Jurisdiction Guide

May to October is the best period due to cooler, drier weather and fewer storms. Cyclone risk rises from November through March.

Cash is still useful in remote areas, though cards are common in larger towns. French is understood almost everywhere, but learning a few Tahitian words is appreciated. SIM cards are available at the airport and main town stores. Public WiFi can be slow or pricey. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up in restaurants is polite.

Greetings usually involve a handshake or cheek kisses with acquaintances. Modest dress is expected in villages and when visiting churches. Removed shoes before entering homes. Bring a small gift if invited to someone's house. Public displays of affection are frowned upon outside resorts.

Petty theft can happen in urban centers like Papeete, so keep valuables secure. Sunburn is a real risk; strong sunscreen and hats are necessary. Tropical diseases like dengue fever occur, particularly in the rainy season. Some roads are rough and poorly lit at night, drive cautiously.

Tikehau's pink-sand beaches are quiet and uncrowded. The marae (ancient temples) at Taputapuatea on Raiatea offer a glimpse of Polynesian history. Hiking to hidden waterfalls in Moorea's Opunohu Valley gets you away from the resort crowds.

EU citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days; US, Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand passport holders also get free short stays. Longer stays require a visa, typically for work, study, or family reunion. Digital nomad or freelance visas are not currently offered. Onward travel proof may be checked on arrival.

Domestic flights are the main way to move between islands, operated mainly by Air Tahiti. Rental cars or scooters are common on Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora; there's limited public bus service in larger towns. Inter-island ferries connect some nearby islands, but schedules are less frequent. Taxis are pricey and ride-hailing is not widespread.

Poisson cru (Tahitian raw fish salad with coconut and lime) is everywhere. Grilled meats and French pastries are popular, and roulottes (local food trucks) offer affordable meals. Water is usually safe in Papeete, but consider bottled water on smaller islands. Vegetarian choices exist but are fewer outside resorts, expect a lot of fish. Hinano is the local beer.

French Polynesia is expensive, especially Bora Bora and Tahiti. Backpackers can survive on $50–70 USD daily with dorms and food trucks. Mid-range hotels and restaurant meals push daily costs up to $150–250 USD. A basic meal at a roulotte costs $12–15 USD, while a beachfront resort dinner can exceed $60 USD per person.