16-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guide to French Polynesia
French Polynesia is often seen as a honeymooner's exclusive, but its calm lagoons, shallow reefs, and welcoming 'Mana' spirit make it a world-class destination for families. This 16-day route is carefully crafted to minimize transit fatigue while maximizing the magic of the Society Islands, ensuring even the youngest travelers remain engaged and comfortable.
By focusing on the major islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, and Bora Bora, we utilize reliable domestic flights and ferries. We have prioritized stroller-accessible waterfronts, shallow beaches for toddlers, and cultural sites that bring Polynesian history to life without the need for strenuous hiking.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Papeete, Tahiti - Arrival & Garden Walks
Arrival at Faa'a International Airport
Complete your arrival rituals with a traditional flower lei greeting. The airport is compact and easy to navigate with children.
Paofai Gardens
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through these waterfront gardens. The paths are wide, flat, and perfectly paved for strollers, featuring large grassy areas for kids to run.
Papeete Waterfront Promenade
Walk along the harbor to watch the ferries depart. It is a scenic, breezy way to acclimatize to the tropical humidity.
Dinner at Les Roulottes (Food Trucks)
Head to Place Vai'ete for an outdoor dining experience. Kids will love the casual vibe and variety, from crepes to chow mein.
Day 2: Papeete, Tahiti - Local Flavors
Marché de Papeete (Municipal Market)
Explore the vibrant two-story market. The ground floor is filled with colorful fruits and fresh pastries, perfect for a family breakfast on the go.
Lunch at Robert Wan Pearl Museum
Visit the world's only museum dedicated to pearls. The air-conditioned interior provides a nice midday break from the sun.
Assemblee de la Polynesie Francaise Gardens
A peaceful spot with ponds and local flora, offering plenty of shade for a relaxed afternoon rest.
Sunset at Hotel Tahiti Nui
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel restaurant, which offers high chairs and a kid-friendly menu.
Day 3: Arue, Tahiti - Black Sands & Lighthouses
Point Venus & Lighthouse
Visit this historic site where Captain Cook observed the transit of Venus. The beach has unique black sand and very shallow water, ideal for small children.
Beachside Picnic
Utilize the public picnic tables at Point Venus. There are trees providing natural shade near the shoreline.
James Norman Hall Home
Visit the preserved home of the Bounty Trilogy author. The gardens are lovely and the house is a cool, quiet retreat.
Quiet Evening in Arue
Relax at your accommodation to prepare for the island hop tomorrow.
Day 4: Moorea - Crossing the Sea
Ferry to Moorea
Take the high-speed ferry from Papeete. The crossing takes only 30-45 minutes and offers stunning views of the jagged Moorea peaks.
Check-in & Temae Beach
Head to Moorea's most famous public beach. The water is crystal clear and protected by a reef, making it safe for family swimming.
Toatea Lookout
Stop by this roadside lookout for a panoramic view of the overwater bungalows and the lagoon you’ll be exploring.
Island BBQ Dinner
Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pension, often featuring fresh fish and local root vegetables.
Day 5: Moorea - Into the Green
Belvedere Lookout
Drive up to the island's best viewpoint. The road is paved and accessible by car, offering views of Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.
Pineapple Route Walk
Take a gentle walk through the pineapple plantations located in the interior caldera. The paths are relatively flat and easy for older kids.
Agricultural School (Lycée Agricole)
Taste local jams and sorbets made by the students. It is a delicious and educational stop for the whole family.
Sunset at Cook’s Bay
Watch the mountains turn purple as the sun sets over one of the world's most beautiful bays.
Day 6: Moorea - Marine Life
Lagoonarium de Moorea
A supervised snorkeling area where kids can see rays and sharks in a safe, enclosed environment. Life jackets are provided.
Picnic on a Motu
Many boat tours include a lunch on a 'motu' (small islet), which is a highlight for children playing in the sand.
Rest & Nap Time
Return to your lodge for a quiet afternoon. Pacing is key in the tropical heat.
Local Pizza Night
Try one of the popular wood-fired pizza spots along the main road for an easy family meal.
Day 7: Moorea - Tropical Flavors
Tropical Garden Moorea
A steep but short drive leads to a garden overlooking the bay. They offer fresh fruit juices and a small vanilla plantation tour.
Rotui Juice Factory
Visit the factory where the islands' famous juices and liqueurs are made. Free tastings are available for adults and children alike.
Hauru Point
Relax at the public beach area, known for its soft sand and excellent sunset views.
Dinner at Le Lezard Jaune Café
A family-favorite restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent seafood.
Day 8: Moorea to Huahine - The Authentic Island
Flight to Huahine
A short 20-minute flight brings you to the 'Garden Island'. Huahine is quieter and feels more like old Polynesia.
Fare Village Exploration
Walk through the main village of Fare. It has a relaxed vibe with a few shops and a great waterfront for kids to watch the boats.
Fare Beach
Just a short walk from the village center, this beach offers calm water and beautiful white sand.
Sunset Dinner at the Yacht Club
The Huahine Yacht Club is famous for its sunset views and casual, kid-friendly dining area.
Day 9: Huahine - History & Nature
Maeva Archaeological Site
Explore the ancient marae (temples) and the unique V-shaped stone fish traps that have been used for centuries.
Fare Pote'e Museum
A small but informative museum housed in a traditional Polynesian building, showcasing local artifacts.
Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels
Visit the village of Faie to see the massive sacred eels in the stream. Kids can feed them with mackerel purchased nearby.
Vanilla Farm Visit
Huahine is famous for its vanilla. Visit a small family-run farm to see how this fragrant spice is grown.
Day 10: Huahine - Lagoon Days
Full-Day Lagoon Tour
Board a motorized outrigger canoe for a tour of the island from the water. These tours are very relaxed and great for families.
Motu Picnic
Enjoy a traditional meal with your feet in the water while the kids play in the shallows.
Snorkeling in Coral Gardens
The boat will stop at shallow coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, safe for even beginner snorkelers.
Return to Fare
A quiet evening back at the village to rest after a day on the water.
Day 11: Huahine - South Island Exploration
Huahine Iti Drive
Cross the bridge to the smaller island of Huahine Iti. The scenery is lush and the beaches are even more secluded.
Lunch at Chez Tara
Located on the southern tip, this restaurant is famous for its Sunday Ma'a Tahiti (traditional feast), but great every day.
Avea Bay
Relax at this stunning bay with calm, shallow water that stays waist-deep for a long distance.
Quiet Night in Fare
Last night on Huahine; enjoy a simple meal by the water.
Day 12: Bora Bora - The Pearl of the Pacific
Flight to Bora Bora
Sit on the left side of the plane for the most iconic aerial views of the Bora Bora lagoon and Mount Otemanu.
Matira Beach
Check into your resort and head to Matira Beach. It is the only public beach on the main island and is perfect for kids due to its sandy bottom.
Beachside Relaxation
Let the kids play in the shallow, warm water while you enjoy the world-famous view.
Dinner at Matira Beach Restaurant
Enjoy fresh seafood with your toes in the sand at this casual and high-quality eatery.
Day 13: Bora Bora - Glass Bottom Wonders
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Perfect for families with very young children who aren't ready to snorkel yet. See the coral and fish through the floor of the boat.
Lunch at Bloody Mary's
Visit this legendary restaurant. While famous for its nightlife, lunch is very family-friendly with a sandy floor that kids love.
Vaitape Village Walk
Browse the local shops for souvenirs. The main town is small and easy to explore with a stroller.
Sunset at the Resort
Many resorts offer traditional dance performances in the evenings which are captivating for children.
Day 14: Bora Bora - Lagoon Exploration
Private Lagoon Cruise
A private boat allows you to set the pace—stopping whenever the kids need a break or want to swim longer.
Coral Garden Snorkeling
Visit the 'Aquarium' snorkeling spot, which is shallow and filled with friendly, colorful fish.
Shallow Water Ray Feeding
Watch (and participate) as gentle stingrays gather in the shallow water. It is a thrilling but safe experience for kids.
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a fine-dining experience at your resort, many of which offer babysitting services if parents want a quiet meal.
Day 15: Bora Bora - Leisure & Play
Resort Amenities
Spend the day enjoying the pool, the inner lagoonarium of the resort, and the kids' club activities.
Poolside Lunch
Keep it simple with a relaxed lunch by the water.
Turtle Sanctuary Visit
Many resorts have on-site turtle conservation centers where children can learn about marine protection.
Last Sunset Stroll
One final walk along the white sands of the Bora Bora lagoon.
Day 16: Tahiti - Final Souvenirs
Flight back to Tahiti
Return to Papeete for your international connection.
Last Minute Shopping
Pick up any final gifts at the Papeete Market or the duty-free shops at the airport.
Relax at a Day Resort
If you have a late flight, many hotels offer day passes to use their pool and facilities before departure.
International Departure
Head to Faa'a airport for your flight home, carrying memories of an epic family journey.
Best Time to Visit French Polynesia
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is sunny and the humidity is lower, making outdoor activities much more comfortable for children. If you travel during the shoulder months of April or November, you can often find better prices on accommodation while still enjoying mostly pleasant weather.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the CFP Franc (XPF). While major resorts, restaurants, and shops on Tahiti and Bora Bora accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are most common), you will definitely need cash for the local markets, food trucks (roulottes), and smaller islands like Huahine. Tipping is not a standard part of Polynesian culture, though a small gesture for exceptional service at high-end resorts is always appreciated.
Getting Around French Polynesia
Inter-island travel is most efficiently handled by Air Tahiti, the domestic carrier. For families, purchasing an 'Air Pass' is the most cost-effective way to visit multiple islands. Between Tahiti and Moorea, the high-speed ferries (Terevau and Aremiti) are the best option, offering a scenic and affordable 30-minute journey. On the islands, renting a car is highly recommended for families to ensure maximum flexibility and comfort.
