🌺 Bora Bora Bliss: Celebrating Love, Life & Milestone Moments in Paradise
If heaven had a zip code, I’m convinced it would be Bora Bora. 💙
To celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary and my fabulous 40th (in 2022), we packed our swimsuits, sunscreen, and sense of adventure – and headed to one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. With the girls and my husband by my side, this wasn’t just a trip. It was a celebration of love, family, and life at its most beautiful.
And where better to do that than the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora? 🌴✨
🌊 Welcome to Paradise
Getting there was a bit of a travel marathon (Phoenix → LA → Papeete → Bora Bora), but the second we stepped onto the boat transfer and glided across the turquoise lagoon, it was clear: we had arrived in a postcard.
The resort’s open-air lobby greeted us with sea breezes, smiling faces, and a welcome that felt like a warm hug.
Our overwater bungalow was straight out of a dream — perched above the lagoon with views of Mount Otemanu that looked like they were painted on the horizon. Waking up to the sound of gentle waves, sipping coffee on our deck, and stepping right into the crystal-clear waters? Pure bliss.
🐠 Ocean Adventures & Island Magic
Bora Bora is all about the water — and we dove right in.
- Snorkeling: We snorkeled straight from the resort and swam with tropical fish in a vibrant coral garden.
- Kayaking & Paddle Boarding: Romantic mornings with my husband paddling across the calm lagoon.
- Kids’ Fun: The girls had a blast at the Kids for All Seasons Club — from marine life demos to snorkeling lessons to arts and crafts. It gave them independence and gave us a little downtime.
🌊 Ocean Bliss: Our Full-Day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise
From the moment we set off, the turquoise waters sparkled beneath the boat, promising magic around every corner. And let me tell you, the lagoon did not disappoint.
🐠 Swimming with Sharks, Rays & Rainbows of Fish
We hopped into the clear blue water and suddenly found ourselves face-to-face with blacktip reef sharks gliding gracefully just feet away. Stingrays floated like underwater kites, brushing close enough to make us giggle and gasp all at once. Schools of tropical fish, as bright as a box of crayons, darted around us — it was like snorkeling inside a painting.
And here’s the thing: even if you’re a little nervous at first, the guides are amazing at making everyone feel safe and confident. By the end, even the kids were pros at floating alongside these incredible creatures.
🌴 Private Motu Magic
After hours of snorkeling, we pulled up to a secluded motu (tiny island) where the guides welcomed us with the warmest Polynesian hospitality. A beachside BBQ awaited – grilled fish (for the hubs), veggie sandwiches, tropical fruits, and island flavors that tasted even better with our toes in the sand.
But the fun didn’t stop there. We learned how to husk coconuts, tried our hand at weaving palm fronds, and even did tie-dyeing—yes, on a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific! The girls loved it, and it gave us the perfect colorful keepsakes to remember the day by.
🛶 The Perfect Pace
What I loved most about this cruise was the rhythm. Six hours felt like the sweet spot: long enough to fully soak in the lagoon’s beauty without feeling rushed, yet relaxed enough to simply enjoy being present. Between the adventures and the downtime, it was pure perfection.
✨ Pro Tips for the Lagoon Cruise
- Book in advance — it’s one of Bora Bora’s most popular experiences.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and maybe a rash guard. The sun here is strong!
- A GoPro or waterproof pouch is a must — trust me, you’ll want those underwater memories.
- Go with the flow — from snorkeling to coconut cracking to tie-dye surprises, there’s something for everyone.
There’s something about a day like this that stays with you. Maybe it was swimming alongside sharks and stingrays, maybe it was watching the girls laugh as they dyed t-shirts under swaying palms, or maybe it was simply feeling the rhythm of island life. Whatever it was, this lagoon cruise was more than just an excursion— it was a memory etched into our hearts forever.
🍽️ Five-Star Feels & Island Flavor
Every meal was its own celebration:
- Breakfast at Tere Nui: Fresh fruit, tropical juices, warm pastries, and breezy ocean views.
- Complimentary Three-Course Dinners: Each night felt like fine dining — fresh seafood, tropical flavors, and decadent desserts.
- Sunset Grill & Vilu: Our favorites for romantic dinners with insane views.
The service was beyond five-star — it was personal. Every staff member seemed to know us, and the attention to detail made every moment feel special.
💞 Love & Milestones
We toasted to 15 years of marriage under a Bora Bora sunset. 🥂💕 The sky glowed gold, the lagoon shimmered, and it felt like time slowed just for us. Later, we celebrated my 40th birthday with the same love and joy, marking the beginning of a new decade in the most magical place on Earth.
There’s something about Bora Bora that shifts your perspective. The endless ocean, the fiery sunsets, the kindness of the Polynesian people — it all reminds you of what really matters.
✨ Mini Itinerary: Bora Bora in 5 Days of Pure Bliss
Day 1 – Arrival & Unwind
✈️ PHX → LAX → Papeete → Bora Bora
🚤 Boat transfer to Four Seasons
🌴 Settle in, scope out the resort, and start relaxing
Day 2 – Reefside Fun
🐠 Resort snorkeling with the kids
🛶 Kayaking and paddle boarding with the hubby
🎨 Kids’ club activities (marine life demos, crafts)
Day 3 – Ocean Adventure Day
🚤 Full-day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise
🦈 Swim with sharks & stingrays
🍽️ BBQ lunch on a private motu
🎨 Tie-dye & island traditions
🏝️ Secret snorkeling spots
Day 4 – Rest & Recharge
🌊 Chill day at the resort
💦 Infinity pool lounging, spa vibes, family time
☀️ Sunset cocktails with a view
Day 5 – Celebrate Love
🎉 15th Wedding Anniversary celebration
🍾 Private dinner with island flavors
💃 Enjoy one of the resort’s live shows in the evening
🏝️ Why Bora Bora Stole Our Hearts
It’s hard to put into words what makes Bora Bora so magical. Maybe it’s the way the ocean glows, or how the sunset turns everything gold. Maybe it’s the calm, the kindness of the people, or the deep peace that settles into your soul when you’re surrounded by so much natural beauty.
But I know this: If you’re looking for a place to celebrate something—or someone—special, Bora Bora will leave a mark on your heart forever.
We came here to honor life, love, and milestones. We left with memories we’ll carry for a lifetime. 🌸💫
🎒 What to Pack for Bora Bora
✔️ Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory to protect the coral 🌊)
✔️ Snorkel gear (though the resort provides, having your own mask is comfy)
✔️ Waterproof phone pouch for boat excursions
✔️ Light, breathable clothing + swimwear galore
✔️ A chic cover-up for dinners
✔️ Underwater GoPro or waterproof camera — trust me, you’ll want it!
💡 Pro Tips for Bora Bora
- Book excursions early — lagoon tours and snorkeling safaris fill up fast.
- Splurge on an overwater bungalow — it’s the Bora Bora experience.
- Stock up on snacks at the airport in Papeete (resort prices can be steep).
- Bring water shoes for coral areas.
- Check if meals are included — dining à la carte can add up quickly.
- Golden Hour = Magic Hour for photos.
🌴 Four Seasons Resort Facts & Perks
- Overwater bungalows with lagoon or mountain views
- Kids for All Seasons club (included & amazing for families)
- Daily cultural activities like ukulele lessons and Polynesian crafts
- Complimentary snorkeling gear, paddle boards, and kayaks
- Stunning infinity pool with cabanas + poolside service
🌺 Quick Guide to Bora Bora for First-Timers
If you’re dreaming of turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows, here’s what you need to know before booking your trip:
✈️ Getting There
- Flights: Most travelers fly into Papeete (PPT), Tahiti, then take a 50-minute Air Tahiti flight to Bora Bora.
- Transfers: Resorts provide boat transfers from Bora Bora’s tiny airport straight to your hotel. (Yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds 🚤).
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
- High Season (May–October): Dry, sunny, and less humid — the most popular time.
- Shoulder Season (November & April): Great weather with fewer crowds and better prices.
- Rainy Season (December–March): Warm but more rain and humidity — still beautiful, but expect showers.
📑 Entry & Visa
- U.S. & Canadian travelers: No visa needed for stays under 90 days. Just bring a valid passport.
- Pro Tip: Check if your passport has at least 6 months’ validity left before traveling.
💰 Money & Costs
- Currency: French Pacific Franc (XPF), but credit cards are widely accepted at resorts.
- Costs: Bora Bora is pricey (think luxury island). Pack snacks from Tahiti or duty-free to save a little.
🚤 Getting Around
- Resorts are often on private motus (islets). You’ll rely on resort shuttles or water taxis to get around.
- Tours usually include transport, so you won’t miss out on the sights.
🌊 Things to Do
- Snorkeling & diving (world-class reefs)
- Lagoon tours (swim with sharks & stingrays)
- Jet skiing, paddle boarding & kayaking
- Sunset cruises & Polynesian dance shows
- Relaxing on your bungalow deck — the best “activity” of all 😉
🧳 Packing Must-Haves
- Reef-safe sunscreen 🌞
- Water shoes + flip flops
- Snorkel mask (if you like your own)
- Light cover-ups for dinners
- Portable charger & waterproof phone pouch
- GoPro or waterproof camera
🔐 Safety & Travel Tips
- Bora Bora is very safe — crime is extremely rare.
- Don’t touch or step on coral (protects marine life and your feet).
- Hydrate! The sun is strong, even when cloudy.
- Book tours and excursions through your resort for safety & ease.
✨ Final Thought: Bora Bora is more than a trip — it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, honeymooning, or bringing the family, this island paradise is worth every flight, boat ride, and sunscreen reapplication.