French Polynesia holidays: Bora Bora, Tahiti, Moorea and the atolls
Overwater bungalows in a lagoon so blue it looks edited, green mountains behind and hardly another guest in sight. French Polynesia is the world's most famous honeymoon, and it needs planning.
Bora Bora
Photo: Roméo A. / Unsplash
French Polynesia at a glance
You open the glass panel in the bungalow floor and a shoal of tropical fish swims through the lagoon below. Behind you, Mount Otemanu rises over Bora Bora. French Polynesia is a French overseas collectivity in the middle of the Pacific, with 118 islands spread across an area of ocean the size of Europe.
The currency is the CFP franc and French is the main language. The journey is long: from the UK you fly via Los Angeles or Paris, and the trip takes around a full day. For the rest of the region, see our Oceania guide.
Which islands suit you?
Bora Bora, for the bungalows
The lagoon and the overwater bungalows are why most people come. The hotels sit on motus, small islets towards the reef, reached by boat.
Moorea, for green mountains and better value
Only half an hour by ferry from Tahiti. Moorea has steep green peaks, two deep bays and many of the same experiences as Bora Bora at lower prices.
Tahiti, for arrival and culture
All international flights land in Papeete. Spend a night for the market and the coast, then fly on.
Rangiroa and Fakarava, for diving
The Tuamotu atolls have some of the world's best diving, with sharks and dolphins in the passes.
French Polynesia
Photo: Reiseuhu / Unsplash
When to go
May to October: dry season, around 27 degrees and low humidity. The best time.
November to April: hotter and more humid, with heavy showers. Lower prices.
Good to know
Prices are very high. Half board at the hotel often pays off.
Fly between islands with Air Tahiti and watch the baggage limits.
Combining two islands works well, for example Moorea and Bora Bora.
Where to stay
On Bora Bora, the Four Seasons, The St. Regis and Conrad are among the best. The Brando on Tetiaroa, Marlon Brando's former private atoll, has three Michelin Keys. Read more about overwater bungalows and the best honeymoon destinations.
Frequently asked questions about French Polynesia
How long should I stay in French Polynesia?
At least ten nights, ideally split across two islands. The journey is too long for a short trip.
When is the best time to visit Bora Bora?
May to October is the driest and most settled.
How do I get to Bora Bora from the UK?
Fly to Papeete on Tahiti via Los Angeles or Paris, then take a domestic flight to Bora Bora.
What currency is used?
The CFP franc. Cards are accepted at hotels and most restaurants.