A first-timer’s guide to Tahiti & French Polynesia
Tahiti/French Polynesia is a dream destination that promises adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, it is home to pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a unique and vibrant local culture.
It’s favoured by honeymooners, but don’t let that put you off if you’re travelling solo or as a family…
From the world-class beaches, surf breaks and luxe resorts to fabulous snorkelling, diving, 4WDing and cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to love about French Polynesia.
And as Tahiti averages around 2,400 hours of sunshine each year, it’s hard not to strike it lucky with the weather!
This guide will introduce you to Tahiti, provide practical tips for your journey and will sort you out with essential travel insights.
Plan your visit to Tahiti/French Polynesia
Where is Tahiti?
Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia, a tropical island chain in the South Pacific ocean.
This group of islands in French Polynesia is sometimes referred to simply as ‘Tahiti’ or ‘the Islands of Tahiti’
The islands of French Polynesia are a semi-autonomous territory belonging to France.
They include:
- Ahe
- Austral Islands
- Marquesas
- Bora Bora
- Huahine
- Mo’orea
- Raiatea
- Taha’a
- Tahiti
- Tetiaroa
Unsurprisingly, the primary language of the islands is French, with many locals speaking Tahitian and English as well.
Papeʻetē is the capital city, and nearby the city of Fa’a’a hosts the airport – a common stopover point for long haul flights between the USA and New Zealand and Australia.
Here’s why you should consider stopping in Tahiti when you cross the Pacific…
What makes Tahiti and French Polynesia special?
Tahiti is a spectacular vacation destination with most islands boasting a shallow reef. These reefs create calm, sheltered bays that are ideal for snorkelling, diving, sunbathing, and relaxation.
If you’re passionate about scuba diving, the Tuamotu islands of Rangiroa and Fakarava are popular destinations for diving, especially with sharks, dolphins, manta rays and even whales.
Overwater bungalows are one of the most well known features of Tahiti’s upscale accommodation offering.
Most coastal resorts offer kayaks to rent for a small daily or hourly fee which is a great way to explore the reefs, no matter which island you’re on.
Plus, there are plenty of adventurous activities to Tahiti’s rainforest centre, filled with waterfalls and lush jungle.
The rich history and French culture make this a unique destination among South Pacific islands.
Tahiti is also known for its black and multi-coloured pearls, which are rare and oh-so-gorgeous.
We love that Tahiti combines the scenery and adventure of Hawaii with a European holiday vibe – without the need to hop on a plane to Europe!
Getting around French Polynesia
To get to most islands after landing on Tahiti, you’ll need to take either an Air Tahiti flight or an inter-island ferry.
The larger islands in French Polynesia, like Tahiti and Raiatea, have taxis and rental cars for you to take advantage of once there.
While the trips are usually short, taxis are quite expensive due to the island’s remote location in the pacific.
Tahiti also has a ring road that goes the entire way around the island’s beautiful coast. This is a great day’s activity, so plan to rent a vehicle or a motorbike for a day to self drive the island.
Driving is on the right hand side in Tahiti, the same as the USA and opposite to the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
Where to stay in Tahiti and French Polynesia
If your budget allows for it, staying in an overwater bungalow in Tahiti is the most popular choice, and for good reason!
These unique detached units are reached by boardwalk over the ocean and often feature high-end finishes for an unforgettable (and very private) experience.
Most come with direct ocean access and typical resort amenities, and some have private pools as well.
Overwater Bungalows in French Polynesia
- Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa (by IHG) – Tahiti
- Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts – Bora Bora
- Conrad Bora Bora Nui – Bora Bora
- The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Bora Bora
- Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort – Moʻorea
- Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea – Moʻorea (the most budget-friendly option)
- Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa – Moʻorea
- Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa – Rangiroa (another more budget-friendly accommodation)
Other recommended accommodations
If you can’t fit an overwater bungalow into your budget, try these other recommended resorts.
- Te Moana Tahiti Resort – Tahiti
- Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts – Tahiti
- Hotel Hibiscus – Moʻorea (most budget-friendly)
- Cook’s Bay Hotel & Suites – Moʻorea
- Hotel Maitai – Rangiroa
How long should you spend in French Polynesia?
How long you spend in French Polynesia will depend on your personal preferences, budget and the specific islands you want to visit.
However, our general recommendation is:
- 1 week: Ideal for a quick getaway, allowing you to visit an island or two (like Tahiti and Bora Bora). You’ll have time to enjoy some beach relaxation, snorkelling and a few cultural experiences.
- 10 to 14 days: More time will result in a more leisurely vacation (which is barely surprising). You can explore additional islands, such as Mo’orea, Huahine, and Taha’a, and enjoy various activities like diving, hiking and cultural tours.
- More than 2 weeks: Two weeks will let you explore French Polynesia in more depth, allowing you to relax, explore different islands and atolls, get involved in a number of activities and immerse yourself in the local culture. This will also give you enough time to visit a number of islands – or to take it really easy on just a few.
Ultimately, we suggest you consider what you want to see and do (and how long you can manage), and plan accordingly.
Islands of Tahiti
French Polynesia is made up of many different islands, but to keep things simple, we’ll focus on the three most popular options – Tahiti, Moʻorea and Bora Bora.
What to see and do on Tahiti
Once you’ve relaxed on the beach for a few days, we hope you’ll be up for some adventurous activities in Tahiti.
The main island of Tahiti is so much more than just its stunning beaches.
Rent a car for a day and drive the loop road that circles the island to see all the beaches and waterfalls. The interior of Tahiti is an extinct volcano, with opportunities to explore by jeep, helicopter, quad bike or on foot.
We recommend Ia Orana Tahiti Expeditions, who will take you to the centre of Tahiti and educate you on the cultural and culinary history of Polynesia and Tahiti.
If you’ve planned to enjoy one of the island’s many excursions, most will offer a hotel pickup. Definitely ask in advance if this is included to ensure you’re not surprised.
What to see and do on Moorea/Moʻorea
Moʻorea is an island close to the island of Tahiti.
Ferries make the 30 minute journey several times per day for approximately $40NZD round trip.
There’s so much to do and see on Moʻorea, not to mention the luxury resorts and amenities, that you’ll want to spend at least a few nights there.
Activities worth checking out include:
What to see and do on Bora Bora
The magnificent island of Bora Bora is the most famous island of Tahiti and French Polynesia.
Bora Bora is a small, 39m² extinct volcano, surrounded by motus (small islands) and sandbars.
It is truly paradise on Earth with unparalleled beauty.
Getting there takes an all-day ferry boat, called the Apetahi Express, or a more costly (but much quicker) 1 hour Air Tahiti flight.
Bora Bora is all about luxury resorts in the main hub of Vaitape, and disconnecting from the outside.
Snorkelling with rays and exploring the lagoons in a glass bottom boat are just a few of the excursions you’ll find there, along with scenic helicopter flights, catamaran cruises and kite surfing.
Tips for traveling to Tahiti
If you are traveling to Tahiti for your holidays, there are a few things you need to know.
The currency of the islands is French Pacific Francs (XPF or CFP). Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs once you land, though credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, resorts and restaurants.
The people of Tahiti are as welcoming and friendly as it gets, and street food is readily available outside of the delicious on-resort options.
When to visit The Islands of Tahiti
Located near the equator, Tahiti is warm and breezy all year.
The seasons are separated into the dry season (May to October), and rainy or monsoon season from November to April.
During the rainier summer months, especially January to March, you can expect short rainstorms in the afternoons, higher temperatures and more humidity.
The interior waterfalls will be at their peak during these months.
In the drier winter season, temperatures still average 23c/73f, making it a pleasant time for adventures on the islands.
Your French Polynesia packing list
Tahiti is generally hot – so dress accordingly.
Aside from a necessary rain jacket, all your clothing should be breathable and lightweight. Linens and cotton fabrics are best.
Pack your togs (swimsuit) too, because you’ll be spending a lot of time in the ocean!
Zinc or reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, polarised sunglasses and a beach bag round out the list of your packing must-haves.
Will I need a power adapter?
You might need power adapters to use your own electronics in Tahiti, so plan ahead and order some before you leave.
French Polynesia uses French type E power plugs and sockets, like the rest of Europe.
And there you have it, all the inspiration and initial information you need to get excited about a vacation to French Polynesia!
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Let’s make your trip to Tahiti unforgettable!
Guest post by Lucy Schultz, an elopement photographer who’s travelled many times to French Polynesia.
