What’s The Best French Polynesia Travel Guide for Your Dream Trip?

Planning a trip to the breathtaking islands of French Polynesia? SIXT.VN is here to help you craft the perfect escape with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover hidden gems, popular attractions, and essential tips for an unforgettable adventure in this South Pacific paradise. Let SIXT.VN be your guide to experiencing the best of French Polynesia, from the iconic overwater bungalows of Bora Bora to the vibrant culture of Tahiti, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience. Explore the French Polynesian Islands with confidence, thanks to our expert advice.

1. How Do I Get To French Polynesia?

Flying into Papeete airport (PPT) on the main island of Tahiti is the first step to getting to French Polynesia from any international location. A direct flight from the US West Coast (SF/LA/Seattle) is only 7.5 hours.

• From the US: Direct flights are available from San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), and Seattle (SEA).
• From Europe: Connecting flights are usually through Los Angeles or other major US hubs.
• From Australia: Direct flights are available from Sydney (SYD).
• From Other Destinations: Connecting flights via major international hubs will be necessary.

Upon arrival in Tahiti, you may need to spend a few hours or overnight, depending on your onward travel plans. If you have some time to spare, check out SIXT.VN’s guide to spending 24 hours in Tahiti.

Air Tahiti Nui colorful cabin

2. How Do I Island Hop In French Polynesia?

To get to Moorea, take a 30-minute ferry ride from Tahiti via Aremiti or Terevau ferry. For other islands, take a domestic flight via Air Tahiti (not Air Tahiti Nui), the primary domestic carrier that covers an area as vast as Europe.

Air Tahiti serves 48 of the 118 islands, and some islands may require additional boat transfers. You can fly directly or via Papeete, depending on the Air Tahiti schedule, which is released every few months. Consider purchasing their multi-island passes for cost-effective island hopping. Concierges at hotels are happy to help with booking.
Air Moana is a newer domestic airline offering flights to many destinations across French Polynesia, providing competitive pricing, inflight entertainment, and assigned seating. Comparing both Air Tahiti and Air Moana is helpful to find the best option.

Island Hopping in French Polynesia

3. What Is The Best Time to Visit French Polynesia?

High season is from May to October, offering less rainfall and incredible weather, but it also means higher prices. Consider the shoulder months of April or November for potentially better weather and lower costs.

4. How Long Should I Spend In French Polynesia?

Spend a minimum of 3-4 days per island, or at least 5 days per island if you are only visiting one or two, to ensure a relaxed experience.

5. What Are Some Useful Things To Know Before Visiting French Polynesia?

Here are some useful things to know:

Letikehau lagoon view

6. Which French Polynesian Islands Should I Visit?

With 118 islands across 5 archipelagos, there’s something for everyone. First-timers should consider the most popular islands: Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Here’s a brief overview of the islands:

6.1. Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest and most populated island and the capital of French Polynesia. Most visitors spend a few hours or overnight before heading to other islands.

Where to Stay in Tahiti:

• Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts: Located on a beautiful black sand beach with spacious and updated rooms.
• Intercontinental Tahiti Resort and Spa: Conveniently located 10 minutes from the airport.

Things Not to Miss in Tahiti: Check out SIXT.VN’s guide for 24 hours in Tahiti.

French Polynesia capital Tahiti

6.2. Moorea

Moorea is known for its epic Jurassic Park-like vibes with voluminous mountain peaks rising from its translucent lagoon.

How to Get to Moorea:

Take a ferry from Tahiti via Aremiti ferries or Terevau ferries. Tickets cost around $11 per person per way. Renting a car is highly recommended to get around Moorea with Avis Tahiti and Europcar available near the ferry dock.

Where to Stay in Moorea:

• Tipaniers Iti: Charming bungalows on Opunohu Bay with access to the facilities at Les Tipaniers hotel.
• Les Tipaniers Hotel: Located on the best beach in Moorea.
• Sofitel Moorea or Hilton Moorea: For a luxury overwater bungalow experience.

Things Not to Miss in Moorea:

• Belvedere lookout: Iconic view of Moorea with Belvedere mountain, Cooks Bay, and Opunohu Bay.
• Swimming with whales: Available during whale season (August – October). Check out Corallina Tours or Moorea Moana Tours.

Moorea idyllic vacation or honeymoon destination

6.3. Bora Bora

Bora Bora is an epitome of a luxurious island escape, known for its stunning mountain views, crystal-clear lagoon, luxury overwater villas, and incredible marine life.

How to Get to Bora Bora:

A short 45-minute flight from Tahiti on Air Tahiti, which is one of the most scenic flights! Sitting on the left side of the plane offers the best view.

Where to Stay in Bora Bora:

• Four Seasons Bora Bora: Great for couples and families with five-star luxury and hospitality.
• Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa: Offers beautiful views of Mount Otemanu and amazing overwater villas.
• Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort: Newer, more updated, with a spacious deck and an overwater pool and hammock.
• Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts: Offers luxury and authentic Polynesian hospitality.
• St Regis Bora Bora: The only Forbes 5-star resort in Bora Bora.
• Royal Bora Bora (budget style option): Clean, basic, and close to Matira Beach.

Things Not to Miss in Bora Bora:

• Lagoon tour in Bora Bora (group option): Meet stingrays and sharks up close with Lagoon Service.
• Lagoon tour in Bora Bora (private option): Experience the lagoon Robinson Crusoe style with Toa Boat Bora Bora.
• 4×4 tour in Bora Bora main island: Explore the island and get an unforgettable 360-degree view of Bora Bora.
• Matira Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Bora Bora vacation gem

6.4. Tetiaroa

Tetiaroa features white sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, colorful birds, and a sparkling lagoon, it’s a dreamy paradise and a natural sanctuary for birds and marine life.

How to Get to Tetiaroa:

A short 20-minute domestic flight from Tahiti on Air Tetiaroa.

Where to Stay in Tetiaroa:

• The Brando: A unique luxury resort on French Polynesia’s breathtakingly beautiful private island.

Things Not to Miss in Tetiaroa:

• “Ultimate Lagoon Experience”: Explore the beautiful Tetiaroa lagoon, visit Bird Island, and the iconic Queen’s Bath.

Tetiaroa most beautiful lagoon

6.5. Taha’a

Taha’a has lush mountains and valleys, turquoise lagoons, and virgin motu islets, and it’s also known as the “Vanilla Island.”

How to Get to Taha’a:

Fly into Raiatea airport and take a boat shuttle over to Taha’a.

Where to Stay in Taha’a:

• Le Taha’a Island Resort: Set on beautiful Motu Tautau with views of Taha’a and Bora Bora.

Things Not to Miss in Taha’a:

• An island tour: Check out its vanilla farms, a pearl farm, and a local rum distillery.
• A lagoon tour: Snorkel with black tip sharks.

Taha’a mountain vacation

6.6. Tikehau

Tikehau features white and pink sand islets, fringed with coconut trees, shaping a 177 square-mile lagoon.

How to Get to Tikehau:

Fly into Tikehau airport and take a boat shuttle to your accommodation.

Where to Stay in Tikehau:

• Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts: Located in an unspoiled natural setting of a private coral islet called Motu Tiano.

Things Not to Miss in Tikehau:

• A lagoon tour: Explore the lagoon and snorkel, visiting Puarua (bird island of Tikehau), and eating a local lunch in a fisherman’s village.

Tikehau one of the most beautiful island

6.7. Rangiroa

Rangiroa is the second largest atoll in the world, known as one of the world’s most immense natural aquariums.

How to Get to Rangiroa:

Air Tahiti has direct flights from Papeete and Bora Bora.

Where to Stay in Rangiroa:

• Hotel Kia Ora resort and spa: Located on a beautiful lagoon within a palm tree grove.

Things Not to Miss in Rangiroa:

• An excursion to Reef Island and Blue Lagoon with Orava Excursions.

Rangiroa French Polynesia's vast lagoon

6.8. Fakarava

Fakarava is a UNESCO Biosphere reserve, known for its rare flora and fauna.

How to Get to Fakarava:

Air Tahiti has direct flights from Papeete and Rangiroa.

Where to Stay in Fakarava:

• Havaiki Lodge: Located in north Fakarava with beach bungalows and garden rooms.

Things Not to Miss in Fakarava:

• Green Lagoon Tour: Visit Motu Teahatea, a natural swimming pool of crystal-clear waters.
• PK-9 beach: A wild Tuamotu beach with white coral sand and turquoise waters.
• Try the Pearl Lottery at Havaiki’s Pearl Farm: Learn about pearl harvesting and try your luck at finding your own pearl.

Fakarava unique natural reserve

6.9. Nuku Hiva

Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands, is known for its rugged terrain, archaeological sites, and rich history.

How to Get to Nuku Hiva:

Air Moana and Air Tahiti have direct flights from Papeete.

Where to Stay in Nuku Hiva:

• Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts: Located cliffside facing the stunning Taiohae bay.

Things Not to Miss in Nuku Hiva:

• Taiohae: Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, Tohua Temehea, and Tohua Koueva.
• Roadtrip around the island: Enjoy views from Aakapa bay.
• Hatiheu Bay: Visit this dark sand beach framed with mountains.
• Go Hiking or Horseback riding: Explore the rugged terrain.

Nuku Hiva's dramatic landscape

7. What Additional Resources Can Help Me Plan My Trip To French Polynesia?

For more detailed information, check out these quick links:

• Travel guide to Tahiti
• Travel guide to Moorea
• Travel guide to Bora Bora
• Travel guide to Tetiaroa
• Travel guide to Taha’a
• Travel guide to Tikehau
• Travel guide to Rangiroa
• Travel guide to Fakarava
• Travel guide to Nuku Hiva
• Tahiti Tourism’s website

FP travel guide

8. French Polynesia FAQs

8.1. What is French Polynesia famous for?
French Polynesia is famous for its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and overwater bungalows, according to Tahiti Tourisme’s official website.

8.2. Do I need a visa to visit French Polynesia?
U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for tourism stays of up to 90 days. Other nationalities can use this guide to check visa requirements.

8.3. What is the best way to get around French Polynesia?
Island hopping via Air Tahiti or Air Moana domestic flights is the primary method. Ferries are convenient for travel between Tahiti and Moorea.

8.4. What currency is used in French Polynesia?
The French Pacific Franc (CFP) is the local currency, though USD is widely accepted in tourist areas.

8.5. What are the must-try foods in French Polynesia?
Poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice), banana poi, and fresh tropical fruits are must-try foods, as noted by culinary travel guides.

8.6. What is the best time of year to visit French Polynesia?
The high season, from May to October, is the best time to visit due to less rainfall and great weather.

8.7. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?
Greetings are essential: “Ia Ora Na” (hello) and “Mauruuru” (thank you) are appreciated. Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites.

8.8. What activities are available in French Polynesia?
Snorkeling, diving, lagoon tours, hiking, and exploring cultural sites are popular activities, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

8.9. Is it safe to drink tap water in French Polynesia?
Tap water is generally safe to drink in Papeete and Bora Bora, but it’s best to inquire locally on other islands.

8.10. Are credit cards widely accepted in French Polynesia?
Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, except at local markets. Having some local CFP currency is helpful for small purchases.

9. Ready to Explore French Polynesia with SIXT.VN?

Don’t let the complexities of planning your dream vacation overwhelm you. At SIXT.VN, we understand the challenges travelers face when venturing to new destinations. That’s why we offer a range of services designed to make your trip to French Polynesia seamless and unforgettable.

• Customized Itineraries: We create personalized travel plans tailored to your interests and schedule.
• Airport Transfers: Enjoy stress-free transportation from the airport to your hotel.
• Hotel Booking: Access a wide selection of accommodations to fit your budget and preferences.
• Activity and Tour Booking: Discover the best experiences French Polynesia has to offer with our expert recommendations and booking services.
• Flight Booking: Find the best deals on flights to and within French Polynesia.

Contact SIXT.VN today to start planning your dream French Polynesia adventure! Let us take care of the details so you can focus on creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

Enjoy your trip! xo
Jyo