Bora Bora Family-Friendly Resorts Offer Overwater Bungalows

The French Polynesian island of Bora Bora offers a tropical escape that can appeal to families, not just honeymooners. While it’s known for being a luxurious destination, there are ways to make it work for families. The island’s natural beauty, with its white sand beaches and clear lagoons, provides a safe and engaging environment for children. When planning a family trip here, considering accommodations that offer space and child-friendly amenities is key. Though it can be a significant investment, the unique experiences—from exploring vibrant coral gardens to simply enjoying the calm waters—can be memorable for all ages.

Island Arrival and Navigation

Getting to Bora Bora involves a flight to Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti, followed by a short domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). From the airport, which is located on a motu (islet), most resorts offer boat transfers. I’ve found that arranging these transfers in advance with your chosen resort is the easiest way to start your island experience smoothly.

Once settled, movement around the main island of Bora Bora is possible via rental cars, mopeds, or electronic bikes, particularly if you are staying on the main island itself. Many of the upscale resorts, however, are situated on these surrounding motus, and boat transport will be your primary mode of getting between your accommodation and other parts of the island. This is something to factor into your daily plans, as spontaneous pops to local shops might require a bit more logistical thought than on a mainland destination.

Choosing Family Accommodations

When I look for family-friendly places to stay, I always prioritize space and what activities are available for the kids. Many resorts in Bora Bora offer a range of options, from multi-bedroom villas to spacious overwater bungalows. Some villas come with private pools, which offers a convenient and safe place for children to play while adults can relax. Even the smaller one-bedroom bungalows can sometimes accommodate younger children on a sofa bed, so it’s worth checking the specific sleeping arrangements.

The service at some of these resorts is exceptional, with concierges ready to help plan family activities. I remember discussing with a resort staff member how to best organize a snorkeling trip that would be engaging for my seven-year-old without overwhelming her. They suggested a guided tour to a calmer, shallow area where the fish were plentiful and the water was crystal clear.

Several resorts also feature dedicated kids’ clubs. These programs often include supervised activities like arts and crafts, outdoor play areas, and water activities, giving children a chance to socialize and explore. For younger children, having a designated space with age-appropriate entertainment is a huge relief.

Lagoon Adventures and Exploration

The crystal-clear lagoons surrounding Bora Bora are some of the most beautiful I’ve seen. They are also incredibly safe for swimming and water activities, with calm waters that are perfect for children. I’ve seen families spending hours simply floating, building sandcastles on the pristine beaches, or trying out paddleboarding in the shallows. The shallow entry at some resort pools is also a thoughtful touch for those with very young children.

One of the most thrilling experiences available is visiting a resort’s on-site Lagoonarium. This is essentially a protected natural aquarium, often teeming with colorful coral and a variety of fish. I’ve found that these are fantastic places for children to try snorkeling for the first time in a very controlled environment. Fish feeding sessions are often a highlight, with children mesmerized by the underwater spectacle. For older kids, activities like introductory scuba diving lessons or the unique AquaSafari, where you wear a special helmet to walk on the lagoon floor, can be incredibly exciting.

I always make sure to pack plenty of reef-safe sunscreen and hats, as the tropical sun can be intense. Even with the shade offered by palm trees and umbrellas, it’s important to protect young skin. Many resorts provide complimentary snorkeling gear, but bringing your own child-sized mask can ensure a comfortable fit.

What are the best family accommodations?

For families seeking space, the multi-bedroom overwater bungalows and beachfront estates at places like the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora are exceptional. Some even offer private infinity or plunge pools, providing exclusive family fun. Larger families might find the two- or three-bedroom villas at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort to be ideal, offering opulent living spaces. Even smaller bungalows often have sofa beds that can accommodate children. When booking, I always double-check the bed configurations and the ages for which sofa beds are suitable.

The InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora offers a spacious Poevai Overwater Suite that can house up to six people, which is a great option for bigger families. Beach bungalows here also provide direct access to the lagoon. Another excellent choice is the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa, whose Villa Teremoana is a vast overwater villa perfect for large families or even two families traveling together. For those looking for something a bit more moderate in price, the Hotel Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora offers rooms that, while accommodating fewer people, are still well-located and less of a financial strain, often requiring booking two rooms for larger families.

When choosing, I consider not just the size but also dedicated family features. For instance, the Kids for All Seasons program at Four Seasons offers a dedicated meeting area with playgrounds and water-play zones, which Lily absolutely loved. Similarly, the supervised kids’ clubs at The St. Regis and Conrad Bora Bora Nui often include culturally immersive activities, like flower crown making or learning local dances, which feel truly special.

How can families save money?

Bora Bora is undeniably a high-end destination, and it can be challenging to find budget-friendly options, especially for flights from overseas. However, I’ve found that being strategic can help manage costs. Choosing accommodations that aren’t the classic overwater bungalow, perhaps a garden-view room or a beachfront villa without a private pool, can offer significant savings. Some resorts, like Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora, are noted for being less expensive than their counterparts, making them a sensible choice.

Eating at local restaurants or picking up snacks and sundries from a supermarket can also reduce dining expenses compared to exclusively eating at resort restaurants. Staying on the main island, like at InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora, provides easier access to these local amenities. I also found that utilizing complimentary activities offered by resorts, such as non-motorized water sports equipment like kayaks and paddleboards, cuts down on the need to book expensive excursions.

Traveling during the shoulder seasons, if possible, might also lead to slightly lower prices, although Bora Bora tends to be popular year-round. I always try to compare package deals that might include flights and accommodation, as these can sometimes offer better value than booking everything separately. However, it’s crucial to check exactly what is included to ensure it meets your family’s needs.

What are the must-do family activities?

Beyond the swimming and sandcastle building, there are several engaging activities that families often find memorable. Snorkeling in the resort’s Lagoonarium or the Toa Nui coral garden is a fantastic way for everyone to experience the vibrant marine life up close. I’ve seen children as young as five excitedly pointing out different colored fish. For teens, the introduction to scuba diving or the unique AquaSafari offer more adventurous underwater experiences.

Taking advantage of the complimentary use of non-motorized water sports equipment, such as kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, allows for self-guided exploration of the calm lagoon waters at your own pace. I’ve found these are great ways to get some exercise and see the island from a different perspective. Many resorts also offer family-friendly excursions, like sunset cruises on a catamaran, which provide a relaxing way to enjoy the island’s beauty as the day winds down.

For those interested in a deeper dive into Polynesian culture, looking for resorts that offer hands-on activities like learning traditional dances, painting local fabrics, or making flower crowns can be very rewarding. These experiences not only entertain but also educate. I always recommend checking the resort’s activity schedule upon arrival to plan accordingly, as some special events or guided tours might require advance booking, especially during peak times.

Consider adding Bora Bora to your family’s travel dreams for a truly unforgettable tropical adventure, where stunning natural beauty meets thoughtful family amenities.