The Ultimate Guide to Bora Bora with a Toddler
We just got back from a trip to Bora Bora with our toddler son and we had the BEST time traveling to French Polynesia as a family. I can’t imagine having done the trip without him!!! Bora Bora is full of dreamy landscapes, overwater bungalows, picture-perfect palms, and an island that promises both an epic family adventure and relaxation for the whole family. Here’s the lowdown on how we made our Bora Bora trip with our little one unforgettable, and everything we got up to in the islands!
Flying to Bora Bora with a Toddler
Let’s get the scariest part out of the way first – the flight over to French Polynesia!!! So many families tend to avoid further away family travel destinations out of pure fear of the flight. But I’m here to tell you it’s not only doable, it is soooo worth it. The flight to Bora Bora that we took went through LAX – where there is a direct overnight flight into Tahiti. From there, you can take a morning flight to Bora Bora. We arrived at 6:30AM into Tahiti and didn’t waste any time! We had the 8AM domestic flight to Bora Bora booked and we’re glad we did! After a redeye, we were ready to get to there!
I really like flying the redeye with a toddler because it’s pretty much guaranteed sleep – whereas if you’re flying during the day you may have an awake toddler on your hands for the 8 hour flight!!!! Or for most of it, but if you’re all sleeping, you pretty much just wake up and you’re there! My son is still a lap child (read: free to fly!!) so we took advantage and him and I shared a business class seat. It was definitely tight for the 2 of us (he’s HUGE for his age), but we made it work and snuggled our way to French Polynesia.
JETSET TIP: The flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora is 50 minutes and arguably the most beautiful flight you’ll ever be on – so soak it up!! Definitely board early (there are no assigned seats) and get a seat on the LEFT side of the plane (if looking in the aisle towards the front of the plane) – that’s where you’ll get the views!! The right side gets no views!
Arriving to the hotel in Bora Bora
We were staying at the Four Seasons Bora Bora and they could not have made check in any easier for us. We arrived to Bora Bora’s adorable airport and minutes (I mean MINUTES) later were welcomed with a lei and whisked away onto a yacht where we boarded a 20-minute boat ride to the resort’s private island. It’s all a dream – I mean is this airport even real???
fresh off the redeye!
The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
We decided to stay at the Four Seasons Bora Bora as a family because we had been before just the two of us and fell in love with it – this isn’t just a resort; it’s one of the best resorts in the world. And I noticed even on our first trip how many adorable families there were there and thought to myself what a dream family vacation that would be – four years later, we made it back as a party of three 🙂 and a fourth on the way, to celebrate my babymoon in Bora Bora – as a family 🙂
Our overwater bungalow was absolutely stunning, with views of the mountain, steps leading directly into the sea, and a huge bath tub with ocean views that my toddler loved. When we checked in, there was already a crib ready for our son and an adorable stuffed plush toy, as well as baby bath products, and a hooded towel!!! The FS is paradise, perfected. And it’s a place even your little one will be treated like royalty!
What to Do in Bora Bora with a Toddler
Bora Bora isn’t just about all the breathtaking views; it’s a playground for toddlers. From the sandy beaches, perfect for tiny feet to splash around, to the fun Kids Clubs. And let’s not forget about the magic of exploring the lagoon, filled with friendly fish and vibrant corals, on a family boat tour (my favorites are linked below!)
1. Family Beach Time
You came to Bora Bora for a reason right? Bora Bora’s beaches are stunning!!! And the water is crystal clear (actually I think the clearest I’ve ever seen anywhere in the world!) plus there are fish everywhere and the gentle waves are picture-perfect for tiny toes to splash around. Pack a few fun sand toys and build sandcastles, wade in the shallow waters, and enjoy a (virgin) piña colada.
JETSET TIP: if you’re staying at the FS Bora Bora, the sand can be a little rocky when you’re wading in the water! Pack your little one some water shoes and they’ll be happy as a clam. (and check out everything else we packed here)
2. Go see sharks and rays!
Highly recommend bringing your little one’s little shark dreams to LIFE & head out on a family-friendly Bora Bora lagoon tour. We were so excited to find out that there are great private or small-group tours that are perfect for families in Bora Bora. And don’t worry – these aren’t the species of sharks that attacks humans, they’re friendly (and used to tourists). I would just recommend keeping your little one safe in your arms (or up on your shoulders). Snorkeling gear is usually provided, and the clear waters mean even the youngest swimmers can spot fish, rays, and maybe even see a gentle shark or two from either the safety of the boat or in your arms!
Our son wasn’t old enough to swim on his own yet but he loved the boat ride and getting in in our arms to see the animals!! (the rays were his favorite!)
On this trip, we opted to do a private sharks and rays tour since we were traveling with our little toddler, a private tour was a better fit for us!
Head to the Kids Club
If you’re staying at one of Bora Bora’s luxury resorts, like the Four Seasons, definitely take advantage of their Kids Club. These clubs are great – filled with books and new toys and at the FS there was a super fun splash pad that my little guy loved! It’s a great way for your toddler to have fun, learn something new, and even make some vacation buddies! And, if they’re older, there are great cultural activities or scavenger hunts around the resort that they can keep occupied with with the resort staff while you enjoy some alone time!
Relax at Your Resort
Sometimes, the best adventure is no adventure at all. Bora Bora’s resorts are world-renowned not just for their luxury, but for their family-friendly amenities. Spend a day (or more!) enjoying the pool, exploring the resort grounds, and just relaxing. Many resorts have shallow pools perfect for toddlers, along with beach toys and other amenities designed to make your stay as relaxing as possible.
Shop this matching swimwear with dad!!
The Best Hotels for Families in Bora Bora
1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
If there’s a place where luxury meets family-friendly vibes in the most paradise-perfected way, it’s here! The Four Seasons Bora Bora isn’t just a resort; it’s one of the best resorts in the world.
We just got back from a trip here as a family and it was a DREAM. Our overwater bungalow was absolutely stunning, with views of the mountain, steps leading directly into the sea, and a huge bath tub with ocean views that my toddler loved. The FS is paradise, perfected. And yes, the kiddos get the royal treatment too. You will always see families of all ages at this resort and they even have fun kids activities like treasure hunts and hermit crab races. Plus, the views? Unreal. Here’s a complete review of our stay at this amazing resort (and why we absolutely love it!)
How to look into rates & get Jetset perks when booking your trip to Bora Bora
Fill out this contact form and be sure to use the referral code “JETSETCHRISTINA” if you use my referral, my agency partner will reach out with more information, rates for your dates, and can help book you with all kinds of fun perks (like room upgrades, free breakfast, and resort credit!) at no extra cost to you, and they don’t charge a fee to book!
2. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa
Here’s where overwater dreams come true for big families. The Villa Teremoana? It’s like your private palace floating over the most mesmerizing waters you’ve ever seen. Also, this resort is known for its breathtakingly-beautiful Thalasso Spa, with treatments using deep sea water to rejuvenate your body and spirit. Your kiddos can also learn all about corals from the resort’s coral reef restoration projects! (This means your stay contributes to the preservation of this paradise!!)
3. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Le Bora Bora was very recently remodeled (in 2021) and is a beautiful property at a more budget-friendly price in Bora Bora. The setting of the resort, and the rooms, are absolutely stunning. The sand is super soft on the beach (which it isn’t at every resort, you often find rockier beaches in French Polynesia!) and I would say that while this isn’t on the level of a Four Seasons or Conrad in terms of the food and service, it is a great choice if you are looking to save money and still have an unreal setting & experience in Bora Bora. It’s also a great choice if you’re going to be out exploring French Polynesia for much of your stay (maybe you’re a diver or snorkel-fiend or you are going to be going into town and doing some activities there), then this would make a great laid-back and beautiful base for your trip. Whereas if you are a big resorter and looking for the best of the best in terms of a resort experience (food, service, etc) somewhere like the Four Seasons might be a better fit.
4. Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers a secluded paradise with unparalleled views of the lagoon!! The resort has delishhhh food and goes above and beyond for families, with spacious suites and a dedicated kids club offering a range of activities from snorkeling to cultural crafts. The Tamari’i Club makes sure that the resort’s youngest guests are entertained!
Is Bora Bora Worth traveling to with a Toddler?
ABSOLUTELY! Bora Bora is not just a romantic getaway; it’s a family-friendly paradise too. With the most amazing beaches, stunning view, luxurious resorts (with lots of fun things to do for children), Bora Bora is a great family-friendly travel destination. Plus, what better way to spend quality time together than creating core family memories and traveling with your toddler. After all, even if our son doesn’t remember the trip, I KNOW he’s going to love the photos of him with sharks at Kindergarten Show and Tell one day!
I read somewhere that the idea of not traveling because your kids won’t remember it is like choosing to not read them books because they won’t remember them. Just because they are too young to remember doesn’t mean that books – or travels- don’t make a lasting impact on their growth and development. Our son Harrison is so adaptable, flexible, and such a ball of joy, and I think we partially have travel to thank for that!
Are Overwater Bungalows Safe with a Toddler?
Overwater bungalows are one of the best parts of a Bora Bora vacation, and, on everyone’s bucket list! I’m happy to share that yes, can definitely stay in one with a toddler! The key is selecting the right resort and bungalow. For instance, the Four Seasons Bora Bora offers spacious beach villas ideal for families, emphasizing both luxury and safety. When booking, look for bungalows with child safety features, such as lockable doors to the deck and childproof railings. Additionally, many resorts offer cribs and childproofing of railings, etc to accommodate young families​​. The FS allows you to close balcony railings with an acrylic ‘filler’ for example! Just ask ahead of your trip 🙂
Here’s my complete review on Bora Bora water bungalows and how I made it extra safe for my toddler.
What to pack a toddler for a trip to Bora Bora
Sunscreen
this is the one we use & love for our son!
A floatie
Especially if you are traveling to a beach destination with kids, they’ll love bringing a fun floatie along!
We brought this one for my toddler!
Swim diapers
Don’t forget to pack swim diapers – which will be much more comfortable in the pool & sea than your toddler’s normal diapers, since the regular ones get heavy, over-inflated and soggy the second they hit the water. Here’s what we use:
Cute toddler swimwear
LITTLE BOYS SWIMWEAR:
LITTLE GIRLS SWIMWEAR
Sand Toys
I swear my toddler could keep himself SO busy in the sand all day as long as he has the right toys – making for a great vacation for all of us to have a little bit of a breather on the beach from chasing around our wild man constantly – LOL!
Water shoes or Flip Flops
Either water shoes or flip flops will help keep feet a little more comfortable and protect them from the hot sand or if the sand is a little on the rockier side. Here are my recs for both!
Beach Hat
Beach hats are key for protecting your toddler’s face from the sun! Plus, how cute!!!!!
This is our son Harrison’s hat! So cute and he loves it!!!
wearing his favorite sandals here too
and here are some cute versions for a little girl!
Toddler Sunglasses
These are hit on miss on if your toddler will actually wear them – but if they will, they can be a savior for their eyes in the bright sun! Plus, they are so so cute.
This is the toddler sunglass brand we use – and they come in lots of different colors and styles.
Cute toddler beach outfits
this is my favorite shirt our toddler Harrison owns!
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