· PF

French Polynesia

Escape to Paradise: Unveiling the Magic of French Polynesia Imagine stepping into a postcard, where turquoise lagoons shimmer beneath volcanic peaks, and vibrant coral reefs teem with life. This is French Polynesia, a So…

#Tropical#Islands#Beaches#Overwater Bungalows#Polynesian Culture

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into French Polynesia.

Top Hotels in Papeete

Top Flights to Papeete

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in French Polynesia.

Tours

Tahiti Island Tour

Experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Tahiti with a full-day guided tour of the island's top attractions.

Shopping

Papeete Market Exploration

Delve into the vibrant local life at Papeete Market, featuring local crafts, produce, and Polynesian delicacies.

Tahitian Pearl Shopping

Find exquisite Tahitian pearls and jewelry at boutique shops in Tahiti and Moorea.

Artisan Market Stroll

Wander through open-air artisan markets such as Maketi Papaoa, where you can purchase handmade crafts and local art.

Outdoor

Lagoon Discovery Tour

Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of French Polynesia's lagoons with a guided boat tour.

Bora Bora Lagoon Resort Afternoon

Relax by the stunning lagoons of Bora Bora at this exclusive resort, perfect for unwinding and engaging in water sports.

Moorea Dolphin Center Visit

Interact with dolphins in their natural habitat on the island of Moorea.

Faarumai Waterfalls Hike

Hike through lush paths to discover the breathtaking Faarumai Waterfalls, nestled deep within the tropical foliage.

Intercontinental Resort Swim

Spend a day enjoying the overwater bungalows and exclusive beaches of the Intercontinental Resort on Bora Bora.

Mount Tohivea Hiking Adventure

Ascend to the summit of Mount Tohivea for panoramic views of Moorea and its surrounding lagoon.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in French Polynesia.

Currency

₣ | XPF | CFP Franc

Population

Information not available.

Languages

French, French Polynesian

Average weather

French Polynesia

Jan

30°23°

Feb

30°23°

Mar

30°23°

Apr

30°23°

May

29°22°

Jun

28°21°

Jul

28°21°

Aug

28°21°

Sep

29°21°

Oct

29°22°

Nov

30°22°

Dec

30°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on French Polynesia.

What people love

French Polynesia is a beautiful destination with many pros for travelers. Here are some detailed benefits of traveling to French Polynesia:

Stunning Natural Beauty: French Polynesia is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, lush green mountains, and vibrant coral reefs. The picturesque scenery provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.
Overwater Bungalows: One of the highlights of visiting French Polynesia is the opportunity to stay in luxurious overwater bungalows. These unique accommodations offer direct access to the ocean, stunning views, and a sense of exclusivity and romance.
Diverse Marine Life: The islands of French Polynesia are home to diverse marine life, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. You can swim alongside colorful fish, rays, sharks, and even dolphins in the crystal-clear waters.
Rich Polynesian Culture: Immersing yourself in the local culture of French Polynesia can be a rewarding experience. From traditional dance performances to artisan markets selling handmade crafts, you can learn about the history and customs of the Polynesian people.
Delicious Cuisine: French Polynesian cuisine is a delightful blend of French, Polynesian, and other international influences. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and unique dishes like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk) offer a culinary adventure for food lovers.
Adventure Activities: Whether you enjoy hiking, surfing, sailing, or simply relaxing on the beach, French Polynesia offers a wide range of outdoor activities to suit every traveler's interests. You can explore hidden waterfalls, go on a boat tour, or take a scenic helicopter ride to witness the beauty of the islands from above.

Overall, traveling to French Polynesia offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking natural beauty, cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation.

Enjoy your trip to French Polynesia!

What to know

Traveling to French Polynesia, located in the South Pacific, does have some potential cons to consider:

Cost: French Polynesia is known to be an expensive travel destination. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be high. Flights to the islands can also be pricey.
Isolation: French Polynesia is quite remote, which means travel to and from the islands can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, medical facilities may be limited on some of the smaller islands.
Limited Infrastructure: While major islands like Tahiti have well-developed infrastructure, some of the more remote islands may lack modern amenities and services.
Language Barrier: French is the official language of French Polynesia, so travelers who do not speak French may face some communication challenges, especially in more rural areas.
Natural Disasters: French Polynesia is prone to natural disasters such as cyclones and tropical storms, particularly during certain times of the year. Travelers should be aware of this risk and plan accordingly.
Environmental Impact: Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, there may be concerns about the environmental impact of increased tourism on the delicate ecosystems of the islands.
Cultural Sensitivity: It's important for travelers to be respectful of the local culture and customs in French Polynesia, as indigenous traditions and values are highly valued.

Overall, while French Polynesia offers stunning natural beauty and a unique cultural experience, prospective travelers should be prepared for the potential challenges and considerations listed above.

French Polynesia is a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean that forms an overseas collectivity of France. The history of French Polynesia is rich and complex, with influences from Polynesian culture, European explorers, and colonial powers.

Significant events in the history of French Polynesia include:

Polynesian Settlement: The islands of French Polynesia were first settled by Polynesians around 200 AD. They developed a complex society with a strong emphasis on navigation, fishing, and agriculture.
European Exploration: The first European to visit the islands was the Spanish explorer Álvaro de Mendaña in 1595. Later, British explorer James Cook also visited the islands in the 18th century.
French Colonization: In the 19th century, France began to establish colonies in the South Pacific, including Tahiti and other islands that make up French Polynesia. These islands became an important outpost for French trade and military interests in the region.
Nuclear Testing: From 1966 to 1996, France conducted a series of nuclear tests in French Polynesia, causing significant environmental and health concerns among the local population. These tests were controversial and led to protests both locally and internationally.
Autonomy and Self-Government: In the late 20th century, French Polynesia gained increased autonomy and self-government within the French Republic. The islands now have their own government and president, although they remain part of France.
Tourism and Economy: French Polynesia has become a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and lush landscapes. Tourism is now a major driver of the economy in the region.

Historical figures associated with French Polynesia include Queen Pomare IV of Tahiti, who played a key role in the islands' history during the 19th century. Another notable figure is Pouvanaa a Oopa, a Tahitian politician who advocated for greater autonomy for French Polynesia.

Important landmarks in French Polynesia include:

Bora Bora: Known for its turquoise lagoon and luxury resorts, Bora Bora is one of the most famous islands in French Polynesia.
Tahiti: The largest island in French Polynesia, Tahiti is home to the capital city of Papeete and is a hub of culture and commerce in the region.
Marae: These ancient Polynesian temples are scattered throughout the islands and provide a glimpse into the traditional religious practices of the indigenous people.
Gauguin Museum: Located on Tahiti, this museum is dedicated to the life and work of French artist Paul Gauguin, who spent time in French Polynesia and was inspired by its beauty.

Overall, French Polynesia's history is a fascinating blend of indigenous Polynesian culture, European colonization, and modern development, making it a unique and diverse region in the South Pacific.