Bora Bora Island Information

Many believe Bora Bora was inhabited by the Polynesians since the 9th century. Captain Cook is one of the first Europeans to land on the island and probably gave it the name Bora Bora in 1769 when naming the other islands around it. Though the indigenous people fought off the Europeans, France conquered the island in 1888. Though still under the French protectorate, Bora Bora became autonomous in 1977.

Bora Bora formed during volcanic activity about 4 million years ago. An extinct volcano now lies in the center of the island. Its two peaks are named Mount Pahi and Mount Otemanu, which is 2,379 feet. These peaks are often cloaked in clouds, giving the island a magical look.

The United States used Bora Bora as a base during World War II after the Pearl Harbor attack. About 5,000 soldiers inhabited the island and during this time the Americans also built the island's first airstrip. This airstrip would be the island's main airfield until 1961.

Tourism is the main source of commerce for the island today. It is a popular resort destination and it is famous for scuba diving and snorkeling. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on Bora Bora. Most residents of Bora Bora speak English as well to accommodate tourists.

Herman Melville wrote two short stories that take place on Bora Bora and artist Paul Gaugin used the island and its people as inspiration for many of his paintings. The island's history also inspired the musical "South Pacific."