How to Get to Bora Bora From California [2025 Guide] ✈️
Fly with Air France. Air France operates three weekly flights from Los Angeles LAX to Papeete PPT, with departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
If you’re planning a tropical escape in 2025, few destinations compare to the breathtaking lagoons of Bora Bora. Travelers from California are in luck—since flights to French Polynesia often connect through the West Coast, you have some of the shortest and most convenient routes from the U.S. to Bora Bora. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best flight options, costs, travel times, and tips so you can reach paradise with ease.
✈️ Step 1: Fly From California to Tahiti (Papeete, PPT)
The first step is reaching Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport (PPT), the main entry point to French Polynesia.
Direct Flights From California to Tahiti:
- Los Angeles (LAX → PPT):
- Airlines: Air Tahiti Nui, Air France, Delta, United, Hawaiian Airlines
- Duration: ~8 hours (nonstop)
- Cost: $800 – $1,300 (one-way)
- San Francisco (SFO → PPT):
- Airlines: United, French Bee, Air Tahiti Nui
- Duration: ~8.5 hours (nonstop)
- Cost: $850 – $1,400 (one-way)
Flights From Other California Airports:
If you’re flying from San Diego (SAN), Sacramento (SMF), or Oakland (OAK), you’ll first connect through LAX or SFO before heading to Tahiti.
✈️ Step 2: Fly From Tahiti to Bora Bora (BOB)
Once you’ve landed in Tahiti, your next step is a short domestic flight to Bora Bora.
- Airline: Air Tahiti
- Flight Duration: ~50 minutes
- Cost: $250 – $400 (one-way)
- Frequency: Multiple flights daily
Many travelers choose to spend a night in Tahiti before continuing to Bora Bora, especially if their international flight arrives late at night.
Entry Requirements for U.S. Travelers
- Visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after travel.
- Other: Return/onward flight ticket and proof of accommodation may be requested.
Total Travel Time From California to Bora Bora
- LAX → PPT → BOB: ~11–12 hours total
- SFO → PPT → BOB: ~12–13 hours total
- Other California Cities (via LAX/SFO): 13–15 hours total
Estimated Cost (Round Trip 2025)
Here’s what you can expect for flights:
- Economy Class: $1,600 – $2,400
- Premium Economy: $2,800 – $4,000
- Business Class: $4,800 – $7,000
Booking 3–6 months in advance helps secure better fares, especially during the dry season.
⛵ Transfers in Bora Bora
After arriving at Bora Bora Airport (BOB), you’ll transfer to your resort by boat:
- Luxury Resorts (Four Seasons, St. Regis, Conrad, InterContinental): Private boat transfers ($100 – $150 per person).
- Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: Shared boat transfers at more affordable rates.
Best Time to Visit Bora Bora From California
- Dry Season (May – October): Clear skies, low humidity, best for swimming, snorkeling, and honeymoons.
- Wet Season (November – April): More affordable, but expect rain and humidity.
Many Californians escape during winter months (December – February) to enjoy sunny beaches in Bora Bora.
Summary Table – California to Bora Bora Routes
| Departure | Route | Duration (One-Way) | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) | LAX → PPT → BOB | 11–12 hrs | $1,600 – $2,400 |
| San Francisco (SFO) | SFO → PPT → BOB | 12–13 hrs | $1,700 – $2,500 |
| Other Cities (SAN, OAK, SMF) | Via LAX/SFO → PPT → BOB | 13–15 hrs | $1,700 – $2,600 |
❓ FAQs – How to Get to Bora Bora From California
Q1. Are there direct flights from California to Bora Bora?
No, all flights connect through Tahiti (PPT). From there, you’ll take a short domestic flight to Bora Bora.
Q2. Which California airport is best for flying to Bora Bora?
Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) offer nonstop flights to Tahiti, making them the fastest and most convenient.
Q3. How much does it cost to fly from California to Bora Bora in 2025?
Round-trip economy fares average $1,600 – $2,400, depending on the season and booking time.
Q4. Do Californians need a visa for Bora Bora?
No. U.S. citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
Q5. How do you get from Bora Bora Airport to your resort?
Resorts provide boat transfers, either private or shared, depending on your hotel choice.
Q6. What’s the cheapest time to travel from California to Bora Bora?
The wet season (November – April) typically has lower airfares and hotel rates.
✨ Whether you’re flying from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or another California city, getting to Bora Bora is more accessible than you think. With direct flights to Tahiti and a quick hop to Bora Bora, your 2025 island escape is just a few hours away from the West Coast!