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WWII Cannons Bora Bora

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

monument

WWII Cannons Bora Bora (French Polynesia)

Weather…

The WWII cannons on Bora Bora stand as silent reminders of the island’s strategic role as a Pacific outpost during the 1940s. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States launched 'Operation Bobcat' in 1942, deploying approximately 7,000 troops to the island to secure it against potential Japanese advances. As part of the defenses, eight massive 7-inch naval guns were strategically positioned on the hills and ridges overlooking the lagoon, including sites at Fitiiu Point and Farepiti. Although these coastal batteries never saw actual combat, their installation led to the construction of Bora Bora’s first airstrip and paved roads, forever changing the island's infrastructure. Today, the weathered but imposing cannons are popular destinations for hikers and history buffs. The elevated sites where the cannons rest offer some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon and Mount Otemanu, blending military history with the wide-open scenery of French Polynesia.

Location: French Polynesia
Top sights: Vieux Canons Américains · Marae Marotetini · Marae Taianapa
Nearby: Anau (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	27	27	26	26	26	26	27	27
Rain mm	206	180	144	121	94	60	43	39	34	74	114	211

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The American WWII coastal artillery cannons are scattered on the hills surrounding the Bora Bora lagoon and are open for visitation. Some cannons are easily accessible, while others require a hike or a guided tour.

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Typical hours

Since the cannons are outdoors, they have no fixed opening hours and are accessible at any time during the day. For a guided tour, however, it is advisable to book in advance, as tours typically run in the morning.

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Photography

Photography is allowed at all cannon sites, and the panoramic views over the lagoon are fantastic. For the best pictures, frame the cannons with the turquoise water in the background, ideally in the late morning.

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Time needed

For visiting the most easily accessible cannons, you should allow about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you want to explore all locations, especially the more remote ones, plan for 3 to 4 hours.

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Combine with

Visiting the cannons can be wonderfully combined with a 4x4 island tour that includes Mount Otemanu and Povai Bay. A subsequent visit to the Bloody Mary's beachfront restaurant is also highly recommended.

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Getting there

The cannons are accessible from Bora Bora's single ring road and then via steep, unpaved tracks. A rental car with four-wheel drive or joining a guided tour are the best ways to reach the sites.

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Insider tip

Bring a flashlight, as some of the bunkers and gun emplacements have dark interiors worth exploring. Mosquito repellent is essential, especially in the wooded areas around the cannons.

Geography

Coordinates

-16.49580, -151.76110

Facts

Caliber: 155 mm
Installed in 1942
US base hosted 6,000 troops
Location: Mount Otemanu, 400 m elevation
Range: 14 km
Surviving cannons: 4

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marae Arituitui<1 km · WExplore →

Marae Taianapa1 km · NEExplore →

St. Joseph Church Faanui2 km · NExplore →

Marae Vaiotaha (South Bora Bora)3 km · EExplore →

Bora Bora Turtle Center6 km · NExplore →

Marine Museum Bora Bora6 km · NWExplore →

Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench7 km · NExplore →

Taha'a Coral Garden28 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town WWII Cannons Bora Bora (10)

Vieux Canons Américains

Remains of US cannons from World War II on the island.

Marae Marotetini

Stone platform of a traditional Polynesian ceremonial site.

Marae Taianapa

Ancient ceremonial ground built from coral blocks.

Viewpoint over Fa'anui Bay

Lookout point overlooking Fa’anui Bay and the ocean.

Evangelist Church

Church in French Polynesia serving the evangelical community.

Point de vue des falaises

Viewpoint on the cliffs with turquoise water below.

Église Saint-Pierre-Célestin

Catholic church dedicated to Saints Peter and Celestine.

Marae Fare Opu

Historic ceremonial site with stone platforms.

Snorkeling voilier coulé

Snorkeling spot at a sunken sailboat in the lagoon.

Ohue

Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic island views.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Are the cannons real?

Yes, they are from World War II.

Do you have to hike to see them?

Yes, a small climb is usually required.

Is the view good?

Yes, fantastic over the whole lagoon.

Do I need hiking shoes?

Absolutely, as the path can be uneven.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, but sure-footedness is necessary.

WWII Cannons Bora Bora: where is it located?

WWII Cannons Bora Bora is located in French Polynesia.

WWII Cannons Bora Bora: what is there to see?

Highlights include Vieux Canons Américains, Marae Marotetini, Marae Taianapa.

WWII Cannons Bora Bora: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

WWII Cannons Bora Bora: why is it worth visiting?

The WWII cannons on Bora Bora stand as silent reminders of the island’s strategic role as a Pacific outpost during the 1940s.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →