Introduction

It’s hard to talk about French Polynesia without resorting to clichés. Touted as paradise on earth since the first Europeans set foot on Tahiti in the 18th century, the fact is, the 118 islands and atolls that make up this remote South Pacific country really are stunningly beautiful and do just about fulfil every expectation you could have of a tropical island getaway.

Travel to French Polynesia is often associated with jet-setting and it’s true that few luxury holidays can beat somewhere like Bora Bora with its swanky hotels, fantastic beaches and laid back charms. But in this vast chain it’s still equally easy to find somewhere a little more low-key, and it’s quite easy to get off the beaten track.

Beautiful as the beaches are, life away from coastal strips on many of the islands is fascinating, and all too easily missed out on a holiday. Visitors who take the opportunity to trek through some of the more mountainous landscapes of the volcanic islands or simply spend some time chatting to the locals, shopping in the local markets and sampling the unique Polynesian food will get a lot more out of a trip here than a suntan.

The top 3 islands to visit will be the classic ones:

Papeete (Tahiti): French Polynesia’s capital, Papeete, on the island of Tahiti, is a vibrant little city, and a fun place to spend a few days. Many people head straight for the central market (open: daily 05h00-17h00), to root through the colourful assortment of Tahitian crafts, food and flowers. The waterfront is also a pleasant place for a stroll and there are a few attractive churches dotted around. 

Best of all, though, is the town’s nightlife. There are several clubs along the waterfront on the northern side of town that are hopping on the weekends and far from empty on weekdays. Music and dance styles range from modern techno to local Tahitian while the bars stay open until the early hours of the morning – usually around 04h00. For the more out-of-the-ordinary, the Piano Bar features a cabaret put on by mahu (transvestites).

Moorea: Moorea, meaning “yellow lizard” in Tahitian, fits the traditional image of a South Seas island perfectly. Its high, craggy mountains jut out of the Pacific with an impossible looking geometry. Below, the turquoise lagoon is rimmed with pristine white sand. Despite the number of tourists that visit Moorea each year, the island absorbs the traffic so well that it remains tranquil and distinctly Polynesian. 

A quick hop from Tahiti (45 minutes by ferry or seven minutes flying), Moorea is inexpensive to get to and has accommodation to fit every budget. The tourist infrastructure is well developed so if you tire of lounging on the beach, there are plenty of activities ranging from snorkelling and dolphin watching to hiking in the mountains and exploring archaeological sites.

Bora Bora: If you are looking to experience a tropical island paradise in complete luxury, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a better place for it than Bora Bora, particularly for honeymooners. This is the premier island in French Polynesia for lounging on the beach while sipping a Mai Tai.

Most resorts are located on the island’s “motus,” small islets on the reef that fringes it, and are very self-contained. You’ll find the usual island activities here such as diving, snorkelling, outrigger tours and jeep safaris, but also some more unusual ones such as a submarine trip or jet skiing.

Weather

French Polynesia enjoys a typically tropical climate with warm weather year-round. Temperatures peak during the humid summer of November to April, but this coincides with the wettest period of the year. From May to October temperatures are lower but there is far less rain.

French Polynesia is broadly, therefore, a year-round destination. This said, if you do visit during the wet season, rain tends to fall in brief showers, which gives way to glorious sunshine, meaning there is little likelihood of the rain affecting your holiday.

Average Weather Guide:

Temperature in Degrees Centigrade

Rainfall in Millimetres

The tables above are intended as guidelines only.