Oceania · Polynesia
French Polynesia
🏛️ Capital
Papeetē
👥 Population
279,500
📐 Area
4,167 km²
💱 Currency
CFP franc (₣)
🗣️ Languages
French
📞 Calling Code
+689
🕐 Time Zones
UTC-10:00, UTC-09:30, UTC-09:00
🌐 Region
Oceania / Polynesia
About French Polynesia
French Polynesia is one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth, a dreamy archipelago scattered across the South Pacific like a handful of jewels tossed into a turquoise sea. When you arrive in Tahiti, the largest island, you are immediately enveloped by lush volcanic mountains, fragrant tiare flowers, and the warm hospitality of the Maohi people. The air itself feels different here — softer, sweeter, and filled with the rhythmic sound of the ocean.
Beyond Tahiti, the islands of Bora Bora, Moorea, Rangiroa, and the Marquesas each offer their own distinct personality. Bora Bora is perhaps the most iconic, its volcanic peak rising dramatically above a shimmering lagoon ringed by white-sand motus. You can spend your days snorkeling alongside manta rays, paddling through crystal-clear channels, or simply watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink from your overwater bungalow.
What makes French Polynesia truly special is the seamless blend of French elegance and Polynesian soul. World-class cuisine meets fresh-caught seafood. Luxury resorts sit alongside traditional villages where outrigger canoe racing is a way of life. Whether you come to surf legendary waves in Teahupo'o, explore ancient marae temples in the Marquesas, or simply do absolutely nothing on a perfect beach, French Polynesia will leave an indelible mark on your heart that calls you back again and again.
Beyond Tahiti, the islands of Bora Bora, Moorea, Rangiroa, and the Marquesas each offer their own distinct personality. Bora Bora is perhaps the most iconic, its volcanic peak rising dramatically above a shimmering lagoon ringed by white-sand motus. You can spend your days snorkeling alongside manta rays, paddling through crystal-clear channels, or simply watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink from your overwater bungalow.
What makes French Polynesia truly special is the seamless blend of French elegance and Polynesian soul. World-class cuisine meets fresh-caught seafood. Luxury resorts sit alongside traditional villages where outrigger canoe racing is a way of life. Whether you come to surf legendary waves in Teahupo'o, explore ancient marae temples in the Marquesas, or simply do absolutely nothing on a perfect beach, French Polynesia will leave an indelible mark on your heart that calls you back again and again.
History & Background
French Polynesia's history stretches back over a thousand years to the remarkable Polynesian navigators who crossed vast stretches of the Pacific using only the stars, ocean currents, and wind to guide them. These intrepid voyagers settled the islands around 200–300 CE, establishing complex societies with sophisticated social hierarchies, spiritual practices centered on the marae stone temples, and a deep reverence for the ocean. European contact began in 1767 when British explorer Samuel Wallis reached Tahiti, followed quickly by French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville in 1768.
The arrival of Captain James Cook and Christian missionaries in subsequent decades brought profound change, eroding traditional practices and introducing new diseases. France formally annexed Tahiti in 1842, and the islands became a French overseas territory. The 20th century brought more turbulence — France conducted nuclear testing in the Tuamotu atolls from 1966 to 1996, a deeply controversial chapter that sparked protests and left a complex legacy. Today, French Polynesia holds the status of an autonomous overseas collectivity, navigating its cultural identity and political relationship with France while celebrating its extraordinary Polynesian heritage.
The arrival of Captain James Cook and Christian missionaries in subsequent decades brought profound change, eroding traditional practices and introducing new diseases. France formally annexed Tahiti in 1842, and the islands became a French overseas territory. The 20th century brought more turbulence — France conducted nuclear testing in the Tuamotu atolls from 1966 to 1996, a deeply controversial chapter that sparked protests and left a complex legacy. Today, French Polynesia holds the status of an autonomous overseas collectivity, navigating its cultural identity and political relationship with France while celebrating its extraordinary Polynesian heritage.
Culture & People
The culture of French Polynesia is a vibrant tapestry woven from ancient Polynesian traditions and the colonial French influence that has shaped the islands for over 150 years. At its heart, Maohi culture revolves around family, land, and the sea. Traditional arts thrive here — intricate tapa cloth-making, the carving of tiki sculptures, and the weaving of pandanus baskets are all practiced with quiet pride. The Heiva festival each July explodes with traditional dance, music, and sporting competitions that showcase the islands' rich heritage.
You will find that Polynesians are among the warmest and most generous people in the world. Life moves at a deliberate pace here, and social bonds are paramount. The 'ori Tahiti, the traditional dance form characterized by rapid hip movements and graceful hand gestures, is both a cultural cornerstone and a deeply spiritual expression. French influence is evident in the cuisine, language of administration, and the charming colonial architecture of Papeete, creating a unique cultural duality that makes French Polynesia endlessly fascinating.
You will find that Polynesians are among the warmest and most generous people in the world. Life moves at a deliberate pace here, and social bonds are paramount. The 'ori Tahiti, the traditional dance form characterized by rapid hip movements and graceful hand gestures, is both a cultural cornerstone and a deeply spiritual expression. French influence is evident in the cuisine, language of administration, and the charming colonial architecture of Papeete, creating a unique cultural duality that makes French Polynesia endlessly fascinating.
Food & Cuisine
Food in French Polynesia is a glorious celebration of fresh Pacific ingredients elevated by French culinary technique. The most iconic dish is poisson cru, raw tuna marinated in fresh lime juice and coconut milk, mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and green onions — it is refreshing, silky, and utterly addictive. Seafood dominates the menu: grilled mahi-mahi, lobster, prawns, and reef fish appear on nearly every restaurant table. The roulottes, mobile food trucks that congregate each evening at Papeete's waterfront, offer some of the best and most affordable eating on the island, serving everything from crepes to Chinese fried rice.
French Polynesian cuisine also reflects its multicultural influences. Chinese immigrants brought dishes like chao mein and porc au lait de coco (pork in coconut milk) that have become local staples. Traditional Maohi cooking includes the himaa, an underground earth oven feast where fish, breadfruit, taro, and pork are wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked for hours. Fresh tropical fruits — papaya, mango, pineapple, and the prized Moorea vanilla — perfume desserts and juices. Do not leave without tasting a cold hinano beer at sunset.
French Polynesian cuisine also reflects its multicultural influences. Chinese immigrants brought dishes like chao mein and porc au lait de coco (pork in coconut milk) that have become local staples. Traditional Maohi cooking includes the himaa, an underground earth oven feast where fish, breadfruit, taro, and pork are wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked for hours. Fresh tropical fruits — papaya, mango, pineapple, and the prized Moorea vanilla — perfume desserts and juices. Do not leave without tasting a cold hinano beer at sunset.
Top Attractions
- Bora Bora Lagoon — The world-famous turquoise lagoon offers unparalleled snorkeling, diving with sharks and rays, and stunning overwater bungalow resorts.
- Moorea's Belvedere Lookout — A breathtaking viewpoint overlooking twin bays framed by dramatic volcanic peaks and pineapple plantations.
- Rangiroa Atoll — One of the world's largest atolls, renowned for exceptional drift diving through the Tiputa Pass with dolphins and sharks.
- Nuku Hiva, Marquesas — Remote and rugged island with towering cliffs, ancient tiki carvings, and one of Polynesia's most authentic cultural landscapes.
- Teahupo'o, Tahiti — Legendary surf break producing some of the heaviest waves on the planet, also beautiful to watch from the shore or a boat.
- Papeete Market — Vibrant central market where you can browse local crafts, sample tropical fruits, and absorb the lively pulse of Tahitian daily life.
Practical Travel Tips
- Book overwater bungalows at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak season (June–September).
- The CFP franc is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted on main islands but carry cash for smaller atolls.
- Inter-island transport relies on Air Tahiti flights and ferries — Air passes can save significant money if visiting multiple islands.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen only, as coral reef protection is taken seriously and chemical sunscreens are discouraged.
- French is the official language; learning a few words of Tahitian (like ia ora na for hello) will endear you to locals.
- Tap water is generally safe to drink on Tahiti and Bora Bora but bottled water is recommended on outer islands.
- Mosquito repellent is essential, especially during the wet season when dengue fever risk increases.
Visa Overview
As a French overseas collectivity, French Polynesia follows French and European Union entry regulations. Citizens of EU countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other nations can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A valid passport with at least six months validity is required. Visitors must show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds. Those planning longer stays or working visits should apply for the appropriate visa through a French consulate before travel.
Getting Around
Getting around French Polynesia requires planning since the islands are spread across an area the size of Western Europe. Air Tahiti operates inter-island flights connecting most inhabited islands, and purchasing an Air Tahiti Pass before arrival offers the best value. Ferries connect Tahiti and Moorea with frequent crossings taking about 30 minutes. On individual islands, renting a car or scooter is the most flexible option. Taxis exist but are expensive; organized tours are popular for accessing remote attractions.
Safety Notes
French Polynesia is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply — secure valuables, avoid deserted beaches at night, and be mindful of strong ocean currents when swimming or snorkeling. The lagoons can have deceptive tides and currents, so always ask locals or resort staff before entering unfamiliar waters. Medical facilities are adequate in Papeete but limited on outer islands, so comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Live Exchange Rates
Current exchange rates for currencies used in French Polynesia.
CFP franc (XPF) ₣
Updated: 2026-10-06
CFP franc (XPF) ₣
Updated: 2026-10-06
| Currency Code | Rate |
|---|---|
| 1INCH | 0.088897 |
| AAVE | 0.000052 |
| ADA | 0.034877 |
| AED | 0.034514 |
| AFN | 0.607220 |
| AKT | 0.012281 |
| ALGO | 0.073178 |
| ALL | 0.770868 |
| AMD | 3.399998 |
| AMP | 14.656577 |
| ANG | 0.016900 |
| AOA | 8.608741 |
| APE | 0.058659 |
| APT | 0.011447 |
| AR | 0.002085 |
| ARB | 0.046100 |
| ARS | 14.284312 |
| ATOM | 0.005162 |
| ATS | 0.115311 |
| AUD | 0.013486 |
| AVAX | 0.000828 |
| AWG | 0.016823 |
| AXS | 0.007176 |
| AZM | 79.884591 |
| AZN | 0.015977 |
| BAKE | 36.614844 |
| BAM | 0.016390 |
| BAT | 0.089096 |
| BBD | 0.018796 |
| BCH | 0.000030 |
| BDT | 1.155303 |
| BEF | 0.338048 |
| BGN | 0.016390 |
| BHD | 0.003534 |
| BIF | 28.235732 |
| BMD | 0.009398 |
| BNB | 0.000012 |
| BND | 0.012025 |
| BOB | 0.112738 |
| BRL | 0.046978 |
| BSD | 0.009398 |
| BSV | 0.000471 |
| BSW | 22.838647 |
| BTC | 0.000000 |
| BTCB | 0.134508 |
| BTG | 0.014245 |
| BTN | 0.906143 |
| BTT | 25,279.321294 |
| BUSD | 0.009396 |
| BWP | 0.129348 |
| BYN | 0.028671 |
| BYR | 184.227434 |
| BZD | 0.018900 |
| CAD | 0.013410 |
| CAKE | 0.003843 |
| CDF | 21.718874 |
| CELO | 0.090367 |
| CFX | 0.171275 |
| CHF | 0.007817 |
| CHZ | 0.561829 |
| CLP | 9.144584 |
| CNH | 0.062995 |
| CNY | 0.063016 |
| COMP | 0.000383 |
| COP | 30.060998 |
| CRC | 4.300428 |
| CRO | 0.138395 |
| CRV | 0.025493 |
| CSPR | 3.684349 |
| CUC | 0.009399 |
| CUP | 0.225119 |
| CVE | 0.924063 |
| CVX | 0.004246 |
| CYP | 0.004905 |
| CZK | 0.205008 |
| DAI | 0.009402 |
| DASH | 0.000166 |
| DCR | 0.000510 |
| DEM | 0.016390 |
| DFI | 10.282899 |
| DJF | 1.671924 |
| DKK | 0.062632 |
| DOGE | 0.099117 |
| DOP | 0.563236 |
| DOT | 0.007596 |
| DYDX | 0.064323 |
| DZD | 1.263348 |
| EEK | 0.131119 |
| EGLD | 0.002103 |
| EGP | 0.492722 |
| ENJ | 0.283888 |
| EOS | 0.092481 |
| ERN | 0.140971 |
| ESP | 1.394315 |
| ETB | 1.528706 |
| ETC | 0.001059 |
| ETH | 0.000003 |
| EUR | 0.008380 |
| EURC | 0.008379 |
| FEI | 0.009402 |
| FIL | 0.007873 |
| FIM | 0.049825 |
| FJD | 0.021147 |
| FKP | 0.007112 |
| FLOW | 0.297035 |
| FLR | 1.303818 |
| FRAX | 0.009493 |
| FRF | 0.054969 |
| FTT | 0.036381 |
| GALA | 3.878950 |
| GBP | 0.007112 |
| GEL | 0.024393 |
| GGP | 0.007112 |
| GHC | 1,104.897407 |
| GHS | 0.110490 |
| GIP | 0.007112 |
| GMD | 0.695560 |
| GMX | 0.001070 |
| GNF | 82.629313 |
| GNO | 0.000077 |
| GRD | 2.855485 |
| GRT | 0.322766 |
| GT | 0.000840 |
| GTQ | 0.071721 |
| GUSD | 0.009417 |
| GYD | 1.961839 |
| HBAR | 0.093357 |
| HKD | 0.073751 |
| HNL | 0.251998 |
| HNT | 0.018112 |
| HOT | 20.521584 |
| HRK | 0.063139 |
| HT | 0.257667 |
| HTG | 1.228063 |
| HUF | 3.078419 |
| ICP | 0.002695 |
| IDR | 168.368474 |
| IEP | 0.006600 |
| ILS | 0.028741 |
| IMP | 0.007112 |
| IMX | 0.051254 |
| INJ | 0.001240 |
| INR | 0.906143 |
| IQD | 12.286443 |
| IRR | 16,902.655562 |
| ISK | 1.147485 |
| ITL | 16.225943 |
| JEP | 0.007112 |
| JMD | 1.487201 |
| JOD | 0.006663 |
| JPY | 1.485940 |
| KAS | 0.219064 |
| KAVA | 0.135564 |
| KCS | 0.001238 |
| KDA | 0.962603 |
| KES | 1.219952 |
| KGS | 0.821942 |
| KHR | 38.072511 |
| KLAY | 0.225652 |
| KMF | 4.122690 |
| KNC | 0.065612 |
| KPW | 8.459426 |
| KRW | 12.616555 |
| KSM | 0.001834 |
| KWD | 0.002905 |
| KYD | 0.007813 |
| KZT | 4.278737 |
| LAK | 210.880499 |
| LBP | 847.541444 |
| LDO | 0.020516 |
| LEO | 0.001057 |
| LINK | 0.000679 |
| LKR | 3.099784 |
| LRC | 0.915382 |
| LRD | 1.603768 |
| LSL | 0.156467 |
| LTC | 0.000135 |
| LTL | 0.028934 |
| LUF | 0.338048 |
| LUNA | 0.184038 |
| LUNC | 177.738411 |
| LVL | 0.005889 |
| LYD | 0.060299 |
| MAD | 0.093799 |
| MANA | 0.090880 |
| MBX | 0.317763 |
| MDL | 0.168433 |
| MGA | 41.618766 |
| MGF | 208.093830 |
| MINA | 0.069755 |
| MKD | 0.515592 |
| MKR | 0.000005 |
| MMK | 19.728166 |
| MNT | 33.787670 |
| MOP | 0.075963 |
| MRO | 3.762696 |
| MRU | 0.376270 |
| MTL | 0.003598 |
| MUR | 0.445489 |
| MVR | 0.145291 |
| MWK | 16.266437 |
| MXN | 0.169872 |
| MXV | 0.019311 |
| MYR | 0.038397 |
| MZM | 599.870991 |
| MZN | 0.599871 |
| NAD | 0.156467 |
| NEAR | 0.001798 |
| NEO | 0.003708 |
| NEXO | 0.011052 |
| NFT | 39,384.103014 |
| NGN | 12.424653 |
| NIO | 0.345502 |
| NLG | 0.018467 |
| NOK | 0.090201 |
| NPR | 1.450508 |
| NZD | 0.016790 |
| OKB | 0.000072 |
| OMR | 0.003617 |
| ONE | 0.064166 |
| OP | 0.069912 |
| ORDI | 0.002066 |
| PAB | 0.009398 |
| PAXG | 0.000002 |
| PEN | 0.032359 |
| PEPE | 2,173.045216 |
| PGK | 0.042341 |
| PHP | 0.590633 |
| PI | 0.107662 |
| PKR | 2.598566 |
| PLN | 0.036710 |
| POL | 0.085941 |
| PTE | 1.680039 |
| PYG | 54.903356 |
| QAR | 0.034209 |
| QNT | 0.000036 |
| QTUM | 0.009587 |
| ROL | 447.940244 |
| RON | 0.044794 |
| RPL | 0.004915 |
| RSD | 0.984268 |
| RUB | 0.797330 |
| RUNE | 0.012105 |
| RVN | 3.830436 |
| RWF | 13.852464 |
| SAND | 0.142918 |
| SAR | 0.035243 |
| SBD | 0.075830 |
| SCR | 0.133112 |
| SDD | 564.053279 |
| SDG | 5.640533 |
| SEK | 0.094400 |
| SGD | 0.012025 |
| SHIB | 1,605.475598 |
| SHP | 0.007112 |
| SIT | 2.008183 |
| SKK | 0.252456 |
| SLE | 0.216671 |
| SLL | 216.671204 |
| SNX | 0.037536 |
| SOL | 0.000078 |
| SOS | 5.347048 |
| SPL | 0.001566 |
| SRD | 0.354361 |
| SRG | 354.361481 |
| SSP | 53.819258 |
| STD | 206.764964 |
| STN | 0.206765 |
| STX | 0.025079 |
| SUI | 0.007875 |
| SVC | 0.082233 |
| SYP | 122.210466 |
| SZL | 0.156467 |
| THB | 0.316335 |
| THETA | 0.040586 |
| TJS | 0.086496 |
| TMM | 164.906691 |
| TMT | 0.032981 |
| TND | 0.028127 |
| TOP | 0.022635 |
| TRL | 462,155.084524 |
| TRX | 0.027967 |
| TRY | 0.462155 |
| TTD | 0.063632 |
| TUSD | 0.009405 |
| TVD | 0.013486 |
| TWD | 0.298688 |
| TWT | 0.016463 |
| TZS | 24.795719 |
| UAH | 0.423282 |
| UGX | 37.781564 |
| UNI | 0.001061 |
| USD | 0.009398 |
| USDC | 0.009401 |
| USDD | 0.009405 |
| USDP | 0.009454 |
| USDT | 0.009403 |
| UYU | 0.379645 |
| UZS | 110.550349 |
| VAL | 16.225943 |
| VEB | 818,312,026.546621 |
| VED | 8.183120 |
| VEF | 818,312.026547 |
| VES | 8.183120 |
| VET | 1.076944 |
| VND | 244.305987 |
| VUV | 1.129760 |
| WAVES | 0.031502 |
| WEMIX | 0.049075 |
| WOO | 0.686573 |
| WST | 0.026157 |
| XAF | 5.496920 |
| XAG | 0.000155 |
| XAU | 0.000002 |
| XAUT | 0.000002 |
| XBT | 0.000000 |
| XCD | 0.025440 |
| XCG | 0.016900 |
| XCH | 0.006005 |
| XDC | 0.279662 |
| XDR | 0.006947 |
| XEC | 1,178.526873 |
| XEM | 14.969140 |
| XLM | 0.043546 |
| XMR | 0.000017 |
| XOF | 5.496920 |
| XPD | 0.000008 |
| XPT | 0.000005 |
| XRP | 0.006255 |
| XTZ | 0.028128 |
| YER | 2.219800 |
| ZAR | 0.156467 |
| ZEC | 0.000007 |
| ZIL | 2.575455 |
| ZMK | 185.802912 |
| ZMW | 0.185803 |
| ZWD | 3.401157 |
| ZWG | 0.251600 |
| ZWL | 628.679982 |
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Cities in French Polynesia 60
Browse all cities and towns
Cities in French Polynesia 60
Browse all cities and towns
Ahe
Amanu
Amaru
Anaa
Anapoto
Anatonu
Apataki
Arutua
Atuona
Auti
Avera
Faaite
Fakahima
Fakarava
Fangatau
Fatu-Hiva
Hakahao
Hakamaii
Hao
Hatiheu
Hereheretue
Hikueru
Katiu
Kauehi
Kaukura
Mahu
Makatea
Makemo
Manihi
Marokau
Mataura
Moerai
Mutuaura
Napuka
Niau
Nukutavake
Puamau
Pukapuka
Pukarua
Rairua
Rangiroa
Rapa
Raroia
Reao
Rikitea
Taahuaia
Taenga
Tahuata
Taiohae
Taipivai
Takapoto
Takaroa
Tatakoto
Tepoto
Tikehau
Tureia
Ua-Huka
Vahitahi
Vairaatea
Vaiuru
Other Time Zones in French Polynesia
Detailed local time across various regions of the country.
Visa Requirements
Check what visa a citizen of French Polynesia needs to enter any country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of French Polynesia?
The capital of French Polynesia is Papeetē.
What currency does French Polynesia use?
French Polynesia uses the CFP franc (₣) as its official currency.
What language is spoken in French Polynesia?
The official language(s) of French Polynesia include French.
What is the population of French Polynesia?
French Polynesia has a population of approximately 279,500 people.
What region is French Polynesia in?
French Polynesia is located in Oceania, specifically in the Polynesia subregion.
What is the international calling code for French Polynesia?
The international dialing code for French Polynesia is +689.
What time zones does French Polynesia observe?
French Polynesia observes the following time zone(s): UTC-10:00, UTC-09:30, UTC-09:00.
What is the current time in French Polynesia?
The local time in French Polynesia is currently --:--. This time applies to the primary time zone.
What is the total area of French Polynesia?
French Polynesia covers a total area of 4,167 km².
How many states or provinces does French Polynesia have?
French Polynesia is divided into 5 states or provinces.
What are the public holidays in French Polynesia in 2026?
You can view the complete list of public holidays for French Polynesia in 2026 on the Holidays 2026 page.
What are the visa requirements for citizens of French Polynesia?
Visa requirements for citizens of French Polynesia vary by destination. Use our Visa Requirements Checker below to look up requirements for any destination country.