Bora Bora Drinking Age: Laws That Might Surprise You!
Are you curious about the Bora Boradrinking age?
If you want to know about the laws and customs in French Polynesia then you’ve come to the right place!
Read on to discover everything you need to know about drinking in Bora Bora.
Bora Bora Drinking Age: The Laws
It’s important to know about the laws and customs when traveling to another country- especially when it comes to drinking.
Read on to be culturally appropriate and avoid unnecessary fines and costs.
✅Law: The Legal drinking age in Bora Bora is 18.
While most countries require adults to be 21 or older to purchase or consume alcohol, the legal drinking age for French Polynesia is 18.
✅Law: Bars and Restaurants aren’t allowed to serve anyone who is drunk.
There are strict drinking and driving laws (the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%), so establishments are legally obligated to stop serving alcohol to anyone who is visibly drunk.
✅Custom: Drinking at all ages is acceptable.
Even though it’s culturally acceptable for young people to have a drink, please note that it’s still illegal! If you’re younger than 18, refrain from taking a sip.
Cost of Drinks In Bora Bora
The cost of drinks in Bora Bora can be high, as all the alcohol has to be imported to the islands. Of course, where you purchase the alcohol can make a big difference in the costs!
If you purchase at the resorts you can expect to pay an average of $20 for a cocktail. In general, anything purchased at a resort will cost more than at local restaurants and stores.
Outside of the resorts, you’ll pay between $8-15 for a cocktail. You should definitely take advantage of the happy hours offered at the different restaurants on the island!
Drinking At Bora Bora Resorts
Whether you’re staying at the resorts or a different hotel on the island, the bars and restaurants on Bora Bora have delicious drinks.
The drinks at theresorts in Bora Borawill come with the heftiest price tag. You can expect to spend $20 and up on cocktails. Wine and beer will come in a little less.
The atmosphere in the resorts is fantastic, making them a great option for a luxurious dining experience.
Here’s a look at the top resort bars in Bora Bora.
Upa Upa Lounge Bar
Located at theConrad Hotel, this bar has a glass floor so you can watch the coral reef under your feet.
The cocktails are designed to complement their sushi perfectly, so it’s a great dinner spot. Enjoy live music while sharks swim under your feet.
If you’re lucky, there may even be local dancers performing onstage.
The best part? A portion of the money from each cocktail goes towards the conservation of Manta Rays.
With over 14 different types of rum to choose from, kick back and enjoy a classic daiquiri or piña colada.
Bubbles Bar
The Bubbles Bar in theIntercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spais the ultimate bar experience, featuring spectacular views of Mount Otemanu.
The modern take on traditional Polynesia makes for a fun atmosphere. Try their infamous Black Pearl Martini and get cozy in their chic lounge chairs.
Enjoy their happy hour from 5 to 6 pm, and from 9-10pm for a 50% discount on a selection of classic cocktails.
Saving Money On Drinks In Bora Bora
Even though alcoholic beverages on Bora Bora can be pretty expensive, there are plenty of ways to enjoy having a drink without breaking the bank.
Read on to see a few money-saving tips.
✔️ Bring Alcohol With You
One of the best hacks to save costs on alcohol is actually to bring it with you from home.
Each person is allowed to bring 2L of liquor or wine with them to Bora Bora. You can bring some in your checked-in luggage or buy some in the duty-free zone of the airport.
✔️ Purchase Alcohol in the Local Markets
Beer and Wine are significantly cheaper at the local markets and grocery stores than at restaurants and resorts. Take a trip into town and stock up.
Want to save even more money?
Try out some local brands of alcohol. Hinano is a popular local beer with a light and refreshing taste.
If you prefer liquor, make sure to try some local rum.
塔希提岛一直distilling rum since 300 AD, and while there isn’t a distillery on Bora Bora itself, the best brands will be available for purchase.
If you come prepared with a collapsible cooler you can take ice from your hotel or resort and enjoy a drink in your bungalow or room.
✔️Take Advantage of Happy Hour
Some of the resorts have happy hours, which is one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful bars and restaurants without breaking the bank.
A common deal is 2-for-1 drinks (per person), which is a great way to save some cash.
✔️Drink at the Local Restaurants and Not the Resorts
The price of drinks at the resorts is going to be the highest price you’ll encounter. Some greatrestaurants in Bora Borahave delicious drinks that come in at two-thirds of the price.
Check out the recommendations below for some of the best drinks on Bora Bora.
Best Places For Drinks In Bora Bora
There are lots of great spots to grab a drink in Bora Bora. With so many options it can be a little overwhelming, but I’ve compiled a list of some of the best options below.
血腥玛丽
This Seafood and Steak restaurant is iconic. Open since 1979, this is one of the best spots on the island to grab a drink. It’s got a laid-back atmosphere and is located in Povai Bay.
在浴室(砂层和瀑布instead of sinks), dining here is a fun experience. Check out the Wall of Fame and see if any of your favorite celebrities have stopped by for a drink or a meal!
You should take advantage of their happy hour, between 5:30 and 6:30 pm.
Note:this restaurant is closed on Sundays.
St. James
This bar is a favorite for good reason. With fantastic views, comfortable seating, and great drinks, you can’t go wrong with a stop at St. James.
Specializing in Polynesian food with a French twist, St. James offers a fantastic selection of wine and cocktails.
Try the St. James Special, with white and dark rum, vanilla, lime, pineapple, and mango juice. Yum!
Located on the main island of Bora Bora, the restaurant offers a pick-up service when you reserve your table for the ultimate convenience.
The Lucky House
Want to watch some sports? Sip on a cocktail with your feet in the pool? This local spot is a great place to sip and relax.
Plus, if you’re hungry, you can get a pizza in their wood fire oven or pick another dish from their extensive menu.
Reasonably priced, The Lucky House is one of the less expensive places for drinks on the island.
The Lucky House is located at Matira Point and open until 11 pm.
Bora Bora Drinking Water
Need to rehydrate after all the drinks? Don’t worry, the tap water in Bora Bora is safe to drink.
While not the case throughout the entirety of French Polynesia, Bora Bora is one of the islands where tap water is potable.
Of course, if you feel more comfortable, you can always buy sealed water bottles.
Best Things To Do In Bora Bora (Beyond Drinking)
Even if you’re hoping for a relaxed vacation, there are plenty offun activitiesyou should do! Read below to see my top recommendations.
Swim with Humpback Whales
If you’re planning on being in Bora Bora between July to November, youhaveto go whale watching.
These magnificent creatures come to the warm waters of French Polynesia to reproduce and give birth. Seeing whales breach is an unforgettable experience.
While not guaranteed, you may even get the opportunity to swim with them. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
➡️Book your whale-watching tour now
Explore the Beautiful Lagoon by Paddleboard or Kayak
Depending on where you’re staying, some resorts will provide you with complimentary paddle boarding or kayaking equipment.
Even if you have to rent, it’s worth getting out on the ocean and paddling around.
The reefs are beautiful and the experience of kayaking (or paddleboarding) around them is unmatched.
Don’t worry – the calm waters around Bora Bora are perfect for all skill levels.
Explore the Island on an ATV
If you want to see more of the island and explore Bora Bora, the best way is via ATV.
Start the tour off with an introduction on how to drive an ATV, and then head off out through the city center (Vaitape). Soak in views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Plus, you’ll also get to see vestiges from World War II.
Finish the tour off with tropical fruit tastings and drive past the bay of Faanui.
➡️Experience Bora Bora in a unique way on ATV!
Where To Stay In Bora Bora
While Bora Bora is notoriously expensive, there are options for any type of budget. Check out my top recommendations for your budget below.
Matira House– Affordable Home Stay
This home stay is a fantastic place to stay on Bora Bora without breaking the bank. The rooms are simple, but some boast sea views and are conveniently located near Matira Point.
有一件事需要注意的:两个房间的upstairs portion share a bathroom, and two of the rooms have private ensuite bathrooms.
With nightly prices starting at $119, this is a great clean place to stay in Bora Bora.
Oa Oa Lodge– Waterfront Holiday Home
Located on the mainland of Bora Bora, Oa Oa Lodge is a waterfront property close to the main town.
With a few different options, this is a fantastic place to rent a bungalow (with even a few over-water bungalows available for the picture-perfect Bora Bora trip) without paying high-end luxury prices.
While the accommodations are simple, the location is fantastic, and the staff is friendly.
Want to snorkel? Step into the water right outside of your accommodation and see tropical fish and rays.
The Four Seasons Bora Bora– Luxurious Resort
If you’re envisioning a Bora Bora vacation with luxury at every angle, the Four Seasons is one of the best resorts on the island.
With its private beach, high-end accommodations, numerous restaurants, and amenities on the property, you’ll feel pampered from day to night!
Prices start around $2,800 a night and the entire place radiates luxury.
Top-rated and beautiful, you can expect impeccable service and fantastic experiences.
FAQ: French Polynesia Laws
Here are some quick faqs about the drinking culture and laws in Bora Bora that you should know!
Can you drink alcohol in Bora Bora?
Yes! However, you should know that public drinking is illegal. While that rule is not very widely enforced, it might be best to refrain from drinking on the beach. It’s acceptable to drink in restaurants and at your hotel.
What island can you drink at 18?
You’re able to drink at the age of 18 in Bora Bora and other islands in French Polynesia.
Can you drink at 16 in Fiji?
No, the legal drinking age in Fiji is 18.
What country can you drink in at 18?
You can drink in French Polynesia at the age of 18.
Conclusion: Bora Bora Drinking Age
If you’re 18 or older, it’s legal for you to drink in Bora Bora. With refreshing tropical cocktails, smooth rum, and light local beers, there’s plenty to enjoy on this beautiful island in French Polynesia.
If you don’t want to break the bank, make sure to take advantage of the tips above and bring alcohol (and a cooler) on your trip with you. You can also purchase liquor and wine at the local grocery stores.
Enjoy a cocktail or beer, and relax in paradise!