• Bora Bora Lagoon: Known for its stunning blue waters and iconic Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora’s lagoon is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and scenic boat tours.
• Mount Otemanu: The tallest peak in Bora Bora, this extinct volcano offers incredible hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding lagoon.
• Matira Beach: A popular beach on Bora Bora with soft white sands, turquoise waters, and gentle waves, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Fautaua Waterfall: Located in Tahiti, this 300-meter waterfall offers scenic trails and lush landscapes, making it a beautiful hiking destination.
• Lagoonarium of Moorea: A marine park where visitors can snorkel with stingrays, reef sharks, and tropical fish in a protected lagoon setting.
• Rangiroa Atoll: The largest atoll in French Polynesia and one of the best diving spots in the world, known for its colorful coral reefs and rich marine life.
• Marae Taputapuatea: A UNESCO World Heritage Site on Raiatea, this ancient Polynesian temple complex is considered sacred and is a significant cultural landmark.
• Tetiaroa Atoll: Once Marlon Brando’s private island, Tetiaroa is a pristine atoll offering luxurious eco-resorts and rich marine biodiversity.
• Tahiti’s Black Sand Beaches: Found along Tahiti’s eastern coast, these volcanic sand beaches are striking and perfect for beachcombing and photography.
• Humpback Whale-Watching: Available seasonally, whale-watching tours around Moorea and Tahiti offer unforgettable encounters with humpback whales during their migration.

• Heiva i Tahiti: Celebrated in July, this cultural festival features traditional Polynesian dancing, music, and sporting events, showcasing local customs and creativity.
• Tattoo Festival in Tahiti: A celebration of traditional Polynesian tattooing held annually, attracting tattoo artists and enthusiasts from across the region.
• Hawaiki Nui Va’a: An international canoe race held each November, with outrigger canoes paddling between Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora.
• Tiurai Festival: Held around Bastille Day (July 14), this event combines French and Polynesian celebrations with parades, dancing, and fireworks.
• Chinese New Year: Celebrated in January, Chinese New Year in Tahiti includes parades, dragon dances, and cultural events celebrating the Chinese community’s heritage.

• Birthplace of the Overwater Bungalow: The first overwater bungalows in the world were built on Moorea in the 1960s, setting a luxury trend that spread globally.
• Home to Rare Black Pearls: French Polynesia is famous for its unique black pearls, farmed mostly in the Tuamotu Archipelago, and valued worldwide.
• Languages with Rich Culture: Tahitian culture is passed down orally through music, dance, and stories, maintaining its cultural richness.
• Sharks Are Protected: French Polynesia was the first country to establish a shark sanctuary, banning shark fishing across its waters.
• Islands with No Reptiles: Due to their isolation, the islands are free from dangerous reptiles, making them unique compared to other tropical regions.
• Inspired Paul Gauguin: The famous French artist found inspiration in Tahiti, capturing its landscapes and people in vibrant paintings.
• Matavai Bay’s Historical Significance: Matavai Bay in Tahiti is where early European explorers like Captain Cook and the Bounty arrived in the 18th century.
• A Paradise of Atolls: Rangiroa and Tetiaroa are famous atolls, where lagoons form scenic natural pools perfect for diving and marine life exploration.
• Cultural Meaning of Tattoos: In Polynesian culture, tattoos carry deep meanings, often representing one’s ancestry, achievements, and personal beliefs.
• Largest Coral Atoll in the World: Rangiroa is the world’s second-largest atoll, famous for its circular lagoon and thriving underwater ecosystem.

What are the French Polynesia Islands known for?
French Polynesia is renowned for its turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, coral reefs, and unique volcanic landscapes. Known for luxury resorts, iconic islands like Bora Bora, and rich Polynesian culture, it’s a premier destination for honeymooners, divers, and those seeking paradise-like tropical experiences. French Polynesia also offers rich cultural history with ancient temples, local festivals, and traditional arts.

Are the French Polynesia Islands family-friendly?
Yes, French Polynesia is family-friendly, offering safe beaches, clear waters, and family-friendly resorts, especially in Moorea and Tahiti. Many resorts have activities for kids, including snorkeling, nature walks, and lagoon excursions. Cultural activities, like visiting a marae or local dance performances, provide educational and enjoyable experiences for families.

Are the French Polynesia Islands safe for tourists?
The islands are very safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Nature and eco-friendly tourism are highly prioritized, so travelers are encouraged to follow environmental guidelines and respect local customs. Beach safety is well-maintained at resorts, though it’s best to stay cautious of strong currents, especially when swimming outside designated areas.

Do you need a visa to visit French Polynesia?
French Polynesia is part of French territory, so travelers from the EU, U.S., Canada, and other visa-exempt countries can stay up to 90 days without a visa. A passport is required for entry, and flights arrive from several international hubs, including Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Paris, into Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti.

What is the best way to get to French Polynesia?
Flying into Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti is the primary way to reach French Polynesia, with direct flights from major cities like Los Angeles, Paris, and Tokyo. Once in Tahiti, travelers can use ferries, flights, or small boats to reach other islands, making island-hopping easy and accessible through local transport options.

Should I rent a car in French Polynesia?
Renting a car is recommended on larger islands like Tahiti and Moorea to explore remote beaches, viewpoints, and attractions. Car rentals are available in Papeete and near ferry terminals. On smaller islands like Bora Bora, renting a bike or taking guided tours is more convenient for navigating the island’s limited roads.

Are the French Polynesia Islands wheelchair accessible?
Many resorts on Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea offer accessible facilities for wheelchair users, including ramps and adapted rooms. Some activities and islands may have limited accessibility due to natural terrain, but major hotels and tour operators cater to travelers with mobility needs. Checking ahead with accommodations ensures a more comfortable experience.

What are French Polynesia’s most famous landmarks?
Famous landmarks include Mount Otemanu on Bora Bora, Fautaua Waterfall in Tahiti, Marae Taputapuatea on Raiatea, and Matira Beach. Each landmark provides unique views of the islands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage, from volcanic mountains to ancient temples and picturesque beaches, creating a diverse experience for travelers.

What are the best beaches in French Polynesia?
The best beaches include Matira Beach on Bora Bora for its white sands and calm waters, Temae Beach on Moorea for snorkeling, and Papeno’o Black Sand Beach on Tahiti’s east coast. These beaches provide diverse settings, from iconic white sands to volcanic black shores, each offering unique beauty and marine life.

What is unique about French Polynesia’s wildlife?
French Polynesia’s waters are teeming with marine life, including reef sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales, while its islands are home to rare birds and colorful reef fish. The islands’ isolation has resulted in unique species, including the Tahitian vanilla plant and black-tip reef sharks, making it an ecologically diverse destination.

What traditional foods should you try in French Polynesia?
Traditional foods include poisson cru (raw fish with coconut and lime), mahi mahi grilled fish, and fafa (taro leaves cooked with coconut milk). Fresh seafood, tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas, and local dishes reflect Polynesian and French influences. Tahitian vanilla and local-grown coconut are also delicious treats to sample.

Can you drink tap water in French Polynesia?
Tap water is safe to drink on Tahiti and Moorea, but bottled water is recommended on other islands. Hotels and resorts often provide filtered water. Using a reusable water bottle helps minimize waste, aligning with the islands’ eco-friendly approach to tourism.

What is the nightlife like in French Polynesia?
Nightlife in French Polynesia is laid-back, with beach bars, resort lounges, and sunset dinners, especially in Papeete, Bora Bora, and Moorea. Local music and dance shows, such as traditional Polynesian performances, provide cultural evening entertainment. While it’s not known for a vibrant club scene, the islands offer relaxing, scenic nightlife experiences.

How can I stay connected to the internet in French Polynesia?
Most resorts, hotels, and cafes in French Polynesia offer Wi-Fi, though connections may be limited on remote islands. Local SIM cards from providers like Vini and Vodafone provide reliable mobile data for travelers. While internet speeds may be slower, connectivity is generally good in Papeete and popular tourist areas.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from French Polynesia?
Popular souvenirs include black pearls, Tahitian vanilla, handmade pareos (sarongs), and wooden carvings. Local markets, like Papeete’s Marché, offer handcrafted items, jewelry, and perfumes made with local flowers and oils. These unique gifts showcase the islands’ cultural and natural beauty.

1. Ia Orana – Hello
2. Mauruuru – Thank you
3. Māuruuru roa – Thank you very much
4. Nana – Goodbye
5. Fa’a’apu – Garden
6. Pareo – Wraparound cloth or sarong
7. Marae – Ancient temple or sacred site
8. Oviri – Savage, referring to the wild
9. Fenua – Land or country
10. Hinano – Beer brewed in Tahiti
11. Poisson Cru – Raw fish dish
12. Heiva – Celebration or festival
13. Roa – Big or great
14. Motu – Small island or islet
15. Vini – Bird
16. Mana – Spiritual power or energy
17. Tiare – Flower, especially the Tahitian gardenia
18. Miti – Sea
19. Ua Hiti – Sunset
20. Tatau – Tattoo

• Paul Gauguin: The renowned French post-impressionist painter lived in Tahiti and created vibrant works inspired by the islands’ landscapes and culture.
• Marlon Brando: The iconic actor bought Tetiaroa, a private atoll, after filming Mutiny on the Bounty in the 1960s and helped establish it as an eco-resort.
• Queen Pomare IV: A revered queen of Tahiti who ruled in the 19th century, Pomare IV played a significant role in the region’s resistance to French colonialism.
• Captain James Cook: The British explorer mapped much of French Polynesia, arriving at Matavai Bay in Tahiti and paving the way for Western interest.
• Jacques Brel: The Belgian singer-songwriter spent his last years on Hiva Oa in the Marquesas, where he found peace and inspiration.
• Henri Hiro: A Tahitian filmmaker and activist who advocated for Polynesian rights and the preservation of indigenous culture in French Polynesia.
• Gaston Flosse: A former president of French Polynesia, Flosse was influential in shaping the region’s economic and political landscape.
• Katherine Routledge: An early 20th-century archaeologist who conducted research in the Marquesas Islands, studying Polynesian culture and history.
• Gauguin’s Daughter Aline: Aline was Paul Gauguin’s daughter, and her presence on the islands influenced many of his famous works.
• Moana Jackson: A Tahitian surfer and environmental advocate who has raised awareness for ocean conservation across French Polynesia.