Fancy your glass-bottom bungalow with a side of kids club? We shortlist the top six Tahitian resorts catering to young families.
Superior Over Water Villas at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. Image: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
1. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Set against a stunning mountain backdrop and nestled between two bays lies this elegant property, already a firm favourite with families. Although there is no dedicated kids club, the devil here is in the detail such as: a host of children's activities tailored for your child's interest, children's menus, family movie rentals for your bungalows, baby equipment such as cots and high chairs which can be borrowed, and babysitting services. Family packages are also offered.
2. Le Meridien Tahiti
Not quite as glamorous as her Bora Bora counterpart (which we'll get to shorty), what this property has is a very convenient location which puts it right at the doorstep of some seriously family friendly activities such as horse-back riding, black sand beaches, 4X4 mountain safaris and go-karting. On site, families can enjoy the largest sand-bottom swimming pool in the South Pacific, a range of child-friendly activities such as beach volleyball, snorkelling and kayaking, as well as an onsite art space 'L'Atelier' which includes a variety of hands-on workshops. Child-minding is available, but 48 hours notice is required.
The largest sand-bottom swimming pool in the South Pacific at Le Meridien Tahiti. Image: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
3. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
Considered the most exclusive island accommodation in all of Tahiti, this sprawling resort is just as popular with young families as it is with celebrities and it's clear to see why. First, there's the personalised in-room welcome which includes the presentation of child-sized amenities such as bathrobes and slippers (as well as the odd treat or two). A selection of in-room toys, family-friendly movies and essential items such as step stools will arrive at the touch of a button. Impressive, but no match for lies in wait outdoors: a multitude of restaurants complete with high chairs and children's menus, tailored experiences for you and your family, a complimentary kids club for those aged 5 - 12 (babysitting services available for those one year and over), encompassing both indoor and outdoor play spaces, and family activities such as Lagoonarium Fish Park, and Aquasafari, an underwater promenade where kids eight and over can walk 10-feet under the surface with a specially designed helmet.
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4. Le Meridien, Bora Bora
Set on a stunning islet rising out of the azure lagoon across the way from majestic Mount Otemanu, it's no surprise that this property is a such a popular choice with honeymooners. What is surprising however, is just how well-tailored the resort is for families with young children. Two infinity pools plus a host of complimentary activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and pedal boating lead the charge, but kids can also enjoy a playground, a dedicated children's program complete with miniature-sized equipment such as snorkel gear for toddlers and windsurf boards for kids, and the famous Turtle Sanctuary, where kids can meet and greet the marine creatures in their natural environment. The jewel in the crown? The glass-bottom overwater bungalows where little ones can watch a riot of electric coloured fish swim under their feet.
The glass-bottom overwater bungalows of Le Meridien Bora Bora. Image: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
5. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
It's got that all-important sand-fringed islets and crystal lagoon, but what this property has that really sets it apart from most, is the Tamarii Club, a dedicated kids club that features both an indoor play space as well as an outdoor space which include a playground and shallow splash pad. For those eager to enjoy the many outdoor activities the resort has to offer, the Kids For All Seasons program offers a weekly schedule of activities such as snorkelling and introductory diving, all supervised by accredited instructors. Add the spacious, two-bedroom overwater villas with plunge pool, and the welcome package for kids aged 5 - 12 and you've got the perfect family holiday destination.
6. Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort, Bora Bora
Although it has the same mountainous views and crystal clear lagoons as her more exclusive neighbours, Sofitel is a fraction of the price, putting it firmly within the budgets of more families. Her two greatest advantages? A central location within easy reach of nearby restaurants and shops (many will do free transfers), and superior lagoon snorkelling conditions around the actual bungalows (a rarity). Elsewhere in the resort, families can enjoy its swimming pool, 18-hole golf course and long list of water activities. Added bonus? The overwater bungalows each feature a sofa bed so small families can easily book and fit into the one room.
Snorkelling conditions around the bungalows at Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort. Image: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
A Note About Safety: Overwater bungalows and kids
Babies and young children can usually stay in overwater bungalows – however you may be required to sign a safety waiver. In many cases, baby proofing measures are available, so it's best to ask your Travel Associates consultant for advice. Click here for all the latest deals on these family-friendly Tahiti properties and more.
