How to Plan a Trip to Tahiti and French Polynesia
Fly into Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) and use regional ferries or Air Tahiti prop planes to reach outer islands. Prioritize visiting at least two islands, such as Moorea for landscapes and Bora Bora for lagoons, rather than staying only in Tahiti.
- Select your island grouping. Don't try to see all five archipelagos. First-timers should stick to the Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine). If you want remote, choose the Tuamotus for diving.
- Book your inter-island transport early. Buy an 'Air Tahiti Multi-Island Pass' before you arrive. It is significantly cheaper than buying individual point-to-point tickets for the domestic prop planes.
- Secure your accommodation type. Decide between overwater bungalows for the 'resort' experience or 'pensions' (family-run guesthouses) for cultural immersion and lower costs. Book 4-6 months in advance for peak season.
- Arrange airport transfers. Taxis are expensive and scarce on outer islands. Arrange transfers with your guesthouse or hotel in advance, as they often meet you at the small regional airstrips.
- Is it worth staying in an overwater bungalow?
- It's iconic, but do it for 2 nights and spend the rest of your trip in a beach-side pension to save money and meet locals.
- Do I need to speak French?
- Everyone in the tourism industry speaks English. A simple 'Ia ora na' (hello) and 'Mauruuru' (thank you) in Tahitian goes a long way.
- Can I use US dollars?
- No. The currency is the CFP Franc. Use a credit card for resorts and cash for local markets and small snacks.