Overseas collectivity of France, South Pacific
French Polynesia
Jagged volcanic peaks, lagoons that shift colour by the hour, and a Polynesian culture that is still very much alive.
Photo: Justin Hu / Unsplash
French Polynesia is more than a hundred islands scattered across five archipelagos in a vast stretch of the Pacific. In the Society Islands, Tahiti and Moorea rise in steep green peaks, Mount Otemanu watches over Bora Bora's lagoon, and quieter Huahine and vanilla-scented Taha'a reveal a slower island life.
The Tuamotus are low coral atolls such as Rangiroa and Fakarava, where sharks and manta rays move through the passes. Furthest away are the Marquesas, wild and mountainous, where ancient Polynesian stone sacred sites endure. The islands lie far apart, so it pays to connect the flights wisely and give each place unhurried time.
Experiences to consider
- 01
Bora Bora's lagoon
A day on the lagoon by boat, swimming with rays and an evening as the sunset colours Mount Otemanu.
- 02
Moorea
The road up to the Belvedere lookout, pineapple fields in the Opunohu Valley and calm bays, a short ferry ride from Tahiti.
- 03
The Tuamotu atolls
Rangiroa and Fakarava — for divers, and for anyone seeking a simpler, quieter island life.
- 04
Polynesian culture
The sacred marae of Taputapuatea on Raiatea, traditions of tattoo and dance, and the Heiva festival in July.
Ways to travel
Ways to experience it
Ways to travel aren't separate paths — the best journeys often bring several together.
Honeymoons & special journeys
Overwater bungalows, breakfast delivered by canoe and evenings beneath the southern stars.
Exceptional stays & escapes
From luxurious lagoon resorts to family-run pensions on the more remote islands.
Adventure & active travel
Diving the Tuamotu passes, hiking on Moorea and Tahiti and, in season, humpback whales.
Tailor-made journeys
An island combination and domestic flights planned for a journey that flows and never feels overloaded.
Sample journey
More journey inspiration
9–11 days
Three Tuamotu atolls: Rangiroa, Fakarava and Tikehau
Tahiti, Rangiroa & the Tiputa pass, Fakarava & its south pass, Tikehau & Bird Island
Adventure & active travel · Exceptional stays & escapes
10–13 days
The Society Islands, one lagoon at a time
Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Taha'a & Bora Bora
Honeymoons & special journeys · Exceptional stays & escapes
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