French Polynesia FAQ's

• What is French Polynesia known for? ›

  The sultry paradise of the French Polynesia archipelagos is the original home of the breathtaking overwater bungalow accommodations. Internationally known for diving with Rangiroa and Fakarava in the Tuamotu Islands being the most famous spots. French Polynesia stuns visitors with sparkling turquoise lagoons, awe-inspiring palm-lined beaches covered in white, black, and pink sands. Matira Beach is a luxurious laid back destination, Temae on Mo`orea is a stunning stretch of white sands lapped by tropical turquoise waters. The laid back Tahitian lifestyle, expressive culture, and warm welcomings can be absorbed all over the islands in traditional music, dance, and food. There are many ways to pamper yourself in French Polynesia whether it be lounging in tranquil lagoons and pools with tropical drinks in hand or soothing tired muscles at relaxing spas. The Brando on Tetiaroa atoll boasts some of the highest levels of luxury along with the stunning St Regis Resort Bora Bora with their blissful overwater bungalows.
  
  Diving and snorkeling in the tranquil turquoise waters can be enjoyed all around the archipelago with world-class dive sites filled with a variety of marine life including turtles, sharks, dolphins, rays and fish swimming over vibrant coral reefs. There are many famed sites in French Polynesia including Manta Point and Tiputa pass. Visit Marae Taputapuatea, Ra`iatea is one of the most important historic Polynesian places of worship in the entire world and the spectacular ruins of Opunohu Valley in the middle of the dense jungle. The luscious landscapes are the perfect destination for outdoor activities like hiking and walking through verdant green forests and up the limestone cliffs. Te Pari and Fenua Aihere is a trail of stunning waterfalls along the coast of Tahiti where caves can be explored and breathtaking viewpoints. Enjoy the country`s biggest festival, Heiva filled with traditional songs and sport.

• What are the best places to visit in French Polynesia? ›

  Bora Bora Island is filled with tranquil turquoise waters in beautiful lagoons and sharp soaring verdant peaks. A bucket list destination for many, it's like stepping into paradise and the luxury that exists in Bora Bora is like no other. A unique blend of interesting heritage, wonderful experiences and unforgettable landscapes makes it the place dreams are made.Moorea Island is a tiny heart shaped volcanic island and a tropical paradise referred to as `little sister` of nearby Tahiti. Stunning lush tropical landscapes, dramatic mountain peaks, palm fringed bays, turquoise lagoons and fragrant pineapple plantations. One of the most visually striking islands of the French Polynesia. Tahiti Tahiti is the largest of the Polynesian Islands, a tropical wonderland known as the `Queen of the Pacific` with the most beautiful crystal blue lagoons perfect for snorkeling. Mountains landscapes, mystical valleys, beautiful streams and cascading waterfalls are some of the iconic attractions to explore.

• When is the best time to visit French Polynesia? ›

  French Polynesia is a year-round destination with a balmy tropical climate. The most pleasant time being May through October during `austral winter` or dry season. The daily average temperatures at this time of year are a comfortable 82 degrees and lows dropping to around 68 in the late evenings and early mornings. The humidity averages around 77-80% with tropical afternoon showers being common at any time of year. July is the busiest month of the year with many festivals taking place including the Heiva Nui festival, hotels at this time can be expensive and sold out. August is the traditional French vacation month, many Papeete residents travel off to the outer islands during this time. It is recommended to book well in advance if you are looking to stay on the main or outer islands during July and August.
  
  The wet season or `austral summer` is from November to April with daily average temperatures of 86 degrees and lows around 72 with heavy downpours in the afternoon and days full of intense sunshine and humidity. The eastern side of the islands is where the moist trade winds blow in from the east with mountainous higher altitude areas staying wet all year round, while the western side is dryer.

• How many days should I spend in French Polynesia? ›

  We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.

• What is the best way to get around French Polynesia? ›

  By Boat: The main way to reach many of the islands in French Polynesia includes fast ferry services to Moorea, Bora Bora, and slower cargo-style boats that travel to the Society Islands.
  
  By Air: Traveling around the archipelago is possible by air with local domestic carriers covering 47 islands. Some of the flights can be as quick as 15 minutes (Moorea) and around an hour or more to reach Bora Bora and Rangiroa. The French Polynesia islands are well serviced by domestic air providing quick and comfortable.

• What is the currency of French Polynesia? ›

  The unit of currency in French Polynesia is the Comptoirs Français du Pacific, or French Pacific franc (CFP). US dollars are widely accepted as cash on the islands. ATMs can be found in the main towns on the main islands and are sometimes referred to as `cash machines` or `cashpoints`.

• Do people speak English in French Polynesia? ›

  The official language spoken in French Polynesia is Tahitian, however, English is widely spoken by people working in the service and tourism industries. We recommend you get a good English-Tahitian guidebook and familiarize yourself with a few common phrases, such as hello, goodbye, please and thank you, excuse me and numbers 1-10.

• What are the best vacation packages to French Polynesia?›

  Tahiti and Auckland by Air (7 nights)

  French Polynesia Vacations, customize multi-city vacations to French Polynesia, flexible trips to French Polynesia. Review past French Polynesia itineraries, book French Polynesia vacation packages online. Travel to French Polynesia your way

  Includes: 3 nights in Tahiti, Flight Tahiti - Auckland, 4 nights in Auckland

• What are the best deals to travel to French Polynesia?›

  Tahiti - Auckland - Sydney by Air (6 nights)

  Superb destinations in French Polynesia, New Zealand and Australia!. Start your adventure in Tahiti (immersed in a world of majestic mountain peaks, turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, visitors to our islands create memories through authentic experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world). Then, visit Auckland (New Zealand`s biggest city, and water lover`s paradise, with some of the best beaches in the country; ideal for swimming, diving, fishing, sailing, and windsurfing). Lastly comes Sydney (the oldest and most sophisticated city in Australia featuring two of the most iconic structures on the planet, The Sydney Opera House and The Sydney Harbor Bridge).

  Includes: 3 nights in Tahiti, Flight Tahiti - Auckland, 4 nights in Auckland

  
  

  Tahiti - Moorea - Bora Bora by Air (9 nights)

  Heavenly charm!!!.... Arrive in Tahiti and be part of all the energy and vitality this place radiates. While exploring its streets and grabbing a bite at a food truck or just relaxing during the sunset. Then, fly to Moorea, or better known as 'The Magical Island' and land in this piece of paradise surrounded by with sand beaches and dream-like scenery. Last but not least is Bora Bora, undoubtedly the most celebrated island in the South Pacific due to its unrivaled beauty and unwavering fame.

  Includes: 3 nights in Tahiti, Flight Tahiti - Auckland, 4 nights in Auckland

  
  

  Tahiti and Sydney by Air (6 nights)

  Dreamy vacations in French Polynesia and Australia!. Start your adventure in Tahiti (immersed in a world of majestic mountain peaks, turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, visitors to our islands create memories through authentic experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world), and after that, catch a flight to Sydney (the oldest and most sophisticated city in Australia featuring two of the most iconic structures on the planet, The Sydney Opera House and The Sydney Harbor Bridge).

  Includes: 3 nights in Tahiti, Flight Tahiti - Auckland, 4 nights in Auckland

  
  

  Sydney - Auckland - Tahiti by Air (6 nights)

  Unforgettable vacation experience in Australia, New Zealand and French Polynesia!. Begin this incredible experience in Sydney; the oldest and most sophisticated city in Australia featuring two of the most iconic structures on the planet, The Sydney Opera House and The Sydney Harbor Bridge. Then, escape to Auckland, one of the world's most livable and beautiful cities. Auckland boasts a sunny, warm and temperate climate, great beaches, a beautiful harbor, fantastic shopping, a vibrant nightlife. Lastly is Tahiti, largest and most famous of the 115 islands that comprise French Polynesia. Immersed in a world of majestic mountain peaks, turquoise waters, black sand beaches meeting the clear waters of the South Pacific, and the coral reefs that surround it.

  Includes: 3 nights in Tahiti, Flight Tahiti - Auckland, 4 nights in Auckland

  
  
• Can I combine a vacation package for French Polynesia with other countries?›

  Yes, you can combine with: New Zealand | Australia