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Things to do in French Polynesia

Things to do in  French Polynesia

Welcome to French Polynesia

With more than 100 tropical islands to explore and plenty of things to do, French Polynesia—located in the remote South Pacific Ocean—is pretty close to paradise on earth. Days are best spent lazing on palm-lined beaches, snorkeling or diving with rays and sharks in azure lagoons, and hiking to hidden waterfalls. Travelers tend to go island-hopping to experience the laid-back way of life or splurge for the ultimate luxury island holiday. Come July, the islands come alive during the vibrant Heiva festival, when locals showcase their culture with dance performances, traditional sports, and more.

Learn more

Top 15 attractions in French Polynesia

#1
Magic Mountain

Magic Mountain

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Magic Mountain is on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia. Though the mountains on Moorea are not extremely high, they are particularly rugged. Magic Mountain is one of the highest points on the island. It is located along the exterior part of the island, and it offers spectacular 360-degree views of the island and the surrounding clear blue waters of the lagoon and the ocean. On the way up the mountain, visitors will pass villages, scenic valleys, fruit trees, and pineapple plantations. Magic Mountain lets visitors experience the breathtaking scenery an ancient volcanic island.The mountain is not accessible by regular cars and can only be reached by 4WD or ATV. For this reason, the best way to experience Magic Mountain and its views is by taking a tour of the island that includes a trip up the mountain. Most tours also include Belvedere Lookout, which is located toward the center of the island and offers gorgeous views of both Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay, ancient Polynesian sites, and the agricultural school. It is a great way to take in the wonderful sights and culture that Moorea has to offer.More
#2
Belvedere Lookout

Belvedere Lookout

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Belvedere Lookout is a scenic viewpoint awarding views of Cook's Bay, Opunohu Bay, Mt. Rotui and the fertile Opunohu Valley with its many pineapple plants, craggy peaks and gentle slopes. It’s a great place to visit simply to take in the views or to get a bit of outdoor exercise in.More
#3
Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens

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Encircled by a lagoon and barrier reef, the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora is known throughout the world for its marine life. A paradise for snorkelers, the Coral Gardens are a section of the reef with calm, shallow waters ideal for beginners. Look for resident creatures such as parrotfish, Japanese moray eels, and more.More
#4
Matira Beach (Plage Matira)

Matira Beach (Plage Matira)

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Located on the southern tip of Bora Bora, the public Matira Beach (Plage Matira) is one of the island’s most popular sandy spots. With clear water ideal for swimming, and a beach backed by swaying palm trees, it is an idyllic destination for sunbathing, snorkeling, and watersports.More
#5
Arahoho Blowhole (Trou de Souffleur de Arahoho)

Arahoho Blowhole (Trou de Souffleur de Arahoho)

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Perched along the rocky coast of Tahiti and bordered by a scenic black sand beach, Arahoho Blowhole is one of the island’s most visited natural wonders. As waves crash against the shore, a powerful geyser-like eruption sends spectacular plumes of water into the air, wowing visitors and creating the opportunity for some impressive photos.More
#6
Lycée Agricole d'Opunohu (Agriculture School)

Lycée Agricole d'Opunohu (Agriculture School)

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Lycée Agricole d'Opunohu, or Agriculture School, is French Polynesia's only agricultural school, located on the island of Moorea. At the agricultural school, visitors can see pineapples, lemons, grapefruits, bananas, vanilla beans and many other fruits being grown and learn about the cultivation process. The school also makes fresh fruit juices, jams and sorbets, which are available for purchase. They also offer tastings of the fruit products they make. Visitors can hike on educational trails in the school's plantations in order to learn more about the school and its work and to enjoy the scenery. At the agricultural school, you can also learn about the different tropical plants, flowers, and fruits that are native to French Polynesia.A visit to Lycée Agricole is often included on tours around the island. Other highlights of these tours include the lookout points at Magical Mountain and Belvedere Lookout, which offer different vantage points for viewing the island, the volcanic landscape, and the surrounding water. In addition, these tours often include ancient Polynesian sites, hiking, swimming, and taking in the gorgeous island scenery.More
#7
Faarumai Waterfalls

Faarumai Waterfalls

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There are numerous waterfalls all over Tahiti, but the most popular and accessible are the three waterfalls at Faarumai, also known as the Cascades of Faarumai. The three majestic falls are surrounded by tropical vegetation and are more easily reachable than other waterfall sites in Tahiti. Although you may see visitors taking a dip in the pools, swimming here was outlawed after someone was injured.More
#8
Marché de Pape'ete (Pape'ete Market)

Marché de Pape'ete (Pape'ete Market)

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The sights, sounds and smells of authentic Polynesian life are on offer at Pape'ete’s main market, the Marché de Pape'ete (Pape'ete Market). The indoor market hall is the commercial and social hub of Tahiti’s laid-back capital and the oldest surviving institution on the island.More
#9
Lagoonarium

Lagoonarium

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Bora Bora’s Lagoonarium is a natural aquarium located on a small motu (or islet east of the main island. It’s well known as a great snorkeling destination.More
#10
Mt. Otemanu

Mt. Otemanu

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Mt. Otemanu is a jagged, green-sided mountain in the center of the island of Bora Bora. The volcanic mountain is visible from across the island. Visitors can admire the mountain from a boat, or explore the base of the mountain on a rigorous guided hike.More
#11
Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame)

Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame)

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Recognizable for its sunny yellow façade, Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame) is one of the oldest and largest churches in Papeete. The Gothic structure was originally built between 1844 and 1875 but has been destroyed and restored several times, most recently in 1987.More
#12
Bougainville Park (Parc Bougainville)

Bougainville Park (Parc Bougainville)

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This small park with a tranquil stream, benches, lush vegetation, and an enormous banyan tree providing shade to visitors was named after Louis Antoine de Bougainville, a French explorer who believed he had discovered Tahiti and claimed it for France, unaware that less than a year prior it had been discovered by Samuel Wallis.More
#13
Tiki Village Cultural Centre

Tiki Village Cultural Centre

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For a crash course in Polynesian culture, the Tiki Village Cultural Centre is the place to go. In a stunning lagoon-side location on the island of Moorea, you’ll experience traditional weaving with natural fibers, the art of flower garlands, and intricate wood carving. The village also celebrates two different forms of adornment: tattoos, which came to the West via Polynesia, and rare black pearls.More
#14
Papaeari

Papaeari

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Tahiti is not overflowing with historic monuments, which makes Papaeari (or Papeari stand out even more. It is the island’s oldest village, settled somewhere between AD 400 and 500. It is also known by art lovers for its association with Paul Gauguin, who lived in the area. It is a great place to relax and enjoy island life on the quieter southern coast.More
#15
Robert Wan Pearl Museum (Musee de la Perle Robert Wan)

Robert Wan Pearl Museum (Musee de la Perle Robert Wan)

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Established by local entrepreneur Robert Wan, Robert Wan Pearl Museum (Musee de la Perle Robert Wan) explores the role of the pearl in art, history, and literature. Exhibits reveal how pearls get from the sea to the display case and how ocean jewels were associated with religious rites and coveted as status symbols.More
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Trip ideas

How to Spend 3 Days in Bora Bora

How to Spend 3 Days in Bora Bora

Bora Bora features myriad worthwhile attractions. This can make it hard for visitors with only a few days to decide how to spend their time. To help you make the most of your time in this French Polynesian paradise, here are some suggestions.
World War II History in Bora Bora

World War II History in Bora Bora

With its glittering lagoons, vibrant coral gardens, and beaches lined with coconut trees, Bora Bora is one of French Polynesia’s most popular destinations, but the tropical paradise also harbors a fascinating military past. Here’s what you need to know about Bora Bora’s World War II history.
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Top activities in French Polynesia

Ocean Wildlife Expedition; Swim With Whales, Sharks, & Rays Half-Day Boat Tour

Ocean Wildlife Expedition; Swim With Whales, Sharks, & Rays Half-Day Boat Tour

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Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour, Lunch at Bloody Mary's & Eco Shark / Ray Snorkel Cruise
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Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour, Lunch at Bloody Mary's & Eco Shark / Ray Snorkel Cruise

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$240.92
6-hour Snorkeling & Lunch Tour - Shared Tour
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6-hour Snorkeling & Lunch Tour - Shared Tour

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$107.10
Moorea 4WD Tour Including Belvedere Pineapple Farm and Magic Mountain

Moorea 4WD Tour Including Belvedere Pineapple Farm and Magic Mountain

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$56.42
Grand Tour Quad 3h30 Quad excursion in Moorea (single or two-seater)

Grand Tour Quad 3h30 Quad excursion in Moorea (single or two-seater)

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$113.69
Bora Bora Combo Tour: Lagoon Cruise and 4WD Tour Including Snorkeling

Bora Bora Combo Tour: Lagoon Cruise and 4WD Tour Including Snorkeling

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Grand Magic Combo Jetski 3h00 + Quad 3h30

Grand Magic Combo Jetski 3h00 + Quad 3h30

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PRIVATE Half Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
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PRIVATE Half Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo

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Unique Tahiti Tour - private, personalised, small group, east coast tour
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Unique Tahiti Tour - private, personalised, small group, east coast tour

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$124.60
Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour

Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour

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$132.60
Tahiti Island Crossing
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Tahiti Island Crossing

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$90.19
Moorea Dream Adventure / Eco Sea Scooter Snorkeling Tour
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Moorea Dream Adventure / Eco Sea Scooter Snorkeling Tour

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$134.98
Half day whale tour 4h00

Half day whale tour 4h00

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Private Island Tour
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Private Island Tour

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Bora Bora Eco Snorkel Cruise Including Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays

Bora Bora Eco Snorkel Cruise Including Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays

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$88.36
Bora Bora: Half Day Island 4WD Guided Tour

Bora Bora: Half Day Island 4WD Guided Tour

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Sunset Cruise : Moorea Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
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Sunset Cruise : Moorea Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo

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Bora Bora Sunset Cruise and Dinner at St James Restaurant
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Bora Bora Sunset Cruise and Dinner at St James Restaurant

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Island Tour & Getaway on the Bora Bora Mountains by Quad / ATV

Island Tour & Getaway on the Bora Bora Mountains by Quad / ATV

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Enjoy Moorea Day Tour
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Enjoy Moorea Day Tour

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All about French Polynesia

When to visit

French Polynesia enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, although the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. In July, islanders celebrate the month-long Heiva Festival with traditional dancing competitions, sporting events, and cultural ceremonies. Meanwhile, the Tahiti Pro Teahupo’o—a professional surfing competition held annually in August—attracts people from all over the world.

Getting around

The quickest way to island hop in French Polynesia is by plane with Air Tahiti, the local airline. Ferry services also operate in the Society Island group, between Tahiti and popular destinations such as Moorea and Bora Bora. On the main island of Tahiti (and a few others) there are public bus services but they’re generally slow and unreliable; so, depending on the size of the island, the best option is to rent a car, scooter, or bike for the duration of your stay.

Traveler tips

Head to the Papeete Central Market early on Sunday morning to grab some firi firi (coconut milk donuts), poisson cru (raw fish), baked taro, and some tropical fruits before indulging in your own traditional Sunday brunch. A boat trip or guided hike through the Fenua Aihere—Tahiti’s wild country, which is steeped in legend—is also unforgettable.

Currency
CFP Franc (CFPF)
Time Zone
TAHT (UTC -10)
Country Code
+689
Language(s)
pf
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