Is Bora Bora safe?
Very safe for visitors. Sun, reef cuts, lagoon currents and rare theft from beach bags are the main issues.
Key facts
- SoloSquare safety rating: 5/5, very safe.
- US travel advisory: Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, updated 2024-12-01.
- Homicide rate in French Polynesia: 0.4 per 100,000 people (2009, UNODC via World Bank).
- Emergency numbers: Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18.
Safety in Bora Bora at a glance
| What to expect | |
|---|---|
| Overall | 5/5 · Very safe |
| Crime | Low crime; occasional theft of unattended bags on beaches and from bikes and rental cars. |
| At night | Quiet and safe; the island is dark and shuts early, so bring a torch and pre-book rides. |
| Solo women | Very comfortable for solo women; locals are polite and reserved. Usual care on empty beaches at night. |
| Other risks | Strong sun and heat; Reef cuts and sea urchins; Currents in lagoon passes |
Scams, areas and local laws
Take care
- Lagoon passes and outer reef: strong currents, swim only with guides
Calmer areas to stay
Laws visitors break by accident
- Carry photo ID at all times; it's required by law
- Drug possession, even small amounts, brings fines or prison
- Marae (sacred sites) and shore land beyond public beaches may need permission
How Bora Bora compares in French Polynesia
Quick answers
Is Bora Bora safe for solo female travelers?
Very comfortable for solo women; locals are polite and reserved. Usual care on empty beaches at night.
Is Bora Bora safe at night?
Quiet and safe; the island is dark and shuts early, so bring a torch and pre-book rides.
What is the crime rate in Bora Bora?
Low crime; occasional theft of unattended bags on beaches and from bikes and rental cars. Nationally, French Polynesia records 0.4 homicides per 100,000 people a year (2009).
What number do I call in an emergency in Bora Bora?
Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18.
More about Bora Bora
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Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Air Tahiti
- Tahiti Tourisme
- Vini (mobile operator)
- World Bank: intentional homicides (UNODC)
- World Bank: road traffic deaths (WHO)
Safety ratings are SoloSquare's editorial judgment from official advisories, crime data and local reporting. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.