Things To Do
in French Polynesia
French Polynesia is a remote, sun-soaked paradise in the South Pacific famed for its turquoise lagoons and volcanic peaks. The archipelago comprises many islands, with Tahiti serving as the cultural and logistical hub and Bora Bora, Moorea, and Huahine offering postcard-perfect scenery. Visitors are welcomed with warm Polynesian hospitality, vibrant markets, and some of the world's most pristine snorkeling and overwater stays.
Across its lagoons, reefs, and white-sand beaches, the region blends luxury, wilderness, and a timeless sense of island magic.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Faa'a International Airport in Tahiti and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Papeete. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view of the beautiful harbor. Spend some time exploring the local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
Head to the black sand beaches of Matavai Bay to relax and take in stunning ocean views. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery before taking a guided tour to explore the lush botanical gardens. This afternoon is perfect for capturing the beauty of the island with your camera.
Dine at a seaside restaurant savoring traditional Polynesian cuisine. As the sun sets, catch a cultural performance featuring local music and dance. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the beach under the stars.
Catch the ferry to Moorea, known for its stunning landscapes and laid-back atmosphere. After checking into your accommodation, hike to Belvedere Lookout for panoramic views of the island. Take some time to explore the local villages and meet the friendly residents.
Enjoy a snorkeling excursion in the pristine lagoons, swimming alongside colorful fish and vibrant coral. Have a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by lush coconut trees and the sound of gentle waves. After lunch, consider renting a bicycle to explore the scenic coastal roads of Moorea.
Dine at a local restaurant built over the water, enjoying fresh seafood with vibrant flavors. Join a traditional Polynesian feast and dance presentation, immersing yourself in the local culture. Wrap up the evening with a moonlit walk along the soft sandy beaches.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $2-5 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $120-250 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $60-120 |
| 🧴Bottle of water 1.5L | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lagoons and pristine beaches
- Warm hospitality and rich Polynesian culture
- Great snorkeling, diving, and water activities
- Diverse island experiences from luxury to rustic
- High travel costs and long international flights
- Limited nightlife outside main towns
- Some remote areas have limited healthcare facilities
- "Ia ora na" - Hello
- "Mauruuru" - Thank you
- "Bonjour" - Hello (French)
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please (French)
- "Merci" - Thank you (French)
Places to Visit in French Polynesia
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over palm trees and boats with the market waking up in the background.
Powdery white sand, turquoise water, and silhouetted palm lines for classic lagoon photography.
Dramatic volcanic spires and expansive lagoons from elevated vantage points.
Iconic heavy surf and rugged coastline – best during dawn or late afternoon light for dramatic water textures.
Serene lake scenes framed by forested hills and gentle paths.
Food in French Polynesia
French Polynesia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Raw tuna marinated in lime juice and coconut milk with onions, peppers, and cucumber.
Must-Try!
Chicken slow-cooked with taro leaves and coconut milk.
Fresh reef fish prepared with coconut milk and local herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, local crafts, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Casual stalls near the harbor with daily catches and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Ia ora na' (Tahitian) or 'Bonjour' (French); dress modestly in villages and religious sites; swimwear is for the beach and pool areas.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in sacred sites; remove hats and be mindful at marae and churches.
Safety
Tipping in French Polynesia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; in restaurants and tour settings, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common.
Credit cards are widely accepted in towns and resorts; cash is advisable for remote areas and markets. ATMs are common in Papeete and major islands.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with high humidity and frequent tropical showers; seas are warm, making water activities ideal, but be mindful of occasional tropical storms and cyclones from December onward.
Pleasantly cooler and drier with refreshing trade winds; seas are generally calmer, excellent for hiking, island hopping, and outdoor explorations.
French Polynesia at Night
Hiking in French Polynesia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging ascent through native forest to sweeping island views; requires good fitness and weather checks.
Moderate hike with rewarding panoramas of lagoons and peaks; suitable for most hikers.
A scenic, relatively easy loop around Tahiti’s large lake with forested surroundings.
A rewarding ascent with viewpoints over Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.
Airports
How to reach French Polynesia by plane.
Main gateway to French Polynesia; international and domestic connections, with frequent inter-island flights.
Popular inter-island hub; transfers to resorts and lagoon experiences.
Inter-island flights and short transfers to Moorea; picturesque approach over the lagoon.
Gateway to the Leeward Islands; links to Tahiti and other atolls.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous communities with a strong sense of family, culture, and traditional crafts.
Long-term residents and visitors who contribute to a cosmopolitan feel and bilingual services.
Diverse residents and visitors who complement local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class breaks, especially Teahupo'o; suitable for experienced surfers.
Reef dives, drift dives, and manta ray encounters in lagoons and passes.
Calm lagoons and sheltered bays ideal for sailing and paddling.
Tranquil lagoon conditions make it a popular choice for all levels.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in markets and many restaurants; ask for vegetable curries, taro leaf dishes, or salads; French influence means cheese and dairy can be used in dishes if preferred.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting French Polynesia.