The Bora Bora island group in the French Polynesia isn't exactly a hidden gem. It's a very popular tourist destination and, with a strikingly beautiful lagoon around its perimeter and amazing views from its surrounding islets, it's not difficult to see why.
The island adopts its name from "Pora pora mai te pora" (Tahitian dialect), which means "created by the gods". And, true to its name, this entire island has a feel of sanctity and divinity.
Although it's located in the Pacific Ocean, this island group forms part of the French-administered territories. Although there are sharks and rays in its waters, snorkeling and scuba diving is a popular pastime.
An extinct volcano rises to form the Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu mountains in the center of the main island. Aqua-centric luxury resorts are all around some of the most picturesque locations at Bora Bora, with coconut trees strewn around its archipelago. These over-the-water bungalows are some of the most popular places for tourists to hang out.
Bora Bora is known to be peaceful and, unlike most popular tourist destinations around the world, it isn't typically crowded. White sand and clear waters, coupled with coral reefs and a lagoon make this one of God's truly special creations.