim and sun gear—island shopping is limited
- • Boat- and jetty-safe footwear over heels or thin soles
- • Sun protection: wide-brim hats, SPF clothing, polarized lenses
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shopping is limited on-island: buy essentials and specialty reef-safe products before travel, bring duplicates, and rely on resort boutiques for souvenirs and basic replacements. Prioritize durable, quick-dry items and waterproof storage.
Brands to Look For
Local Weaves: Handmade pareos and woven accessories ideal for cover-ups and beach styling; lightweight, breathable and locally produced with island motifs. ($ - $$)
Atelier Tiare: Resort-ready linen and lightweight cotton pieces—wrap dresses, shirts and tunics tailored for humid climates and elegant dinners. ($$ - $$$)
Lagoon Gear: Boat-friendly essentials: quick-dry towels, dry bags and waterproof phone cases built to handle transfers and shallow wading. ($ - $$)
Vaitape Surf Co.: Practical reef-safe swimwear, rash guards and neoprene-friendly accessories designed for snorkeling and water excursions. ($$ - $$$)
Island Silk: Lightweight silk and rayon scarves, ties and evening accents that add island color without bulk or heat. ($$ - $$$)
Where to Shop
Vaitape Market: Local crafts, pareos, and basic reef-safe sunscreen and toiletries.
Resort Boutiques: Curated swimwear, quick-dry essentials, and higher-end resort evening pieces.
Neighborhood Vibes
Vaitape: The island’s main town mixes practical shopping with island-casual looks: neat linen shirts, light trousers, and sandals for errands or markets; think tidy, functional pieces you can wear to a café or pier.
Resort Lagoon: Overwater bungalows and docks call for polished resortwear that’s still easy to dry: wrap dresses, tailored shorts, lightweight button-ups and non-slip sandals that transition from deck to dinner.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Lagoon Snorkel Start — Morning reef snorkeling and quick boat transfers
- • Long-sleeve rash guard: Lightweight reef-safe fabric for UV and abrasion protection
- • Quick-dry swim shorts
- • Non-slip water shoes
- • Waterproof phone case
Resort Lunch — Poolside lunch and market stroll in Vaitape
- • Linen button-up shirt
- • Tailored shorts
- • Leather sandals: Stable straps for dock safety and evening wear
- • Straw pareo
summer
Tropical Swim Day — Full-day lagoon cruise and snorkeling
Rainy-Season Ready — Afternoon squall and mosquito-prone evening
fall
Lagoon Photography Walk — Morning light photography on jetty and shallow wade
Short Mount Hike — Short trail near Mount Otemanu, rocky footing
winter
Wet-Season Morning — Brief heavy shower then bright lagoon—flexible pieces
Spa and Relax — Resort spa afternoon and quiet bungalow evening
Footwear Guidelines
- • Bring non-slip water shoes or reef shoes for reef entries and slippery jetties
- • Leather or faux-leather sandals serve for evenings and dinners—choose cushioned soles
- • Pack flip-flops for pool and beach lounging but not for boat transfers or hikes
- • Lightweight sneakers or espadrilles for short hikes and village walks
Accessory Guidelines
- • Use a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses for high UV and glare protection
- • Carry a certified reef-safe sunscreen and lip SPF in waterproof packaging
- • Pack a waterproof dry bag or phone case for boat days and shallow wading
- • Bring compact mosquito repellent and a small bite-relief kit for wet season
- • Choose lightweight, quick-dry towels and a small travel laundry soap for duplicates
What to Wear for Every Bora Bora Activity
Snorkeling the Coral Lagoon
The lagoon's calm, shallow reefs are Bora Bora's top draw - protect coral and skin while maximizing reef visibility.
Scuba Diving & Guided Reef Tours
Scuba offers up-close reef experiences - organized dives follow reef-respect rules and boat safety protocols to protect coral and divers.
Lagoon Boat Excursions & Shark/Stingray Encounters
Boat days are iconic - expect short transfers, bumpy rides, and wildlife protocols to keep you and the lagoon safe.
Overwater Bungalows & Dock Transfers
Overwater bungalows are iconic; pack for frequent dock transfers, barefoot transitions and respectful shore attire for village visits.
Beach Lounging & Sunset Cruises
Relaxed beach days and sunset cruises are core to Bora Bora - pack sun protection and simple layers for cool breezes after dark.
Hiking Mount Otemanu & Short Trails
Short hikes around Mount Otemanu offer dramatic views but include steep, muddy sections. Pack sturdy shoes and lightweight layers.
Spa Treatments & Resort Fine-Dining
Resort spas and fine-dining lean resort-casual - pack lightweight evening options that transition from day to dinner with island-appropriate modesty.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Bora Bora — Reef & Lagoon Considerations
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Stiletto heels or thin-soled dress shoes: Stilettos sink in sand and are unsafe on slippery jetties or overwater gangways. Swap them for non-slip boat shoes, espadrilles, or dress sandals that handle wet decks and easy dock transfers.
- • Heavy winter coat or insulated parka: Bora Bora is tropical (mid-20s to low-30s °C); insulated coats are unnecessary, bulky, and take valuable space. Bring a lightweight linen jacket, merino/technical layer, and a compact rain shell instead.
- • Non-reef-safe chemical sunscreens and sprays: Chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone damage coral and may be restricted; aerosols can spread widely. Use reef-safe mineral SPF, UPF swim shirts, a wide-brim hat, and lip SPF to protect skin and the lagoon.
- • Bulky hard-shell suitcase: Large hard suitcases are hard to lift onto small planes, boats, and up jetties, and they crowd overwater bungalow storage. Opt for a soft duffel, carry-on friendly bag, and a waterproof dry bag for valuables.
- • Black-tie gowns or tuxedos: Bora Bora evenings lean resort-casual; black-tie is heavy, unnecessary, and takes space. Pack a smart linen dress or tailored short outfit with leather sandals for dinners and resort fine-dining instead.
- • Heavy hiking boots: Local hikes are short with sandy or rocky coastal terrain; heavy boots are overkill, slow to dry, and add weight. Choose lightweight trail shoes, water-friendly sneakers, or reef shoes for trails and wading.
- • Electronics without waterproof protection: Boat transfers and lagoon splashes can ruin phones or cameras. Don’t pack unprotected gadgets; bring a phone dry case, floating leash, a small dry bag, and waterproof camera housing instead.
- • Single-use plastic toiletry bottles and non-refillables: Plastics add to marine pollution and island recycling is limited. Replace disposables with reef-safe refillable bottles, solid shampoo bars, and compact reusable containers for toiletries.
- • Large aerosol insect sprays: Large aerosols can leak, are often restricted in luggage, and spray can disperse on boats. Pack travel-size pump repellents, mosquito wristbands, or permethrin-treated clothing as safer, compact alternatives.
- • Heavy formal leather dress shoes: Polished leather shoes are slippery on wet docks, uncomfortable on sand, and take luggage space. Choose leather sandals, rubber-soled boat shoes, or espadrilles for evenings and dock transfers.
Insider Bora Bora Packing Tips
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Reef-Safe Sun Routine: Bring reef-safe SPF50+ sunscreen and a lip balm with SPF. Apply 20 minutes before lagoon swims and reapply after towel-drying. Pair with a UV rash guard to protect skin and coral.
- • Boat-Ready Waterproofing: Use a 5-10L dry bag and a waterproof phone case for every boat or plane transfer. Keep passports, meds, and a spare swim top in a small dry pouch, quick access prevents soggy backups on narrow jetties.
- • Non-Slip Jetty Footwear: Pack non-slip water shoes and a secure sandal for jetty and bungalow steps. Thin-soled heels are unstable on wet wood and coral; lightweight boat shoes double for short hikes and evening walks.
- • Duplicate Essentials: Bora Bora has limited shopping - pack duplicates: 2-3 swimsuits, spare charger, and basic meds. Laundry can be pricey and slow at resorts; backups keep plans flexible when transfers get wet.
- • Mosquito Defense Kit: Bring picaridin or DEET repellent, a small bite-relief gel, and permethrin-treated socks or bandanas for wet season evenings. Mosquitoes spike Nov–Apr; nets and repellents keep resort nights comfortable.
- • Light Layers for Evenings: Pack a lightweight merino or technical knit layer for breezy evenings, days often 28-31°C while nights drop into the low 20s °C. A light wrap keeps you comfortable on sunset cruises and overwater decks.
- • Respectful Village Wear: Carry a lightweight sarong or modest cover-up for village visits and religious sites, resort swimwear isn't appropriate in town. A quick wrap shows respect and keeps you welcomed during market stops.
- • Lagoon Photo Tips: Bring polarized sunglasses and a floating camera strap for stunning lagoon shots, midday glare is fierce. Secure gear during boat rides, shoot at sunrise or sunset for softer light and to protect sensors from spray.
- • Packable Rain Shell: Stash a packable, breathable rain shell for Nov-Apr showers and sudden lagoon squalls, choose quick-dry fabric that packs small. It also blocks trade-wind gusts on exposed boat decks in the dry season.
- • Waterproof Documents: Keep passport, boarding passes, and a small amount of XPF or euros in a waterproof pouch during transfers. Leave photocopies in your luggage and email scanned copies to yourself in case of loss.
- • First-Aid & Reef Care: Bring a compact first-aid kit with antiseptic wipes, waterproof bandages, sting treatment and antibiotic ointment. Reef cuts can tingle, clean and dress wounds quickly; ensure tetanus is up to date.
- • Adapters & Chargers: Bring a small Type E adapter and a multi-port USB charger for resort rooms; many outlets are 220-240V. Pack a waterproof pouch for electronics and a powerbank for day trips and short flights.
Bora Bora FAQs: Packing & Lagoon Essentials
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What reef-safe sunscreen and swimwear should I bring?
How should I pack for frequent boat transfers and slippery jetties?
Are mosquito precautions necessary during different seasons in Bora Bora?
What footwear works best for lagoon entries, jetties, and resort evenings?
Can I rely on resort shops and local pharmacies for specialty or emergency items?
How much sun protection is enough for Bora Bora's strong UV levels?
What electronics, power adapters, and charging tips should I pack for the island?
Common Bora Bora Packing Mistakes and Fixes
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Underestimating Bora Bora's intense UV
Bright lagoon glare and midday UV (25–32°C days) cause serious burns. Pack reef-safe SPF50+ sunscreen, UPF rash guards, a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses; reapply every two hours and use lip SPF.
Packing non-reef-safe sunscreens and sprays
Many sunscreens and sprays harm coral and may be banned. Bring mineral reef-safe SPF (zinc/titanium), certified labels, and stick or sunscreen sticks for face; pack backups since local shops are limited.
Skipping waterproof storage for boat days
Boat transfers and sudden showers mean wet phones, cameras and passports. Pack a mid-size dry bag, phone dry case with float, resealable bags for documents, and a small waterproof daypack for lagoon excursions.
Overpacking formal or heavy clothing
Heavy suits, formal gowns and multiple dress shoes take up space and are impractical on jetties. Choose two versatile resort-casual evening outfits in linen or blends, lightweight sandals or espadrilles, and skip heels.
Assuming easy access to pharmacies and specialty gear
Vaitape and resorts have limited stock; specialty reef-safe SPF, insect repellent and meds may be scarce. Pack duplicates of essentials, a small first-aid kit, spare chargers and a basic prescriptions supply.
Packing heavy or non-water-friendly footwear
Heavy sneakers and heels struggle on slippery jetties and reef entries. Bring reef or water shoes with good soles, strap sandals for dock work, and one lightweight sneaker for hikes; leave stilettos at home.
Ready for Your Bora Bora Escape
You're ready for Bora Bora — where turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows and coral gardens turn every moment into a postcard. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard, bring waterproof dry bags and a phone dry case for boat days, and tuck in non-slip reef shoes plus a duplicate swimsuit. Choose breathable, resort-casual pieces and modest cover-ups for village visits. Travel light, respect the reef, and savor island time with confidence.
