French Polynesia Travel Guide
Discover Why You Should Visit French Polynesia
Why Visit French Polynesia?
French Polynesia is a tropical paradise made up of 118 islands, offering crystal-clear lagoons, lush mountains, and vibrant Polynesian culture. From romantic overwater bungalows in Bora Bora to untamed adventures in the Marquesas, it’s ideal for honeymooners, nature lovers, and cultural travelers.
Ideal for: Honeymooners, divers, luxury travelers, and island explorers.
Must-Know Facts
Capital/Major City: Papeete (on the island of Tahiti)
Language(s): French and Tahitian
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)
Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season)
Fun Fact: The islands cover an ocean area the size of Europe, with five distinct archipelagos including the Society Islands and the Marquesas
Top Things to Do
Snorkel or dive in Bora Bora’s coral gardens
Climb Mount Otemanu for panoramic views
Visit the black sand beaches of Tahiti
Explore ancient temples (marae) and learn about Polynesian navigation
Enjoy a traditional dance performance and feast at a local luau
Local Culture & Lifestyle
French Polynesian life combines relaxed island rhythms with deep cultural pride. Family, tradition, music, and respect for nature are central values. Visitors are welcomed with floral leis, and the spirit of ‘mana’ infuses every aspect of life.
Food & Drink Highlights
Street Food: Poisson cru, grilled mahi-mahi, coconut bread
Restaurants: French-Polynesian fusion cuisine, seafood platters
Drinks: Hinano beer, coconut water, tropical cocktails
Desserts: Banana poe, fresh fruit tarts, Tahitian vanilla custards
Main Dish & Culinary Symbols
Signature Dish: Poisson cru — raw tuna marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, mixed with vegetables
Common Ingredients: Coconut, vanilla, fresh fish, taro, breadfruit
Culinary Culture: Meals often include earth-oven cooking (ahima’a), and food is a key part of family gatherings
Symbols & Icons of the Area
Natural Icons: Overwater bungalows, lagoons, volcanic peaks
Cultural Icons: Tattoo art, outrigger canoes, flower crowns
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
Taha’a — known as the Vanilla Island for its plantations
Rangiroa — one of the world’s best diving destinations
Huahine — tranquil island with strong traditional roots
The Marquesas — remote and rugged islands with dramatic cliffs and sacred sites
Shopping & Souvenirs
What to Buy: Tahitian black pearls, vanilla beans, tifaifai quilts, handcrafted jewelry
Where to Shop: Papeete Market, island boutiques, artisan cooperatives
Getting Around
Public Transport: Le Trucks (colorful buses) in Tahiti
Boats: Inter-island ferries and water taxis
Flights: Air Tahiti offers frequent flights between major islands
Bicycles and scooters are common on smaller islands
Travel Tips
Book inter-island flights early due to limited capacity
Respect local customs and ask before photographing people
Dress modestly in villages, especially near religious sites
Tahitian hospitality is generous — learning a few local words goes a long way
Where to Stay
Budget: Guesthouses and family-run pensions
Mid-range: Lagoon-facing bungalows
Luxury: Overwater villas in Bora Bora and Moorea
Unique: Eco-resorts on remote atolls and beach lodges
Sample 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Tahiti, explore Papeete market and relax on the beach
Day 2: Fly to Bora Bora, enjoy lagoon tour and sunset cruise
Day 3: Snorkel in coral gardens, relax at an overwater bungalow
Day 4: Return to Tahiti, visit the Museum of Tahiti and enjoy a Polynesian dinner show
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