Oceania
French Polynesia
Bora Bora's lagoons, Moorea's peaks and remote atolls for diving and slow island time. Safe and relaxed, but among the world's priciest destinations; inter-island flights are costly and English is limited away from resorts.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- CurrencyXPFUS$1 ≈ F106.06Details
- English2/5LimitedDetails
- PlugsType E, A, B220 V, 60 HzDetails
- Emergency17Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18
- Tap waterFilter or boilTap water in Tahiti is usually safe to drink; on other islands drink boiled, filtered or bottled water.Details
- LGBTQ+Marriage equalityFrench law applies, and māhū (third-gender) people are a visible, traditional part of society.Details
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences are valid for a year after arrival; carry an IDP too, as many rental firms require one.
Where to go in French Polynesia
4 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
When to visit French Polynesia
May–October is the cooler, drier season and peak time (busiest July–August). November–April is hot, humid and wetter, with occasional cyclones and lower prices.
Good to know
Entry
- Part of France but outside Schengen: a Schengen visa doesn't automatically cover it; check France-Visas.
- Officers may ask for a return or onward ticket, accommodation details, enough money and travel insurance.
- Flights via Los Angeles or Honolulu need an ESTA or US visa, even when only transiting.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Carry photo ID at all times; it's required by law
- Drug possession, even small amounts, brings fines or prison
- Marae (sacred sites) and shore land beyond public beaches may need permission
Etiquette
- Greet with 'Ia ora na' or 'bonjour' on entering shops
- Remove shoes before entering homes
- Cover up away from the beach, especially in villages and churches
- Ask before entering marae or crossing private shore land
Tipping
Not traditional or expected; prices include service. A small tip for exceptional service is accepted.
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: French Polynesia
- Smartraveller: French Polynesia
- Tahiti Tourisme
- France-Visas
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.