reasons to visit french polynesia

10 Best French Polynesian Islands

Tiare Tuuhia is a freelance content writer and reporter based between Tahiti, French Polynesia and Brisbane, Australia. She writes about travel, culture, and the environment.

With friendly locals, pristine lagoons, and coconut-tree-lined beaches, French Polynesia is undoubtedly a blissful tropical paradise. But with 118 islands to choose from, it’s hard to narrow it down. Whether you're looking to get pampered on Bora Bora, snorkel with manta rays on Rangiroa, or explore archaeological sites on Nuku Hiva, there's something for every type of traveler. Read on to discover 10 of the best islands in French Polynesia.

Tahiti is the heart of French Polynesia, home to its capital city, Papeete , and more than 70 percent of the population. This is the island to visit for vibrant nightlife, shopping, and culture—all alongside sweeping black sand beaches and wild waterfall-filled valleys. Check out Papeete’s municipal market, Le Marché, for fresh produce and locally-made souvenirs. Spend a day taking it slow and driving around the island, stopping along the way to check out the beaches, waterfalls, and towns before eating out at a roulotte or food truck for giant portions of raw fish, a Tahitian favorite. 

TripSavvy / Claire Cohen 

Flying into Bora Bora is a dream—as your plane lands on a strip of long sand lined with coconut palms, you'll be greeted by jagged mountain peaks rising out of an aquamarine lagoon. There’s a reason why Bora Bora is considered the ultimate luxury island holiday destination: it’s stunning. Splurge and stay on a private motu (offshore islet) in an overwater bungalow with unforgettable views of the main island and lounge around on the white sand beaches. For a bit of adventure, Bora Bora offers fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities. Expect to see rays, reef sharks, turtles, and endless varieties of colorful reef fish.

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Moorea island is Tahiti’s little sister, just a 30-minute ferry ride away from the main island. Laid-back and relaxed, time moves slower on Moorea, and in the best way possible. Taking a lagoon tour is a must-do, as you'll boat around the azure lagoon with a friendly guide, stop to snorkel with sharks and rays, and then eat a Polynesian-style BBQ lunch on one of Moorea’s picturesque motu . Back on land, head up to the Belvedere Lookout for a perfect view of the island's verdant valleys and mountain peaks.

Sundrenched Rangiroa, an atoll in the Tuamotu archipelago, is located just one hour by plane from Tahiti, and yet it feels like a world away. Rangiroa is French Polynesia’s biggest atoll, made up of a ring of smaller islands over 110 miles long that circle a massive lagoon. The famous Blue Lagoon is the atoll’s biggest drawcard, with manta rays, dolphins, sharks, whales, and other aquatic creatures calling the underwater wonderland home. For an insider’s look at one of French Polynesia’s biggest industries, visit one of the black pearl farms sprinkled around the lagoon.

Get off the beaten path with a trip to Nuku Hiva, in the wild Marquesas archipelago , located northeast of Tahiti. Nuku Hiva is a three-hour plane ride from Tahiti and has its own distinct culture and language. For an unforgettable day trip, head to Hakaui valley and hike to French Polynesia’s tallest waterfall, Vaipio, and be rewarded with a dip in the pool under the falls. Nuku Hiva’s archeological sites are among the best on the islands; take a guided tour of ancient Polynesian temples, tiki statues, and ceremonial sites, and learn about the island's intriguing history.

Located in the Society Island group, Tahaa is just 45 minutes by air from Tahiti. It’s well-known for producing three of French Polynesia’s most pleasing products: vanilla beans, black pearls, and rum. With its wide bays, pristine lagoon, and quiet villages, Tahaa is the perfect place for an even more relaxing island escape. Rent a scooter or a bike to explore the island at a leisurely pace, take a paddleboard out onto the lagoon, or book an excursion to your own private motu for lunch.

Owned by actor Marlon Brando, Tetiaroa is one of the world’s most beautiful and exclusive atolls. It’s home to the ultra-luxurious eco-resort The Brando , frequented by celebrities and the super-rich like Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim Kardashian, and Barack Obama. It’s now a protected nature reserve and home to a thriving seabird population. Tetiaroa is accessible by catamaran from Tahiti, and day trips are a popular way to experience the island. The excursions usually include short walking tours of the atoll, bird watching, and snorkeling. Bragging rights are guaranteed!

Dmitry Malov / Getty Images

Rimatara is one of French Polynesia’s hidden gems. The tiny island is located in the Austral archipelago, a one-hour, 45-minute flight from Tahiti. With only two small villages on Rimatara, it’s possible to ride around the entire island in just 30 minutes. Here you can experience authentic Polynesian culture and stay at a family-run guesthouse. Spot Rimatara's famous "rainbow" parakeets called Vini Ura, chill on white sand beaches, and learn to weave pandanus leaves from the island's expert artisans.

Fakarava means "beautiful," and with its pink sand beaches, endless coconut trees, and a massive cerulean lagoon, the name barely does it justice. The atoll of Fakarava, in the Tuamotu archipelago, is a one-hour, 10-minute flight from Tahiti. It’s home to some of the best drift dives and offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim among hundreds of sharks. For those who prefer land, you can wander around sunkissed villages, chat with the friendly locals, and fish for dinner off the pier. Don’t miss the incredible sunsets!

For a true tropical island paradise, look no further than Maupiti, located in the Society Islands and just 50 minutes by plane from Tahiti. The stunning Terei’a beach is an idyllic place, where you can easily spend the day swimming in the azure lagoon and lazing about on the picture-perfect white sand. From the beach, it’s possible to walk to a nearby motu , spotting rays and sharks along the way. For the adventurous, go on a lagoon tour or hike to the top of Mount Teurafaatui for incredible 360-degree views of the island and its beautiful lagoon.

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A travel guide to French Polynesia: 5 reasons to visit

French polynesia is the perfect place to take it slow and experience warm, laid-back island culture..

The remote archipelago in the South Pacific has become a popular destination for the luxury traveller over recent years, and with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why they have become the destination of choice for those seeking an exclusive getaway amidst the most breath-taking of surroundings.

Comprising 118 islands spread across five archipelagos, including Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea, French Polynesia offers a paradise-like setting for those seeking a romantic break for two , an escape from the stresses and strains of modern life and a departure from the ordinary. From luxurious overwater bungalows to exhilarating water activities and rich cultural experiences, there are plenty of compelling reasons to visit French Polynesia.

We asked the experts at  Tahiti Travel Services – a luxury in-bound travel agency specialising in authentic and memorable experiences in this increasingly sought-after destination – to share their top five.

Breath-taking natural beauty

French Polynesia boasts some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, and it comes with an allure that’s hard to resist. From the emerald peaks of Moorea to the turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora, the scenery is nothing short of jaw-dropping, and for those looking to venture outside of their luxury resort, there are  lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life just waiting to be explored. While relaxing breaks on Tahiti’s pristine beaches are some of the most popular getaways enjoyed here, hiking to hidden viewpoints to take in the impressive landscapes and immersing yourself in the destination’s natural beauty offers another dimension from which to enjoy your time in French Polynesia.

Luxurious overwater bungalows

When it comes to indulgent accommodation options, French Polynesia has no shortage of them, but one of the most stand-out ways to enjoy your time in this spectacular destination is by checking into a luxurious overwater bungalow. Standing proudly over crystal-clear lagoons and surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery, these lavish accommodations offer unparalleled privacy and serenity – not to mention a real sense of exclusivity – and are packed with high-end amenities to ensure that your entire stay is as comfortable as possible. From huge free-standing bath tubs and state-of-the-art sound systems to private decks where you can enjoy a privileged view of the sunset each day, if you’re looking to spoil yourselves whilst celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary, or simply feel like splurging on a romantic getaway ‘just because’, staying in an overwater bungalow is a truly unforgettable experience in French Polynesia.

Exhilarating water activities

French Poynesia is teeming with rich and colourful marine life, which makes it a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. You could easily get lost for hours as you explore the world beneath the surface, and in the most wonderful of ways, with a seemingly endless array of different species to spot, and from hidden coves and underwater caves to right in front of your overwater villa, a kaleidoscope of colourful corals and fish await. The warm, clear waters here are also home to several species of dolphin, including the spinner, bottlenose and spotted dolphin, and from July to November, you could also be in with a chance of spotting humpback whales.

There are plenty of activities for adrenaline junkies to enjoy too – from kiteboarding in the trade winds and parasailing above the shimmering lagoons to taking on some impressive waves with your surfboard. There’s something for everyone, and for all levels of skill, so whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a self-confessed amateur, there are plenty of opportunities for aquatic excitement in French Polynesia .

Rich cultural experiences

Beyond its natural beauty, French Polynesia’s rich and diverse cultural heritage plays another huge role in this destination’s appeal. Shaped by centuries of history and tradition, it offers a unique insight into times gone by with its ancient archaeological sites and traditional Polynesian dance and music performances, while for a taste of modern life, you can visit vibrant local markets and intriguing towns.

Authentic Tahitian cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and savoury dishes cooked in an earth oven known as an “umu,” are must-tries and eating your way through them is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of what Tahitians eat at home. If you’re the creative type, then you’ll likely also enjoy connecting with local artisans and learning about traditional crafts such as weaving, carving, and tattooing, all of which play an important role in preserving French Polynesia’s cultural identity.

A perfect climate

Ok, so no climate is entirely perfect – but in French Polynesia, it comes pretty close. Typically warm and humid, as you’d expect from a tropical destination,  the rainy season – which actually offers some of the most pleasant temperatures – lasts from November to April, with a cool dry season beginning in May and ending in October. But if you’re looking for the very best time to visit French Polynesia, try between June and August when the climate is at its driest and temperatures sit comfortably in the high 20s.

French Polynesia is an island nation made up of several archipelagoes in the glittering South Pacific. I had no idea that this country could be so varied and beautiful, but it was the people who really made me fall in love with it. Throwing out the shaka sign to passers by, the friendliness and hospitality feels genuine.

There are several different areas within French Polynesia that all have different reasons to visit. The Marquesas Islands are jungly and mountainous, Bora Bora and Tahiti in the Society Islands boast overwater bungalows, and there are atolls galore as well. For those who love diving, it doesn’t get much better than French Polynesia. This is an overseas country I know I will be returning to again and again.

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Watch my vlogs from French Polynesia

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Tahitian: “Ia Ora na” – pronounced yo-rah-nah, and Mauru’ uru – pronounced mah-roo-roo
• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in French: “Bonjour” and “Merci Beaucoup”
• Currency : Pacific Franc ( click here for current conversion rates)
• Visa :  90 day visa-free available for most nationalities ( click here  for more information)
• Solo Travel Friendliness : The French Polynesians are, hands down, some of the sweetest people I’ve ever met in my life. I felt welcome everywhere I went – despite the language barrier, everyone I met was ever-smiling, warm and friendly. That being said, most areas including Bora Bora and Tahiti, are such honeymoon destinations that you may find yourself at times awkwardly sandwiched between honeymooners at restaurants and excursions, but that should not stop you from visiting those islands, or the many others! 
• Climate : Dry and pleasant from June – Sep (Society/Tuamotu Islands) or Aug – Nov (Marquesas) in the tropics (elsewhere hit and miss, Australs slightly like Society/Tuamotu). These are also the busiest months with more tourists and potentially higher prices. To save cost, travel during shoulder seasons (May, October, July (Marquesas), or late December/January (Marquesas)
• Best SIM cards : Vini – cards can be purchased at the airport and designated sales points. Coverage is fairly limited and you are likely to only get enough data for essential tasks like navigating and such.
• Random useful tip : Saying hello in Tahitian goes a long way, and just about everyone will say it to you with the hang loose sign. 

Accommodation

Budget Solo Travelers ($30 – $50): There are only a handful of hostels in French Polynesia, which cost about $30. However, you can quite easily find budget private rooms on Airbnb and Booking.com for less than $50, and they usually come with a pool and complimentary breakfast. The Internet at most budget accommodations will not be fast, if provided at all, so you can expect to be offline most of the time. If you are really on a budget, there are campsites.

Mid Budget Solo Travelers ($55 and up): In Bora Bora, you can either stay in one of the mid-range hotels that cost about $100 – $150 per night, or live like a queen in one of the big luxury hotel chains like St. Regis, Four Seasons and the likes, which can cost about $2000 per night. Options with an in-between price point are, for some reasons, fairly limited. In Tahiti, there are more mid-range hotels that cost about $55 – $160 per night.  

Transportation

Getting There: The only international airport in French Polynesia is Faa’a International Airport, situated in Tahiti. The island’s isolated location means expensive flights, though I was able to fly in at just $801 through awesome travel deals. Most flights to Tahiti include a stopover in Australia and Auckland. From the United States, there are direct flights from Los Angeles, Honolulu, and sometimes San Francisco (seasonal).

Getting Around: On the island, renting a scooter is the best way to get around. The roads are calm, and you can stop whenever you want (trust me, you will want to!). Some hotels provide bicycles for their guests, which is great for a quick ride to the restaurant or beach. Renting a car is very expensive, I’d only do so if I have at least 3 other people to split the cost. An air pass ($350 – $748 + extensions, except Marquesas pass up to $1100) will make more sense if you plan on doing quite a bit of island hopping. If you have more time than money, and are willing to get off the beaten path, some cargo ships are happy to take people in for as low as $14, though that would require you to speak at least some French and rely on your luck!

Local Snack Bars and Food Trucks ($10 – $15): Stick with local food, which include fresh seafood, suckling pig and more coconuts than you can imagine. Eat at snack bars and food trucks, and you can easily keep your daily food budget under $15 and likely eat better food than what the restaurants could offer.

Restaurants & Bars ($15 – $50):  A dinner at a mid-range restaurant costs about $20 – $30. Most hotels have in-house restaurants and you can expect to pay about $25 – $35 for a meal. There are plenty of bars and night clubs on the island, though alcohol tends to be expensive.

Things to do

Diving and snorkeling: It’s a stunning world down there! With more than 1300 unique fish species and colorful coral reefs everywhere, you wouldn’t even know where to look. The diving condition is fantastic, and even just snorkeling is amazing. My favorite diving spot in French Polynesia is Fakarava , and I’d highly recommend you checking it out!

Swimming with whales: Swimming with whales will be one of the more life-changing experiences of your life should you choose to do it. It’s moving, humbling, and awe-inspiring. In French Polynesia, humpbacks travel to Tahiti to birth their calves in the calm, warm waters off the island from August to October, making it the perfect time to swim with them. Tahiti and Mo’orea are the main spots to swim with whales.

Island hopping:  I mean, there are 118 islands (67 inhabited), after all! As mentioned above, consider getting an air pass if you plan on doing a bit of island hopping. The beaches are pristine, the water perfect for swimming, on some islands you might not see another soul all day – what more can you ask for?

Hiking: There are many mountains and jungles on islands like Tahiti, Moorea, and the Marquesas. Typically, you’ll need a guide to find the trailhead and keep to the trail, since most trails are not well-marked.

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French Polynesia Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

French Polynesia is one of the Pacific’s most popular — and sought-after — tourist destinations. It’s composed of 118 islands spread over 6,400 square kilometers of ocean. It’s a massive, remote region offering soaring volcanic peaks, rugged cliffs, and emerald lagoons, providing some of the South Pacific’s most spectacular scenery.

The region was first discovered by Europeans in the 16th century, though it had been inhabited by indigenous Polynesians for over a millennium by that point. Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan was the first to “discover” this paradise, though the Spanish, British, and French also made landfall here over the centuries. France annexed the islands in the late 19th century and the region has been an overseas territory ever since.

Visiting French Polynesia is a bucket list item for many people around the world. This is understandable — it’s nothing short of a tropical paradise, complete with picturesque bungalows on stilts over blue lagoons and postcard-perfect beaches that stretch for miles.

Due to their remoteness and appeal to celebrities and honeymooners, the islands are expensive to visit. I won’t lie: it’s hard to travel here on a budget. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible; there are still a few ways to cut your costs so you can visit without going broke.

This travel guide to French Polynesia will show you how to save money and make the most of your visit to this sought-after paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on French Polynesia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in French Polynesia

1. Go diving

There’s tons of marine life in the waters here, so if you’re a diver, don’t miss out on diving in the area. 11 of the region’s islands have dive centers and single-tank dives cost around 10,100 XPF while two-tank dives are 15,000 XPF. Expect to see dolphins, sharks, barracudas, and even manta rays.

2. Tour Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest of the French Polynesian islands. Try to visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands to get an insight into Polynesia culture. Le Marché Papeete (the public market) is the place to try local cuisine and pick up souvenirs.

3. Relax in Bora Bora

Bora Bora is the ultimate island paradise — and the ultimate place to blow your budget. Its famous blue lagoon is the ideal place for jet skiing, paragliding, and other water sports. The jungles offer great hiking too.

4. Go snorkeling

The snorkeling here is incredible. I suggest bringing your own gear if you’re on a budget as rentals add up. Rurutu and Huahine are considered two of the world’s top spots for snorkeling, but you can really do it anywhere!

5. Go surfing

You can surf here all year round and there are swells for all experience levels. Maraa, Teahupoo, Rangiroa Atoll, and Tikehau Left are some of the more popular spots to surf. You can rent boards for around 4,500 XPF per day. Expect to pay around the same for a 2-3 hour surf lesson.

Other Things to See and Do in French Polynesia

1. visit fatu hiva.

Fatu Hiva is the southernmost and most isolated of the Marquesas Islands. Its Bay of Virgins is often described as the most stunning bay in French Polynesia. Here you are met with the rugged beauty of the cliff edges, ravines, and jungles. People come here for snorkeling and diving. You can get here via an expensive 3.5-hour flight from Tahiti to Atuona, followed by a 5-hour ferry which costs around 12,000 XPF. For a 12-14-day multi-island cruise around the region, prices start at 360,000 XPF for a room in a 4-bed dorm. It’s pricey to get here but it’s an untouched paradise.

2. Hike to Belvedere Lookout

Situated on Moorea, Belvedere Lookout offers sweeping panoramic views of the island. Several marae (traditional religious places) are scattered in the area leading up to the lookout. It’s around 3 hours roundtrip from Paopao, on an easy trail (you can also drive most of the way up too).

3. Visit a marae

Marae are sacred sites where people came to offer up gifts to the gods. They are usually large cobblestone squares and have no walls or roofs. The most impressive is Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the island of Raiatea. Opunohu Valley, which stretches from the head of Cook’s Bay up towards Belvedere on Moorea Island, also has marae dotted all over the walking trail.

4. Go whale watching

June and July is peak whale-watching season in the Austral Islands south of Tahiti. Pods of humpback whales swim to Rurutu and Tubuai from Antarctica to give birth. This makes for one of the most spectacular sights you are likely to see on your travels. Expect to spend around 10,000-12,000 XPF on a tour. You can also swim with humpback whales, with excursions costing about the same as a whale watching tour.

5. Explore the Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens

These tropical gardens in Papeari on the west coast of Tahiti span over 135 hectares with a loop walking path. Established by amateur botanist Harrison Smith in the 1920s, the gardens are home to numerous species of trees, shrubs, plants, flowers, and lily ponds. They’re free to enter.

6. Head to Ua Pou

This is the third largest of the Marquesa Islands, spanning just over 105 square kilometers (40 square miles) and home to over 2,200 people. It’s one of the only islands in the region that was unified under a monarch before the Europeans arrived. Ua Pou is a dry desert island with oasis-like valleys. Don’t miss the historic Catholic church in the center of the island and its amazing woodcarvings. There are a few limited and rustic accommodation options here (most inhabitants live off of subsistence farming) so if you’re looking for something away from the typical resort island, this is it!

7. Learn about Polynesian History

Accessible from Puamau on Hiva Oa, Lipona is one of the best archaeological sites in French Polynesia. It’s known for its five impressive tiki (large stone figures), the tallest of which is about 10 feet high. The statues are several hundred years old and depict human activities such as giving birth and working. The tallest tiki is of a famous chief. Entrance to the site is 400 XPF.

8. Relax on Mataiva

Located over 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Tahiti, there is little in the way of tourist attractions on this island. However, there are easily accessible beaches, multiple snorkeling spots, and lots of beautiful fish. It’s a postcard-perfect atoll worth spending the time to explore if you want to get away from the more popular islands. Mataiva is just 10-kilometers (6.1 miles) long and home to less than 300 people. Flights to the island are available from nearby Papeete and Rangiroa.

9. Hike around Moorea

Moorea is just 16 kilometers (10 miles) across and crisscrossed with hiking trails where you can pass coconut groves, coffee plantations, and hidden waterfalls. Some suggested trails are Three Coconut Trees Pass (moderate, 2 hours), Mouapata (hard, 2 hours), and Les Trois Sapins (easy, 1 hour).

10. See the tomb of King Pomare V

This tomb, built from coral stone, is the resting place of Tahiti’s last king (who reigned from 1839–1891). He surrendered the islands to French rule and sadly died of alcoholism a decade later. A nearby cemetery contains the graves of his predecessors (Pomare I, II, III, and IV) as well as that of his mother, for whom his tomb was originally built.

French Polynesia Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-5-bed dorm costs around 2,100-3,500 XPF per night. Some dorms have upwards of 15 beds for the same price, so double-check if you don’t want to be stuck in a huge dorm. Free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities are standard. Many guesthouses with dorms also have outside barbeque areas as well.

A budget hotel room costs around 4,400-9,000 XPF per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea maker. Budget villas cost around 10,300-13,500 XPF.

Airbnb is available around the region with private rooms starting at 5,100 XPF per night. Entire homes/apartments start at around 8,700 XPF.

Wild camping is prohibited here, however, for those traveling with a tent, there are a few campgrounds around the region costing 2,000 XPF per night for a basic plot without electricity.

Keep in mind that only certain islands have budget-friendly accommodation. Bora Bora has fewer budget options than Moorea or Tahiti, so you need to book in advance to secure the most budget-friendly accommodations there. Once you get into the remote Marquesas, budget accommodation is virtually nonexistent (it’s all villas and pricey resorts).

Food – French Polynesian cuisine relies heavily on staples like fish, bananas, breadfruit (similar to jackfruit), and pork. Naturally, there’s a heavy French influence, including delicious fresh baguettes. Food trucks (known as roulottes ) are a cheap way to fill up on tasty snacks and meals. Poisson cru (marinated fish), poe (fruit pudding), clam, and suckling pig are all common traditional offerings.

Expect to pay around 1,800-2,100 XPF for a meal at a casual restaurant, while a pizza costs around 1,400 XPF. A sandwich costs around 500-700 XPF. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 1,300 XPF for a combo meal.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of traditional cuisine starts at 2,500-3,500 XPF, including a drink.

Lattes/cappuccinos cost around 350 XPF, beer is around 550 XPF, and bottled water costs 100 XPF.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 6,100-7,300 XPF for staples like rice, fish, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking French Polynesia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, prepare to spend around 7,900 XPF per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a dorm room, cooking all of your meals, doing cheap activities like hiking and snorkeling, limiting your drinking, and sticking to just one island/archipelago.

On a mid-range budget of 16,400 XPF per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out for most of your meals, drink a little, go diving, and rent a scooter to get around. You can visit a second island too.

On a “luxury” budget of around 66,200 XPF per day or more, you can stay at a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, fly to other islands, take guided excursions, rent a car, and indulge in spa visits. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in XPF.

French Polynesia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

French Polynesia is an expensive destination. You must pick and choose your battles or you’ll blow through your budget within the first couple of days. Here are a few ways you can save money while you’re here:

• Look for package deals – You can often find package deals on sale that include hotels, food, and activities. Don’t hesitate to book a package deal if it’s cheaper.
• Limit your inter-island travel – Traveling between islands is expensive. Stick to just one or two if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the over-water bungalow – Unless it’s a bucket list dream and you want to splurge, skip booking those fancy over-water bungalows. Sure, they’re cool, but they are super expensive!
• Make sure breakfast is included – Book a hotel or guesthouse that includes breakfast. You save a few bucks each day, which adds up!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles that have built-in filters that ensure you water is clean and safe.
• Use hotel points – Since French Polynesia isn’t a budget-friendly destination, cash in your points and miles for earn free accommodation. That way you can splash out without breaking the bank! For more info, here’s how to get started!

Where to Stay in French Polynesia

Budget travelers have limited options here. Some guesthouses that have dorm rooms though, and most include breakfast and/or have self-catering facilities. Here are a few suggestions to help you save money in French Polynesia:

• Fare Om (Mo’orea)
• Pension Motu Iti (Mo’orea)
• Pension Te Miti (Tahiti)
• Deck Backpackers (Tahiti)
• Manomano Lodge (Tahiti)

How to Get Around French Polynesia

Buses – Buses are available on Tahiti. Fares are 200-600 XPF depending on the distance. There are three main routes that connect the whole island. Buses have set schedules, though they often detour from them to pick up random passengers, so plan accordingly.

There are no buses on Bora Bora, however, private shuttles can take you around for 300-400 XPF.

Ferries – Ferries are available between Tahiti and Moorea (45 minutes, 3,000 XPF) as well as Bora Bora and Maupiti (2 hours, 4,500 XPF). For islands further afield, such as the Marquesas or the Austral Islands, you need to book a multi-day cruise or sailing charter to access them via boat (and pay hundreds or thousands of dollars to do so).

Flying – Flying around French Polynesia is the most convenient way to get around. It’s also prohibitively expensive. The 1-hour flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora costs 24,000 XPF. The 3.5-hour flight from Tahiti to the Marquesas costs as much as 50,000 XPF. Avoid flying if you’re on a budget.

If you do want to fly around the islands, getting the Air Tahiti Multi-Island Pass is the most affordable way to do so. These allow you to fly to multiple islands for one set price, ranging from 38,000-80,000 XPF.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for 3,550 XPF per day. You do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car, but there’s no reason to rent a car here.

When to Go to French Polynesia

The most popular time to visit French Polynesia is between June and August. The climate is at its driest and the weather sits comfortably around 25-35°C (77-95°F). This is also the busiest time of year so you may need to book in advance.

To beat the crowds, consider visiting in May or September. The weather is still perfect, but there are slightly fewer crowds. You might find prices to be a little lower too.

It’s rainy between November and April, however, there is still plenty of sunshine and humidity. Make sure to stay somewhere with AC to keep the humidity at bay. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F). Tropical storms can occur during this time, though, so make sure you have good travel insurance.

How to Stay Safe in French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a safe destination. Violent attacks and petty crime are both rare here. As long as you keep your valuable secure, you shouldn’t have any problems. Keep in mind that visitors are required to carry ID on them at all times.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here too, though take the standard precautions as you would in any destination (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night if you’ve been drinking, etc.).

While break-ins are rare, always make sure you lock your accommodation when you go out.

Tropical storms, including cyclones, can occur between November and April. Check the weather regularly before heading out on your own (especially if you’re going into the water).

Scams here are rare but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

Dengue Fever can be an issue so consider getting the vaccine before you go. While the main islands have decent medical facilities, keep in mind that evacuation or repatriation from here can cost over 1,000,000 XPF. Consider getting additional evacuation coverage just in case ( Medjet is great for that).

Make sure you have travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

French Polynesia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

French Polynesia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on French Polynesia travel and continue planning your trip:

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What’s it Like to Travel in French Polynesia?

French Polynesia is paradise.

I mean, just look at this:

That’s Bora Bora and it was even more spectacular than I’d dreamed it would be.

But you know what? It was actually the islands outside of Bora Bora that captured my heart, and that was a big surprise.

I visited five different islands over my two weeks in French Polynesia and was thrilled to discover just how much each individual island had to offer travellers — and they were all so different! I spent my time in this island territory hiking volcanoes, swimming with manta rays, learning how to crack open coconuts, skipping through lagoons, feeding sacred blue-eyed eels, and sunbathing on some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen.

French Polynesia was nothing like I’d expected. In some respects, island-hopping my way around was far easier than I’d thought it would be, but in others, it was frustratingly hard. More on that in the post.

Here’s what it’s like to travel independently in French Polynesia:

French Polynesia is Enormous and You’ll Never See it All

Check out this Air Tahiti map of French Polynesia overlaid across Europe — they’re essentially the same size. That’s a whole lot of islands, a whole lot of distance, and a whole lot of ocean!

When I first started planning my French Polynesia jaunt, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of islands I could visit. How could I possibly choose just a few?

There’s the Society Islands, just to the west of Tahiti. These 14 islands attract the most number of tourists, thanks to Bora Bora, and they were ultimately where I decided to spend all of my time. Even when dedicating two weeks to this group of islands, I only managed to get to a third of them. And I was moving fast . If you’re visiting French Polynesia for the first time, I recommend sticking to these islands as an introduction, as they’re easiest and cheapest to get to, with the most infrastructure for tourists.

What did I skip over?

The Tuamotos , a string of 80 atolls stretching roughly over the size of Western Europe. These are all low islands: sand bars atop coral reefs and look ridiculously beautiful.

There’s  the Marquesas , one of the most remote island groups in the world, 900 miles and a 3.5 hour flight from Tahiti. Unlike the Tuamotos, these are mostly tall, volcanic islands, and unlike most of French Polynesia, aren’t surrounded by coral reefs.

Finally, there’s the even-lesser-visited  Gambier Islands , which consist of 14 volcanic islands inside a large lagoon, and the Austral Islands , quiet islands with a few guesthouses and (supposedly) the most authentic Polynesian culture.

Reading through that list, you can see how you could easily spend three months in French Polynesia and leave still having seen so little of it. Which gives me many, many reasons to return!

The Best Time of Year to Visit is Between June and August

French Polynesia is in the tropics, so rather than spring, summer, autumn, and winter, it has a dry season and a wet season. The former is what you want to aim for.

Between June and August, the odds that you’ll experience rain is about as close to zero as you can possibly get. Temperatures are reasonably warm, at between 22 and 28 degrees (71-82 Fahrenheit), but not too uncomfortable. Really, the only downside is that prices are at their highest and crowds are at their largest, because this is the most popular time of year to visit.

What if you can only visit during the northern hemisphere winter?

Don’t let that put you off: I visited French Polynesia in January! And I had an incredible trip with fantastic weather throughout. I only experienced two days of rain over my two-week trip, although temperatures were stifling at an average of around 33 degrees Celsius and 80% humidity. The bonus was that everything was super-cheap! Prices were about half what they typically are in June, and that made travelling on a budget a whole lot easier.

The biggest downside was the risk of cyclones. The wet season in the South Pacific usually brings a few cyclones each year, so you’re running the risk of torrential downpours, flooding, and a ruined vacation. I’d like to stress that I visit South Pacific islands every January and February and have yet to run into a cyclone, but of course, I could just have good timing. It’s something to keep in mind.

If you want the more settled weather, but will be travelling on a tight budget and looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder season is naturally the best option for you. Think: March, April, May, and September, October, November.

Try to Travel as Slowly as Possible

I know, right? There I am, talking about how I tried to visit as many islands as possible, and the next minute I’m saying to slow down.

Island time is real and in French Polynesia, it’s especially present. This is a place where everything happens slowly. It’s where the locals ride bicycles and sing out bonjour! to everyone who passes, no matter their nationality. It’s a place to unwind and meditate; to smell the flowers and laze in turquoise lagoons.

One of my biggest regrets was moving so fast during my two weeks that I didn’t get to properly embrace that way of life. I’d arrive at one guesthouse and be leaving for a new island three days later.

If I could do it again, I’d have cut out Raiatea (it was too big to explore on foot) and spent my two weeks in  Maupiti , Huahine , and Bora Bora . Three islands (plus a night or two in Tahiti) over two weeks sounds perfect.

An Air Tahiti Pass is the Way to Go

Because everything is so spread out, ferries only run between a couple of the islands and they’re usually infrequent and hard to find any information for. To get anywhere in French Polynesia, then, your only real option is to fly.

I picked up an island hopping pass from Air Tahiti , which gave me close to a 50% discount on what I would have paid if I’d booked all of my flights individually. In total, I ended up paying just over $400 for seven flights. There are several options for island hopping passes, ranging from around $280 for three stops in the Society Islands to a whopping $750 to visit several islands in the remote Marquesas.

And the Best Way to Get Around is by Bicycle

The islands in French Polynesia as small, so there’s no need to hire a car.

Like the island time I mentioned above, cycling slows you down, chills you out and ensures you don’t miss anything. I was always moving slow enough that the locals could call out to me as I passed, I was able to stop every few metres to snap a photo of a colourful flower or deserted beach, and the roads were well-paved, so it wasn’t painful to ride.

If you travel around in a car or on a scooter, you miss a lot of that. You don’t see as much, smell as much, or experience as much.

There are, of course, exceptions, like Raiatea. The main road on the island runs for 92 miles around the coastline and the attractions are spread out, so exploring on foot or by bike was difficult. In contrast, Maupiti is just seven miles in circumference, so easily explored by walking or cycling.

It’s Cheaper Than People Think

When I announced that I was going to be visiting Bora Bora on a budget, people seemed skeptical. Big travel bloggers told me it wouldn’t be possible because it was the most expensive place on the planet. After having been there, that statement simply isn’t true.

(And that’s why I started my travel blog , by the way! I knew that travel information online wasn’t correct and I was determined to start shattering some of those beliefs.)

Bora Bora is home to a dozen decent guesthouses with nightly rates that start from $50 (see my Bora Bora on a budget post for more details) and that’s pretty cheap for somewhere that’s one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been.

And yeah, I’ll be honest, there are some pain-in-the-ass-rip-off expenses that I totally expected for a place that attracts so much luxury tourism. My guesthouse in Bora Bora, for example, charged $20 a day for breakfast that comprised a croissant and some fresh fruit.

Having said that, some things on Bora Bora were cheaper than I expected: Air Tahiti offers a free ferry shuttle from the airport to the mainland for anyone who isn’t staying at a fancy resort. Most guesthouses offer free transfers from where that shuttle drops you off. Food wasn’t crazy-expensive and I usually ate for $10-15 a day. You can rent a bicycle for $10 a day to explore the island.

When it came to the other islands, things got even more affordable. My guesthouse in Maupiti was $70 a night, but that included all of my meals, an airport transfer, and a free snorkelling trip to swim with manta rays, so I didn’t have to pay for anything else while I was there. In Huahine and Raiatea, I averaged $50 a day in total, and that’s as a solo traveller, which usually works out to be more expensive.

French Polynesia is stunning, but you don’t have to pay a fortune to see it.

The Best Parts of French Polynesia are Outside of Tahiti

I was so freaking excited to get to Tahiti, because even just the name made it sound like this mystical, magical, tropical island paradise.

Compared to the other islands I visited, it wasn’t. It’s built up, it’s developed, there’s traffic and trucks and it’s busy and there are enormous shopping malls and supermarkets. And a Mcdonald’s. When you compare that to a place like Maupiti, which has no ATMs, where everyone rides bicycles, where there’s a population of 1000, and where there’s not a single resort, there’s no competition. I much preferred the laid-back, go-slow, way of life outside of Tahiti.

Tahiti felt a bit like being in a French Hawaii.

Arriving is Incredibly Easy if You’re From the EU

French Polynesia is, obviously, a French territory, so arriving was just as simple for me as it is to travel inside the EU. I know this really shouldn’t have been a surprise, but it was just so easy !  At the airport, I was first off the plane and ambushed by two singing ukulele players along with a girl in a grass skirt. They performed a Polynesian dance for everyone as we trundled past them. I felt as far away from Europe as I could possibly get. 

At immigration, the guy took my passport, glanced at it, then handed it back a second later. No stamp, no questions, nothing!

The Language Barrier was One of the Highest I’ve Ever Come Across

Speaking of French, if you can’t speak more than a few words of it (like me), you’re going to struggle. I’ve rarely come up against such a high language barrier in a place so set up for tourism, so this was a real surprise.

I can count the number of locals I had a conversation with on two hands. Most of the guesthouses owners only spoke French, airport officials couldn’t understand my questions, and the cabin crew on Air Tahiti rarely used English. Even on Bora Bora, it was rare to find a local who spoke more than a few words of English. On Maupiti, my guesthouse owner spoke so little English that whenever she wanted to ask me a question or talk to me, she’d have to drag an English-speaking guest to my door to translate for her!

I don’t mind language barriers, and I definitely won’t complain about them, but it was isolating as a solo-traveller-who-couldn’t-find-any-other-solo-travellers and I did feel lonely at times. It also made it harder to get things done. When a guesthouse owner forgot to pick me up from a ferry terminal, for example, on an island with no taxis and where nobody seemed to speak English, I struggled to get out of the situation.

But the Locals are Lovely

I’ve never been to a place where literally every single local you pass calls out hello to you. That was French Polynesia for me. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with, “ bonjour! ” “ bonjour! ” “ bonjour! ” I felt so welcomed and safe, even with the big language barrier that meant we couldn’t exchange much else.

On Maupiti, one of the guesthouse owners motioned for me to follow him after breakfast and proceeded to teach me how to crack open a coconut to wash down my meal with. He didn’t speak a word of English, but still took half an hour out of his day to teach me a new skill.

On Raiatea, my apartment owner offered to take me dancing in the main town with her friends one night.

On Huahine, a local I cycled past told me about a hike that isn’t well publicised, and insisted that he show me where the island’s sacred eels were, so that he could help me feed them.

On Bora Bora, a group of local paddle boarders took me under their wings, plied me with a homemade lime-coconut liquor, and told me everything I could possibly want to know about what it’s like to grow up in a place so isolated from the rest of the world.

Hostels are Rare

I stayed in a dorm room in Tahiti, but didn’t find any hostels on any of the other islands I visited. And to be honest, at $25 a night for a crappy dorm that was full of mosquitoes, it offered far worse value than the $40-70 a night guesthouses I stayed in elsewhere.

Outside of Tahiti, if you’re visiting on a budget, you’ll be staying in fares , small guesthouses with a single-digit number of rooms. They’re really lovely places and offer great value for money. They’re also kind of like resorts for budget travellers: you’ll often eat your meals there, take a tour with the owners, and borrow their bicycles or car. It made everything really easy and had such a family-style vibe.

Solo Travelers Are Also Rare

I met a handful of solo travelers in my hostel in Tahiti — staying in a dorm room no doubt helped — but as soon as I left, I didn’t meet any others. Just like I experienced in the Cook Islands , this felt very much like a destination for couples (especially honeymooners!) and families.

Unlike in the Cook Islands, this wasn’t as much of an issue in French Polynesia. Because the fares are set up to be far more communal, I wasn’t eating alone every night and having nobody to chat to. Dinners were often included in the price of the guesthouse and were at a set time, so I got to hang out with other travellers and chat, which I loved.

Bora Bora Was Just as Spectacular as I’d Hoped

It’s funny: I was so unenthusiastic about going to Bora Bora. It was my final stop on my trip and I’d already fallen in love with so many wonderful islands. I fully expected Bora Bora to look exactly the same as them, but to be full of tourists and overpriced everything.

But Bora Bora is special and you should totally go there.

Was it my favourite island? No. It had me feeling a little too much like I was being ripped off, the food wasn’t as good, and the beaches actually weren’t as nice as the ones I’d spent time on on other islands. But it was 100% the prettiest island overall. Being in Bora Bora is like being in a dream. 

So, Which Island Was My Favourite?

It’s tough to choose between Maupiti and Huahine , but I think the latter wins it for me. Huahine was gorgeous. It had the best beach I found in French Polynesia, it had tons to do, from exploring old abandoned hotels to feeding blue-eyed eels to hiking up a volcano. The locals were welcoming, the lagoon was beautiful, and the seafood was delicious. My favourite guesthouse was also in Huahine.

Back when I was planning out my South Pacific jaunt, I believed that spending two weeks in French Polynesia would be enough for me. I thought that all of the islands would be similar, so if I could see a few, I’d be set for life.

Every other year, I spend Christmases down in Oceania, which gives me the perfect opportunity to add on some South Pacific exploration either on the way there or afterwards. I thought that my next trip would be all about visiting Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu, but now I’m not so sure.

Now, I’m fairly certain I’m going to return to French Polynesia for at least a month. I miss it already.

Have you ever visited French Polynesia? Would you like to?

Related Articles on Travel in French Polynesia 💰 How to Plan a Budget Trip to the South Pacific 🏖 How to Travel Bora Bora on a Budget: It’s Possible! 🛫 Flying in French Polynesia is Spectacular ⛰ Meet Maupiti: the Bora Bora of 50 Years Ago 🙈 Stranded and Afraid in Maupiti 🏝 How Not to Travel Raiatea 💗 Huahine Travel Guide: My Favourite Island in the South Pacific

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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85 comments.

I absolutely love the fact that you go to these places that most bloggers never touch upon! The photos are so beautiful. To be honest, at this stage in my life I don’t think I’d like to be somewhere where I’d only be surrounded by couples, but I’ll definitely bear French Polynesia in mind for the future. Just breathtaking.

Oh, thank you! I definitely don’t go super off the beaten path, but if I can easily get to a place that’s safe for solo travellers and that not many people visit or write about, I try to get there! I should hopefully have a lot of West African destinations to write about soon, now that I’m based in Portugal :-)

BEAUTIFUL photos! I would love to go one day :)

Thanks, Michelle! :-)

So many of the other tourists I was hanging out with were excited to practice their French because complete immersion is the best way to do it! It made me wish I knew more french words than bonjour and poulet, ha.

enjoy reading about your travels and hope to visit some of the places you’ve highlighted someday. just out of curiosity, what happened about the story of the creepy guy that had been following you? seems like everything is OK now, but hope he got taken care of!

Thank you so much, Brie! I’ll be writing about the creepy guy soon, but yep, everything worked out fine in the end and nothing bad happened.

Man that looks incredible! FP has been on our radar for a while now, we’ve got some other trips lined up for the near future but this will definitely get in the queue! Cool photos too!

So glad to hear that, Jim! You’ll love it there :-)

I love reading about your French Polynesia trip, Lauren! I always saw it as a destination only for an elite population of wealthy people. Reading about your experience shows that it can still be just as affordable as visiting other parts of the world!

Absolutely! Lots of really affordable options on all of the islands I visited! :-)

The amount of gorgeous blue photos on your homepage is unreal. Reading this post makes me excited to visit French Polynesia as well. It’s a place I never considered, but how could I miss out on places that sound so friendly and look so beautiful!

I know! My homepage looks ridiculous right now. So many photos of paradise! :-)

Fabulous article Lauren. We have French Polynesia on our list and it look wonderful. We’ve been to the Cook Islands and to Tonga. Tonga is one of our favourite places in the world. Looks and sounds much like French Polynesia. There are several articles on our website at http://www.travellittleknownplaces.com if you’re interested, but I can’t wait to hear about costs and prices for French Polynesia. And your photos are simply fantastic!

Thank you so much, Shirley! I was gutted I didn’t manage to get to Tonga on this trip — it sounds amazing!

Loved the wonderful write up and so happy to hear that I can do this on a budget. On another note, now that you are in Portugal, what is the chance that you will have a post on that soon? Totally self serving, but will be there over the next 2 weeks and would love to here your thoughts!

I won’t have anything up for another few months about Lisbon as I’ve still got quite a bit to catch up on. Feel free to drop me an email if you have any questions, though! :-)

Hi, Lauren. Would you share the the accommodations you stayed at?

Yep, I will do when I write about the islands individually next week.

Wow! Amazing photos! I really want to take on your footsteps, but I’m seriously too scared to take the leap! I just graduated and I’ve never had a job! I mean where do I get money to travel? Tips please? Your blog is so awesome!

By getting a job? :-) I mean, that’s really your only option for making money. I worked three jobs for five years in order to fund my first two years of travel and yep, that required an awful lot of patience!

I have been dreaming of travelling around the French Polynesia for years. I love the colors in your photos! So stunning :)

You need to go! I think you’d love it :-)

I had already wanted to go there as one of my old bosses spent a month backpacking there in the nineties and raved about it and now I want to even more! Great to know it’s reasonably affordable, you even convinced my boyfriend who generally would choose cheaper countries

Oh, nice! I’m so happy to hear that! :-D

Beautiful Pictures!! Loved all your tips about a trip to Polynesia.. I’d like to bookmark this article for my next trip…

You definitely should! :-)

Oh wow! I get what you are saying about needing more than three months to see everything. Island time is one of my favourite things about visiting places like this; they automatically make you feel relaxed!

All of the islands look incredible, I’m not sure how you managed to pick between them all!

It was tough, but I decided to go with the more touristy ones first, because that’s where my readers would be most likely to visit :-)

J’taime :) I have never been to the French Polynesia but after reading this i think i found a romantic getaway for me and my boyfriend :) Lovely read and pictures

Yes! It’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway! :-D

I’ll echo what many others have said: it’s super cool you are connecting with some destinations less traveled to, or at least less written about, by and for budget travelers.

Given how big and exotic the world is, would you go back as you have to Thailand or was it slightly to pricey and/or out of the way to call for further trips?

I definitely hope to return! It won’t be as often as I do Thailand, but I do want to hit up some more French Polynesian islands next time I’m spending Christmas in Oceania :-)

I always wanted to travel but have been able to do so. Looking at those places that can be visited on a small budget has really given me home. I am waiting about your next post about the accommodation. Keep posting and nice pictures

Thanks, Jason! Glad I could inspire you to visit :-)

I have always wanted to travel but haven’t been able to do so because of my job. I am pretty amazed that such places can be visited at small budget. I am waiting about your post on accommodation. So keep posting. Your pictures are good!!

Thank you! Yep, most of the places that have a reputation for being expensive can actually be done quite cheaply. You just need to look around rather than assuming they’ll be outside of your budget :-)

Never knew it was an easy trip . I should plan some time soon . Thanks for the info .

Yep, it’s super-easy to get around and explore! :-)

Wow Lauren, these pictures are stunning! This trip doable on the cheap?

That’s what I said in the post! ;-)

Fabulous photos. I loved them all. My favorite part was where you talked about the locals and helpful they were despite the language barrier.

Thanks so much, Heather!

Wow, incredible pictures! As broke-ass backpackers sadly we’d find those guesthouses a bit steep for us right now (I know, cheap by European standards, but pricier than the countries we normally travel in), but this article has got us so stoked to come here. Hopefully in a couple of years…

Thank you! Yeah, it’s definitely not Southeast Asia prices. Hopefully you can get there soon, though! :-)

I went to the French Polynesia over Christmas of 2014, and it was absolutely spectacular. My favorite island was Bora Bora, which is now one of my favorite places I have ever visited. Everything there from the food to the people was amazing.

Bora Bora is a pretty special place, hey? :-)

Hi Lauren, great post about French Polynesia. I was wondering if you could please advise as I’m heading there in December for 16 days. So, as you mentioned in the blog, you suggested to go to 3 islands of Maupiti, Huahine and Bora bora. When you were booking flight, did you choose Bora bora Pass from Air Tahiti – Euro 414? As I’m going to 16 days, I was wondering it’s worth to add a Moorea? Btw, do you know if they have camping facilities in all the islands that you went? I am planning to take my tent to cut down the cost in accommodation, as I did this when I was traveling in New Caledonia back in 2014. Thanks and look forward for your response.

Yep, I went with the Bora Bora pass.

With Moorea, you could probably add it in without adding too much stress to your trip. Your visit will feel slightly rushed though, so you won’t be able to make as much of the chilled out way of living. It might be worth it to you if this is likely to be your only visit in your lifetime! :-)

With camping, a quick google seemed to suggest there were facilities everywhere but Maupiti, so you should be able to do so on the other islands.

Thanks for nice and wonderful post! I love pics, Those has been shared in post. These images looks really nice & beautiful

Fab post with great advice! Thank you for taking the time to weigh up the good and bad, that is most helpful, especially about hostels, language barrier and to slow things down – just what we need to know :-) I have pinned this for future reference when we visit this stunning idyllic area :-)

So glad you found it helpful, Angie! :-)

when traveling to the different islands the baggage limit is like 5 kilo’s or about 11 pounds,. If coming there from New Zealand and traveling for several weeks before this where can you store your main piece of larger luggage or can you have a regular carry one piece of luggage using the inter island ticket? Plan to be there in March 2017. Thanks

I think that limit is for hand luggage. For checked bags, Air Tahiti has an allowance of 23 kg per person. My backpack weighed around 15 kgs at that point and I took it on all of my flights without a problem.

Great posts! Super glad I came along your blog. I was wondering if you had a post of all the costs you paid in French polynesia ? I would love a rough estimate for a two week trip to the three places you mentioned you’d visit above! Any advice is great . Air fare from Canada will hopefully be the biggest expense .

I haven’t yet, but I will be writing a detailed post about it soon.

My fiancé and I will be traveling to French Polynesia in January for our honeymoon and your post was SO helpful. We are based out of the United States so we are very excited to make our way over to the South Pacific. We are both surfers and will be taking our boards. We are purchasing the multi island pass but are confused on which ticket we should purchase. Should we get the 50lb or the 100lb limit since we will have a backpack and a board bag? Hopefully you could help us out!

Thank you and good luck on your future endeavors.

thank for useful tips! We are coming in the end of August to French Polynesia :) But our main aim – swimming with whales so we are planning to stay in Moorea island :) Maybe you have any tips for this island?

Sorry, I don’t have any tips for Moorea, as I have yet to make it there. It looks beautiful, though, and I’m sure you’ll love it!

Fab post with great advice.

Thank You So Much for all the tips. Your blog is amazing!!! <3

I’m going to Moorea for sure (in fact, we’re ferrying over there the afternoon of the day after we get there for the first five days of our trip) BUT, I want to see Papeete, and I have discovered some interesting things about the main island of Tahiti though. It’s big, and it’s divided into two areas really, Tahiti Nui (the Western side), where Papeete is, but also there are also pretty areas (like Puna’aiua where we’re staying for three days), and you can stay outside of the city, but still be within proximity of all it has to offer, and I want to go up to Mont Orohena, and most of the 4X4 tours to get up there are in the Papeete area. And then most people forget that there is Tahiti Iti (the Eastern and smaller side of the island), which is mostly undeveloped, and has some places to stay (such as the one I found) which is only accessible by boat, and has so much unspoiled nature around it, I decided to devote the final 5 days of the trip to exploring it. Plus, I want to Scuba dive, and Moorea and Tahiti Iti offer more accessible dive sites instead of having to fly around to other islands. What I find most interesting about Tahiti, is that unlike Hawaii, you can self-design whatever kind of experience you want. I don’t really have much of an interest in honeymoon havens like Bora Bora, and since I will be travelling with a friend, we want activity and exploration, not romance. To each their own.

Thanks for sharing! Enjoy!

Dear Lauren, I find your blog so inspirational and informative. Thanks so much! I am off to french polynesia this June for three weeks and am following some of your recommendations. I’d be grateful if you could tell me, how did you get hold of the Air Tahiti pass? Do you have to get it when you arrive?

Thanks again Lucy

Nope — it’s on their website: https://www.airtahiti.com/multiisland-fares — just create a multiisland itinerary and the discount is instantly taken off.

Lauren, your post has been incredibly helpful as my partner and I plan our upcoming trip to French Polynesia. I am intrigued about Huahine, and I am wondering if you have recommendations of that guest house that you really enjoyed.

Yes! I stayed at Pension Fare Ara: https://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Pension_Fare_Ara_Huahine.htm?a_aid=173252

Your photos are amazing! I want to jump in that turquoise water right now!!!

I’ve never been but planning to go in couple of months. I haven’t heard Bora bora and Tahiti being much of a family destination, it just sounds so expensive from the get-go, but the over-water bungalows look freaking amazing and I would feel too guilty not bringing my kids along lol

So I need your input in this since you’ve been there. We love biking but won’t bring our bikes. It seems like biking would be the best way to get around and explore the island. If we decide to rent scooters, how are the rules there? In Asia, you can fit a family of 7 and nobody cares haha you know what I mean, are they super strict with safety regulations? We live in Canada, in Vancouver to be specific and everything is so strict.

Absolutely love this! I am visiting French Polynesia in June and your blog has got me so excited! it looks as stunning as I dream about. You’ve even convinced me to visit Huahine! Thanks so much! Would love it if you shared the place you stayed at in Bora Bora for my research?

Thanks again!

Hello. I really liked your review :) I’m planning on traveling from Sweden and I wonder what month did you hear is the best for visiting French Polynesia? I have read so many times and so many websites and I understood that August/September is a good time to go, is that right? I would prefer hot weather and calm sea and sunny days. Best regards, Leila :)

Yes, that’s the best time. I was there in January, which is known as the worst time, but I actually had perfect weather for my entire trip! Still, to be on the safe side, I’d go with August/September.

Dear Lauren, your blog has been such an enormous inspiration for the past year! (since I started looking into exotic destinations for my honeymoon and now anniversary).

I know this is a bit out of touch with this great guide but I wasnt able to find any other means of contact except these comments so here goes – how does one work out the Air Tahiti Pass? On their website, they just tell you to start booking a multi-island itinerary but when I do it, following all the requirements of the pass, the price is like 1.5x higher. I’m being very frustrated with their website because I am super running out of time (my trip is in two weeks) and I obviously want to see as many islands as possible :)

On that note everybody hypes Maupiti so much but it seems we will have to skip it… too difficult to reach to on a tight schedule. Oh well!

Anyway, I have reached out to Air Tahiti but they only promise 72 hours response time so if you have any advice, that would be just great :)

Thanks again and kudos for your amazing writing, keep going! (and traveling)

Dear Lauren, disregard my last post, I figured out what’s the deal, turns out one of the flights has a routing via Tahiti, which is not allowed on the pass. Oh well, time to reroute everything again :) Seems like such an ordeal when you want to visit EVERYTHING but everyone tells you at least 3 nights for each island…

Absolutely love this. French Polynesia is A dream. Please take me back!!! Keep it up!

Ah, thank you so much! That means a lot :-)

Hi Lauren SUCH a great post, so helpful and inspiring;) Im planning my next holidays over French Polynesia and feel like travelling around it the same way u did, id love to ask u if u could share some advice about how to find the guesthouses? Just on bookings or is there any local website to book them? Thanks!!! R

I’m SO glad I found your blog and this post. I’m just starting my research for a solo trip to FP, including BB and Maupiti. And now I guess Huahine! Did you end up posting costs or do you ever share links to where you stayed? I would follow up on the guest houses you liked. I do speak French, which will help me, but a tip toward friendly hosts there would be welcomed! Also, I see you’re in the UK July/Aug. I’m in London and happy to share any tips or invite you for a meal if you’re solo and could use some company. Thanks again for the post! So helpful and inspiring! Lara

Currently been planning a trip around the South Pacific and have been using your website as a guide. It has been super helpful as there is not much out there so thank you! Do you remember what air pass you bought? :)

Lovely article Loren, its nice to see how these dreamful places can be travelled without costing a fortune if you really want to explore the landscape and share time with locals rather than just being on a fancy overwater bungalow without seing anything else. Could you please share the link of your acommodation and do you have any list of your travel expenses? Thank you!!!

Fantastic article Lauren – thank you. We are travelling out to French Polynesia in March 2020 and plan to visit several of the islands you mention. You say that the B&B you staying in on Huanine was your favourite – can you tell me where you stayed?

I’m hoping to visit French Polynesia later this year and all of your articles and guides have been so useful! Just wanted to say thank you and ask if you were planning on going back in the future? I’d love to get your take on some of the other island chains in the region.

I have enjoyed reading your passage sooooo much! French Polynesia has always been my biggest dream and I’ll do whatever it takes to visit it one day. And perhaps stay forever. Its the ultimate beauty! Thank you for this interesting reading and plenty of useful tips. I truly envy you:)

OMG, it looks so beautiful…

I’m visiting in November of this year. We are traveling once we get there by private catamaran butI have to stay in Raiatea for one night. Where did you stay? Or can you suggest a nice place? Thanks!

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May 17, 2022

8 Reasons to Visit French Polynesia

Kenna Reyner

Discover why french polynesia should be at the top of your bucket list..

Tropical Island vacations are always high on our list and lucky for us there are many tropical archipelagos to choose from. With Southeast Asia, Hawaii, popular European island destinations, and French Polynesia, you can choose from many types of island life.

French Polynesia is at the top of our lists for a tropical island adventure. This island archipelago has a huge variety of cultures and natural interests to explore. Discover the paintings of Gauguin, explore tropical waterfalls, hike island peaks for encompassing views of crystal clear lagoons, sample French Polynesian flavors, and search for underwater black pearls. Discover beauty and culture on an island vacation to French Polynesia. Known for a unique blend of cultural experiences in the capital and natural life from island to island, French Polynesia is a dream destination.

1. Unique French Polynesian Culture

While many locals in many island destinations are tentative to share their culture with tourists, French Polynesia welcomes tourism. Settled by Polynesians as early as 500BC, these islands were later colonized by the french. Today, locals hold French Passports, however, the culture has become distinct compared to both French and Polynesian roots. Tahitian culture is internally recognized as "mana," which symbolizes a huge variety of characteristics and contexts. Loosely defined as the local cultural values, mana can only be defined by the locals and on their terms.

"Mana lives, animates, raises up, ennobles, and transcends everything, every being, every element in every dimension; it can also annihilate, ruin and destroy until the last vital vibration.

Mana is seducing, enchanting, glamorous, penetrating, fascinating. The Mana is frightening, dangerous, consuming, lethal.

It is the root of the duality of life and death."

-French Polynesian Culture | Tahiti Culture | Tahiti Tradition.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Due to the size of French Polynesia, there is plenty to explore. Start with a visit to Fautaua Falls where water cascades down 980 ft of volcanic cliffs into a tropical pool . Hike to the top of Mount Pahia for views of the lush forest that eventually give way to a peak top view of the surrounding turquoise waters. 

3. Cultural Experiences in Papeete

The capital of Tahiti, Papeete is a cultural hub for island life. Explore masterworks from Gauguin at the Paul Gauguin Museum, discover french Polynesian history at the Museum of Tahiti, enjoy local flavors at Papeete markets, and see tropical blooms at the botanical gardens.

4. World's best Natural Aquarium

Whether double tank dives or beachside snorkels are more your speed, swimming along Tahiti's tropical island reefs promises gorgeous views of marine life. From underwater gardens decorated with tropical coral and herds of sea turtles to dolphins, sharks, and whales the underwater world of French Polynesia is vast and beautiful.

5. Life-Changing Surf Breaks

From the larger waves of Teahupoo to the smaller waves of Temae, Tahiti is known for heavy-waved barrels. While the larger breaks are recommended for professionals due to the shallow bottom beneath and thick waves above, these waters offer the best waves of pacific surfing. For experienced surfers looking for life-changing barrels, French Polynesia is a bucket list trip. Beginners will also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surf. A variety of surf schools offer opportunities to learn to love the waves like a local.

6. Golden Sunsets

Crystal clear water and lush tropical jungles bathe in glowing orange light at the end of every sun-soaked day. Golden hours at the end of the day are magical everywhere, but the sight of aqua blue waters rushing up to meet the golden sunlight defines the moments you will remember for the rest of your life. We recommend chasing a few of those sunsets perched on a surfboard or with a locally inspired cocktail in hand.

7. Defined Cuisine

French cuisine is certainly something to dream about. From buttery layered croissants to a perfectly airy baguette, French food and wine are some of the best in the world. In French Polynesia, traditional french cuisine meets a tropical influence incorporating local fruits and Polynesian flair. With suckling pig, fresh-caught fish, and lots of coconuts, French Polynesian food is as delicious as it is unique.

8. A Variety of unique options for travel

As with many places in the world, there are a huge variety of options to travel to French Polynesia. Some choose to travel to one destination and make a stay of it, however when traveling to this island archipelago, we recommend traveling through the endlessly blue waters.

Finding the right ship for your adventure depends on your interests:

• For those interested in small ship cruising, specific to French Polynesia itineraries, and a focus on gourmet cuisine, look at Windstar Cruises ' Tahitian itineraries.
• Looking for traditional luxury and interested in covering more ground, check out Regent Seven Seas Cruises .
• Curious about moderate, kid-friendly luxury with a moderate price tag, look into Princess Cruises .
• Seeking a quiet adult-oriented atmosphere with plenty of space and interested in covering more ground? Try Oceania Cruises.
• Find small ship luxury and longer itineraries, ranging from 16 to 120 days, on a Seabourn Cruise .
• Explore authentic Polynesia with the whole family with Paul Gauguin Cruises.
• Discover from Easter Island to Tahiti with Lindblad Expeditions , the official cruise line of the National Geographic.

When you book with an MVT travel advisor, enjoy complimentary amenities and additional shipboard credit with our preferred partners.

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The Best Way to Explore French Polynesia

By Meghan Palmer

According to an old Tahitian proverb, “The well-trodden path is not always the right path.” When it comes to travel, that is most certainly the case. Though the world is full of destinations  du jour , the very best places to explore are those less-trodden corners—a place like French Polynesia. The 118 islands and atolls, or ring-shaped coral reefs, that make up French Polynesia are among the most stunningly bio-diverse and sought-after destinations in the world. From the bustling main island of Tahiti to the unbelievable beauty of Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a paradise that has inspired ambitious travelers and world-renown artists for centuries. Commonly perceived as ultra remote, the islands also tend to be less overcrowded than the standard set—but don’t be fooled, Tahiti is just a two-hour flight from Hawaii.

Planning a multi-island trip to French Polynesia requires extensive research and coordination. As such, the best way to explore her bountiful grace is on a small-ship, all-inclusive luxury cruise. Paul Gauguin Cruises—named after the famed post-Impressionist painter whose work was largely inspired by his time in Tahiti—offers travelers the ultimate elevated experience. With a ratio of one crew member to every 1.5 guests, the well-appointed m/s Paul Gauguin is designed specifically to sail the pristine lagoons of the South Seas. With her beloved troupe of Gauguines—local Tahitians who serve as cruise staff, entertainers and storytellers who add the authentic personality of Tahiti to every cruise—sailing aboard the The Gauguin is an immersive experience unlike any other.

If you’re ready to embark on the bucket-list trip of a lifetime, here are some of the best itineraries to get you started.

Tahiti & the Society Islands

This 7-night cruise is the ideal introduction to French Polynesia for those who have limited time but still want to experience the picture-perfect charms of the South Seas. As with most voyages on  The Gauguin , the journey cruises roundtrip from Tahiti, the largest of French Polynesia's islands. You’ll visit Huahine, Motu Mahana (Paul Gauguin Cruise’s exclusive private islet), and enjoy overnight stays in Bora Bora and Moorea.

Itinerary Highlight

On Huahine, nicknamed the “Garden Island” of the illustrious Society Islands, spend a full day discovering what's nestled amidst the lush emerald foliage. Explore hidden temples surrounded by rare orchids and flora as you traverse the dramatic terrain of this laid-back paradise, or visit some of the most well-preserved ancient archeological sites in all of French Polynesia. Beneath the crystalline waters lies an entirely different universe—try the lagoon snorkeling excursion for an up-close look at the colorful world thriving among the reefs.

CNT Insiders Tip For those traveling with children ages 7-15, the line’s complimentary Moana Explorer Program offers the chance to discover the natural wonders of this unique destination through hands-on, interactive learning. Offered in partnership with a South Pacific conservation foundation, kids embark on naturalist-led island or beach excursions alongside a myriad of other exciting adventures. The whole family is invited to participate in activities as they wish. The program is offered on select summer and holiday voyages, so be sure to check for availability in advance.

María Casbas

Jessica Chapel

Madison Flager

Society Islands & Tuamotus

This 10-night itinerary offers guests unparalleled access to some of the most incredible aquatic beauty in the South Pacific, including the Tuamotu Archipelago, an underwater ecosystem famous for its vibrance. Your journey begins and ends in Tahiti, making stops at Huahine, Bora Bora, Rangiroa, Fakarava, Motu Mahana, and Moorea along the way. A full day at sea offers the opportunity to take advantage of all  The Gauguin  has to offer, whether you choose to participate in an exciting lecture by a special onboard guest or take part in a cooking class with the Executive Chef.

Lovers of pure, unspoiled nature will be wowed by the paradise of Fakarava. The island is home to a UNESCO-classified Biosphere Reserve, bursting with flora and fauna that is impossible to find anywhere else on Earth. Experienced divers can plunge into the second-largest lagoon in the world, swimming alongside stunning marine life like gray sharks and healthy coral reefs. On land, welcoming villages and ancient temples beckon culture-seekers.

CNT Insiders Tip If you’ve always dreamt of becoming a scuba diver but never found the time to get certified, now is your chance.  The Gauguin  offers onboard PADI certification in a stunning atmosphere, allowing you to make your diving dreams a reality. New divers will need to book the Discover SCUBA Diving course, consisting of one hour of theory and one hour of pool diving before being able to sign up for a full dive. When you complete your first full dive with  The Gauguin , you’ll be registered with PADI for one confined dive and one open-water dive, bringing you that much closer to completing your full open-water diver certification.

Cook Islands & Society Islands

This 11-night journey puts on a show for travelers, exhibiting the unrivaled splendor of some of the most requested destinations in the South Pacific. Beginning and ending in Tahiti, the itinerary also makes stops at Huahine, Bora Bora, Motu Mahana, and Moorea, as well as Aitutaki and Rarotonga. Two full days at sea mean more time to discover the award-winning luxury that awaits on board—spend a day lounging by the pool, followed by pampering at the Deep Nature Spa.

Bora Bora is French Polynesia's ethereal leading lady, often called the most beautiful island in the world. As with both itineraries featured above, this voyage includes two luxurious days to explore Bora Bora’s famed treasures basking beneath the iconic Mount Otemanu. In the Cook Islands, you won’t want to miss Aitutaki’s famed One Foot Island or the pearl farms on Rangiroa, the world’s second largest atoll.

CNT Insiders Tip

Countless excursions are offered at every port—all of which are of the highest quality. Since you’ll have two full days in Bora Bora, book a shore excursion to make the most of your time on the island. For divers, be astounded by the brightly-colored coral reefs that enchant Bora Bora’s waters. For couples and families, a sunset jetboat ride is perfect for an evening of excitement and romance.

Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands

Those looking to make the very most out of their trip to French Polynesia need to look no further than this indulgent, 14-night journey, allowing ample time to soak up all of the magic that makes this corner of the world so unforgettable. The trip begins and ends in Tahiti with several jaw-dropping ports of call along the way, including Fakarava, Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, Tahuata, Nuku Hiva, Huahine, Bora Bora, Taha’a (Motu Mahana), and Moorea, plus three full days at sea.

A visit to Fatu Hiva, the southernmost island in the Marquesas, is as authentic as it is charming. With only 500 residents and just a single road, Fatu Hiva is a relic of simpler times. You’ll be swept away in her beauty, with spectacular jungle greenery right up at the water’s edge, steep cliffs, and cerulean waters, but it's the friendly residents who make the island so special. Their unique way of life and fascinating traditions are best discovered firsthand.

Though all accommodations on  The Gauguin  offer the utmost luxury—think all oceanview staterooms and suites, private balconies, and endless high-end amenities—only staterooms and suites in category B and above come with the indulgent perk of butler service. Butlers can unpack your luggage, make reservations both on the ship and on shore, arrange for a private cocktail party if you’re celebrating a special occasion, and more. For longer itineraries like this, the butler service is the ultimate individualized treat.

To learn more or start planning your bucket-list trip with Paul Gauguin Cruises, visit  https://tahiticruise.pgcruises.com/conde-nast  

Five reasons Tahiti is officially heaven on earth

Le Meridien Bora Bora

Last updated . 07 February 2020

The results are in… and Tahiti’s got it in the bag…

French Polynesia, as Tahiti is officially known, is flung across an immense stretch of the South Pacific Ocean, so vast that if the French territory was superimposed with a map of Europe it would reach from Russia to the UK.

A beguiling blend of Tahitian and French culture exists right across the country’s 118 islands and atolls. Residents speak French and Tahitian, serve French cuisine along with Polynesian specialties, and resorts incorporate European refinements with laid back South Pacific style.

Bora Bora Pearl Resort and Spa

This intriguing mixture of tropical island culture and French sophistication comes together to form the ideal holiday destination.

1. Unrivalled natural beauty

As well as offering its own distinct personality and breathtaking backdrop, each island is home to an intricate natural tapestry and vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life and rhythmical reefs that rise and fall to a natural, island beat.

Tahiti’s charm lies not only her in unrivalled beauty, but also in her versatility.

Visitors can swim in a turquoise wonderland, whale watch in pristine waters, quad-bike along forested ridge lines, cruise on luxury yachts, indulge in a spa experience, savour wine from a tropical vineyard, shop for a Tahitian pearl, surf one of the world’s best-known breaks or simply relax and do absolutely nothing.

2. It’s the perfect place to honeymoon

Home to the main island of Tahiti are the ultimate honeymoon destinations of Bora Bora and Moorea – the Society Islands are the best known of Tahiti’s five archipelagos.

Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora.

Separated into the Leeward and Windward groups, the 15 main islands of the archipelago offer jagged volcanic peaks, electric blue lagoons and an entrancing underwater world.

Nowhere in the world are the colours more vibrant, the waters warmer and the people friendlier.

Tahiti Nui is the largest island in French Polynesia and home to the capital Papeete, the entry point for international visitors.

3. There’s more to do than you think

An exterior fringed with hotels, museums and the endless lapping of the South Pacific combines with a heart of natural beauty.  Fast-flowing streams meet steep-sided valleys, and soaring volcanic peaks rise into the tropical sky high above lush rainforests of ancient trees that hold centuries of secrets and history in their mossy bark.

Stand up Paddle Boarding lessons.

Also home tahiti trademark over water bungalows, volcanic peaks and palm-fringed lagoons, Moorea is a haven of relaxation and romance. A year-round tropical climate and picture perfect vistas greet visitors throughout the Society Islands.

Hire a scooter, bike or canoe for some great adventure on the charming Garden of Eden island of Huahine, rock Tahiti’s cradle of culture on Raiatea and let the scents of vanilla seduce on Tahaa.

From heavenly beaches with champagne sand and fragrant tropical flowers to iridescent lagoons fringed with soothing palm trees, it’s no wonder Tahiti and her islands offer some of the most coveted holidaying in the world.

4. The food!

Sample Polynesian culture and food in this historic port city where some streets resemble a distant suburb of Paris. As in France, it is easy to find creperies, boulangeries, sandwich shops and pizza places, while local supermarkets stock pate, baguettes, cheeses and plenty of French wine.

Four Seasons Bora Bora at Sunset.

A seafood restaurant called Bloody Mary’s has become as famous as the island’s picture perfect blue lagoon. Established in 1976 by Polish immigrant Baron George Van Dangle, the huge thatched hut with its sand floor and coconut-stump stools has a menu of freshly-caught fish described to diners in several different languages.

An impressive roster of celebrities, immortalised on two boards at the entrance, have helped make Bloody Mary’s an integral part of the Bora Bora Experience.

On lush and beautiful Moorea, just half an hour by ferry from Tahiti, a road that hugs the coast is flanked by resorts, hotels and tiny communities offering everything guests need. Some restaurants are located in truly stunning locations where visitors can dine while soaking up million-dollar views.

5. You’ll never find more luxurious dwellings

Arriving on the Four Seasons transfer boat from the airport

Bora Bora – The Pearl of The Pacific – is undoubtedly the most famous of Tahiti’s Society Island sand deservedly considered one of the most romantic islands in the world. This breathtakingly beautiful island is located just a short 50-minute flight from the main island of Tahiti.

Luxurious overwater bungalows, which have become synonymous with Bora Bora, ring the luminous blue lagoon offering the ultimate in indulgence.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora at sunset

Designed in Polynesian style, the bungalows feature an outstanding level of comfort in a picturesque setting, with special glass panels offering a view to the lagoon floor. The bungalows also provide an ideal platform to watch an unforgettable Polynesian sunset or enjoy an intimate stargazing experience unlike any other.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora with Mt Otemanu in the background

Getting There

Air Tahiti Nui and Air New Zealand both fly twice weekly via Auckland to Tahiti.

Staying There

For  most luxurious and comfortable stay, stay with Elegant Resorts and Villas .

More Information

For more information on Tahiti and Her Islands, visit the Tahiti Tourisme website.

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Reasons Everyone Should Visit Tahiti At Least Once

While Tahiti often conjures up images of romantic overwater bungalows, there’s a lot more to it than just romantic honeymoons. From the knockout volcanic landscape which shapes Moorea, to the mesmerising Tahiitan dancing, Tahiti and Her Islands are vibrant and diverse. It’s probably not that hard to convince you to visit, but here are some jolly good reasons nonetheless to put this piece of French paradise in the Pacific on your bucket list.

Tahitian pearls.

The Tahiti an black pearls come from the black lipped oyster farmed around French Polynesia. These oysters can grow quite large, which means these pearls can be bigger than many others. A true black Tahiti an pearl is very rare, as most are shades of dark grey and brown.

Gourmet French Polynesian cuisine

You might be outside of France, but that doesn’t mean the cuisine is any less French. Like New Caledonia , French Polynesia has its share of top quality French influences in the food, with local Tahiti an ingredients. Many dishes are served with sauces and, of course, have French names. The national dish is known as poisson cru – which is a Tahiti an version of the raw fish dish ceviche.

Whale watching

Every year, from around June and July until October, the humpback whales arrive in Polynesia to breed and give birth. Polynesia is a declared Marine Mammal Sanctuary , so there are strict regulations in place so as not to disturb the whales. There are a number of sightseeing boats which offer this service to view these impressive and incredible giants of the sea.

Snorkeling and diving

It wouldn’t be a Pacific nation without at least a little snorkeling available and Tahiti is no different, with shark snorkeling experiences available and plenty of lagoons to play around in. The scuba diving is a little more difficult – of Tahiti ‘s 112 islands and atolls, dive centres are only found on 11 of them. However, those areas can offer outstanding diving, from high-speed drifts, to impressive wrecks and large pelagic species depending on the time of year.

The night sky

With under 300,000 people living in French Polynesia, there’s little light pollution disrupting the night sky. Gaze up after sundown and enjoy some of the famous constellations in the Polynesian sky, such as The Southern Cross, Scorpio and The Pleiades.

Impressive peaks

French Polynesia might elicit images of lagoons and beaches, but easily the most impressive landscapes in the archipelago are when you turn to the dramatic mountains, cliff faces and peaks. The most famous is Mount Mouaputa on the island of Moorea, jutting out of the ocean abruptly reaching high into the sky.

Tahiti has many natural wonders, one of them being the nation’s waterfalls lying within the valleys of lush ferns. Most of them require a bit of a hike to reach, but the natural pools at the bottom makes it worth the effort. Les Trois Cascades, the Three Waterfalls, are also know as the Faarumai Waterfalls and are one of the more well-known and spectacular falls.

The Arahoho Blowhole is found on the Northeastern side of Tahiti Nui, where the rugged coastline creates this natural phenomenon. The blowhole is the result of years of coastal erosion from the pounding waves against the cliffs. There are a number of blowholes along the coast but Arahoho is the largest, spurting out sea spray through the top of a hole in the rocks with every large swell.

Endless lagoons

The stunning lagoons of French Polynesia are really what make this place so famous, especially when you picture the overwater bungalows of Bora Bora and Moorea. Drift off to a daydream while surrounded by a calm turquoise sea. Rangiroa, which is found in the Tuamotu Archipeligo, has the largest lagoon in French Polynesia.

Jungle Tours

If relaxing in the lagoon sounds a bit boring, then a jungle tour through Tahiti ‘s rainforests will keep you on your toes. It’s a chance to appreciate the beautiful diversity of Tahiti , from reef to rainforest.

Big wave surfing

Tahiti ‘s known for big wave surfing, ready to challenge even the world’s greatest surfers. Teahupoo is considered the most dangerous break in the world due to its size, force, power and of course, the razor sharp reef below. Don’t worry, if you’re not a surfer you can still take a sightseeing boat out to see this incredible force of nature.

Polynesian culture and art

Polynesian culture is unique, particularly when it is combined with the French influence. From music and dance to the local cuisine, enjoy these different cultures merging together as one in Tahiti .

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5 Reasons to Visit French Polynesia

Needle in a haystack, search the South Pacific for long enough and you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Tahiti is located 5000 miles east of Australia, sitting dead set in the middle of nowhere. Idyllic doesn’t begin to cover it; spectacular doesn’t do it justice. French Polynesia, in the blueness of its lagoons, the ferocity of its volcanic mountains, and the charm of its local population could, and should, be your next cruise destination.

This article explores exactly the reasons why...

Why are French Polynesia holidays so good?

French Polynesia is 121 islands and atolls of paradise across an area the size of Western Europe. You might not know it by its official name of French Polynesia. People often only refer to Tahiti, the largest island and home to the capital, or Bora Bora, which is Tahiti’s smaller, more exclusive sister. Together they form French Polynesia, quickly becoming a sought-after holiday location. The Hilton, Four Seasons, The Brando, and other big name luxury hotel chains have all set up shop in the French Polynesian islands.

The thing about those hotels is that they’re expensive and you’re basically stuck there. The best way to see the Islands of French Polynesia is by taking a luxury cruise. This is one of the best tropical cruises available to take.

It’s easy to see why these islands are so popular, especially with cruise lines. It’s a tropical paradise with beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see… and then back around behind you again. Those gorgeous, sun-soaked beaches, guarded by pristine reefs that teem with tropical fish, are now suitably set up with infrastructure for tourists. Still, the islands are so spread out that it never feels busy or overcrowded. There’s always a quiet corner to sunbathe.

Fancy a luxury cruise to the Islands of Tahiti? Call an experienced connoisseur on 0161 516 0486.

Because Bora Bora is beautiful…

Most Tahiti cruise itineraries will be sure to visit Bora Bora.

The jewel of Polynesia, Bora Bora of French Polynesia is the ultimate island paradise. Emerging 13 millions years ago, Bora Bora is actually a dormant volcano. A dramatic, rugged and mountainous backdrop serves as a stark contrast to the tranquillity of the seaside down below. Mt. Otemanu is a dramatic peak violently jutting out of this peaceful atoll. With the right gear, a go-get-it attitude, and probably a guide, you can climb as high up as the mountain’s shoulders for a stunning tropical view of Bora Bora’s world-famous lagoon below.

The lagoon of Bora Bora is said to be the most beautiful in the world. You’re guaranteed to make some interesting friends there. Colourful fish inhabit the surrounding coral gardens, manta glide, and even sharks and humpback whales aren’t far away nursing their young. 

Bora Bora’s a typical honeymoon destination or somewhere to fall in love all over again. The epitome of romance, if you don’t fall in love with somebody else, you’ll fall back in love with life, or just with the world and Mother Nature in general.

Can you count the 50 different shades of blue in the lagoon?

Fancy a luxury cruise to Bora Bora? Call an experienced connoisseur on 0161 516 0486.

Because the climate is perfect…

The climate is tropically warm and humid. The warm rainy season lasts from November to April, with a cool dry season beginning in May and ending in October. That being said, French Polynesia is at its best between June and August when the climate is at its driest and balmiest. Temperatures sit in the high 20s, perfect for a sunbathe and a cheeky dip.

Because Papeete is a hidden gem city…

Granted, French Polynesia holidays aren’t necessarily for seeing another city. You didn’t come all this way to feel a big city buzz. Still, you might have come for an authentic travelling experience to see how people live all the way on the other side of the world. Papeete is the largest urban centre in these islands and the capital of Tahiti, sitting pretty on the North-Western coast of the Tahitian island, the largest island.

Perfect for a bit of souvenir shopping and to support the local economy, check out the vibrant local market, Marché de Pape’ete. Spread over two floors, the first is devoted to fresh foods, vegetables, and tropical fruits; the second is dedicated to local arts and crafts. Check out the adorable Notre Dame Cathedral (not the Notre Dame Cathedral) and take a stroll through the stunning Paofai Garden where you’ll find palm trees and tropical flowers.

Get lost in it. If you do, put your back to the mountain and look for your cruise ship on the horizon. Head towards it.

Because the food is very French with a tropical twist…

French Polynesia, as you might have guessed from the name, is an overseas French territory. The islands are oozing with French influence, all mixed in with traditional Tahitian elements that were there years before. The result is French language, stunning architecture, and tantalising tropical ingredients cooked with signature French flair.

Obviously, seafood rules supreme on these islands. Ei’a Ota or Poisson Cru is the signature Tahitian dish. Similar to a South American ceviche-style dish, it consists of raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with ever-present coconut milk and diced vegetables. It’s a must-try for seafood fans cruising Tahiti and the French Polynesian islands.

Fried yams, sweet potatoes, and beautiful breadfruits; papayas, pineapples, coconuts, mangoes, and other delectable citrus fruits, this is food heaven. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, I’d recommend Kato. They’re a biscuit made out of, you guessed it, coconut milk and are best enjoyed with a freshly-ground coffee in the morning.

The most renowned restaurant in Tahiti is La Plage (FKA Le Coco’s) to the west of Papeete. It’s a taxi journey away, but you’ll be treated to stunning dinnertime views of the lagoon, fine wines and cocktails, world-class and personable service, and some of the best desserts you could ever dream of.

Because of the multi-coloured beaches of Tahiti…

As one of the main draws for tourists, there are many (many, many) beaches in Tahiti, Bora Bora, and French Polynesia as a whole. There are plenty of stunning beaches coming in all different shapes, sizes, and… colours!

You’ll find typically tropical white sandy beaches to the west of Papeete. Plage de Toaroto is particularly beautiful and popular amongst tourists, with ample infrastructure to make yourself comfortable as you sun yourself in the Tahitian sun. Not far from Papeete, take a taxi from the cruise ship dock to take you there. It’s a bit of a drive west, so enjoy the glorious views on one side of the taxi, and never-ending ocean views on the other.

Alternatively, black sandy beaches can be found to the east of Papeete. Something a little bit different, the sand is black due to the volcanic rock that makes up the region. There are even pink beaches on Tahiti, made up of broken pieces of coral and foraminifera (for-a-min-i-fer-a). In case you didn’t know, and I didn’t either, that’s a long name for tiny pink crustaceans that leave a pink hue with their shells.

Want to experience this? Give the Panache Cruises team a call on 0161 513 8200   and they'd be happy to help!

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9 Reasons to Travel to French Polynesia

Bora Bora’s blue lagoon and overwater bungalows. Moorea’s emerald peaks and valleys. Rangiroa’s black pearls. Vanilla farms on Raiatea. Tikis and cultural encounters on Nuku Niva. Legendary, exotic and unimaginably beautiful, French Polynesia is home to some of the most remote and desirable islands in the world. Our French Polynesia cruises bring you the chance to discover the best of the islands and fill your days with lagoon cruises, underwater discoveries, ukulele rhythms and lingering sunsets. If you’re in need of further convincing, read on for the top reasons to travel to French Polynesia and why a voyage with Oceania Cruises is the best way.

• The natural beauty. The vivid turquoise lagoons you associate with the paradise of Bora Bora are even more stunning in real life. Many of our French Polynesia cruises feature an overnight stay in Bora Bora so you have even more time to soak in the beauty of the lagoon. Moorea and Rangiroa also boast gorgeous lagoons that you can explore on a glass-bottom boat tour, a catamaran cruise or snorkeling adventure. The lush green peaks and valleys of the islands offer the chance for off-road safaris, breathtaking panoramic views, an inside look at the local life and more.
• A bucket list destination. Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and other islands within French Polynesia have become top bucket list destinations for many seasoned travelers. Like going on an African safari or visiting Machu Picchu or Taj Mahal, exploring French Polynesia is an experience that passionate travelers just don’t want to miss. A cruise is the best way to make the most of your time in this blissful part of the world.
• The unique culture. Many of the islands have preserved and honor their traditional way of life through language, stories, dances, food, ceremonies, artisanal crafts and pastimes such as outrigger canoe races. Our voyages invite you to meet locals and experience the culture and heritage of these unique islands. A few of our favorite cultural excursions are Huahine’s Sacred Sites & Cultural Walk tour , Nuku Hiva’s Visit to Taipivai Valley and Raiatea’s Opoa & Taputapuatea adventure .
• Incredible marine life. The turquoise blue waters are home to an abundance of colorful tropical fish and sea creatures. You’re likely to spot clown fish, emperor angelfish, yellow Moorish idols, blue parrotfish, graceful eagle rays, spinner and bottlenose dolphins and more. Experienced divers and novice snorkelers alike will be delighted.
• The legacy of creativity. French Polynesia has drawn its fair share of explorers, writers and artists over the centuries and has inspired generations of artists and writers such as Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse and Herman Melville. Even so, perhaps some of the most remarkable forms of creativity originated on the islands themselves – you’ll discover a rich heritage of artistry across French Polynesia. Weaving, woodcarving, textile-making, jewelry-making and tattooing are all rooted in the traditions of ancient ancestors and reveal stories about the islanders’ way of life and enduring relationship with nature.
• Island flavors. Polynesian cuisine features a bevy of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, root vegetables and French culinary influences. You’ll have the chance to explore local markets, become a connoisseur of poisson cru, the Tahitian national dish; and enjoy an array of traditional dishes such as po’e, a Polynesian fruit pudding typically made with banana and brown sugar.
• Traveling to French Polynesia is easier than you think. From the West Coast of the United States, an 8-hour nonstop flight brings you to this exotic corner of the world that will leave you with lifelong memories.
• Unpack once. Exploring French Polynesia is made even more blissful and carefree when you take a voyage with Oceania Cruises. We take care of the details so you can soak up every moment of your journey in paradise.
• Re-inspired Nautica . Even better, in 2024 our completely re-inspired Nautica will be charting the best of French Polynesia. Beautifully reimagined from stem to stern, Nautica spends the entire season in the beautiful South Pacific, so you can choose from several 10-day roundtrip Papeete cruises that depart beginning in January of 2024 .

What are you waiting for? Start planning your dream voyage to French Polynesia .

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Going to French Polynesia? Why a visit to Tahiti, Mo'orea or Bora Bora is getting easier

Mar 28, 2022 • 3 min read

French Polynesia is relaxing some of its COVID-19 entry requirements. © M Swiet Productions/Getty Images

The idyllic beaches and turquoise lagoons of French Polynesia  will become a bit easier to reach thanks to a rollback in COVID-19 entry requirements by the island country. 

Starting March 28, the country, which includes the islands of Tahiti , Bora Bora , and Mo'orea , will no longer require visitors to register in advance  online with the ETIS platform , pay a health surveillance fee or complete a series of self-tests upon arrival.

Travelers over the age of 12 will still need to provide proof of a negative antigen or RT-PCR within 24 hours before departure. 

On February 8, the government clarified that travelers to French Polynesia who are 18 and older now also need a booster shot in order to visit the South Pacific islands if it has been more than nine months since their last COVID-19 vaccination.

Unvaccinated travelers are still only allowed to enter the islands if they provide a compelling reason, but that no longer needs to go to the French Polynesian government in advance. Instead, unvaccinated travelers must present their reason to their airline on the day of departure. The carrier will decide if the passenger may board the aircraft. 

Entry to French Polynesia including Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea

While French Polynesia is open to vaccinated visitors and has relaxed many of its previous requirements, you do still need a negative pre-arrival COVID-19 test to be admitted into the country. 

Proof of a negative COVID-19 test is required from all travelers 12 years of age and older. The test must have been taken no more than 24-hours prior to boarding their flight. Both antigen and PCR tests are accepted. 

A date with the ocean in Mo'orea, French Polynesia

Unvaccinated travelers must have government approval to travel

If you’re over the age of 12 and are not fully vaccinated, you’ll still find it much more difficult to travel to French Polynesia.

You'll need to download, complete and print the declaration of a compelling reason  form from the High Commission. 

You will also need to attach proof of the compelling reason. The form details what specific proof is required for each compelling reason. 

On the day you depart to French Polynesia, you will present all of the required documents to your airline upon check-in. The airline will determine whether the reasons is valid and whether you are allowed to board the aircraft. 

What if I already registered and paid the Health Surveillance Fee?

If you're a vaccinated traveler over the age of six who already registered and paid the health surveillance fee of 5000XPF ($47 USD) but depart after March 28, you can get a refund of your fee. 

You can make your request for a refund by email at  [email protected]  . You can also mail your request to Service du Tourisme BP 4527- 98713 Papeete TAHITI French Polynesia.

You'll need to attach your receipt for the purchase and the flight information, You can find your receipt on the ETIS system under "manage my file" or use your receipt from your email.   

You might also like: The beautiful French Polynesian island you've never heard of Hawaii to end COVID-19 travel restrictions for US visitors When can I travel to New Zealand? Opening dates announced for 2022

This article was first published February 2022 and updated March 2022

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8 Reasons to Visit French Polynesia Now

• By Maxime Aubin
• September 21, 2018

1. A Mountainous and Wild Inland

Stemming from volcanic activity, the French Polynesian islands stun from their summits to the luxurious vegetation. For example, on Tahiti, the Orohena and Aorai mountains peak at 7,352 and 6,778 feet, respectively; it’s a landscape worthy of “Jurassic Park” which will please avid hikers. Even wilder than Tahiti, Moorea island (photo above) is accessible by ferry, only 30 minutes from Papeete .

2. Turquoise Lagoons

Surrounded by more than 5,790 square miles of coral reefs, Polynesia is home to numerous deep, clear water lagoons, a postcard world discoverable with a snorkel and a mask. The lagoon surrounding Moorea (photo above) is particularly worth seeing.

3. Direct low-cost flights from San Francisco to Tahiti from French Bee

White Air Tahiti Nui and Air France have served Tahiti up to now, French Bee is the first airline company to propose reduced price tickets to this destination. Based on a “smart cost” model, the little French company offers à la carte tickets between Paris, San Francisco, and Tahiti, from $330 to fly simply from San Francisco to Papeete, the capital of Tahiti.

4. Unique Marine Wildlife

Isolated from the rest of the world, the French Polynesia has few land animals. The marine life, however, is exceptional; among the observable species are sharks, manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and clown fish. Multiple companies offer one-day boat excursions in the lagoons, such as Albert-Transports in Moorea (decidedly our favorite island).

5. Striking Cultural Heritage

If Polynesian culture was muffled during colonization, the Polynesians are looking today to re-naturalize their customs. Among them, each year in July Tahiti organizes Heiva I Tahiti , a celebrated festival of song and dance gathering the best groups from the entire archipelago. It’s also possible to visit the Tahitian marae (photo above), an ancient space for prayer and celebration of the divinities.

6. Breathtaking Sunsets

Southern winter, which lasts from mid-April to mid-September, is the ideal period to visit Polynesia. The season is dry and sunny and the sun — which sets around 5:30 p.m. — offers a unique spectacle each day.

7. A Unique Culinary Abundance

With its tropical climate and exceptional level of sunlight, French Polynesia grows delicious produce. The archipelago grows notably bananas, noni (from which we extract juice), and uru (breadfruit). The Polynesians also eat fish, as tartar or grilled, such as red tuna, a true delicacy. Finally, Rangiroa island, located on the archipelago of Tuamotu, has a wine growing region where white and rosé wines are produced.

8. The Warm and Welcoming Polynesians

The Polynesian experience would be nothing without the smiles and kindness of the Polynesian people. A thousand miles from frenzy of the mainland, people here seem to take the time to life and appreciate every human interaction. As put by a young Tahitian waiter, “we live in a little bubble sheltered away from the world’s problems.” It’s certain idea of paradise — one to discover as soon as possible.

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