Hawaiki Nui Va'a 2026 — Watch the Race from Bora Bora

Every year, for a few days at the end of October, Bora Bora stops and watches the water. The Hawaiki Nui Va'a — the largest outrigger canoe race in the Pacific — brings its final stage straight to the island's doorstep, turning the normally quiet bay of Vaitape into a festival ground. If you've never witnessed it, this is the kind of event that makes you book a second trip.

What Is the Hawaiki Nui Va'a?

The Hawaiki Nui Va'a is a three-stage outrigger canoe race covering around 130 km across the islands of French Polynesia. Now in its 33rd edition, it draws teams from across the Pacific and beyond — paddlers competing in V6 canoes (six paddlers and one outrigger), racing through open ocean channels between islands.

The race is not just a sporting event. It's a celebration of Polynesian identity, of connection to the ocean, and of a paddling tradition that goes back centuries. Watching it is moving in a way that's hard to put into words until you're there.

2026 Race Schedule

The 2026 edition follows the classic route through the Society Islands:

• October 28: Huahine → Raiatea

• October 29: Raiatea → Taha'a

• October 30: Taha'a → Bora Bora — race finish at Matira Beach

• October 31: L'Aere — the closing party, Bora Bora

If you plan your stay for October 30 and 31, you'll be there for the two most lively days on the island.

The Atmosphere: A Village on a Festival Footing

In the days leading up to the finish, Vaitape transforms. Tents and stands line the waterfront, supporters arrive from across Polynesia wearing their team's colours, and the roulottes — the beloved Polynesian food trucks — set up wherever there's space. It's loud, warm, and completely genuine.

This is not a tourist-facing event. It's a local celebration that happens to take place in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Families, grandparents, children — everyone comes out. If you want to see real Polynesian life rather than the resort version, this is your moment.

Best Spots to Watch the Race

You have a few options depending on the kind of experience you're after:

• Matira Beach — the official finish line. Giant screens, maximum energy, and the moment the lead canoe hits shore. This is where you want to be when the first teams come in.

• Vaitape ferry quay — a good vantage point to watch the canoes cross the bay before the final sprint to Matira. More local atmosphere, slightly less crowded.

• North coastal road — open stretches with clear water views, fewer people. Good for families with young children who want space.

Getting There from the Lodge

Sunset Hill Lodge is in Vaitape — which puts you right in the middle of the action without any planning. Vaitape centre is 15 minutes on foot, and Matira Beach (the official finish line) is about 10 to 15 minutes by bike.

A bike rental is 50 metres from the lodge — the easiest way to get around the island during the race. If you'd rather not pedal, Dolores Taxi covers the island: +689 89 53 33 55.

Practical Tips

• Book your accommodation early. Late October is one of the most popular periods on Bora Bora, and studios fill up weeks in advance.

• Bring cash. The roulottes and most food stands don't take cards. A few thousand CFP will go a long way.

• It's a family event. All ages are welcome, and the atmosphere is warm rather than rowdy. Children love it.

• The race finish (October 30) is the sporting high point. The L'Aere closing party (October 31) is a separate celebration with music and dancing — worth staying an extra night for.

Staying in Vaitape During the Race

Sunset Hill Lodge has 7 self-catering studios, all with fully equipped kitchens, air conditioning, and either lagoon or mountain views. Rates from €102/night, all-inclusive — taxes, cleaning, and Wi-Fi. No third-party commissions.

Super U, Bora Bora's main supermarket, is a 5-minute walk away — so you can stock up for breakfast and lunch and keep your spending focused on what matters during the race. It's a practical, comfortable base that costs a fraction of the overwater bungalow resorts and puts you closer to the actual event.

If you want to understand what Bora Bora actually costs for a stay like this, read our honest 2026 breakdown.

Ready to book? Check availability directly on our reservations page — no third-party commissions, direct booking only.