Discover Tailor-Made French Polynesia (Tahiti) Vacations

For the classic sun-splashed escape, plan around the dry season. June to August brings warm days and the clearest water for snorkelling and diving, though popular spots can feel busy.

For quieter beaches and better value, travel in May or October when conditions remain balmy but crowds thin. From November to April, expect short, intense showers split by bright spells. It’s a restful time for cultural workshops, Polynesian massage, museum visits, and colourful markets across Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Humidity rises, so book rooms with dependable air-conditioning. Keen divers can still enjoy liveaboards or resort-based trips, as water visibility often rebounds between squalls.

The ideal window is broadly May to October, with June to August offering the widest choice of tours should plans shift. Surfers find reliable swells from March to October, varying by island and reef. If affordability is key, aim for March to May before high season pricing returns; try to skip January and February when heat and humidity peak.

Allow eight to ten days, spending two to three per island to balance travel time with lagoon time. Water temperatures hover near 27°C year-round, so you can pack light. Whether you’re chasing reef passes, glassy lagoons, or slow island days, timing your trip around these seasons turns a good Tahiti holiday into a quietly unforgettable one.

Music, dance, and storytelling preserve legends of the sea, the stars, and the gods, while the aroma of roasted breadfruit drifts through the air at a traditional tama‘ara‘a feast. Here, hospitality is more than a gesture—it’s an art form, revealing the islanders’ deep respect for community and tradition.

During your Tahiti trip, visit ancient marae, the sacred stone temples that once anchored village life, and watch as artisans craft intricate tapa cloths. Tahitian, the islands’ lyrical native tongue, still echoes in greetings like Ia Orana and Mauruuru, reminders of a living culture. Modesty is appreciated at cultural or spiritual sites, where visitors are encouraged to cover shoulders and knees, and always ask before photographing people or sacred places. Sharing a meal is an honour—bring a small gift, use both hands, and express thanks warmly.

French Polynesia is celebrated not only for its coral lagoons and overwater bungalows but also for its vibrant traditions. Outrigger canoe races such as the Hawaiki Nui Va‘a capture the islands’ spirit of teamwork and endurance, while the annual Heiva I festival in July bursts with dance, song, and athletic challenge. Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches of Bora Bora and Moorea, Tahiti itself offers an authentic look at Polynesian life, where French and Tahitian languages mingle and community thrives. From ancient customs to the birthplace of surfing, the islands invite travellers to move at the rhythm of the Pacific and feel its cultural heartbeat.

 The islands’ most famous dish, poisson cru au lait de coco, captures this perfectly—fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, simple yet exquisitely balanced. For a heartier experience during your Tahiti vacation, try maa tinito, a feast of slow-roasted meats and vegetables cooked in an underground oven, often served with local fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples. 

"The iconic Poisson Cru must be tried while in French Polynesia - it is raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk - so good!" - Destination Specialist Lori Mezzomo

Meals in French Polynesia invite you to slow down. Locals eat unhurriedly, greeting hosts with Ia Orana and showing gratitude with every bite. Cutlery is used, and food is never touched by hand or stepped over. Dining on locally sourced ingredients not only supports island farmers and fishers but also offers a more authentic taste of Tahiti. For drinks, the iconic Hinano beer is perfect for a beachside toast, while Moorea’s Manutea Pineapple Rum and the ceremonial drink kava bring local flavour to your glass—though kava should be sipped respectfully and in moderation.

Food in French Polynesia suits many diets, with pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans all well catered for. Simple street meals from Les Roulottes cost under US $10, while restaurant dinners average US $20–25. Choosing local produce keeps both flavour and value high, turning each meal into a delicious window into island life.

French is the official language of the islands but many locals converse in Tahitian. English is widely spoken throughout French Polynesia, but learning a few phrases, such as “mua ruru” (thank you), “nana” (goodbye) and “la orana” (hello), will be appreciated. 

Valid passports are required for entry to French Polynesia. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa, but always check requirements before departure

The currency on the islands is the Cour de Franc Pacifique [CFP]. Although credit cards are widely accepted, it is wise to carry cash as ATMs can be difficult to find, especially on more remote islands. 

The importance of booking early for your trip to French Polynesia cannot be understated. Overwater bungalows frequently sell out well in advance, as do inter-island flights.

When packing, include plenty of reef-friendly sunscreen and mosquito repellent, as well as reef shoes for lagoon exploration. 

Tipping, says Destination Expert Vincent Tong, is not required nor expected in French Polynesia. “It’s similar to France and most other destinations in Europe and/or the South Pacific,” he says.

For more practical tips on visiting French Polynesia, check out our guide to Things to Know Before You Go.